Jeollabuk-do(Jeongeup-si)
Naejangsan Special Tourist Zone, which covers Naejangsan Mountain, Baegamsan Mountain and Ibamsan Mountain, is known for the most beautiful fall scenery in Korea. In the autumn, the zone is aflame with autumnal tints. Naejangsan Mountain has been referred to as “Geumgang of Honam” since the Joseon Dynasty.
Naejangsan Mountain is about 11 km away from downtown Jeongeup, and its name means 'many secrets in the mountains'. The highest peak of Naejangsan Mountain is Sinseonbong Peak, which is 763 m above sea level. The 9 peaks of the mountain stand in a circle, similar to the shape of a horse’s hoof. As one of the 8 scenic views of the nation, it boasts grand scenery. Geumseon Valley, which embraces Geumseon Falls, Dodeok Falls and Baegam Valley, is also famous.
Since there are more than 10 trekking courses, hikers can choose a course after taking their physical stamina or personal preference into consideration. The length of each course varies from 1.5 km to 14 km. For those who are not able to trek long distances, walking the 3.6 km-long nature trail that leads to the flatland is a good option. Visitors can reach the observation platform easily by riding a cable car from the ticket office.
The number of tourists has been steadily increasing since the KTX train began to stop at Jeongeup Station. When the autumn colors are at its peak in particular, taking the KTX makes the trip to Naejangsan Mountain much easier for travelers, and prevents traffic
jams. The Donghak Peasants Revolution Commemoration is held in May and the Naejangsan Fall Foliage Festival takes place in October.
* Current State of Jeongeup & Naejangsan Special Tourist Zone
1) Districts Covered: Naejang Districts (Naejang and Ssangam-dong) and Yongsan Districts (Yongsan and Sinjeong-dong), Jeongeuop-si, Jeollabuk-do
2) Area: 3,448,365㎡
* Tourist Attractions
Naejangsan National Park, Okjeongho Lake, Jeongeupsa Park, Jeongeupcheon Stream, Chungyeolsa Shrine, Donghak Peasant Revolution Memorial Hall, etc.