TRIPPOSE List

Hallasan Mountain Trekking
Jeju-do(Jeju-si) , Jeju City・Airport

Situated on the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula, Hallasan is 1,950m in x_height and is the highest mountain in South Korea. Formed from volcanic activity, the mountain is a dormant volcano made mostly of basalt. Home to the magnificent Baekrokdam (lake-filled crater), the mountainside is covered with alpine flora and lush trees. The mountain is characterized by majestic cliffs, steep slopes, interesting rock formations, and, in particular, myriads of colorful azaleas. There are over 360 small mountains (uniquely-shaped volcanic mountains called “Oreum” in Jeju dialect) surrounding Halla Mountain that offer new delights to visitors with the coming of each new season. Along with Hallasan, the oreums were officially named the Hallasan Natural Protection Area (Natural Monument No.12) in 1966. There are six hiking trails along Hallasan. Seongpanak Trail on the east and Gwaneumsa Trail in the north go all the way up to the summit (Baekrokdam). Those looking for a less rigorous hike are advised to take the shorter trails reaching midway up the mountain. All trails are relatively short (less than 10km) and can be hiked in less than a day. Visitors are advised, however, to start early in the morning if planning on hiking up to the summit and to check official operating hours, as some trails are only open during certain hours of the day. Keep reading for information on some of the most popular trails. * Gwaneumsa Trail (North)—Summit Trail Gwaneumsa Trail offers hikers the best view of Hallasan’s deep valleys and stunning terrain. Midway along the trail is Guringul (a lava cave) and Tamna Valley. Tamna Valley is especially beautiful during the fall when the leaves are changing and during the winter when the entire area lays under a dusting of snow. * Seongpanak Trail (East)—Summit Trail This relatively long, gently sloping trail is perfect for beginners. Lush broadleaf trees give shade from the beating sun and in spring the azaleas bloom and turn the mountainside into a dazzling array of color. * Eorimok Trail (Northwest) This short trail is another relatively easy trail for beginners. In spring, the nearby meadows are adorned with red royal azaleas. From the stone pathway to Mansedongsan visitors can catch a breathtaking panoramic view of the countryside and the island’s signature Oreums. * Yeongsil Trail (Southwest) As the shortest trail in Hallasan, this trail boasts Yeongsilgiam (a spectacular cliff with series of unusual rock formations). It is covered with azaleas and royal azaleas in spring and vibrant autumn foliage starting in October.  


Pungnammun Gate
Jeollabuk-do(Jeonju-si) , Jeonju Hanok Village・Wanju

Pungnammun Gate was built during the middle of the Joseon Dynasty (1768) and was designated Treasure No. 308. Of the original four gates, this is the only one left standing (located in the southern portion of the city). The structure was partially destroyed during the invasion of foreign forces from 1592-1598. It was later rebuilt in 1978. Jungcheung and mullu are located at the center of gate lending to the arch-like features. The round features aid in the protection capabilities of Pungnammun Gate, as well as the overall grandeur.


Jeju Stone Park
Jeju-do(Jeju-si) , Jeju City・Airport

Located in Jocheon-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju Stone Park was inspired by Jeju's history of myth, stone and spirit. The main theme consists of the legend about Seolmundae Halmang (Grandmother Seolmundae) who created Jeju Island and the stones of Obaek Janggun (the Five Hundreds Generals). The park provides a historical and cultural space where collected stones express Jeju's foundation and culture.Take a bus bound for Namjo-ro from Jeju International Airport or Seogwipo-si to reach the park (about 40 min). Other nearby attractions include the Jeju April 3rd Peace Park, Jeju Mini Land, and Jeju Jeolmul Recreational Forest.


Bosingak Belfry
Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Gwanghwamun・Gyeongbokgung・Seochon

The Bosingak Belfry was used during the Joseon Dynasty to keep the time. There were four gates in Seoul that allowed people in and out. At 4 a.m., the bell would ring 33 times and then the gates were opened. At 10 p.m. the bell would ring 28 times and the gates would close. The bell served as a siren. The original bell melted in that spot due to a fire accident. In 1468, the bell was remade and still exists today. However, for preservation purposes that bell now sits in the national museum. The bell that replaced it in Jongno was made in 1985 with contributions from the public. The Bosingak Belfry was built by the Seoul Municipal Government in 1979 and is restricted on normal days. Currently, a daily bell-ringing ceremony is conducted at Bosingak. A special ceremony is held on new Year's Eve where the bell is rung 33 times in front of large crowds.  More Info.Bosingak Bell-Ringing Ceremony- Period: All year round (not available on Mondays)- Time: 11:30-12:20 (Bell-ringing from 11:40/ once a day) Bosingak Bell-Ringing Experience- Application: Online Reservation (Korean)- Foreign visitors may participate in the program on Tuesdays (onsite registration).


Hanhwa Aqua Planet Yeosu
Jeollanam-do(Yeosu-si) , Yeosu・Gwangyang

Hanhwa Aqua Planet Yeosu is the second largest aquarium in Korea and is a landmark of the southern province with a record of about 1 million visitors every year. There are approximately 34,000 marine organisms of about 280 species including rare animals such as beluga (white whale) and baikal seal.


Ulsanbawi Rock
Gangwon-do(Sokcho-si) , Sokcho・Yangyang・Seorak

Ulsanbawi is composed of six granite peaks, each bearing a x_width of 4km. You can see the spectacular scenery of Seorak Mountain, the East Sea, Dalma Peak, and Haksapyeong Reservoir from the top. There are three varying theories as to what the name Ulsanbawi implies: that it looks like a fence, that its name was copied from Ulsan of Gyeongsangnam-do, and that the Korean term of “crying mountain” was translated into Chinese characters. Because of the way the whole mountain reverberates the sound of thunder in rain, it is also referred to as Cheonhusan.The arduous 4km hike up that takes roughly two hours to reach the peak is worth it. Views from the top are simply breathtaking.


Alpensia Ski Resort
Gangwon-do(Pyeongchang-gun) , Pyeongchang・Jeongseon・Yeongwol

Alpensia Ski Resort Standing proudly as a premier legacy of the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, Alpensia Resort features six meticulously groomed regulation slopes tailored for an exceptional alpine experience. Characterized by remarkably wide snow paths and a serene, uncrowded atmosphere, it provides an idyllic and tranquil setting to embrace winter sports comfortably. Elevating both safety and comfort, the resort operates a dedicated lift exclusively for the beginner trail, allowing newcomers and children to build confidence and savor the winter wonderland at an entirely relaxed, leisurely pace.   The Alpine Sanctuary: Unveiling the Boutique Elegance of Pyeongchang While Alpensia Ski Resort carries the prestigious pedigree of an Olympic host venue, its defining luxury lies in its intimate, boutique-scale design. Unlike sprawling, overwhelming commercial ski complexes, Alpensia is masterfully curated to offer a seamless, stress-free winter escape. Nestled in the pristine, snow-dusted highlands of Gangwon-do, this destination harmonizes breathtaking alpine vistas with upscale contemporary conveniences, establishing itself as the quintessential winter retreat for discerning global travelers. Curated Slopes Designed for Graceful Progression The thoughtful architectural layout of Alpensia’s six distinct trails ensures that every guest—from those stepping onto the snow for the very first time to seasoned winter enthusiasts—can enjoy the mountain with absolute peace of mind. • The Alpha Trail (Beginner): A spectacularly wide, gentle boulevard designed to eliminate the anxiety of learning. Blessed with its own exclusive ski lift system, it allows novices and children to practice their turns completely insulated from high-speed traffic, ensuring a safe and joyful introduction to the sport. • Bravo & Charlie Trails (Intermediate): Fluid, sweeping cruisers that invite skiers and snowboarders to carve elegant turns down the mountain while drinking in panoramic views of the glistening, pine-covered valleys. • Delta, Echo & Foxtrot Trails (Advanced to Expert): Dynamic, technically engaging terrains with crisp pitches that offer experienced riders an exhilarating opportunity to test their edges on Olympic-grade snow.   Legendary Olympic Landmarks and All-Season Pleasures The allure of Alpensia extends far beyond the borders of its ski runs. The entire valley resonates with the spirit of world-class athleticism, offering unique cultural landmarks and contrasting lifestyle activities that elevate the entire holiday experience. • The Alpensia Ski Jumping Tower: An iconic architectural marvel piercing the winter sky. Visitors can ride a scenic monorail to the lofty observatory lounge for a breathtaking, bird’s-eye perspective of the entire Olympic park, or wander through the Olympic Museum to relive the historic triumphs of the 2018 Winter Games. • Ocean 700 Premium Indoor Water Park: A sprawling, tropical oasis located just a heartbeat away from the frosty slopes. Heated to a blissful, balmy temperature, this indoor paradise features sophisticated wave pools and hydrotherapy spas, offering a majestic, warming contrast to restore the body after a day in the crisp mountain air.   A Self-Contained Alpine Village and Five-Star Hospitality Alpensia is beautifully engineered as a pedestrian-friendly, European-inspired alpine village. The intuitive layout allows guests to stroll effortlessly from the warmth of their luxury suites straight to the ski lifts, upscale boutiques, and gourmet dining venues without the need for complex transit. Accommodation choices reflect international five-star standards, featuring the refined, alpine-chic elegance of the InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort and the family-oriented luxury of the Holiday Inn Resort. Gastronomy here is an event in itself; guests can transition effortlessly from savoring steaming, artisanal local Korean delicacies to enjoying curated global fine dining paired with exceptional wines by a crackling fireplace. Alpensia is not merely a winter sports destination; it is a sophisticated, deeply memorable mountain lifestyle experience meticulously crafted for the modern global traveler.


Phoenix Park - Blue Canyon
Gangwon-do(Pyeongchang-gun) , Pyeongchang・Jeongseon・Yeongwol

Located within the clear air and fresh canyon waters of Gangwon-do, Phoenix Park’s Blue Canyon is a water theme park reminiscent of the Mediterranean Sea with various themed rest areas and fun water rides. These rides include the ‘Up Hill Slide,’ the first of its kind in Korea, as well as the largest and longest family slide, which are some of the most popular entertainment rides among visitors.  


Gwanbuk-ri Relics and Busosanseong Fortress of Buyeo [UNESCO World Heritage]
Chungcheongnam-do(Buyeo-gun) , Gongju・Buyeo (Baekje)

Gwanbuk-ri Relics and Busosanseong Fortress (Historic Site No. 5) is a mud fortress located on top of Busosan Mountain (alt. 106m) in the northern part of Buyeo. The fortress is estimated by some to have been built around 538 AD (16th year of King Seongwang) to protect Sabi (now Buyeo), which was once the capital of the Baekje Kingdom. Other historians, however, believe that the fortress was already in place by 500 AD (22nd year of King Dongseongwang) and modified in 605 (6th year of King Muwang) into the structure we see today. In either case, some parts of the fortress were reconstructed during the Unified Silla Kingdom period (676-935 AD) and modified again in the Goryeo (918-1392) and Joseon (1392-1910) eras.Busosan Mountain was once considered the guardian mountain of Buyeo and is home to historic landmarks from the Baekje Kingdom (18 BC-660 AD). In addition to Busosanseong Fortress, some of the most famous sites on the mountain include Baekhwajeong Pavilion, Sajaru Pavilion, Banwollu Pavilion, Yeongillu Pavilion, Samchungsa Shrine (dedicated to three loyal subjects of the Baekje Kingdom), Gungnyeosa Shrine, Goransa Temple, Gunchangji (military warehouse site), and Suhyeoljugeoji (site of pit houses for the Baekje soldiers). The mountain is also home to Nakhwaam Rock where, according to legend, 3,000 women of the Baekje Kingdom threw themselves into the river below after the collapse of the empire.Historic Sites of Busosan Mountain■ Samchungsa ShrineSamchungsa Shrine is just a short hike from Sabimun, the main gate of Busosanseong Fortress. The shrine holds the portraits and memorial tablets of Seongchung, Heungsu, and Gyebaek, who were known as the three most loyal subjects of the Baekje Kingdom. Memorial services are held for these great patriots during the annual Baekje Cultural Festival each October.■ Yeongillu PavilionYeongillu Pavilion was built on the site of Yeongildae, an observation platform located on the easternmost peak of Busosan Mountain. Kings and members of the royal family of the Baekje Kingdom once used this spot as a place from which to watch the sun rise above Yeoncheonbong Peak on Gyeryongsan Mountain, plan state affairs, and pray for the peace of the kingdom and their subjects.■ GunchangjiAlso known as “Mallichang,” Gunchangji is the site of a warehouse that was used to store grain for military use. Remnants of burnt grain were discovered at the site in 1915.■ SuhyeoljugeojiSuhyeoljugeoji, only a short distance from Gunchangji, was once the site of a pit house for soldiers of the Baekje Dynasty. The thatched-roof pit houses that stand on the site today have been reconstructed based on historical evidence uncovered during site excavation. Measuring 1m in depth with walls of wood and straw, the pit houses are neighbored by an exhibition hall that stands on the original excavation site.■ Sajaru PavilionSajaru Pavilion, located on the highest peak of Busosan Mountain (alt. 106m), is said to represent the cosmic powers of yin and yang together with Yeongillu Pavilion in the east. Adorned with a nameplate written by Prince Uichinwang Yi Gang (1877-1955), Sajaru commands an ethereal view of the moon and has long since been the source of poetic inspiration. The pavilion was also the site of discovery of the famous Geumdong-seokga-yeorae-ipsang (Gilt-bronze Standing Buddha, Treasure No. 196).■ Baekhwajeong PavilionBaekhwajeong Pavilion, perched on the cliffs of Nakhwaam Rock, was built in 1929 by a poets’ society called Bupungsisa to commemorate the story of the famous rock. According to the historical tale, the women of Baekje flung themselves off the cliffs of Nakhwaam to their deaths after the kingdom collapsed to keep themselves from being defiled by the men of the insurgent kingdoms.■ Gungnyeosa ShrineGungnyeosa Shrine is located a short distance from Taejagol (Crown Prince Valley) to the northeast of Banwollu Square. Established in 1965, the shrine honors the Baekje women who leaped to their deaths from the cliffs of Nakhwaam Rock in 660 when the empire was conquered by the allied forces of the Silla Kingdom and the Tang Dynasty of China. Commemorative rites are held at the shrine every October during the Baekje Cultural Festival.


Korea Military Academy
Seoul(Nowon-gu) , Bukhansan・Dobong・Nowon

Korea Military Academy is a place of strict rules, patriotism, and military cadets. It was extremely difficult for outsiders to visit the academy until 1997, when a special tourism course was created. The course showcases the major sites at Korea Military Academy. Starting from the school information center, visitors can see the museum, memorial hall, and exhibition center in a 1.5 hour course. The Military Museum displays treasures and materials from each branch of the military, while visitors can see the history of the military and lifestyle of cadets at the memorial hall. However, the highlight of a trip to Korea Military Academy is watching the Hwarang Ceremony, a parade of cadets which takes place every Saturday at 11:30. In the ceremony, cadets don their formal uniform to march. Touring the academy at 10 is perfect for watching the parade later.