Exploring Bobaljae: A Scenic Drive in Danyang
14-2, Bobal-ri, Gagok-myeon, Danyang-gun, Chungbuk
There is a new population concept known as "living population."
According to Danyang County in Chungbuk, the analysis of the living population in the fourth quarter of 2024
(which includes registered residents, registered foreigners, and outsiders who stayed for more than 3 hours at least once a month) showed that
the ratio of the staying population to the registered population ranked fifth nationally and first in Chungbuk.
This surge was attributed to the autumn foliage season, particularly the Ondal Cultural Festival and Bobaljae.
Bobaljae
Address: 14-2, Bobal-ri, Gagok-myeon, Danyang-gun, Chungbuk
Entrance Fee: Free, Open Year-Round
Parking: Two parking lots available
Restrooms: Available at the temporary parking lot and the large bus parking area
During my visit on a weekday, December 2nd, I found that the designated temporary parking area was not available,
but parking at the entrance was manageable. I also noticed that parking in the large bus area was allowed (no parking in front of the observatory).
The food market operated only during the foliage season, as there are no shops nearby.
Situated at an elevation of 540m, Bobaljae is a winding 3km mountain road connecting Gagok-myeon and Yeongchun-myeon,
part of the Sobaeksan Trail, Section 6.
After parking, it takes about 5 minutes to reach the observatory, where visitors have built small stone towers.
The road is well-maintained and not too steep, making it accessible for beginner drivers.
Since I visited in December, after the foliage season, there were not many visitors.
An information board at the observatory mentioned that it was the site of a winning photograph from a tourism photo exhibition in 2017,
and recently, Bobaljae was selected as the representative image for December in the 2025 calendar by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
The observatory has been newly constructed, standing 8 meters high and 32 meters wide, with a total area of 1,040㎡.
According to the information, the trees along this road were planted starting in 1867 by the Guinsa Temple of the Cheontae Order nearby.
Bobaljae is particularly famous for its autumn foliage and scenic drives, with drone photographs gaining popularity.
The new observatory offers a wider view and enhanced safety compared to the previous one.
This mountain pass, previously known as Godneomi Pass, is also marked as such on the observatory.
The spiral path leading up is not steep and is relatively wide, allowing dogs on leashes with waste disposal bags.
The observatory has ample seating areas, but visitors should dress warmly as it can be chilly in winter.
The fence has certain areas reinforced for safety.
Although I visited after the foliage season, the early winter scenery was stunning.
The winding road below the observatory is picturesque, and I can only imagine how beautiful it would be during peak foliage.
The winter landscape, especially when covered in snow, adds another layer of charm to this location.
The observatory features three protruding areas towards Yeongchun-myeon, serving as photo zones.
Winter offers a serene atmosphere that contrasts with the vibrant colors of autumn, providing a tranquil experience.
I highly recommend visiting Danyang's Bobaljae for a refreshing escape in the clear, quiet winter of Chungbuk.
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