Exploring the Enchanting Beauty of Hwangmaesan Mountain
Hwangmaesan / Photo=Online Community
When you want to escape the stifling heat of the city and enjoy the open nature, accessibility and cost come to mind first. Hwangmaesan Mountain in Hapcheon, Gyeongnam, is filled with lush green reeds and a mesmerizing Milky Way in the summer, making it a hidden healing spot for weekend travelers and couples.
What’s particularly attractive is that the park entrance fee is completely free, eliminating any cost burden for visitors. With easy access by car to the highlands, it’s an ideal summer destination for families with children or parents with weak knees.
As night falls, the true charm of Hwangmaesan unfolds. From April to October, the area transforms into one of the best night spots in South Korea for observing beautiful stars and the Milky Way, thanks to its geographical features that perfectly block artificial lights.
The countless starlight beams pouring over the quiet stone walls of Hwangmaesan Fortress create a breathtaking atmosphere as if you are standing in the middle of the universe. Arriving in the late afternoon to enjoy the stunning sunset, then walking along the Milky Way at night is considered one of the most romantic date paths among couples.
Unlike the lonely autumn silver reeds, summer brings a refreshing green wave that fills the entire ridge with the vitality of the earth. The expansive flatlands at the summit offer a spectacular panoramic view, free from obstructing dense forests.
In summer, the gentle clouds and mist embrace the vegetation, making a walk along the green carpet paths a soothing experience for weary eyes and hearts.
Hwangmaesan is easily accessible by car to the 800m high auto camping parking lot, allowing for a light hike to the summit stone at 1,113m, which is one of the top 100 mountains in Korea. The shortest circular route of 3.3km can be completed without physical strain.
The path from the parking lot, through the reed fields and Hwangmaesan Fortress, can be comfortably finished in about 2 hours and 20 minutes. Standing at the open summit, you can take in the crystal-clear scenery of Hapcheon Lake and the majestic ridges of Jirisan, Deogyusan, and Gayasan.
After experiencing the green beauty of Hwangmaesan, it’s a good idea to drive to nearby attractions where you can explore the history and culture of Hapcheon. Haeinsa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing the Tripitaka Koreana, offers a serene reflection different from the open Hwangmaesan, surrounded by dense forests and the refreshing Hongryudong Valley.
Since there is little shade on the mountain and the sun can be strong, the most efficient plan is to explore Hwangmaesan early in the morning or after 4 PM, utilizing nearby spots during the day. When viewing the Milky Way at night, temperatures can drop, so be sure to bring a light windbreaker or outerwear.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/tour_toctoc/224322463332
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