A Refreshing Valley for Kids: Geumsansa Temple in Gimje
As the summer heat intensifies, the desire to visit a cool valley grows stronger. Here’s a refreshing spot perfect for some light water play with your kids.
At Geumsansa Temple in Gimje, you can dip your feet in the water, enjoy free resting areas with just a parking fee, and take a leisurely stroll along the clay paths.
- Address: 1 Moak 15-gil, Geumsan-myeon, Gimje-si, Jeollabuk-do
There are both free and paid parking options available. A free parking lot is located near the entrance of Geumsansa, while a paid parking lot is available inside for those planning to engage in water activities.
The first parking lot has restrooms and is close to the water play area. While it's not far to walk from the free parking, if you have luggage and prefer convenience, the paid parking lot is a good option.
After parking, if you head up, you’ll find a forest playground on the left, featuring a zip line, suspension bridge, stepping stones, and forest cabins. Although it's hot now, this area becomes a favorite among kids when the weather cools down.
As you walk up a bit further, you'll finally see the refreshing valley. This popular spot in Jeollabuk-do is bustling, especially on weekends.
Many free resting areas are visible on both sides, all available for use. It’s advisable to arrive early on weekends, as spots fill up quickly after 11 AM.
The resting areas are right in front of the valley, allowing you to keep an eye on your kids while they play. Even if you can't find a resting spot, bringing a mat will let you sit anywhere.
The Gimje Geumsansa Valley offers shallow areas for younger kids, as well as deeper sections that are popular with older children. The deepest areas are only waist-deep for adults, making it a safe and fun spot for sliding down the natural rock slides.
Be aware that there is no shade in the water play area, so hats and sunscreen are essential. Kids should bring tubes or gear for catching freshwater snails. Since the valley has many rocks, wearing aqua shoes is recommended for easier walking.
Although the Gimje Geumsansa Valley offers free resting areas, cooking and camping are not permitted. It’s best to bring simple snacks, a mat, spare clothes, towels, hats, sunscreen, and a bag for trash.
Next to the water play area is a clay path. Walking barefoot with your kids is enjoyable, and it’s a unique experience for adults to walk barefoot as well. Recently, a shoe rack has been added.
Walking on clay is said to enhance metabolism and improve skin by breaking down waste, making barefoot walking highly recommended. Pets are not allowed, and littering or smoking is prohibited.
As you walk along the clay path, you’ll encounter a reflexology course that stimulates your feet for better circulation.
We also enjoyed a full clay foot bath, which is popular among both kids and adults, providing a sensory play experience in the soft mud.
After walking barefoot, there are facilities to wash your feet with strong water pressure. If you’re wearing sneakers, it’s a good idea to bring a small towel to dry your feet.
Continuing from the first parking lot, you’ll reach Geumsansa Temple, featuring a beautiful large crape myrtle and the stunning Daejeokgwangjeon Hall.
The three-story wooden structure of Maitreya Hall and the enchanting crape myrtle are breathtaking. Despite the intense heat, the beauty of the crape myrtle kept my gaze.
If you’re planning a trip to the Jeollabuk-do valley during the heatwave, I highly recommend Geumsansa Temple with its free resting areas. The water is shallow but safe for play, making it a satisfying spot for both kids and adults. Don’t forget to explore the barefoot clay path next to the valley for a truly healing experience.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/jbgokr/224378531956
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