Exploring the Beauty of Jinan Maisan Tapsa
Among the most beautiful temples in Korea, Jinan Maisan Tapsa offers a stunning experience of nature.
It was a day filled with the awe of nature, even though the cherry blossoms had yet to bloom fully. I would like to share my visit to Jinan Maisan Tapsa, where I was completely captivated by the wonders of nature.
We departed at 7:30 AM and arrived at the Maisan parking lot around 10:30 AM. We took our time walking along the trail, snapping photos for about an hour.
The magnificent natural scenery, the joyful expressions of visitors, and the mystical landscapes of Tapsa were truly remarkable.
Basic Information about Maisan Tapsa:
▶ Location: 367 Maisan-nam-ro, Mayang-myeon, Jinan-gun, Jeollabuk-do
▶ Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 to 18:30 (subject to change based on sunset times, seasons, and weather conditions)
▶ Parking: Vehicles cannot enter directly in front of Tapsa, so please use the provincial park parking lots (south or north).
▶ Parking Fees: 2,000 KRW for cars / 3,000 KRW for buses
▶ Admission Fees (Cultural Heritage Viewing):
- Adults: 3,000 KRW / Youth: 2,000 KRW / Children: 1,000 KRW
- Exemptions: Seniors over 70, veterans, and disabled persons (ID and documentation required)
The path to Tapsa features a gentle trail that allows you to encounter the wonders of nature.
The 'South Parking Lot' is convenient for reaching Tapsa, and the second parking lot is closest to the ticket office.
Public transport is available, with buses from Jinan stopping at the parking area, so checking the schedule in advance is advisable.
The distance from the parking lot to the ticket office is about 1.8 km, and the trail is flat and easy to walk, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
On that day, many visitors came to enjoy the scenery. The path was lined with thick cherry trees, but unfortunately, the blossoms had just begun to bloom.
In about a week, they should be in full bloom, creating a spectacular view. Maisan, designated as a provincial park in Jeollabuk-do, consists of Ammaisan and Sumaesan.
Formed about 100 million years ago from gravel, sand, and mud, the rock formations include the 'tafoni' topography on the southern side of Ammaisan, which looks as if it has been bombarded, creating a mysterious sight.
As you walk along the trail, you will encounter the clear lake 'Tapyeongje,' where the grand peaks of Maisan meet the tranquil waters, creating a breathtaking view.
Duck boats float on the lake, and for just 10,000 KRW for a four-person boat with no time restrictions, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Beyond Tapyeongje, there is a 'stone tower experience area' where visitors can stack stones while making wishes, a heartwarming sight.
Listening to the gentle sound of flowing water in the valley and counting the few blossoms along the way, I soon arrived at the entrance of Tapsa.
At the ticket office, there was a long line, a testament to the popularity of Maisan.
Upon entering the grounds, the first thing that caught my eye was the red camellias blooming beside the rough, majestic stone mountains—a surreal beauty.
Looking up at the Tapsa landscape was truly an astonishing sight. It is said that the monk Lee Gap-ryong completed it in 1917, and it has withstood fierce winds and storms for over a century.
A single person's unwavering belief has created this incredible spectacle.
Within the grounds, there is a natural monument, the 'Juniperus chinensis,' which was reportedly planted by the temple builder in 1910 and still thrives today.
Moreover, the well on the grounds is said to be the source of the Seomjin River. The clear water sounds I heard while hiking must have originated from this very spot.
The intricately stacked 'Cheonji Tower' at the top offers a unique and mystical beauty, quite different from typical stone pagodas in Korea. The view from the top is breathtaking, providing a remarkable sight below.
In conclusion, Maisan Tapsa is a healing destination that is accessible for everyone, young and old, with a smooth path both up and down. I even saw visitors in wheelchairs enjoying a day out with their families.
Walking along the trail feels like being embraced by the grandeur of nature. The charming scene of families enjoying picnics and the delightful local specialty shops encountered on the way down added to a fulfilling day.
Although the cherry blossoms were still sparse, the immense comfort and healing provided by nature were beyond words. If you wish to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom, I highly recommend visiting next week!
Source :https://blog.naver.com/jbgokr/224244957428
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