Chungnyeongsan Cypress Forest
In Search of My Own Forest

The Chungnyeongsan area is thickly forested with over 2.5 million 50-year-old cypresses, cedars and other conifers covering a vast area of 1,148 hectares. The Chungnyeongsan cypress forest is one of Korea¡¯s largest manmade forests, grown by famous forest manager Chunwon Lim Jongguk (1915-1987) over 21 years, making it a ¡®forest of tenacity.¡¯

Our hike began at the parking lot in Chuam Village near Jangseong-eup. Before reaching the actual forest trail, we had a 20-minute walk uphill, until we reach a roadblock to prevent vehicles from entering. Two hundred meters from there is Lim Jong-guk¡¯s memorial stone. Beside the memorial stone, there¡¯s a hiking path to the peak of Chungnyeongsan Mountain. Everyone seemed to find the hike quite manageable, with the cooling autumn breeze drying away breaking sweat. Aside from the cypresses, the forest is home to many other tree species such as cedar and larch. Most notable are the thick and straight firmiana trees, looking almost like bamboo from a distance, growing so tall a phoenix may come to nest. A variety of ferns and moss have spread out over the tree roots, making it seem like we have entered the depths of a jungle.

Many trails have been created in the cypress forest, allowing for slow and leisurely strolls. While the Health Trail leads to the observation deck at the peak of Chungnyeongsan Mountain, the Forest Scent Trail goes along the cypress forest and marsh park walking trails, offering ample opportunity to breath in the phytoncide from the trees. Interestingly, the path is lined with cypress pellets, making it softly cushioned. Walking slowly along the forest trail, it feels like our bodies are absorbing the refreshing scent of the cypress.

Jangseongho Lake Resort
Small but Certain Happiness

Walking up the stairs after parking at Jangseong Dam, we see Baegamsan Mountain far in the distance. This is where the Jangseongho Lakeside Trail begins. This is a 7.5 km long trekking course between Jangseongho Dock and Suseong-li in Bukyimyeon. It seems to be a popular choice among families with children, who enjoy the sights and sounds of both forest and lake at the same time. Every now and then, a tree branch stretches over the deck, providing shade from the autumn sun, and giving a glimpse of maple leaves turning red. At the end of the decked trail is a small pavilion, where visitors can rest. It¡¯s a good idea to stop and sit for a while, as the uphill trail begins from here. Although the slope is not steep, it is a naked forest trail, where you have to step over tree roots and rocks. There¡¯s no reason to hurry; you can go at your own pace. As the path is narrow, stop from time to time to let people pass in the opposite direction, sit on a rock every now and then, taking in the view of the lake. Walking along the forest trail, you will be greeted by a surprising sight. This is the Yellow Swinging Bridge, the highlight of the trail, located about 1.2 km from the starting point. The swinging bridge stretches across the lake, symbolizing the rise of Jangseong-gun, with 21-meter high columns designed like yellow dragons erected at its two ends. The entire bridge is yellow, true to Jangseong-gun¡¯s nickname ¡°Yellow City.¡±

Crossing the bridge as it sways with each step is a thrilling experience, like walking on water. It is a popular photo spot, and many people stop halfway to take pictures. The center of the bridge is where it sways and wobbles the most, not only up and down, but also left and right.

Baegyangsa Temple
A Painting Over the Water

Baegyangsa Temple is a temple of long history, built in the Baekje era. It is also the Korean temple with the most foreign visitors, who come to participate in the Baegyangsa Temple Stay program. Some background knowledge about the history of Baegyangsa Temple will make your visit even more meaningful. Baegyangsa Temple was established in the 33rd year of King Mu of Baekje, 1,400 years ago, and is the birthplace of Honam Buddhism in southwest province of Korea. At the time of its founding, it was called Baegamsa Temple, but the name was changed to Baegyangsa Temple by Monk Hwangyang in the 7th year of King Seonjo of Joseon. The name ¡°Baegyangsa¡± means ¡°White Sheep Temple,¡± after the legend that a white sheep received enlightenment at the temple. A white sheep statue is placed under the autumn olive tree in the temple for this reason as well.

Baegyangsa is famous for the beautiful sight of Ssanggyeru Pavilion reflected in the pond. Colorful autumn leaves and the Ssanggyeru Pavillion are set against the majestic backdrop of Baegamsan Mountain and reflected in the pond, providing a glimpse of paradise in the water. A special feature of the maple trees here is their small leaves, earning the nickname ¡®baby maple,¡¯ as the leaves are as small as a baby¡¯s hand. Although they are small, their color is a uniquely intense and beautiful crimson. Autumn reaches its peak when the baby maples display this enchanting color. That is when it will get crowded here, with visitors out to bask in the glory of late autumn. Autumn visitors can enjoy the harmony of colorful leaves embroidered overhead and beneath their feet, capturing the beauty of fall in their cameras and eyes.