Every season in South Korea brings its own unique beauty, delighting many travelers. Particularly in autumn, as the weather turns brisk and the trees begin to change their leafy attire, visitors are immersed in the romantic beauty of nature, reminiscent of a painting.
The red foliage season in South Korea
The natural landscape of South Korea undergoes a collective transformation as the seasons change, with trees donning new hues. @freepik
1. When is the best time to visit South Korea to catch the red foliage season?
Many tourists plan to visit South Korea to admire the streets adorned in vibrant shades of yellow and red. However, when is the moment when nature transitions to its most beautiful phase of the year?
The most beautiful red foliage season in South Korea is from September to November every year. The weather in South Korea during this time is cool autumn, sometimes slightly chilly. Additionally, the ginkgo, persimmon, and maple trees planted along the streets add to the romantic scenery.
The red foliage season in South Korea
South Korea boasts countless famous landmarks and vibrant entertainment districts. However, the allure of the autumn foliage remains a major draw for international tourists visiting the country. If you're unsure where to witness the most breathtaking natural scenery, check out the list below curated by Mytour!
The beauty of autumn foliage continues to captivate international travelers visiting this nation. @koreatraveleasy
Marvel at the crimson leaves of Mount Seoraksan.
Korean autumn foliage
One must mention Mount Seoraksan as the top destination for autumn foliage viewing. The spectacular scenery and vibrant hues of this mountainous region make Seoraksan one of the most enticing spots during the fall season. If you plan to hike and explore the natural landscapes here, you can visit places like Osaek Jeongol Valley, Cheonbuldong Valley, Baekdam Valley, and Osaek Hot Springs.
The breathtaking scenery and striking colors of Mount Seoraksan. @livingnomads
Korean autumn foliage
Mount Odaesan, Gangwon Province
Korean maple leaves
The splendid beauty of Mount Odaesan. @habkorea
Odaesan National Park
As South Korea's largest natural forest, Odaesan National Park is home to thousands of indigenous flora and fauna species, along with renowned Buddhist sites like Woljeongsa Temple. The autumn colors have rendered the hiking trails here more romantic than ever.
To admire the panoramic view of nature here, you can take on the challenge of mountain climbing or simply stroll along the shaded trails lined with fir trees. The park also features 2 camping areas, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in nature.
Woljeongsa Temple within the grounds of Odaesan National Park. @thereshegoesagain
Korean autumn foliage
Mount Jirisan, Jeollanam Province (Jeollanam-do)
Mount Jirisan is beloved by Koreans for its captivating beauty. If you visit during autumn foliage season (around late October), you'll witness hillsides adorned in vibrant red and golden hues. Here, you can explore intriguing attractions like Piagol Valley, Baemsagol Valley, and Ssanggyesa Temple.
Hillsides adorned in vibrant red and golden hues. @Pinterest
Korean autumn foliage
Mount Naejangsan, Jeollabuk Province (Jeollabuk-do)
Korean autumn foliage
The long stretch of vibrant maple trees makes the park famous. @inmykorea
To get here, you'll need to take the Honam high-speed train from Seoul to Jeongeup Station, which takes about 3 hours. Alternatively, you can choose the Gyeongbu line (from Yongsan to Jeongeup), which takes only 1 hour and 20 minutes, or the SRT Suseo line to SRT Jeongeup in 1 hour and 15 minutes. Then, take another high-speed train to Mount Naejangsan. A 2-minute walk from the drop-off point will lead you to the Naejangsan National Park office.
3. Some tips when visiting South Korea during autumn foliage
Book your flight tickets and hotel rooms in advance
Flight tickets to South Korea
Autumn foliage season is also the peak tourist season in South Korea. @rufustory
Currently, there are several domestic airlines operating this route, such as Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietjet Air. Additionally, you can consider other international airlines providing flights from Vietnam to South Korea, such as Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, etc.
Moreover, it's advisable to book your South Korea hotel accommodation near your intended destinations in advance. During peak season, accommodations tend to be scarce and prices are pushed higher than usual. To budget for your trip, you can check Mytour's fare announcements and balance your expenses accordingly.
You can also explore additional hotels in major cities in South Korea on Mytour:
Prepare Appropriate Luggage
During the period from September to November, the weather in South Korea starts to become cool. Therefore, you should bring a light jacket and a scarf to keep warm when needed. Additionally, a comfortable pair of sneakers is essential for you to experience long walks.
Hotels in South Korea usually do not provide personal items for travelers. Therefore, you need to bring some essentials such as toothbrush, toothpaste, and comb. Some types of pain relievers, motion sickness pills, and cold medicine are also essential items.
You should bring warm clothing if you visit South Korea in the autumn. @freepik
Currency Considerations
For the most convenient trip, it's best to exchange currency before leaving Vietnam. In South Korea, both paper money and coins are widely used. Therefore, it's advisable to exchange both types of currency for easier spending. Additionally, major shopping centers, hotels, and restaurants all accept Visa or MasterCard, so you don't have to worry if you don't have enough cash!
Both paper money and coins are widely used. @corporatefinanceinstitute
Korean autumn foliage
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