A Floral Feast at Mt. Hwangmaesan in South Korea

 
Mt. Hwangmaesan, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea. A 1108 meters tall mountain is found in the southeastern part of the country. The area is a popular spot because of Haeinsa – a Buddhist temple, housing a 13th century collection of the Buddhist scriptures – and flowers.
Every spring fields around the mountain’s peak get covered in thousands of royal azaleas. To preserve the flowers, locals have been holding the Hwangmaesan Royal Azalea Festival since 1997. During it a range of cultural events take place. People of all ages are invited to participate and admire the unique natural phenomena.

Why to go there?
Wonderful views, great festival, authentic experience.

When to go there?
Every May. Royal azaleas bloom approximately from beginning to middle of the month.

How to get there?
Bu bus from Seoul to Hapcheon. There are tours to Haeinsa Temple that usually include visiting Mt. Hwangmaesan as well. Bus will take you to the top and the fields.

Lead photo by 기문 kim

Photo by DaeWook Kim

Photo by Sungjin Kim

Photo by Sungjin Kim

Photo by kosoon

Photo by Jose Choi