Traveling to South Korea this autumn? Most tourists will usually head to Seoul but did you know that the capital city is not the only place to see dazzling fall foliage? Here are some of the best spots to enjoy autumn-colored leaves, within and beyond Seoul!
You can discover, book, and experience the best things to do including attractions, activities, car rentals, SIM cards, and more on Klook. Sign up now! 🧡
Enjoy 5% off your first app booking when you use the promo code
<BETTERONAPP>. T&Cs apply.
Autumn Foliage Forecast in South Korea 2023
Autumn in Korea happens between the months of September to late November. Besides crisp golden leaves, you can also look forward to the pleasant cool temperature (hovering around ~20°C). The best times to see the autumn leaves in Korea are October and November, and the peak season only lasts up to two weeks.
To ensure that you catch the best autumn foliage at its peak, be sure to plan your visit to the cities accordingly.
1. Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden
Image credit: @mrsglittertravels on Instagram
Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage in 1997 and is one of the most well-preserved historic buildings from the Joseon dynasty.
Address: 185, Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Operating hours: Closed on Mondays, more details here
Image credit: @tours_with_sue on Instagram
Enjoy the sprawling gardens with scenic pavilions and ponds colored in red and gold - it's truly a wonderful sight. For a fun and uniquely memorable photoshoot, rent a hanbok (available for both males and females) and have your pictures taken with the beautiful backdrop of the palace and fall foliage!
2. Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan National Park, home to the third highest mountain in Korea, Seoraksan, is the first place to see the autumn foliage. Leaves are expected to start turning golden in late September and fully peak by mid October.
With dramatic cliffs and rugged valleys painted in red and gold, we guarantee that this is a hike you’ll never forget! If you're not sure about how to start, this guided Seoraksan National Park Autumn Day Tour includes time to explore some of the most breathtaking trails as well as round-trip transfers from Seoul!
If you are looking for something more comprehensive, there are also other tours like this that include attractions like Nami Island and Garden of Morning Calm too!
Address: Seoraksan-dong, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do
3. Nami Island
Image credit: @song.manon on Instagram
Just in case those K-Dramas weren’t enough to pull you to this iconic location, Nami Island brims with orange and red tree-lined alleys that are sure to brighten any Instagram feed and spark major travel envy. 😏
Image credit: @pimjai.jc on Instagram
The First Kiss Glass Sequoia Bridge is a cannot-miss, which is where the lead characters shared their first kiss in the hit Korean drama series, Winter Sonata. Other viewing spots include the Maple Lane of True Love and Dodamsambong Garden.
Address: 1 Namisum-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
4. Garden of Morning Calm
The Garden of Morning Calm showcases the beauty of Korean horticulture before the backdrop of Chungryeongsan Mountain and boasts 20 themed sections connected by scenic walkways.
Image credit: @headlesskitchenasmr on Instagram
The word ‘beautiful’ is an understatement when you’re talking about Garden of Morning Calm. Though stunning in any season, the autumn hues just truly make this place even more magical than it already is.
Address: 432, Sumogwon-ro, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do
5. Naejangsan National Park
Who can say no to a stroll through this gorgeous national park? An entire afternoon at Naejangsan National Park is probably the closest thing you’ll get to living out your favorite K-Drama.
Naejangsan National Park is a classic Korean autumn foliage must-do, so if you only have time for one spot in your holiday itinerary, this is it! Make sure you also don't miss other famous sights within the national park, including Dodeokpokpo Falls and Geumseonpokpo Falls, as well as the Baegyangsa Temple and Naejangsa Temple.
If you're looking for a tour that takes you to Naejangsan, check out the Autumn Foliage Tour - Seoraksan / Naejangsan tour that includes a visit to Jeonju Hanok Village as well!
Address: 328, Naejanghoban-ro, Jeongeup-si, Jeollabuk-do
6. Seoul Forest Park
Image credit: @travelstained on Instagram
Seoul Forest Park is a hotspot when it comes to seasonal flowers and foliage. Come spring, the park is covered in gorgeous, powdery pink cherry blossom blooms, while the stretch of ginkgo trees is perfect for foliage viewing in autumn.
Image credit: @record_dailytravel on Instagram
There are many facilities within the Seoul Forest Park, which include a Culture and art Park, forest playground areas and a waterfront marina area, making it a fantastic and relaxing spot for locals and tourists alike. Pack a picnic, pick a spot and enjoy the view. 😍
Address: 273, Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
7. Seoul Olympic Park
Seoul Olympic Park is another must-see when it comes to sensational autumn foliage. This huge park takes over 3 hours to explore in its entirety and consists of several zones, including a Leisure Sports Park, Cultural Art Park, Environmental Eco-Park and History Experience Park dedicated to the area’s rich historic heritage (the park is actually built on the grounds of Mongchontoseong Fortress which was built almost 2,000 years ago).
Our recommended top photo spots are the Wild Flower Garden to see Yellow Cosmos, Rose Plaza and of course, the Golden Ginkgo Tree Road!
You can also opt to explore the large park via a bicycle which you can easily rent at the bicycle rental shop between SK Olympic Handball Gymnasium and Woori Art Hall. Charges start from 3,000 won (~USD3) for half an hour.
Address: 424, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul
8. Bukhansan National Park
Willing to hike for scenic autumn foliage views? Bukhansan National Park is just the place. Covering both Bukhansan and Dobongsan Mountains, this national park has plenty of trails and viewpoints of lofty peaks drenched in red, yellow and golden leaves.
Beginners can take the Scenic Valley Trail or Main Road Trail while those looking for a greater challenge can opt to head up to Baegundae Peak for a magnificent bird-eye view of the entire park.
Adventurous souls can also check out this guided Bukhansan Sunrise Tour which will definitely be a hike to remember!
Address: 262, Bogungmun-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul
9. Asan Ginkgo Tree Road
Image credit: @kassriv on Instagram
This secret spot is a favorite amongst locals for foliage views. Located about 2.5 hours away from Seoul via public transport, the Asan Ginkgo Tree Road is an underrated gem that is worth traveling for if you have some time to spare.
Address: 259-2 Baekam-ri, Yeomchi-eup, Asan-si, Chungcheongnam-do
10. Incheon Grand Park
Marvel at the beautiful views of autumn foliage at Incheon Grand Park, which is surrounded by Gwanmosan Mountain and Sangasan Mountain. Head to Maple Tree Tunnel for the best foliage views.
Besides the sprawling garden grounds, Incheon Park is also home to other facilities like a Children’s Zoo, making it a great place to visit if you're traveling with kids in tow.
Address: 236, Munemi-ro, Namdong-gu, Incheon
11. Hongcheon Ginkgo Forest
Another location that's more well-known among locals rather than tourists, the Hongcheon Ginkgo Forest is home to more than 2,000 yellow ginkgo trees, making it a spectacular sight come autumn.
This park is privately owned and only open for the month of October - make sure to check with the Hongcheon County Office before visiting!
Address: 686-4 Gwangwon-ri, Nae-myeon, Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 5pm
12. Bomun Lake
Fun Fact: Did you know that Bomun Lake is man-made? This area is a crowd favorite because of the cherry blossoms around Bomunho Lake and Bulguksa Temple in April, and autumn leaves during October.
Besides strolling around the compound, there are bike rental shops near the lake. For a different POV, you can also rent a duck boat and paddle around the lake!
Address: Sinpyeong-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
The Gyeongju Autumn Foliage Day Tour from Busan includes transfers from Busan to the various autumn viewing hotspots in Gyeongju - including Bomun Tourist Complex which contains attractions such as a ferry port, the Yukbu Village, and the Seonjae Art Gallery. There's also a pit stop at the Historic Site to see the royal tombs and other sites like Tumuli Park and Panwolsong Fortress.
13. Juwangsan National Park
Juwangsan National Park is where you'll find the magnificent Juwangsan Mountain, which is located in the Baekdudaegan Mountain Range. Explore the different walking trails and enjoy the splendid sights of rocky cliffs, gaping valleys, waterfalls and caves galore.
Image credit: @bumkyu.zip on Instagram
Some recommended spots for autumn foliage views are the Jeolgolgyegok Valley and
Jusanji Pond.
Address: 169-7, Gongwon-gil, Cheongsong-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
14. Hallasan
Image credit: @sandra.macht.urlaub
Visiting this iconic Jeju landmark in autumn? You're in for a treat! Jeju's highest mountain is beautiful all year round, from being covered in colorful blooms during spring to golden brown leaves in autumn. Come winter, it is also a great place for amazing scenic snowy sights.
Among the five Hallasan Mountain Dullegil trails, the Cheonasoop-gil trail is the best to enjoy the autumn foliage.
For a fuss-free way to explore Mt. Halla, take on the Jeju Island UNESCO Day Tour (Jeju South Route Day Tour) which includes tour stops at some of Jeju’s best UNESCO-listed sites:
- Hike Mt. Halla Eoseungsaengak Trail (note: this is not the full hike trail, it is the shortest trail and will take less than an hour - suitable for beginners!)
- 1,100 Altitude Wetland at Hallasan National Park (part of the Jeju Biosphere Reserve)
- Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff (formed when the lava from Hallasan Mountain erupted into the sea, they are rock pillars shaped like cubes or hexagons)
- Yakcheonsa Temple (one of the biggest Buddhist temples in Asia)
- Olle Trail Course no 7 (a scenic walk which passes which passes Oedolgae Rock, Beophwan Port and Gangjeong Village)
- Cheonjiyeon Falls (famous waterfall that’s named ‘Pond of Emperor of Heaven’)
Address: 2070-61, 1100-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
15. Mount Jiri
Did you know? Mount Jiri is home to the highest point in mainland South Korea - the Cheonwangbong Peak stands at an elevation of 1,915 meters above sea level. The Jirisan National Park also just so happens to be Korea's very first National Park that was established in 1967!
Like many other mountains, Jirisan's scenery changes with the seasons. Many flock here in spring for cherry blossoms and in autumn for the stunning fall views! Join a tour that includes transfers to and from Busan for extra convenience!
Address: Mountain 100 Chuseong-ri, Macheon-myeon, Hamyang-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do
16. Palgongsan Natural Park
Palgongsan Natural Park and Palgongsan Mountain is well-known for its seasonal colors - the park has numerous rocks and valleys that are carpeted with azaleas during spring and autumn colors in the fall.
Book a tour that will take you to see the spectacular sights and sounds of Palgongsan - upon your arrival, you will meet your English or Chinese-speaking guide who will conduct a short orientation and safety briefing. After that, you’re off to explore the breathtaking trails of Mount Palgongsan!
17. Hwadam Forest
Check out Hwadam Botanic Garden's sensational autumn scenery! The best way to explore this enchanting woodland, nestled amidst rolling hills and pristine streams, is via a cute monorail train! There are a few different routes that you can choose from, or if you do have the time perhaps you would like to try them all!
Address: 278 Docheogwit-ro, Docheok-myeon, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
If you are looking for a tour that covers a pitstop at the Hwadam Forest, the Hwadam Forest Healing Package also includes a trip to Stay Healing Park, and Koo Museum, where inspiring exhibitions and installations await.
18. Jangtaesan Mountain
Jangtaesan Recreational Forest has one of the most stunning fall foliage in Korea thanks to its dense forest of ginkgo trees and bald cypress. Pick a trail and enjoy a healing stroll through the forest as you enjoy the reds and golds that blanket your surroundings.
For the best views, don't miss the skywalk and suspension bridge!
Address: 461, Jangan-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon
19. Odaesan National Park
Witness autumn's splendor at Odaesan National Park, which is iconic for its filming location for the world-famous drama 'Goblin'!
Address: 2 Odaesan-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Feel like you are walking in the footsteps of your favorite characters as you visit Woljeongsa Temple, where you'll be able to head down Fir Trees Road before heading to Pyeongchang Rest Area for lunch!
20. Sangumburi Crater
While not a spot for fall foliage, we couldn't resist adding Sangumburi Crater to this list! If you've had your fill of all the red and orange foliage, swap the golden views for a panoramic scene of fluffy silver grass. Come at sunset for the best experience!
Address: 768, Bijarim-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
South Korea Travel Essentials 🇰🇷
Planning a holiday to South Korea? Here's our checklist of travel essentials for a smooth and hassle-free trip!
🚅 For starters, the Korea Rail Pass is a must for your adventures. It will come in useful when you are exploring various cities as you can get unlimited rides via high-speed rail, and allows you to transit and travel to over 600 stations and 80 different routes!
🏮 South Korea Essentials: Transportation Passes & Top Must-Dos
➡️ Want to save more on Seoul transportation passes and attraction tickets? Hit all your favourites and save up to 52% with the Klook Pass Seoul!
✨ Others
👉🏼 Exhilarating adventures lined up on your next trip itinerary?
Protect yourself and your loved ones while you experience the world with Klook’s travel insurance! Learn more about why you should book travel insurance and how to level up your travels today.
