From September 13 to October 13 at Byeol Baram Hill Area
Geochang County in Gyeongnam will hold the 4th Gamaksan Flower & Star Journey event under the theme "A Windy Day" for 31 days from September 13 to October 13 at Byeol Baram Hill (San 57, Deoksan-ri, Sinwon-myeon).
Located at the summit of Gamaksan Mountain at an altitude of 900 meters, Byeol Baram Hill offers panoramic views of not only Geochang but also Jirisan, Deogyusan, and Gayasan. The hill features an exotic landscape with a 50,000-square-meter field of purple Aster flowers and seven massive wind turbines.
Gamaksan, where the purple Aster chrysanthemums create a spectacular scene, has become a popular spot on social media among the younger generation who prefer taking photos and short videos. In 2022, it was selected as one of the “Forbes Korea Top 9 Hot Places of Famous Mountains Nationwide,” further establishing its reputation as a representative tourist destination of Geochang.
Last year, the growth of the Aster chrysanthemums was somewhat sluggish due to prolonged monsoon rains. However, this year, Geochang County has devoted utmost efforts to transplanting seedlings, drainage and irrigation, weeding, and fertilization management, resulting in more abundant growth than ever. The number of visitors is expected to surpass last year's 300,000.
In addition, road expansion and parking lot maintenance are in their final stages to ensure vehicles can access the summit more safely. The forest road toward Naedong Village in Sinwon has also been widened and paved to operate a dedicated downhill lane, greatly improving traffic conditions compared to last year.
The official opening ceremony of the Gamaksan Flower & Star Journey will be held at 2 p.m. on September 20, featuring a calligraphy performance, kite flying, and a Geochang Ak Uhoe performance, among other attractions. The 3.7-kilometer “Barrier-Free Sharing Trail” encircling Gamaksan will also officially open on the same day.
During the event period, various performances such as Geochang Ak Uhoe, Tongil Mea Eari Orchestra, busking, magic shows, and media facade videos will be presented. Additionally, there will be a variety of activities including a small picnic event for women in their 30s to 50s, picnic item rentals such as mats, herbal tea tastings, Gamguk skin-making, QR code treasure hunts, SNS certification events, and a stamp tour.
To promote coexistence with local residents, food markets run by mothers from Namsang-myeon and Sinwon-myeon and snack-selling food trucks will participate. The Flower & Star Market, which promotes and sells sixth-industry products produced in Geochang, will also operate during the event, contributing to increased farm income and revitalization of the local economy.
Goo Inmo, Mayor of Geochang County, stated, “We ask for your interest and participation in the 4th Gamaksan Flower & Star Journey. On a windy day under the clear autumn sky, we hope many people will create precious memories at the beautiful Byeol Baram Hill.”
The Aster chrysanthemums at Geochang Byeol Baram Hill are expected to begin blooming in mid-September and reach their peak in early October.
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