"Take a Walk Along the Foliage Paths and Savor the Deepening Scents of Autumn"

Recommended Temple Routes: Songgwangsa in Suncheon, Baekyangsa in Jangseong
Healing Walks Along Piagol in Jirisan and Gwanbangjerim in Damyang
Experience a Romantic Autumn Getaway Amidst Stunning Natural Scenery

In celebration of late autumn in November, Jeollanam-do Province has recommended Songgwangsa Temple in Suncheon, Gwanbangjerim in Damyang, Piagol in Jirisan, Gurye, and Baekyangsa Temple in Jangseong as "healing travel destinations along the autumn foliage paths." These destinations are beloved for their stunning fall colors, where nature, culture, and local cuisine harmoniously blend, allowing visitors to fully enjoy a romantic autumn getaway.

Scenic view of Songgwangsa Temple in Suncheon. Provided by Jeollanam-do Province

When autumn arrives, the grounds of Songgwangsa Temple in Suncheon and the forest trails of Jogyesan Mountain are painted in vibrant red and yellow foliage. The stone wall path connecting Iljumun Gate to the main hall, Daeungjeon, offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for contemplation. This location was also a filming site for "Decision to Leave," which won Best Director at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival. Visitors can take part in temple stay programs such as meditation and tea ceremonies, enjoying a healing break from the stresses of daily life in a serene setting.

Gourmet travelers can also savor local delicacies, such as Jjangttungeo-tang, a nourishing soup made from mudskippers caught in the Suncheonman tidal flats, and pork rice soup at Ujang and Araetjang, traditional markets with a long history.

View of Gwanbangjerim, Damyang. Provided by Jeollanam-do Province

The Gwanbangjerim in Damyang is a forest path stretching over 2 kilometers, lined with zelkova, hackberry, cherry, and silver maple trees, some of which are over 200 years old. The harmony with the nearby Damyangcheon stream is so beautiful that the area has been designated a natural monument and has won the grand prize at the National Beautiful Forest Competition. Every year, tourists flock to this famous spot to photograph the breathtaking scenery of colorful autumn leaves reflected in the calm waters of Damyangcheon.

Visitors can further enhance their trip by tasting local traditional foods, such as Changpyeong Gukbap, a rice soup with a 100-year history, and Damyang Tteokgalbi, grilled short rib patties made using time-honored recipes.

Scenic view of Piagol, Jirisan, Gurye. Provided by Jeonnam Province

Piagol in Jirisan, Gurye, is a renowned autumn foliage destination known as "Samhong" (Three Reds) for its meaning: the mountains turn red (San-hong), the waters turn red (Su-hong), and even the people walking between them are tinged red (In-hong). Walking the approximately 4-kilometer autumn foliage trail, visitors can experience the essence of late autumn colors. Along with the natural ecology of the national park, visitors can also explore historic temples such as Yeongoksa, immersing themselves in the unique atmosphere of Jirisan.

Gurye, surrounded by mountains, is rich in natural ingredients. Local specialties include grilled mountain chicken raised in the hills, freshwater snail sujebi (hand-torn noodle soup) that captures the freshness of the Seomjingang River, and mountain vegetable set meals featuring a variety of wild greens from Jirisan, all offering a taste of Gurye’s healthy and unique cuisine.

A view of Ssanggyeru Pavilion at Baekyangsa Temple in Jangseong. Provided by Jeonnam Province

Baekyangsa Temple in Jangseong is famous for its delicate maple leaves and the picturesque reflection of Ssanggyeru Pavilion at the temple entrance on the pond, creating a scene reminiscent of a painting. It is a popular spot for photographers who arrive early in the morning to capture its beauty. The walking trail from the entrance to the temple grounds is flat and free of steep inclines, making it easy for visitors of all ages to leisurely stroll through the beautiful tunnel of autumn leaves.

Near the Hwangryonggang riverside in Jangseong, visitors can enjoy local specialties such as sundae gukbap (blood sausage soup), softshell turtle stew, spicy freshwater fish stew, and a country-style set meal with mountain vegetables made from local produce near Chukryeongsan Mountain, all showcasing the flavors of the region’s fresh ingredients.

Oh Mikyung, Director of Tourism at Jeonnam Province, stated, "In autumn, the season of high skies and abundant harvests, Jeollanam-do not only boasts outstanding natural scenery, but also a wealth of local foods. I hope travelers will plan an autumn trip to Jeonnam, where they can experience both the healing beauty of the autumn foliage and a rich culinary journey."