Gurye, Temples of Mt. Jirisan(Hwaeomsa, Saseongam)& Seomjin River Discount Tickets

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location pin icon South Korea, South Korea
location pin icon South Korea
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View all Gurye, Temples of Mt. Jirisan(Hwaeomsa, Saseongam)& Seomjin River photos
View all Gurye, Temples of Mt. Jirisan(Hwaeomsa, Saseongam)& Seomjin River photos

Get your discount tickets for the Gurye, Temples of Mt. Jirisan(Hwaeomsa, Saseongam)& Seomjin River, save up to 9% !

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9% OFF Refundable
Gurye, Temples of Mt. Jirisan(Hwaeomsa, Saseongam)& Seomjin River
FROM

$109.34

REG. $120.00

Offer details

Pickup included

Overview

This tour begins in Gwangju Metropolitan City and takes you to Gokseong and Gurye in South Jeolla Province. (We provide a KTX and bus ticket booking service for those who book this tour at cost.) Embark on a scenic journey through the majestic surroundings of Mt. Jirisan and the Seomjin River in Gurye and Gokseong. This tour immerses you in Korea’s rich cultural and natural heritage, offering a chance to explore holy temples and experience the peaceful rhythms of mountain life—without the need for an overnight temple stay. And don’t miss one of the best ways to enjoy the Seomjin River: a nostalgic ride on the iconic steam train, included as part of this tour. If you’d like to hike Nogodan Peak in Jirisan after the tour, we recommend spending a night in Gurye. You can enjoy the hike on your own the following day, and we’re happy to offer complimentary support with hotel bookings, Nogodan hiking reservations, and transportation arrangements for your next destination.

Pickup Information

We provide pick-up service from any location in Gwangju. Kindly let us know your address in Gwangju. We will inform you of the exact pick-up time one day before the tour. After the tour, we can drop you off in either Gwangju or Gurye.

Language Offered

English-GUIDE

Itinerary

1. Gokseong Seomjin train village
First opened in 1933, the original Gokseong Station served the region until a new station opened in 1999. After the old line was closed, the old station and its tracks were transformed into Seomjingang Train Village, where the nearby streets have been recreated to look just like they did in the past. Its highlight is the steam train ride, often called the best way to enjoy the Seomjin River. Step aboard the vintage locomotive and take a slow, scenic 10 km journey to Gajeong Station, following the crystal-clear river and peaceful countryside views. It’s one of the most charming rides in Korea.
Duration: 60 mins
2. Ssangsanjae
Sangsanjae, a historic house that has been home to the Haeju Oh family for over 200 years, was originally built as a private study. Inside the simple gate lies a hidden courtyard surrounded by the main house, guest quarters, and a shrine. Passing the guest quarters and climbing the stone steps reveals a secluded garden with bamboo, tea trees, and camellia tunnels leading to a broad lawn. Beyond the lawn stands the Seodangchae—the study hall that gave Sangsanjae its name—where the family’s descendants once studied. A pond and reservoir complete this serene landscape. Sangsanjae reflects the humble spirit of its ancestors, who sought a life of quiet contemplation, surrounded by books and nature. This is the perfect place to experience the essence of Korea’s traditional architecture and the tranquil beauty of its natural surroundings
Duration: 45 mins
3. Gurye-gun
Lunch in Gurye 1. Sanchae Jeongsik (Mountain Vegetable Set Meal) A traditional set meal featuring wild mountain vegetables from Jirisan, with rice, pickles, and seasonal side dishes 2. Jaecheop Set Meal (Freshwater Clams) Freshwater clams from the Seomjin River, known for their sweet, delicate flavor, served in soups, pancakes, or cold dishes. 3. Lotus Leaf Rice Rice wrapped in a lotus leaf, served with side dishes made from locally grown vegetables and fermented ingredients 4. Pork Cutlet Handmade pork cutlet served with a delicate Cornelian cherry (Sansuyu) sauce. Gurye produces about 70% of Korea’s Cornelian cherries, making this a signature local flavor. 5. Fried Sweetfish Sweetfish from the clean waters of the Seomjin River. Mild, tender, and with no fishy smell, they are enjoyed even by those who usually avoid fish. Our lunch menus are reasonably priced, from 15,000 KRW to 35,000 KRW, depending on your choice.
Duration: 60 mins
4. Saseongam Hermitage
Perched on the 530-meter peak of Mt. Osan, Saseongam Hermitage is said to have been founded in 544 by the monk Yeongi. Its name, meaning “Hermitage of the Four Saints,” comes from the tradition that four renowned monks once practiced spiritual discipline here. Saseongam is known for three highlights: 1. Wish Rock – A stone said to resemble the image of the Buddha. Local belief holds that one sincere wish made here will surely come true. 2. Yaksa-jeon (Medicine Buddha Hall) – On the rock wall behind the hall is an engraved image of the Medicine Buddha, which legend attributes to Master Wonhyo, who is said to have drawn it with his fingernail. 3. Scenic Views – The hermitage offers breathtaking panoramic views of both Jirisan National Park and the Seomjin River.
Duration: 90 mins
5. Hwaeomsa Temple
Hwaeomsa Temple, founded in 544 AD in the heart of Jirisan—Korea’s spiritual mountain—is one of the most important centers of Korean Buddhism. It played a key role in “Buddhism for the protection of the nation” (hoguk Buddhism), serving as a spiritual stronghold that combined religious practice with the country’s defense. Over the centuries, it has preserved remarkable cultural and architectural heritage. Don’t miss the majestic Gakhwangjeon Hall, the largest wooden structure of its kind in Korea, named by King Sukjong for its role in protecting the nation. Every evening at sunset, the temple holds the traditional Samul ritual to signal the start of the evening prayer. In the quiet dusk, the deep, resonant sounds of the temple instruments create a truly spiritual atmosphere.
Duration: 60 mins

Inclusion

Private transportation

Entrance fees

Lunch

Tea and coffee

Exclusion

Alcoholic beverages

Personal Travel Insurance

Cancellation Policy

Check mark icon Refundable tickets

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

  • 100% refund if cancelled 1+ days before the start date
  • 0% refund if cancelled less than 1 day(s) before the start date

Additional Info

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Supplied by Tasty Trails Korea

Reviews

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★★★★★ ★★★★★
Based on 1 reviews

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