The 16-day Escapade to South Korea! – Itinerary, Travel Report and Tips

Having traveled to South Korea in 16 days, I couldn't really say we have been all over the country. Frankly, 16 days really isn't enough! There are just to many things to see and places to explore. Given this limited time though, I still managed to squeeze in all places and activities recommended by local and foreign tourists alike and make an itinerary me and my friend was able to enjoy.

We did not really plan to go during autumn when we booked our flight, it just happened so, which was wonderful timing, as for me this is the perfect season to travel. Not just because it's cold and you wouldn't really worry about sweating all over the place (lol mental image) and the heat of the sun clashes with the cool wind so it's just perfect. The colors of fall is just fantastic, every picture you take would look amazing!

lovely ginko leaves

A day around Seoraksan (Sogongwon, Sinheungsa Temple, Biseondae) and my First "Hitchhiking" Experience in Gangwon-do - Day 2 in South Korea

I woke up quite early that day, the Seoraksan day. I was excited and was also disappointed with myself. Going hiking without any rubber shoes - black boots, red Martens lace up, spike flats, heels - but no rubber shoes. Stupid, yes, I know that already.

After contemplating on what to wear, I finally settled with a shirt, blue coat, and the black boots (they were not hiking boots, take note). It was a bit cold already in Chuncheon and we were warned that the temperature can get lower once we were in Seoraksan.

We left for Sokcho by 9.30 AM and we bought our tickets in advance the day before. Sokcho is a city in Gangwondo which is also very close to the National Park of Seoraksan. One must pass Sokcho first as buses going to the mountain are situated there.

It was a two and a half hour ride from Chuncheon to Sokcho, we arrived at Sokcho bus terminal around 12.00PM. This I did not expect - or maybe I just did not do my research on the travel time. (read: Bad planning). I wanted to do the Cheonbuldong course, but apparently we will not be able to make it on time given that we only went for a day trip to Seoraksan. Fail number 2.

The bus stop for Seoraksan is 2-3 minute walk from the terminal. There is also a Tourist Information Center outside the bus terminal which was a nice touch not just for people going to Seoraksan, but also if you want to go around Sokcho. There are also small stores inside/outside the terminal so you can buy food or water before going to Seoraksan. It could get a bit pricier once you get there.

There was a schedule pasted on the bus stop and the earliest bus we can take will pass by 12.30PM. Bus fare was 1000 Won but T-money can also be used for discount, you must take Bus 7 and get off at Seoraksan National Park.

I was told that it was of a 20-30 minute ride from Sokcho to Seoraksan, however we went on a Saturday. Yes folks, Saturday! When we arrived inside the Seoraksan, there was quite of a traffic jam due to the cars going up to the park/entrance. However, we still waited as my friend wanted to preserve her energy for the hiking. We got off at Seoraksan National Park (Seoraksan Sogongwon 서락산 소공원) We arrived Seoraksan around 1.20PM. :(

Admission Fee to Seoraksan

The Famous Dak galbi of Chuncheon and Nami Island Experience in Gangwon-do - Day 1 in South Korea

For the start of our 16 day trip around South Korea, I have planned that we go around Gangwondo area first, as according to the autumn foliage forecast, Seoraksan would reach its peak on October 17-19th  - and I wanted to see the mountain on its "fullest bloom."

Predicted Autumn Foliage around South Korea for 2012