Biseulsan, the Beauty of Nature

FonDip Ekim 19, 2022

Biseulsan, the Beauty of Nature

Biseulsan mountain🌄 situated south of Daegu is known for its beautiful field of wild azalea in spring and its challenging and very popular hikes. If you look for beautiful natural scenery not far from hectic Daegu, Biseulsan is a must-see destination.

Since our arriving in Daegu last July, we hiked 3 times in Biseulsan.

The first time was in October 2018, we needed some cool air and physical exercise.

The second and third times were in spring to see azalea flowers💟.

Mid-April after a strenuous hike from Yugasa temple we discovered that it was too soon to admire azalea flowers in full bloom! Never mind, the day and the weather were pleasant. So, we came back 15 days later, on the 1^st of May.

The main departure spot to go to the top is at the entrance of the Biseulsan National Recreational Forest. There, you have 2 options:
take a shuttle bus or hike.

This electric shuttle vehicle takes passengers to the top of the mountain near Daegyeonsa temple

Maps of the trails are displayed in the park

You can also start hiking from Yugasa temple with its 108 stone pagodas around.

Around Yugasa temple

No shuttle bus from Yugasa temple to the top of the mountain … just your legs, good hiking shoes and sticks! It is not a “quiet Sunday walk”. In South Korea, the trails often cut straight up the mountains. No switchbacks!

It is amazing to see Korean seniors hiking so fast on slopes so steep. As far as I am concerned, I always put into practice a piece of advice I was given during a trek in Nepal: “Amble along like a yak…slowly and steady pace”.

Smooth start from Yugasa temple

Along the trails, you find many occasions to take photos of nature … it means many stops to catch your breath if needed.

Take your time to admire nature

High-angle shot

When starting from the Recreational Forest, huge block streams could be seen on both sides of the trail. They are the largest block streams in South Korea estimated to be formed about ten to hundred thousand years ago.

Outstanding scale and contrast of colours

In the Recreational Forest, at the bottom of the mountain, it is possible to enjoy a cooling stream. Several tables and sheds allow visitors to stay there for picnics, for naps or for meeting friends.😌

Water stream and shade

Wooden sheds

After a while you leave the paved road of the Recreational Forest and fork left; it is the beginning of the trail that takes you to Daegyeonsa Buddhist temple with wonderful views of mountains, forests, and rocks. This temple was rebuilt in 2014, 100 years after its closure.

Smooth start from the Recreational Forest

Great panorama from the rocks near Daegyeonsa temple

Daegyeonsa is just a stopover, behind this temple the trail continues and the field of azalea is waiting for you. In this field surrounded by mountains, you feel like being far away from the city. Maps and path signs help you to discover each area.

Impossible to get lost

Mi-April azalea field

Azalea field 1st of May

The wild flowers habitat is protected. In the Azalea field, the footpaths are marked off.

Well-maintained boardwalks and ropewalks make the stroll very easy.

Wooden boardwalk and platform

Wooden path to preserve the azalea field

Several platforms (for sightseeing or rest or picnic) with benches are displayed. Make a stop, it is the occasion to discuss with Korean hikers and share feelings about the landscapes and the beauty of nature. In several occasions, we took photos all together. Korean hikers have a nice habit towards new encounters: they offer some snack food or fruits.😊

This pink and green coloured mountain enables everyone to take wonderful photos.

Green and pink 1st of May

Shades of green

From the azalea field, you can continue on to the summit of Biseulsan.

Next time maybe in winter with snow and white mountains? ⛄

To go back down you can choose an alternative trail but be sure to choose a path that arrives where your car is parked.

Steep stairs

Before living the forest don’t miss this funny photo zone😂 in the Recreational Forest; it is a backdrop representing the azalea field. It’s possible to take some fake photos! This photo shooting area made us giggle!