• Gokseong Seomjin Train Village - Originally opened in 1933, the first Gokseong Station served the area until a new station was established in 1999. Following the closure of the old line, the station and its tracks were transformed into Seomjingang Train Village, with nearby streets restored to their historical appearance. The highlight is the steam train ride, often regarded as the best way to experience the Seomjin River. Passengers can board the vintage locomotive for a leisurely, scenic 10 km journey to Gajeong Station, following the clear river and serene countryside. It is considered one of Korea’s most delightful rides.
• Ssangsanjae - Ssangsanjae, a historic residence of the Haeju Oh family for over 200 years, was initially constructed as a private study. Behind the simple gate lies a hidden courtyard encircled by the main house, guest quarters, and a shrine. Beyond the guest quarters and up the stone steps is a secluded garden with bamboo, tea trees, and camellia tunnels leading to a spacious lawn. Beyond the lawn stands the Seodangchae—the study hall that inspired Ssangsanjae’s name—where the family’s descendants once studied. A pond and reservoir complete this tranquil setting. Ssangsanjae embodies the modest spirit of its ancestors, who pursued a life of quiet reflection, surrounded by books and nature. It is an ideal place to experience Korea’s traditional architecture and the serene beauty of its natural surroundings.
• Gurye-gun - Lunch in Gurye

1. Sanchae Jeongsik (Mountain Vegetable Set Meal) - A traditional set meal featuring wild mountain vegetables from Jirisan, accompanied by rice, pickles, and seasonal side dishes.
2. Jaecheop Set Meal (Freshwater Clams) - Freshwater clams from the Seomjin River, celebrated 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 pristine waters of the Seomjin River. Mild, tender, and without a fishy smell, they are enjoyed even by those who typically avoid fish.

The lunch menus are affordably priced, ranging from 15,000 KRW to 35,000 KRW, depending on the selection.

• Saseongam Hermitage - Situated on the 530-meter peak of Mt. Osan, Saseongam Hermitage is believed to have been established in 544 by the monk Yeongi. Its name, meaning “Hermitage of the Four Saints,” originates from the tradition that four esteemed monks once practiced spiritual discipline here.
  Saseongam is renowned for three highlights:

1. Wish Rock – A stone said to resemble the image of the Buddha. Local belief holds that a 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.

• Hwaeomsa Temple - Hwaeomsa Temple, founded in 544 AD in the heart of Jirisan—Korea’s spiritual mountain—is one of the most significant centers of Korean Buddhism. It played a crucial role in “Buddhism for the protection of the nation” (hoguk Buddhism), serving as a spiritual bastion that combined religious practice with national defense. Over the centuries, it has preserved remarkable cultural and architectural heritage.
  Visitors should not 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.

• Private transportation
• Entrance fees
• Lunch
• Tea and coffee

• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal Travel Insurance

This tour starts in Gwangju Metropolitan City and takes travelers to Gokseong and Gurye in South Jeolla Province. The journey from Gwangju to Gokseong takes approximately 1 hour, while the trip from Gurye back to Gwangju takes about 1.5 hours.

Embark on a picturesque adventure through the stunning landscapes of Mt. Jirisan and the Seomjin River in Gurye and Gokseong. This tour offers an immersive experience into Korea’s vibrant cultural and natural heritage, providing an opportunity to explore sacred temples and enjoy the tranquil pace of mountain life—without requiring an overnight temple stay. Be sure to experience one of the best ways to appreciate the Seomjin River: a nostalgic ride on the iconic steam train, which is included in this tour.

For those interested in hiking Nogodan Peak in Jirisan after the tour, it is recommended to spend a night in Gurye. Enjoy the hike independently the next day, and benefit from complimentary assistance with hotel bookings, Nogodan hiking reservations, and transportation arrangements for your subsequent destination.

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