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Chasing the Maple: A 10-Day Autumn Foliage Itinerary

· 2 min read
Elena Vance
Elena Vance
Editor-in-Chief & Logistics Expert

If you ask a Korean for their favorite season, 9 out of 10 will say Autumn (Gaeul). The humidity of summer vanishes, leaving behind crystal clear blue skies and mountains that look like they are on fire with red and orange leaves.

To see the "Danpung" (Foliage) at its peak, you must follow the cold weather as it sweeps from North to South.

Chasing the Maple: A 10-Day Autumn Foliage Itinerary

The Strategy: North to South​

Unlike Cherry Blossoms (which move South to North), Autumn leaves turn color in the cold North first. Dates: Mid-October (Seoraksan) to Mid-November (Naejangsan).

Days 1-2: Seoraksan National Park (The First Spark)​

Base: Sokcho.

  • The View: Take the Gwongeumseong Cable Car. At the top, you are surrounded by jagged granite peaks covered in red trees.
  • The Hike: Walk to Sinheungsa Temple. The giant bronze Buddha sits peacefully amidst the changing leaves.

Days 3-5: Seoul & Nami Island (Golden Ginkgo)​

Base: Seoul.

  • Nami Island: Famous for its "Ginkgo Tree Lane." It is a carpet of yellow gold. Go at 8:00 AM to beat the tour buses.
  • Changdeokgung Secret Garden: You must book this tour online weeks in advance. The royal pond reflecting the red maples is the most elegant view in Seoul.
  • Deoksugung Stone Wall Road: A romantic street lined with yellow Ginkgo trees.

Days 6-7: Naejangsan National Park (The Maple Tunnel)​

Transport: KTX to Jeongeup + Bus.

  • Why here? Naejangsan is legendary for its "Baby Maples", which have smaller leaves and a more intense crimson color than ordinary maples.
  • The Highlight: The "Maple Tunnel" leading to the temple. It is a roof of pure red nature.
  • Photo Spot: Uhwajeong Pavilion, a blue-roofed pavilion floating in the middle of a lake.

Days 8-10: Gyeongju (Ancient Autumn)​

Transport: KTX to Singyeongju.

  • Bulguksa Temple: The stone staircases of this UNESCO site are framed by red trees. It is the classic postcard shot of Korean autumn.

Practical Tips​

  • What to Wear: The weather is perfect for walking (10°C - 18°C), but mornings are crisp. A stylish trench coat is the local fashion choice.
  • Crowds: Foliage season is hiking season. Weekends are packed. Embrace the festive atmosphere (and the Makgeolli afterwards).

Autumn is the season that teaches us how beautiful it is to let things go.