Temples of Mt Jirisan along the Seomjin River (private)

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.

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

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.

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.

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.