Autumn graces Mungyeong with apple and omija harvests, alongside scenic mountain roads
Nestled in the heart of North Gyeongsang Province lies the picturesque town of Mungyeong, a hidden gem that captures the spirit of autumn in Korea.
Mungyeong is renowned for its historic sites, seasonal harvests, flower fields, and hearty cuisine. One such attraction is Mungyeongsaejae Provincial Park, a significant draw for visitors, known for its historic pass and three preserved stone gates: Juheulgwan, Jogokgwan, and Joryeonggwan. The park offers a four-hour round-trip trail that links the gates through a shaded forest, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
For food enthusiasts, Mungyeong is home to Yakdol Hanwoo Town, a showcase of the city's prized beef. Believed to have unique flavour and healthful qualities due to the mineral-rich soil, visitors can grill Yakdol hanwoo, enjoy stews, or try yukhoe bibimbap. The adjoining butcher shop sells hanwoo at nearly half the market price, making it a must-visit destination for meat lovers.
Mungyeong is also famous for its omija, or magnolia berries, and accounts for nearly 45% of the country's production. Omynara Winery, near the entrance of Mungyeongsaejae, produces omija wine and liqueurs, offering a unique taste of the region.
The town's rich agricultural landscape is celebrated during the Mungyeong Omija Festival every September, while the Gaemichwi (Aster) Festival at Bongcheonsa Temple offers a sea of violet blooms in September, peaking between late September and early October. Admission to the Gaemichwi (Aster) Festival is 10,000 won.
October is the apple season in Mungyeong, with the Gamhong and Arisu apple varieties being popular. Jo Ara Apple Farm, run by Jo Ara herself, offers apple picking and tasting during this season.
For those interested in education and nature, the Mungyeong Ecological Maze Park functions as an outdoor classroom, allowing children to observe wildlife and explore wetlands filled with irises and loosestrife. The park features mazes in four themes - pottery, ecology, love, and stone, along with observation decks, ponds, and flower gardens.
Accessible via the Jungbu Naeryuk Expressway, Mungyeong makes for a rewarding weekend getaway. Whether you're seeking history, nature, food, or culture, Mungyeong offers a diverse range of experiences, making it a must-visit destination in Korea.
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