The Best Views in South Korea
- Cheonggyecheon (Seoul): Years ago, a small river that flowed through Seoul was paved over. Although Cheonggyecheon is no longer a "natural" stream, this restored green space in the middle of the city gives new perspective to the skyscrapers towering on either side.
- Songnisan (Chungcheongbuk-do/Gyeongsangbuk-do): This national park has some of the best hiking trails in South Korea. In a country where hiking is the unofficial national sport, that's saying something.
- Juwangsan (Gyeongsangbuk-do): The smallest of the country's national parks, it is still one of the prettiest. Jusanji Lake, whose clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks, is well worth the hike.
- Hong-do (Jeollanam-do): If you have a day to spare, take a ferry to this "red island" in the middle of Dadohae Maritime Park. A protected area, its pebble beaches and quaint seafood restaurants are overshadowed only by its magnificent scenery.
- Inner Seorak (Gangwon-do): Although all of Seoraksan boasts beautiful landscapes, the less traveled inner section is worth the extra trek, especially in the fall when the autumn colors light up the mountainsides.
- Sanbang-gulsa (Jeju-do): This island grotto and nearby Yongmeoli Haebyeon (Dragon Head Beach) are stuff of legend and wonderful examples of the volcanic island's natural beauty.
- Seongsan Ilchulbong (Jeju-do): This isn't called "Sunrise Peak" for nothing, since it's a choice spot for watching the morning's rays. This former parasitic volcano is now home to beautiful rape flowers that bloom in the spring.