Hongcheon

A Buddhist temple at the foot of Mt. Gongjak, traditionally said to have been founded in 708 during the Silla period. Its main hall, Daejeokgwangjeon, is a designated Treasure of South Korea. The temple is beside Gongjaksan Eco-Forest and Suta Valley, so visitors can combine the temple with a walk.

Eight rocky peaks rise above a bend in the Hongcheon River. The ridge routes take about 2–3½ hours and include steep sections with ropes and ladders. Wear hiking shoes and gloves. The trail may close because of rain, snow or strong wind; check its opening status before travelling.

A private forest of about 2,000 ginkgo trees planted in neat rows. The owner began planting them in 1985, hoping the clean mountain air would help his sick wife. It has opened to the public every October since 2010, when the leaves turn bright yellow. It is closed for the rest of the year.

A 2.45-m granite pagoda from the Goryeo period, designated Treasure No. 79. It stands in the garden of the Hongcheon-eup office. A Goryeo-era flagpole support (Treasure No. 80) is also in Heumang-ri.

A seated stone Buddha from the late Unified Silla period (Treasure No. 542). Its octagonal lotus pedestal is carved with musicians and offering figures. It is kept in a protective hall.

A large resort run by Sono Hotels & Resorts, opened in 1995. It has a ski resort (Ski World) in winter, the Ocean World water park, golf courses, and indoor games such as bowling and go-karts.

Guided rafting trips on a 5.5–6 km stretch of the Hongcheon River, from the Hongcheon River resort area past Mt. Palbong to Bamboel resort area. A trip takes 1½ to 2 hours. The river here is calm, not whitewater, which makes it good for families and beginners. Guides let you flip the boat and jump in for a swim along the way. Life jackets, helmets and water shoes are provided, and there are changing rooms and hot showers. The operator also runs ATV rides. Most visitors come in summer, so call ahead to check trip times.

A hillside animal park where visitors can see alpacas and other animals. Allow time for the sloping paths and check the official site for activity times. Public transport access is limited.