South Korea’s Hidden Secret: Muju-Gun

South Korea’s Hidden Secret: Muju-Gun

Tucked away in the middle of the Mountains in the Jeollabuk-Do province, lies South Korea’s very own Hidden secret, the breathtaking Muju-Gun.

Accessible for its skiing and hiking adventures in the winter months of December through to March. Muju mesmerises with its natural beauty, breathtaking mountain views and the icy Gucheondong Valley that gives the whole region a breathtaking icy look.

Let’s take a closer look at what you can do inside the hidden gem of South Korea and set yourselves up for an incredible adventure for your next trip to the East Asia Country.

 

Are you looking for accommodation in Muju Korea? Find hotel Rates at TripAdvisor!

 

Muju

Muju, South Korea.

 

Where is Muju-Gun

Muju is located in the central part of South Korea, in the eastern corner of the North Jeolla Province.

It’s a good three hours from the capital Seoul and at least six hours from Busan, South Korea’s second largest city in the Southeast part of the East Asia country.

 

Deogyusan Resort

Deogyusan Resort

 

How to Get there

The easiest way to get Muju is a bus from Seoul terminal to the Muju bus terminal, about three hours.

From there, you can either catch a bus shuttle to the main resort. Another option is to take a taxi to the more affordable accommodations a stone throw from the resorts and ski slopes.

When I left for Muju, we did it the hard way, and I strongly recommend you avoid this path especially if you don’t speak Korean, I would have never made it if not for my Korean wife.

We left from Busan and caught about three different buses through various towns, before finally getting a taxi for the remainder of the forty-five minute trip to our pension in Muju.

Do yourself a favour and leave for Muju from the capital Seoul.

 

Muju-gun

Inside Muju-Gun.

 

Where to stay in Muju

Muju has many Guesthouses and Pensions that are at a very affordable price. We stayed at the Dasup Pension, and besides the booking issues, it was a lovely pension with large spacious rooms.

Across from the Pension was many restaurants serving only local cuisines at an excellent price. The Pension is also located at the foot of hiking track that heads towards the Gondola that overlooks the central Deogyusan Resort.

If you are looking for a bit more luxury, then Deogyusan Resort is the place to be for the whole family. The resorts have local and western food, many shops, Kids fun centre where can ride a sled down the slopes.

It also gives you a cappuccino fix at the Tom-N-Toms café. The resort is quite spectacular, and if you are willing to pay that little bit more, I strongly recommend it.

 

Find accommodation in Muju on TripAdvisor.

 

Muju

A Muju Guesthouse.

 

Things to do in Muju

  • Skiing: Skiing and snowboarding, take a pick. It is the reasons thousands venture to the slopes in winter to get their adrenalin hit. Be warned though, on weekends you will be waiting a while to get up the lifts.

 

  • Bandi Land and Observatory: An insect museum on the outskirts of Muju. Study the insects of the world and how they came to happen over hundreds of years of history. The picturesque museum is quite different, but a treat and educational for the whole family as you learn about insects and its fascinating history.

 

Muju bandi

Bandi land in Muju.

 

  • Hiking: Having young kids in tow, we couldn’t hike up the mountains with the freedom we desired, like the professionals did with there hiking poles and boots.

    We did, however, venture out along the trails in Deogyusan National Park that eventually leads to the Gondola overlooking the resort.

    Our part of the hike was simply breathtaking, with the glacial valley below and the mountains saturated with the overnight snow.

    Having snowball fights in and around the bare trees is a must for the kids and adults. You are never too old to be a little young at heart.

 

Muju, South Korea

Muju, South Korea.

 

  • Deogyusan Resort: The best part of Muju with plenty of family-friendly activities on offer.

    You can entertain the kids in the resort at the Kids centre, with sleds down the slopes that was a huge hit. Travel up the Gondola and enjoy a coffee at the café when you get up top. Ski or snowboard down the ski slopes, remembering on the weekends it gets very crowded.

    The resort is also the best place to get your western food fix at Lotteria, a burger joint. Domino pizza is also available, as well as local Korean cuisine of course.

 

Muju, South Korea

At the base of the ski slopes.

 

  • Tae Kwon Do Park: Unfortunately this fantastic centre had not opened when I ventured to Muju in 2013.

    However, it is now open for the public, and I have heard it is quite stunning. Google it and check it out, because I know you need to add this incredible park to the list.

    The Tae Kwon Do Park is described as the spiritual home of Tae Kwon Do. I wish I could tell you more, but below is a picture of the billboard when I was in Muju.

 

Muju

Billboard to Tae Kwon Do Park

 

The conclusion to the Muju Trip

You will be at peace with Muju and one with nature with a vast range of activities and precious visual scenery to gaze your eyes on, you will feel great satisfaction in visiting another breathtaking part of the world.

So if you ever in South Korea, do yourselves a favour and venture a little south to Muju, especially during the winter season. You won’t regret it, and a new secret will be discovered.

 

Muju South Korea

All rugged up in an icy cold strip in Muju.

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Take a trip to Beautiful Busan in South Korea

Take a trip to Beautiful Busan in South Korea

I admit I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I decided to visit Busan during the winter season. But I knew I was in for a treat as soon as I arrived. The city’s towering architectures were simply breathtaking, and the picturesque landscapes left me feeling awestruck.

I found myself wandering around the trendy shopping areas, mesmerized by the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. And as I made my way to the serene beaches, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of calm wash over me.

Despite the chilly winds, Busan had a warmth to it that I couldn’t quite explain – and it was the perfect escape from the freezing weather in Seoul. I can only imagine how magical it must be during the summer, but even in the winter, Busan left me wanting more.

 

Are you going on a holiday to beautiful Busan in South Korea? Book a hotel with TripAdvisor!

 

 
Beautiful Busan

Beautiful Busan, see it for yourself.

 

Travelling to Beautiful Busan in South Korea

Explore Busan, the stunning coastal city in South Korea. Busan has something for everyone, from its vibrant nightlife to dazzling temples and breathtaking beaches! Come experience a culture like no other as you make memories travelling to this majestic destination.

 

Getting to beautiful Busan

My recent trip to Busan was a breeze thanks to the easy transportation options available. While a domestic flight was an option, my friends and I decided to opt for the KTX speed train from Seoul. The three-hour journey flew by as we gazed out at the scenic countryside of Korea from our clean and comfortable seats. Plus, the convenience of purchasing snacks from the cart made the trip even more enjoyable.

Whether travelling within South Korea or flying in from around the world, accessing Busan is a hassle-free experience with the Gimhae International Airport just minutes away. For those up for an adventure, renting a car or catching a bus are also great options. Regardless of how you get there, Busan is well worth the journey.

 

KTX Train Price: Economy class 53000W – $60 one way First Class 74600W – AUD 85 one way.

 

beautiful Busan

All ready to board the KTX Seoul to Busan.

 

Haeundae Beach

As someone who visited Busan during winter, I can attest that Haeundae Beach is still a must-see destination. While the crowds may not be as large, there is no shortage of things to do or sights to behold. With the beach practically all to myself, I enjoyed leisurely walks and even caught a nightly entertainment show.

But what truly captured my heart were the local restaurants – I couldn’t get enough of the irresistible Korean BBQ joint that became my go-to spot for meals, even on Christmas Day. If you’re a foodie like me or love experiencing beautiful new places, Haeundae Beach is the spot to check out.

As I stepped out into the streets of Busan on my first Christmas away from Australia, I was quickly hit with a culture shock. Everything was open, bustling with people and noise. Back at home, we shut down for the holidays, everything quiet as people retreated into their homes.

But Busan, like Seoul, is a city that never sleeps. We stayed in Haeundae at an affordable little motel called On Motel. While space was a bit of a squeeze for two adults and two kids, the convenience and cleanliness made up for it. If you’re on a budget, there’s nothing wrong with the ON Motel. As we wandered through the streets, taking in the sights and sounds of a busy Christmas day, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this new experience.

 

Busan food

Korean BBQ in Haeundae Beach.

 

Shinsegae Centum City

I’ve visited many department stores, but none like the Shinsegae Centum City. As soon as I stepped off the train and walked through the front doors, I was blown away by the stunning food court. I couldn’t resist trying all the fantastic options, from fast food to local cuisine to freshly baked pastries.

Of course, I quickly realized that prices were steep, but it was all worth it. And the shopping experience was just getting started! With nine floors dedicated to everything from men’s and women’s clothing to a kid’s section, Shinsegae had me covered. They even have a golf range, which made my husband’s day. All in all, I’ve never seen a department store quite like Shinsegae and can’t wait to go back.

 

Get there: Catch a train on Subway Line 2 and get to Centum City.

 

Shinsegae Centum City.

Shinsegae Centum City.

 

Jagalchi Fish Market

I may not be a huge seafood fan, but visiting the Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan was an eye-opening experience. The colourful markets and side streets were an adventure in themselves, but the fresh seafood and unusual ocean creatures genuinely amazed me.

The lively and bustling atmosphere captured my attention from start to finish. Lobsters were crawling around in their tanks and even lived octopuses that some brave visitors were devouring. Walking around, I couldn’t help but dodge the motorbikes scooting around without a care.

Even though I didn’t try the live octopus, I highly recommend visiting Jagalchi to anyone who wants to witness the diverse variety of seafood and marine life that exists in this world.

 

Jagalchi Fish Market

Jagalchi Fish Market.

 

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

I can’t help but feel excited as I recount my experience visiting the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan. I had heard from locals that this was the best place to go, and boy were they right! The temple was breathtakingly beautiful, with a perfect blend of modern and traditional architecture.

The best part? It’s on the coast, with waves crashing against the rocks below. The sound of the waves provided a sense of tranquillity that instantly put me at ease. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a history buff or a photographer, this temple has something to offer everyone. Ensure this is on your list of things to do in Busan – you won’t regret it!

 

. Getting there: Catch a train to Haeundae Station on subway line 2; from there, the 181 bus will take you to Haedong Yonggungsa.

 

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple at Busan, South Korea

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple at Busan, South Korea.

 

Conclusion of beautiful Busan

As I bid farewell to Busan, I can’t help but feel a sense of admiration for this beautiful city. From the stunning beaches to the mesmerizing temples, Busan has exceeded all my expectations. I’ve explored the bustling markets and indulged in the local cuisine, witnessed the breathtaking sunrise at Haeundae Beach and soaked in the therapeutic hot springs.

As the night set in, the city came alive with an array of activities, and I found myself immersed in the buzzing nightlife of Busan. As I reminisce about my time here, I highly recommend adding Busan to your travel itinerary. Trust me; it’ll be worth it.

 

When is the Best Time to Visit South Korea? The Four Seasons

Top 10 Reasons to go to South Korea: A Cultural Experience

Beautiful Things to Do in Nami Island, South Korea

10 Fun Things to do in Suwon, Seoul’s Neighbouring City

 

 

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