Jirisan National Park, National park in South Jeolla and South Gyeongsang, South Korea.
Jirisan National Park spreads across mountains, forests, and valleys with the second-highest peak in South Korea at approximately 1,915 meters. The terrain includes numerous hiking routes, multiple entry points, and zones ranging from dense woodland to exposed ridgelines.
Established as South Korea's first national park in 1967, this designation marked an early turning point for environmental protection in the nation. The park status helped preserve ancient Buddhist temples and protected rare animal species from habitat loss.
Buddhist temples within the park, particularly Hwaeomsa, reveal how Korean spiritual life has long been intertwined with mountain landscapes. Walking through these grounds, you see how worship and nature coexist in a way that shapes the park's meaning for local people.
The park is accessible from nearby cities by public transportation, with information centers offering maps and seasonal guidance for different fitness levels. Multiple entry points allow visitors to choose routes that suit their ability and available time.
The park harbors populations of Asian black bears and Korean gorals, two rare species found in few other places in East Asia. These animals are difficult to spot, yet their presence defines the park's role as a refuge for endangered wildlife.
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