Jirisan is Korea’s first and largest National Park (1967). It’s summit Cheonwangbong is the highest on the mainland at 1915m. The Baekdu Daegan mountain spine of Korea starts there.

Jirisan is the Holy Mother Spirit Mountain of Korea. Her oral history is set over five thousands of years in the past.

Jirisan is home to quality air, waters, roots, herbs, and spices – making her a health and food centre for Korea.

Koreans have high affection for Jirisan. To climb Cheonwangbong 1915m, and watch the sunrise is regarded as a once in a lifetime must.

This is a moderate to extreme hike of 30km. It requires a standard of fitness. It is a steep rocky trail covered at times in forest. Hikers sleep in a shelter. They should ave and carry their own sleeping bag and mat.

Drive to Seongsamjae and start hike. The first day is hiking to Yeonhacheon shelter (1N), then Jangteomok shelter (2N), then up early on the last morning for the one-hour hike to see the sunrise on Cheonwangbong 1915m. Continuing over the summit we make a 4hr descent to Jungsanri. Eat a lunch in restaurant area. Collect vehicle that has been delivered to us.

Possible to depart for another destination (Jinju, Busan) after hike.

• 1 pax $1600USD
• 2 pax $900ea
• 3 pax $700ea
• 4 pax $600ea
• Larger groups please contact me.

Includes hut fees, nearby pick up and drop off, trail meals, vehicle and guide.

This is a one day hike of mainland South Korea’s highest peak. It is a 8-12 hour 15km loop hike. It requires a standard of fitness. It starts from the national parks office car park and rises quickly from 600m through Beopgyesa temples to Cheonwangbong 1915m in 5km of distance (trail). The trail is well made with many rocky steps. From the summit, we can hike on a rocky open ridge trail (Baekdu-daegan) west to Jangteomok shelter. From there we descend sharply down a valley  back to Jungsanri.

Contact me for more details on pick ups, timings etc.

• $1000 USD for 1 to 4 Pax
• Does not include meals
• Includes a pick up and drop off in nearby location
• Larger groups please contact me

2N/3D Traverse: a 40-50liter pack , 1.5Liter water carrier, boots or trail shoes, wet weather gear, extra clothing layer, sleeping bag or liner, sleeping mat, toiletries, eating utensils, cup, basic first aid, sun protection, and electronics. Tents are not required.

For winter traverses extreme cold weather gear is required – including micro spikes.

1 Day Summit: A small day pack, 1 liter water, snacks, jacket, personal items (sun-creams etc).

Jirisan is a high altitude area above 1500m. Spring and Fall are the optimum seasons with warm days and cool nights. Summer months are hot and humid with frequent rains. Winter is a stunning time with brilliant snowscape but temperatures will drop below zero. Cold weather clothing is necessary.

The Jirisan Traverse is closed from mid February to May 1st each winter season.

The day hike to Cheonwangbong 1915m remains accessible all year round.