Course Overview
Changnyeong's Upo Wetland (Ramsar site) is Korea's largest primeval natural swamp, formed approximately 140 million years ago. The vast 2.3 sq km wetland hosts diverse aquatic plants and migratory birds, with dawn mist creating scenes like an Oriental ink painting.
After exploring Upo, head to Hwawangsan (757 m) where the summit silver grass plain turns golden in autumn. The Hwawangsan silver grass field, spread across the mountaintop, is also famous as a film location.
Section Highlights
Section 1: Upo Wetland Ecology Center Tour (approx. 8 km)
Explore Upo by bicycle or on foot from the Ecology Center. Follow wooden boardwalks to observe lotus flowers and migratory birds.
Section 2: Upo to Hwawangsan Access Road (approx. 7 km)
Drive from Upo through Changnyeong Town toward Hwawangsan.
Section 3: Hwawangsan (approx. 5 km + hiking)
Drive to the parking lot, then hike about 40 minutes to the summit silver grass plain. Autumn silver grass is at its peak.
Driving Tips
- Upo is most beautiful at dawn with morning mist
- Upo Ecology Center is free; bicycle rental available
- Hwawangsan silver grass peaks mid-October to early November
- Changnyeong is also famous for onions and garlic