Course Overview
This approximately 28 km drive connects Buseoksa Temple on the slopes of Sobaeksan National Park to Sosu Seowon in Punggi. Buseoksa's Muryangsujeon Hall, one of Korea's oldest wooden structures, offers timeless views of the Sobaeksan ridgeline.
Sosu Seowon, Korea's first royally chartered Confucian academy and a UNESCO World Heritage site, sits beside Jukgyecheon Stream. Yeongju is also known for Punggi ginseng and premium Korean beef.
Section Highlights
Section 1: Buseoksa (approx. 5 km)
Climb the mountain road to Buseoksa and ascend stone steps to Muryangsujeon Hall with its entasis columns. The Sobaeksan view from Anyangnru Pavilion is breathtaking.
Section 2: Buseoksa to Punggi (approx. 15 km)
Alternate between mountain roads and open fields. Punggi Hot Springs offers a rest stop.
Section 3: Punggi to Sosu Seowon (approx. 8 km)
Tour Sosu Seowon and the adjacent Seonbi Village before finishing at Sosu Museum.
Driving Tips
- Watch for icy roads near Buseoksa in winter; snow tires recommended
- Punggi Hot Springs' alkaline sulfur waters are great for post-drive relaxation
- Korean beef restaurants cluster in Punggi town center
- The ginkgo tree avenue at Buseoksa is spectacular in autumn