Exploring South Korea during autumn is an extraordinary experience, with vibrant foliage and perfect weather setting the scene. Discover why this season is ideal and where to go to fully immerse yourself in the autumn beauty of South Korea.
Autumn in South Korea is a magical time, spanning from September to November. The landscape transforms with stunning hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating picturesque scenes against the clear, comfortable temperatures. To guide your autumn adventure, here’s a detailed look at the top 10 places to visit in South Korea during this enchanting season. Whether you seek stunning foliage or autumn festivities, this guide ensures you make the most of your visit.
For those curious about our recommendations for the top 5 mountains to explore during autumn in Korea, click here to read more!
For more information on our autumn activities and offerings, click the link below to discover what we have in store for you:
Autumn Temperatures In South Korea
September : 19°C average
October : 13°C average
November : 5°C average
A) Places within Seoul city
Explore Seoul Tower: A Must-Visit Attraction for Stunning City Views
Originally erected in 1969 as a broadcasting tower atop Namsan Mountain, Seoul Tower has evolved into an iconic symbol of Seoul and a popular destination for tourists. Revel in breathtaking panoramas of Seoul’s skyline from this vantage point, accessible year-round for unforgettable experiences.
Every season brings its own charm to Seoul Tower. In spring, the surrounding cherry blossoms paint a picturesque scene, while autumn transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of rich hues. To reach the summit without hiking, opt for a convenient bus ride or a scenic cable car journey that delivers you directly to the top.
For an exceptional autumn experience, we highly recommend ascending on foot to savor the captivating fall foliage showcased along the route. As depicted in the image above, the colors are truly magnificent and well worth the climb! Capture stunning photographs and consider visiting early in the morning to relish the view in peaceful solitude, away from the bustling crowds.
Unlock the beauty of Seoul Tower during autumn—a magical season that promises unforgettable memories and unparalleled vistas of this dynamic city.
Discover Changdeokgung Palace: A Spectacular Autumn Destination in Seoul
Changdeokgung Palace, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands out as one of Seoul’s premier palaces, renowned for its captivating autumn foliage and especially its enchanting secret garden—a beloved destination for many. Steeped in mystery, this garden served as a secluded retreat for past royalty, offering a serene escape immersed in nature’s tranquility.
Immerse yourself in a harmonious blend of history and natural beauty at this must-see location, showcasing the true essence of autumn in South Korea. Witness a breathtaking display of vibrant colors as thousands of leaves transform the landscape into a kaleidoscope of hues.
Don’t miss this extraordinary experience, especially if you’re staying in downtown Seoul—the palace is conveniently located for easy access. Embark on an unforgettable journey through Changdeokgung Palace and its secret garden, where every corner tells a story and nature’s splendor dazzles the senses.
Explore Seoul Forest: A Premier Autumn Foliage Destination in Seoul
Established on June 18, 2005, Seoul Forest holds a rich historical significance as a former royal hunting ground. Situated in Ttukseom, which has served various purposes over the years—including a water treatment plant, golf course, racetrack, and sports park—this expansive urban oasis spans five distinct parks, covering over 350,000 pyeong (approximately 1.16 million square meters). Today, Seoul Forest stands as a vital ecological area within the capital city.
One of the standout features of Seoul Forest is its lush forest vegetation, particularly captivating during autumn when the landscape bursts with vivid colors and radiant foliage. It’s considered one of Seoul’s premier destinations to witness the breathtaking beauty of autumn foliage, boasting a vast and meticulously preserved natural environment.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Seoul Forest during your trip to Seoul—whether with friends or family. Immerse yourself in nature’s seasonal spectacle and create unforgettable memories surrounded by the stunning autumn scenery this remarkable urban sanctuary has to offer.
B) Places outside of Seoul
Nami Island
Nami Island stands out as one of South Korea’s top visitor destinations, renowned for its picturesque setting and cultural significance. This small, crescent moon-shaped island, with a circumference of 5 km, gained fame as the filming location for the beloved Korean drama Winter Sonata (2002).
From mid-September to November, Nami Island transforms into a captivating spectacle of autumn colors. Marvel at the vibrant foliage that blankets the island, with the river’s reed beds adding to nature’s autumnal allure. During this season, Nami Island becomes a renowned “fall foliage destination,” where trees burst into a riot of colors—from green to red, orange, yellow, gold, and rust—creating a fleeting but unforgettable display.
Many eagerly anticipate the autumn season to visit Nami Island and capture the rare beauty that graces this island during this time. Beyond its scenic splendor, Nami Island offers an array of activities, including bike rentals and leisurely boat trips, ensuring an enjoyable visit for all.
Don’t miss the opportunity to include Nami Island on your autumn bucket list when exploring Korea—a destination that promises enchanting landscapes and cherished memories amidst nature’s autumnal masterpiece.
Experience Tranquility at Bulguksa Temple Amidst Autumn Foliage
Situated to the east of Gyeongju, South Korea’s ancient capital known as the “City of Walls,” Bulguksa Temple is a remarkable relic of the Silla Kingdom, celebrated for its exquisite masonry artistry. Autumn unveils the temple in all its glory, offering a serene escape amidst vibrant foliage.
The early morning hours are ideal for a peaceful exploration of Bulguksa, devoid of the usual hustle and bustle of visitors. Stroll leisurely through the sacred temple complex, enveloped in the brilliant hues of autumn’s red foliage.
Capture breathtaking views and indulge your passion for photography amidst this colorful backdrop. For an immersive experience, consider joining an overnight temple program, engaging in traditional tea ceremonies and other activities alongside local monks.
Make the most of your autumn visit to South Korea by including Bulguksa Temple on your itinerary—a place that promises to leave you in awe with its beauty and tranquility amid nature’s seasonal transformation.
Explore Halla Eco-Forest in Jeju Island: A Vibrant Autumn Destination
Nestled in Jeju Island, Halla Eco-Forest has a captivating history, once a neglected grass plain now transformed into a thriving forest sanctuary. This eco-space invites visitors to immerse themselves in biodiversity and scenic woodland treks, boasting a rich ecosystem with approximately 500 animal species and 760 plant species.
The Sutmoreu Forest Trail, leading to Jeolmul Natural Recreation Forest, stands out as the highlight trekking route within Halla Eco-Forest, drawing nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Additionally, the forest serves as a vital hub for low-temperature resistance experiments and research on plant proliferation, aiding in the restoration of damaged areas within Hallasan Mountain.
As autumn arrives, Halla Eco-Forest becomes a must-visit destination in Jeju Island, showcasing the exquisite beauty of seasonal foliage. Embrace the authentic autumn colors of Korea amid this natural haven, offering a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable experiences and vibrant photographs—perfect for sharing on social media.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Halla Eco-Forest during your autumn getaway, where nature’s splendor awaits to be discovered and cherished amidst the stunning landscapes of Jeju Island.
Explore Cheona Forest Path & Valley: A Serene Autumn Journey in Jeju Island
Situated at the entrance of Hallasan Mountain on Jeju Island, the Cheona Forest Path offers a picturesque 10.9km route from Dol Oreum to the scenic Cheona Basin. During autumn, this pathway transforms into a vibrant canvas of bright yellow, orange, and deep brown foliage, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
As you traverse the Cheona Forest Path, you’ll encounter the stunning “Cheona Valley,” a natural gem tucked along the trail. For those seeking a fulfilling experience, the entire course requires approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes one way, allowing ample time to immerse yourself in the serene surroundings.
Escape the crowds and revel in a peaceful walk amidst autumn’s colorful backdrop at Cheona Forest Path. This natural sanctuary offers tranquility and a captivating landscape that evokes a sense of calm and harmony.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Cheona Forest Path and the picturesque valley during your visit to Jeju Island—an idyllic destination to embrace the beauty of autumn and create cherished memories in nature’s embrace.
Experience Autumn Splendor at Yangju Nari Park
Discover the enchanting beauty of Yangju Nari Park, hailed as one of Korea’s most stunning autumn destinations, nestled in Yangju city, Gyeonggi province. This picturesque park comes alive with a vibrant display of red, orange, brown, and golden leaves, evoking excitement and joy amidst nature’s seasonal transformation.
Located just an hour by train from Seoul, Nari Park truly thrives during autumn, showcasing expansive fields adorned with a spectrum of autumn blooms in hues of purple, orange, white, pink, and red.
Capture unforgettable photographs amidst this breathtaking backdrop—the perfect setting for your autumn photo collection. From September to October, witness the gradual bloom of these stunning flowers, creating a picturesque scene that promises remarkable photography opportunities.
Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply seeking a day immersed in natural beauty, Yangju Nari Park is an ideal destination to explore. Plan to spend half a day or more wandering through this scenic park, and don’t miss the chance to seize this extraordinary autumn experience.
Embrace the splendor of autumn at Yangju Nari Park—a haven of color and charm that promises to inspire and captivate visitors with its seasonal allure.
Explore the Splendor of Wondaeri Birch Forest in Autumn
Step into the enchanting world of Wondaeri Birch Forest, a captivating nature sanctuary boasting over 700,000 birch trees spread across 138 hectares of picturesque landscape. This natural treasure offers a range of hiking trails that immerse visitors in the forest’s beauty, particularly highlighted by the splendid colors of autumn.
The sight is truly breathtaking as the foliage transforms the forest into a mesmerizing display of vibrant hues, accentuating the tall, white birch trees and casting them into the spotlight of nature’s canvas. Recognized as one of the top 100 must-visit destinations by the Korea Tourism Organization, Wondaeri Birch Forest welcomes over 224,000 visitors annually, drawing admiration from locals and tourists alike.
While the forest is cherished throughout the year, autumn unveils a spectacle that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression. Experience the rare beauty of Wondaeri Birch Forest during this magical season—an opportunity to witness nature’s artistry in its most resplendent form.
Don’t miss the chance to include Wondaeri Birch Forest on your autumn itinerary when exploring Korea—an unforgettable journey into a realm of natural wonder and vibrant autumn colors.
