Busan tourism: Urban national park attracts diverse hikers

On August 25, hikers from diverse backgrounds converged outside Beomeosa Station in Busan's Geumjeong District, embarking on hikes through Geumjeongsan National Park. The journey began with a short uphill walk from the station, followed by a brief 10-minute bus ride to Beomeo Temple. Approximately a dozen hikers, including a 66-year-old traveler from Seoul, joined the excursion, along with fellow tourists heading to Beomeo Temple and other nearby attractions.

Kim Jong-seok expressed his initial unfamiliarity with Mount Geumjeong, stating that he had heard the mountain's recent designation as a national park. Despite his lack of prior knowledge, he found the experience to be more captivating than anticipated, appreciating the juxtaposition of the renowned Beomeo Temple at the mountain's base.

Beomeo Temple, a Buddhist site situated at the mountain's foot, serves as a popular starting point for those hiking Mount Geumjeong. The primary route traverses a 13-kilometer path, beginning at the North Gate of the fortress, ascending to Godang Peak, culminating at the East Gate, then progressing to Wonhyobong Peak, the Third Watchtower, and concluding at the South Gate.