Beautiful Locations of Drama “Jirisan”

“Jirisan,” a drama airing from October 23 and named after one of Korea’s most famous mountains, has been drawing a lot of attention, both for its thrilling story and beautiful scenery. Jirisan Mountain itself is grand, and the drama does it justice! Read on to learn more about the beautiful locations featured in the show.

Baemsagol Valley & Jirisan Visitor Center

A majority of “Jirisan” has been focused around Baemsagol Valley and Baemsagol Visitor Center. Located in the Namwon section of the national park, the visitor center is a great place to learn more about the flora and fauna of the area, as well as get an overview of the hiking courses. Some areas of the visitor center were even used during filming.

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Cross the bridge by the information center to enter the quiet Baemsagol Valley. The valley name comes from a legend of an old snake dying here before he could be transformed into a dragon. The murmuring stream and rocks and boulders along the trail create the perfect hiking location. In summer, the lush forest provides a popular retreat from the hot sun, and in autumn, people flock to the valley for a walk beneath the canopy of red and gold leaves.

Cheoneunsa Temple

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Another key filming site of “Jirisan” has been Cheoneunsa Temple, one of the top three temples on Jirisan Mountain. The temple also appeared in the popular historical drama “Mr. Sunshine (2018).” Suhongnu Pavilion in particular has become a popular photo spot thanks to the drama. The scenery of a lush forest pavilion atop an arched bridge over the valley stream looks to be straight out of an old Oriental painting.

Cheoneunsa Temple was also recognized by CNN in 2020 as one of the must-visit temples in Korea. Backed by the vibrant Jirisan Mountain and facing a valley stream, the temple is perfect for enjoying a leisurely stroll accompanied by the sounds of wind and water.

Gurye Ssangsanje

After visiting Cheoneunsa Temple, plan a stop at the nearby Ssangsanje, a traditional hanok complex that was the filming location of the popular reality show “Youn’s Stay” in early 2021. The show promoted the charm of hanok along with the taste of Korean cuisine. Visitors will feel transported to another time after passing through the small yet impressive main gate. Admission comes with a welcome tea, which you’re free to drink throughout the Ssangsanje complex.

If you head up the hill and pass through the bamboo forest, you’ll reach a large grass field. Beyond the field is Seodangchae, the main building of Ssangsanje. Sitting on the large wooden floor at the center of the house, you can relax and take in the changing view with each season.

Iseungioreum Volcanic Cone

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To create the mysterious ambiance required for “Jirisan,” some scenes were filmed within the lush forests around Iseungioreum volcanic cone on Jeju Island. This particular location was selected for the forest that practically blocks out the sky, creating the deep and moody environment required for mystery dramas.

While walking around Iseungioreum, plan for a stop at Haegeumuniso Pond. The pond is located below a waterfall in the upper reaches of the stream. The pond is so overshadowed by trees, it’s hard to see the sun even at midday, giving the pond its name. The moisture and dark shade provide just the right environment for the growth of lots of moss and ferns.

Seogwi Dawon

After hiking around Iseungioreum Volcanic Cone, head to Seogwi Dawon to relax over a cup of fresh green tea. The tea plantation is located in a pristine environment just 250 meters from the foothills of Hallasan Mountain.

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The window seats in the café are a popular photo spot, overlooking the tea fields with Hallasan Mountain in the distance. The café menu includes many varieties of teas grown in Jeju. For a closer look at the fields, go for a stroll on the walking trail set up between the rows of tea trees.

Gosalli Forest Trail

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Gosalli Forest Trail on the southern side of Jeju Island was also a major filming site of “Jirisan.” The forest trail follows the valley that comes from a spring of the same name. Relatively unknown, the forest has maintained a quiet and natural ambiance. You can feel this through the screen when it appears in “Jirisan.”

The forest is comprised of many different tree and plant species, and also offers an eco-tourism program where participants can learn about the forest and the lives of the villagers who live around it. The program operates with advance reservation through the Harye-ri Eco-tourism Village website, and takes about two hours round-trip. You can also explore the forest on your own, taking time to capture the mysterious forest in photos!

Indigoterie

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Indigoterie is a café-slash-boutique opened in an old tangerine storage building. You can feel the essence of Jeju Island through the rough-looking exterior. Inside, the local vibe continues with exposed rock walls and vintage-inspired accessories. The café menu includes both tangerine ade and tea made with fresh tangerines.

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The first floor is divided between the café and the boutique which sells unique clothing and living goods. After ordering, head upstairs to the loft where you can look down over the industrial style interior.

* This column was last updated in November 2021, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check details before visiting.