Embraced by the Heart of Sangju, a Gentle Autumn Walk in Noeumsan (Noaksan) Mountain

A Gentle Dirt Path Under My Feet, the Embrace of Noeumsan (Noaksan) Mountain

While staying in Sangju, there is a place that comes to mind whenever my heart feels a bit heavy: Noeumsan (Noaksan) Mountain. While the National Geographic Information Institute maps list it as Noeumsan, the local residents affectionately call it Noaksan or Noeumsan. At 728.5m above sea level, I often think that its gentle ridges—neither too steep nor too flat—perfectly resemble the hearts of the people of Sangju. Together with Gapjangsan Mountain and Cheonbongsan Mountain, this place is considered one of the three major mountains of Sangju and serves as a reliable guardian mountain that emanates a sense of steadfastness.

Parking in Namjang-dong and entering the trailhead, the scent of deep earth lingered in my nose, and the autumn sunlight filtering through the pine trees tickled my face. In a time where the noise of the city is completely blocked out, and only the sound of my footsteps and the rustle of leaves rubbing against each other can be heard—it was in that silence that I finally felt my breathing deepen.

Namjangsa and Bukjangsa, Walking Through a Thousand Years of Time

The charm of Noeumsan (Noaksan) Mountain does not stop at just climbing the mountain. It is because two temples with deep history founded during the Silla period, Namjangsa Temple and Bukjangsa Temple, guard both sides of the mountain firmly. In particular, the area around Namjangsa Temple is known as one of the eight scenic spots of Gyeongbuk, and the landscape is so beautiful that reaching it makes one's heart feel truly refined.

The sight of lush forests surrounding the area like a folding screen, harmonized with the jagged cliffs protruding between them, is something you never get tired of, no matter the season. Sitting in the quiet temple courtyard and listening to the sound of the wind, the worries I brought with me often feel like trivial matters. The path to Bukjangsa Temple is also a continuation of tranquility. As you walk along the mountain path, you start to feel the residues of your mind being washed away by the wind.

Our Record of Enjoying Noeumsan (Noaksan) Mountain Properly

There is no need to be greedy when hiking. There are a total of four trails, including the full traverse course, the Junggungam Hermitage course, the Hwaenamugol course, and the Bukjangsa Temple course, so you can simply choose according to your physical strength and your mood for the day. I personally prefer the Bukjangsa Temple course, which allows me to enjoy the stillness of the temple. I prefer a walk that listens to the stories told by the forest rather than conquering a steep peak.

the best time to visit is undoubtedly early in the morning. As the mist clears, walking along the stone wall path of Namjangsa Temple feels like receiving a gift of an entire day. Since the heartwarming village scenery of Sangju continues around the area, don't forget to satisfy your hunger with a warm cup of tea sold at the edge of the village or the simple, clean food at nearby restaurants after your hike. Nature in Sangju is known to offer the greatest comfort to those who do not rush.