June at Gochang Eupseong Fortress Wall Trail: Get Your Admission Fee Back and Visit Maengjong Bamboo Forest

The fortress wall trail surrounding Gochang Eupseong in Gochang, North Jeolla Province, is now filled with the vibrant energy of June. Here, where the original form of a Joseon Dynasty fortress town is preserved intact, you can walk along the 1.68km fortress wall and savor the atmosphere of early summer.

Why Visit in June

June is when the fresh greenery at Gochang Eupseong reaches its peak. The trees planted along the fortress wall trail boast deep green leaves, and the weather is perfect for walking. During this time especially, the bamboo in the Maengjong Bamboo Forest inside the fortress becomes even more verdant, creating an elegant landscape. Another advantage is that you can explore relatively peacefully since it's before the summer vacation season.

Experiencing the Fortress Wall Trail and Maengjong Bamboo Forest

Gochang Eupseong's fortress wall trail is approximately 1.68km long, and walking slowly, you can complete a full circuit in about an hour. The view of Gochang city and the surrounding fields from atop the fortress wall is spectacular.

While walking the fortress wall trail, don't miss the Maengjong Bamboo Forest. This bamboo grove, created in 1938 by monk Yuyeongha for aesthetic purposes, can be reached by taking the mountain path slightly uphill to the right from the entrance. The sunlight filtering through the dense bamboo trees and the sound of wind create a tranquility you can't experience in the city.

Throughout the fortress wall trail, traces of the Joseon Dynasty fortress town remain intact, allowing you to naturally learn about history. You can tour the sites of the east, west, and south gates, as well as historic sites like the guesthouse and government office, imagining what life in the fortress town was like in the past.

Getting There

The address of Gochang Eupseong is 126 Eumnae-ri, Gochang-eup, Gochang-gun, North Jeolla Province. If driving, exit at Gochang IC on the West Coast Expressway and head toward Gochang city center for about 10 minutes. If using public transportation, it's a 5-minute walk from Gochang Intercity Bus Terminal.

There are several parking lots around the fortress, so parking shouldn't be a major concern. However, since weekends can get crowded with tourists, visiting early in the morning is recommended.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Enjoyment

One of Gochang Eupseong's greatest attractions is its admission fee system. After paying the admission fee of 3,000 won for adults and 1,500 won for children, you receive Gochang Love Gift Vouchers of the same amount, making it practically free admission. These vouchers can be used like cash at affiliated stores within Gochang County, making them useful for purchasing local specialties or dining.

The best time to visit is between 9 AM and 11 AM. Not only is the morning sunlight illuminating the fortress wall trail beautiful, but the temperature isn't high yet, making walking comfortable. While the sunset viewed from the western fortress wall is also spectacular in the afternoon, considering June's intense heat, an early visit is preferable.

While the fortress wall trail is generally flat, some sections have stairs, so wear comfortable athletic shoes. The mountain path to the Maengjong Bamboo Forest can be somewhat steep, requiring caution. Bringing water and simple snacks is good for taking a brief rest at the fortress wall rest areas while admiring the scenery.