Ahopsan Forest: A Small Haven Of Peace In Busan
Getting out of the city is often exactly what you need to heal your mind, body and soul, especially when you live or travel in a busy city.
And that’s why Ahopsan Forest is the ideal choice for those seeking breathtaking scenery and peace of mind, just an hour from the center of Busan!
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Ahopsan in a few words
Ahopsan, which literally translates to nine mountains/peaks, is best known for its bamboo groves and peaceful greenery in Busan.
But this small forest is much more than that: it’s a place that has been preserved for hundreds of years by the Moon clan, which has gone through war, Japanese colonization, and various changes, enduring much but remaining as beautiful as ever.
So if you’re curious about the sound of the wind rustling through bamboo leaves and want to enjoy a soothing moment in Busan, visit Ahopsan Forest!
Hightlights of Ahopsan Forest
1. Bamboo groves
Comprising mainly two bamboo groves, with other bamboo paths spread out in the forest, you’ll soon find yourself gazing at the immensity of this plant, as well as its resilience and flexibility, even in the face of the strongest winds.
Not to mention the sound, or rather the soothing melody produce by the wind blowing through thousands of bamboo trees, transporting you to those Asian martial arts movies and making you dream of you flying through the canopy and using bamboo groves as your battlefield. Or maybe I watched too much TV when I was a child.
In any case, the bamboo groves are a pretty cool spot, whether you love nature or are just looking for a quiet setting to relax.
2. Geumgang Pine Habitat
Because there’s not only bamboos in Ahopsan Forest but also pine trees, cypress trees, mushrooms and wild animals, continue your exploration of the forest and walk among 400-year-old red pine trees, another protected species in Ahopsan.
3. Filming location
This one won’t mean anything to you unless you’re an avid fan of Korean dramas or films such as The King: Eternal Monarch, Memories of the Sword, Kundo and many others.
But you know what? Even if you don’t know them, I think the two structures resembling monoliths in the center add something mysterious to the place. And to add even more to the somewhat eerie vibe, this particular spot is also said to have been the site of shamanic rituals.
4. Gwanmiheon
Representing a traditional Korean house, what surprised me most was learning that the house was apparently built entirely from trees sourced from the mountains and without the use of nails.
There’s also a Gingko tree in the courtyard, you know, the kind of tree whose nuts smell pretty bad, a bit like dirty socks.
5. Turtle-patterned bamboo
Located just by the entrance on your right, these particular bamboos, nicknamed “turtle-patterned bamboo” because their trunks resemble turtle shells are, in fact, extremely rare and smaller than their counterparts.
But aren’t they the cutest?
Tips for visiting Ahopsan Forest
1. Respect the forest
This means staying quiet, not disturbing wildlife, not writing on or damaging bamboos or the forest in general.
Plus, follow the rules outlined in the small guide provided at the ticket counter (alcohol, cigarettes, strollers, hiking sticks…are prohibited).
2. Collect your trash
It goes without saying, but don’t forget not to litter in the forest and carry a trash bag to collect anything you need to throw away later of.
3. Follow the trails
Unless you want to get lost, following designated trails is always a good idea and the safest one.
4. Visit on weekdays
Like all attractions in South Korea, they tend to be busier on weekends, so if you want to fully enjoy the peace and quiet of Ahopsan, your best bet is to come on weekdays.
How to get to Ahopsan Forest
Wherever you are in Busan, you’ll likely need to take two buses. From Bujeon Market (in Seomyeon), take bus 99 for 24 stops, get off at 욱성화학, transfer to bus 184 and get off at 웅천 (11 stops).
The total journey takes about an hour.
FAQ
How much does a ticket to Ahopsan cost?
For adults, a ticket costs 8,000 KRW (~$5) and 5,000 KRW for kids (~$3).
Ahopsan Forest is open every day: 09:00-18:00.
How long does it usually take to visit?
It really depends on your pace and how much time you take to appreciate your surroundings, sitting among the bamboo groves… If so, I’d say you should allow at least two hours in Ahopsan Forest, but there’s really no rush and it all depends on whether you have other plans afterwards too.
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately for pet owners, Ahopsan Forest doesn’t allow any pets inside.
Ready to embark on a serene journey surrounded by greenery and quiet reverie? Welcome to Ahopsan Forest: a small haven of peace in Busan!
Want to see another unique place in Busan? Why not visit the sumptuous and peaceful Beomeosa Temple?
