Ahopsan Bamboo Forest

For centuries, Ahopsan Forest in Gijang-gun, Busan, remained a hidden gem, untouched by the public. It preserved its natural beauty through significant historical periods, including the Japanese occupation, liberation, war, and industrialization. Closed off from the world for 400 years, the forest first gained broader recognition in 2014 when it was used as a filming location for the movie Kundo: Age of the Rampant. In 2016, the family that had carefully managed the forest for generations decided to open it to the public, allowing visitors to experience its serene environment firsthand.

Recently, Ahopsan Forest has drawn even more attention as a filming location for the popular Korean drama The King: Eternal Monarch. The drama's beautiful bamboo forest scenes have attracted countless domestic and international visitors, eager to explore and capture photos in this picturesque location.

Upon entering Ahopsan Forest, your journey through the nine valleys begins. Clearly marked trails guide visitors safely through the forest, offering an easy-to-follow path. The forest is home to an impressive variety of trees, including bamboo, red pines, hinoki cypress, and oak trees, creating a magnificent and serene atmosphere that must be experienced to be fully appreciated. A total of 116 trees have been designated as protected, highlighting the forest's long and valuable history.

Although Ahopsan is rich in various types of trees, the bamboo groves are its most iconic feature. There are two bamboo forests within the nine valleys. The first, Maengjongjuk Forest, was historically used for shamanic rituals and is the first bamboo grove you’ll encounter on the trail. Walking into this dense forest, you can look up to see sunlight filtering through the bamboo leaves, creating a magical experience. The second bamboo forest is a bamboo-lined trail, where tall bamboo plants densely cover both sides of the path, creating a shady, tranquil environment perfect for a peaceful stroll.

As you continue past towering trees that have remained untouched for centuries, you’ll reach Gwanmiheon, the ancestral home of the family that has managed the forest for generations. This traditional Korean house, whose name means "Watching over even the smallest details like grass," was built without nails and still features a wooden furnace, preserving its authentic construction methods.
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Exploring the entire Ahopsan Forest takes about 1 to 2 hours, but the experience is deeply refreshing. Surrounded by the fragrance of the trees, the sound of birds, and the cool shade of the towering forest, visitors find a sense of peace that offers a welcome break from the hectic pace of daily life.

Location - https://g.co/kgs/hx2yyUv