Yeosu Welcomes Spring in Pink: Yeongchwisan Azalea Festival Opens on the 28th

Held at Heungguksa Forest Park and the Yeongchwisan Area

The 34th Yeosu Yeongchwisan Azalea Festival, one of the three largest azalea habitats in Korea, will be held in the Yeongchwisan area from March 28 to 29.

According to Yeosu City on March 19, this year’s festival will welcome spring visitors with a variety of events, including a mountain trail running competition (trail race) as the opening event, a mountain spirit ritual wishing for the well-being of the nation and local residents, an opening ceremony, a mountain-top music concert, celebratory performances, and various hands-on activities.

Promotional poster for the 34th Yeosu Yeongchwisan Azalea Festival. Provided by Yeosu City

This year, a newly introduced program will offer a differentiated experience: a mountain trail running competition (trail race) covering 12 kilometers from Heungguksa Temple through Bongujae and across the Yeongchwisan area, allowing participants to enjoy the natural scenery as they run.

To minimize traffic congestion, the city will restrict vehicle access within the event grounds and guide visitors to use temporary and Dolgogae parking lots. In addition, to enhance convenience for tourists, Yeosu City will expand bus routes to Heungguksa Temple and Sangam, and operate shuttle buses.

Every year from March to early April, azaleas bloom in full glory on Yeongchwisan. In particular, the vibrant pink azalea colonies create a spectacular scene as they burst into bloom.

The mountain trails leading to the Yeongchwisan azalea colonies comprise three routes: from the rear gate of GS Caltex in Junghung-dong to the summit, from Sangam Elementary School to the summit, and from Heungguksa Temple to the summit.

For elderly visitors or families, the most comfortable way to view the azalea colonies is to start near Sangam Elementary School, pass through Bongujae, and continue on to Heungguksa Temple.

An official from Yeosu City stated, “This festival will provide an opportunity for both citizens and tourists to create special memories amid the beautiful spring scenery of Yeongchwisan. We hope many people will visit, enjoy the fully bloomed azaleas, and immerse themselves in the essence of spring.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.