Jaunbong Peak in Dobongsan

Jaunbong Peak

Climbing Jaunbong Peak at Bukhansan Mountain

Jaungbong Peak is the highest among many in Dobongsan (or Dobong Mountain) in Seoul, South Korea. In particular, Jaunbong is located Northeast of Bukhansan National Park, which is famous for its fantastic rock formations resembling any images you can imagine.

I decided to hike the Peak for the first time on 28 October 2017 to see for myself its beauty and the beauty of sights from its vantage point. Also, to test how fit I am in trailing this famous peak.

I am happy to say that I did it. To prove that, I took lots of photos to make sure that I can choose from among them the best ones.

Dobongsan Quick Background

Mount Dobong has an elevation of over seven hundred meters above sea level (approximately 739.5 m). the mountain has famous peaks which most hikers and climbers alike want to conquer. These summits are Seoningbong (708 meters), Manjanbon (718 meters), Jaunbong (740 meters), and Shinseondae (730 meters).

It takes 2 to 3 hours to get there for non-fast hikers but only about 1 hour for advanced and fit hikers.

I decided to start my trek from Dobongsan’s main entrance where you can find all you need to know and all you need to be equipped with right before conquering the summit – Jaunbong Peak.

If you decide to take the subway, arrive at Dobong Train (subway) Station and head to Exit 1. Simply ask anybody, and they will point to you the way. It takes around 5 minutes to get to the entrance of Dobongsan. You can actually see the peak from the station, which can serve as your guide.

Preparations

Read a bit about the mountain especially the blogs or the tourism guide of Seoul. Above all, you need to equip yourself with the following:

•        trekking or mountain boots (not running shoes), good socks
•        Lots of water (or liquids)
•        Snacks or lunch
•        Headcover (e.g. hat)
•       A pair of sunglasses

Of course, you can also use other things such as walking stick, scarfs, towel, sunblock, and mosquito repellent (could be useful during summer time).

Although in many parts along the way are built with steps, some parts are quite rough and jagged. Therefore, this is not good for beginners. I would the trail to Jaundong Peak is a medium level category for hikers. So, if you decide to get there, please, do a small hiking practice at easier Seoul mountain trails then come here.

Cheonchuksa Temple

Cheonchuksa is located East of Dobongsan, and it is under the management of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. Cheonchuksa was established as “Okcheonam Hermitage” in 673 and is considered one of the oldest temples in Korea.

The temple and hermitage underwent a significant renovation and expansion under the patronage of Yi Seong-gye, the ruler of Joseon Dynasty. It has undergone many improvements including the royal order of King Seongjong in 1474 and being upgraded up to the present. The temple looks very serene and its surrounding simply beautiful and heavenly.