(C) Stripes Korea

JINAN, North Jeolla Province — As South Korea gears up for the 2026 Visit Jinan Year, all eyes are turning toward the "Roof of Honam." Perched on a high-altitude plateau, Jinan County offers a sanctuary where the air is thin but the soul is full. For travelers suffocated by the gray monotony of urban life, this pristine highland provides the ultimate "healing" escape.

From mystical peaks to red ginseng-infused delicacies, here are five compelling reasons why Jinan should be at the top of your 2026 travel bucket list.

 
1. Spiritual Heights at Maisan Mountain
If you are carrying a cherished wish in your heart for the new year, Maisan Mountain is your destination. Named for its resemblance to a horse’s ears ("Ma" meaning horse and "I" meaning ear), this geological marvel is known as the world’s only "couple peaks."

At the foot of the Female Mai Peak lies a scene of quiet wonder: approximately 80 stone towers (Tapsa) built by hand over a century ago. Legend says that among these weathered spires, one’s most sincere prayer will be answered. Whether you believe in the mystical or just appreciate the architectural feat, the spiritual energy here is undeniable.

2. A Taste of Vitality: The Jinan Red Ginseng Festival
Jinan is the undisputed capital of Korean red ginseng. Grown at an altitude of 400 meters, the ginseng here boasts a deep aroma and is packed with saponins and ginsenosides. In fact, Jinan is home to Korea’s very first Red Ginseng Food Master.

The Jinan Red Ginseng Festival turns this medicinal root into a culinary adventure. Forget bitter teas; here, you can sample Red Ginseng Kkakdugi (radish kimchi), red ginseng pasta, and even signature cocktails. It’s a vibrant celebration featuring night markets and fireworks, offering visitors the chance to purchase premium-grade ginseng at incredibly fair prices.

3. Yongdam Lake: The Mirror of the Sky
For those who find peace in the reflection of water, Yongdam Lake is a masterpiece of nature. The lake’s surface acts as a giant mirror, perfectly capturing the shifting colors of the Jinan sky.

The lakeside road is a sanctuary for cyclists and road-trip enthusiasts. During the spring, the path transforms into a "Cherry Blossom Tunnel," where falling petals create a surreal, snowy landscape against the blue water. It is, quite simply, one of the most photogenic drives in the country.

4. Thrills at Unilam-Banilam Gorge
If you prefer adrenaline over quiet reflection, head to the Unilam-Banilam Gorge. This rugged canyon, carved by time and tide, features dramatic cliffs and bizarre rock formations.

The highlight is the Cloud Bridge (Suspension Bridge), which stretches across the gorge. Crossing it offers a heart-pounding view of the crystal-clear valley floor below. In the summer, the icy waters of the stream provide a natural air conditioner, making it the premier spot for those looking to wash away the summer heat.

5. The Gift of Nature: Unjangsan Mountain Gorosoe Festival
High up at 600 meters on Unjangsan Mountain, nature produces a unique elixir: Gorosoe (Maple Sap). Thanks to the extreme temperature variations of the Jinan Plateau, the sap collected here is renowned for its purity and mineral content.

Every spring, the Unjangsan Gorosoe Festival celebrates this seasonal gift. Visitors can participate in forest walks, sap tastings, and a traditional ritual offering thanks to the mountain spirit. It is a humble, beautiful reminder of the harmony between the people of Jinan and their environment.

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