This park, which contains Moak-san (794m), is a popular destination for hikers on weekends. The main attraction is the temple, Geumsan-sa , which dates to AD 599. While there are no buildings here nearly that old, the three-storey Mireukjeon dates to 1635 and has an impressive air of antiquity. Inside is a looming, golden statue of the Maitreya Buddha – the Buddha of the future.
Geumsan-sa runs a foreigner-friendly templestay program (shared/private room ₩70,000/90,000, including meals); see the website for details. Near the entrance, sip traditional teas, such as daechucha (대추차; jujube tea) in the serene atmosphere of Sanjang Dawon .
Beyond the temple, a trail goes up Janggun-dae (장군대) and along the ridge to the peak in a relatively easy two hours. Minor trails wend past temple hermitages.
Moaksan is easily reached by bus from Jeonju. Get local bus 79 (₩1950, one hour, every 40 minutes) from the stop at Nambu Market. Don’t get on buses that go to the other end of Moaksan park; ask for Geumsan-sa, from where it’s a 20-minute walk to the temple.
