On Saturday, August 25th, we traveled 1 1/2 hours to Songnisan National Park (the place with the huge golden buddha that we posted pictures of last year). Instead of meandering leisurely through the town and temple complex, however, this year we tackled the formidable mountain. We walked 2 kilometres from the bus station to the base of the mountain, and then climbed 6 more kilometres (a lot of it steep climbing) to the summit. Towards the end we were all doubting whether we would make it, and our muscles are expressing a lot of unhappiness today. But we did it! Sixteen kilometres round trip (or 10 miles) took us just over 1,000 metres up to the peak (or about 3,500 feet). We all have new respect for people who climb huge mountains like Kilimanjaro! (We also have ultimate respect for a man we encountered on our descent who was carrying a traditional Korean chigae loaded with supplies for one of the mountainside cafes; wow!!)
1 comment:
Hi Brian,
I am sitting here at lunch and am quite enjoying the scenes of korea. It certainly makes me hearken back to my days exploring Songnisan and the region on my bike. It really is pretty outside of the city. Great site, enjoy keeping my finger on the pulse of TCIS/Korea!!
chris
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