How Far Can You Drive into Naejangsan National Park on October 31?
On October 8, 2026, Naejangsan National Park announced vehicle access restrictions for the autumn peak season. Therefore, entering Naejangsa Temple or the visitor information center as your navigation destination does not necessarily mean you can drive a regular passenger car directly to that location.
The three locations to distinguish when checking vehicle restrictions are Naejangho Parking Lot, Wolryeonggyo Bridge, and the Naejangsan Visitor Information Center.
Naejangho Parking Lot is the departure point for the free shuttle bus during this autumn peak season, while Wolryeonggyo Bridge is the opposite endpoint of the shuttle route.
However, the free shuttle route does not necessarily correspond to the entire area where ordinary vehicles are restricted. The official vehicle restriction notice includes a separate map showing the restricted sections. To determine exactly how far a regular passenger car may enter, check that map and follow the traffic controls in place at the park.
Parking arrangements may also change according to on-site instructions, even after you arrive at the parking area. It is therefore advisable to confirm the shuttle departure point before moving your vehicle.
Where Can You Board the Free Shuttle Bus, and How Late Does It Operate?
During the 2026 autumn peak season, Naejangsan National Park's free shuttle bus operates from October 30 through November 15 along the 2.1 km route between Naejangho Parking Lot and Wolryeonggyo Bridge.
Operating hours differ between weekdays and weekends.
| Category | Free Shuttle Bus Operating Hours |
|---|---|
| Weekdays, Monday–Friday | 09:00–17:00 |
| Weekends, Saturday–Sunday | 08:00–17:00 |
| Saturday, October 31 | 08:00–17:00 |
| Operating period | October 30–November 15 |
| Route | Naejangho Parking Lot ↔ Wolryeonggyo Bridge |
| Route distance | 2.1 km |
On Saturdays, shuttle service begins at 8:00 AM, one hour earlier than on weekdays.
An important point is that 5:00 PM is the official end of operating hours. This does not necessarily mean that passengers can board the final bus at 5:00 PM from every boarding location.
The official announcement does not separately specify individual departure times, service intervals, or expected passenger waiting times.
When planning your return journey, it is safer to reach the boarding point at Wolryeonggyo Bridge well before the 5:00 PM closing time rather than arriving at the last minute.
| Operating period | October 18–November 16 |
|---|---|
| Distance | 2.8 km |
| Operating hours | 09:00–15:00 |
| Registration methods | Online reservation or on-site registration |
| Reservation capacity | 520 people |
What Is the Difference Between Online Reservations and On-Site Registration?
On-site registration is also available according to the announcement. However, because the number of places is limited, you should not assume that registration will necessarily be available when you arrive.
If you plan to hike the trail, first check whether online reservations are available. If you intend to register on-site, it is advisable to inquire about remaining capacity and operating conditions before visiting.
The main locations associated with access to the designated trail section are:
Byeongnyeonam Hermitage: 1220-74 Naejangsan-ro, Jeongeup-si, Jeonbuk, South Korea
Naejangsan Visitor Information Center inquiries: 063-538-7874
Hiking access may be restricted when severe weather advisories or warnings are issued, including those for heavy rainfall or typhoons. Regardless of whether you have a reservation, you should also check whether the trail is open on the day of your visit.
Naejangsan has several places where visitors can enjoy autumn foliage, including Naejangsa Temple, Uhwajeong Pavilion, and the autumn foliage tunnel along the Nature Love Trail. If you plan to visit these locations, your first priority should be checking your travel route and any applicable vehicle restrictions.
How Should You Prepare for a Visit to Naejangsan by Car on October 31?
1. Check vehicle restrictions: Review the vehicle access restriction map issued by Naejangsan National Park to determine which sections are accessible to regular passenger cars.
2. Confirm parking arrangements: Use Naejangho Parking Lot (formerly Parking Lot No. 4) as your initial reference point, but follow the parking instructions provided on-site.
3. Use the shuttle bus: On Saturday, October 31, take the free shuttle operating between Naejangho Parking Lot and Wolryeonggyo Bridge from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
5. Allow enough time for your return: Plan your return journey with the shuttle's closing time and possible waiting times in mind.
Driving time, shuttle bus waiting time, and actual hiking duration are different factors. You should not calculate the total time needed for your visit based solely on the distance covered by the shuttle bus.
Who Should You Contact Before Visiting Naejangsan National Park?
For questions about vehicle restrictions, hiking trail operations, and visitor arrangements, you can contact the Naejangsan National Park Office.
Even when the main purpose of your trip is to enjoy the autumn foliage, vehicle access restrictions and hiking trail reservations operate under separate arrangements. Understanding this distinction in advance can reduce the likelihood of having to change your route after arriving at the park.
