November Festivals

by Deirdre Madden

Where I grew up, November was a very blah time of year. It was cold, dark and dreary for most of the month. Christmas was ages away, and Halloween was over with. There was nothing to look forward to in November, except possibly the first snowfall.

My first November in Korea was such a contrast – bright, blue skies, warm days, fresh winds, autumn colours long after Canadian leaves had fallen. The weather invites you out to hike, bike or explore the countryside by day, and curl up on the sofa with a hot cup of tea, and a good book or movie at night.

It is, however, a down-month for festivals in Korea. There are only two of note for November, but happily, the more interesting of the two is also the closest to Ulsan!

From Nov. 9-11 the Cheongsang Apple Festival is taking place, just north of Pohang and east of Andong. Cheongsang region is famous for their apples, and the festival will involve many apple-themed events and tastings. It’s also right near Juwangsan National Park, one of the “3 major rocky mountains” in Korea. The festival takes place near the Folk Museum, which is worth a look through.

From the Cheongsang Bus Terminal, take the local bus to Juwangsan, and hop off at the Folk Museum.

Not to be outdone by an apple festival, the folks in Munsan are holding their Paju Jangdan Soybean Festival (site in Korean only) from Nov.16-18. This festival, celebrating all things soy, will be held at the Imjingak Plaza. This region has been known for years for their superior soybeans. If you’ve ever wondered how tofu is made, this is your chance to find out!

From the Munsan Bus Terminal,  take local bus 100-94 and get off at the Imjingak Tourist Resort bus stop.