Ranking as the seventh-largest metropolis in South Korea, Ulsan still has plenty of nature to explore. Start your journey on the east coast at Daewangam Park (once known as Ulki Park). Historically a Japanese colony, the park’s name means “great king’s rock” for its large, natural rocky formation. Close to Ilsan Beach, the park is accessed via a one-kilometer-long path leading through a beautiful forest of pines, cherry trees, magnolias, camellias, apricots and forsythia.

Next, head south of Gajisan to visit Seoknamsa Temple, originally constructed in 842 BC and later rebuilt in 1674. The temple’s three-story pagoda is a definite must-see, built by Monk Doui and now listed as a National Treasure. Nearby hiking paths lead to Ssal Rock, Gajisan Mountain and Eoksan Mountain. South of the temple, Paraeso Falls can be found at the end of another stunning, rugged forest path (good walking shoes are essential).

Perhaps less known to tourists, beautiful Hongryu Falls near Sinbulsan Mountain include dramatic cliff rocks, and is a particularly popular site in spring when the cascading waters form a prism of rainbow-hued colors.

Another National Treasure, Bangudae Cliff — said to resemble a giant sleeping turtle — is worth a visit for its prehistoric rock paintings. For more history, take a tour of Ulsan Petroglyph Museum and Seosaengpo Japanese Fortress. The 15^th-century stone fortress was built at the onset of the Imjinwaeran war, and is comprised of three separate sections: one atop a mountain, the second midway between top and bottom and the third at the foot of the mountainside.