The annual Sancheong Medicinal Herb Festival opens this autumn in Geumseo-myeon, Sancheong County, South Gyeongsang Province. Situated along Donguibogam-ro 555beon-gil at the foot of Jirisan National Park, the festival site celebrates the region’s long tradition of herbal medicine and commemorates the Donguibogam, Korea’s 17th-century medical text now inscribed in UNESCO’s Memory of the World.

Festival Highlights
• Medicine Market and Expo: More than 150 local herb growers and herbalists display root crops, dried botanicals and ready-made herbal remedies.
• Hands-on Workshops: Visitors can gather wild herbs from guided plots, learn to brew traditional tonics and craft personalized herbal sachets.
• Culinary Corner: Regional chefs demonstrate dishes that incorporate medicinal plants such as ginseng, licorice and angelica, with sample tastings available.
• Healing Experiences: Foot-soaking pools, aroma therapy sessions and herb-infused body scrubs offer a restorative break after a day of exploration.
• Cultural Performances: Traditional music ensembles, dance troupes and puppet shows perform daily on the outdoor stage, blending entertainment with historic storytelling.

Getting There and Tips
• By Bus or Car: Sancheong is accessible via intercity buses from Busan, Jinju and Changwon. A free shuttle runs between Sancheong Station and the festival grounds.
• Accommodations: Nearby guesthouses, minbak (farm stays) and small resorts welcome travelers seeking a rural retreat. Advance booking is recommended on weekends.
• Opening Hours & Admission: The festival typically runs from early morning until dusk with free admission; some paid programs require prior reservation.

With its lush mountain backdrop and centuries-old herbal heritage, the Sancheong Medicinal Herb Festival offers a unique blend of education, wellness and regional culture—ideal for travelers eager to experience Korea’s green pharmacy in full bloom.