Osaek Yaksu Mineral Spring 오색약수
Yangyang · Osaek, Hangyeryeong & Seomyeon · Parks & nature
Osaek Yaksu is a natural mineral spring at the foot of Seoraksan, famous for its rusty colour, fizzy bubbles and strong, metallic taste. Many first-time drinkers grimace at the first sip, which is part of the fun. Locals have drunk and bathed in it for generations, and there are small fountains to fill bottles.
The area around it is a pleasant, shady village with trails leading into the mountains. Autumn is the most popular season, when maples fill the valley. Water flow varies with rain, and there is no fee to visit.
Drink a small amount only, and avoid it if your doctor has told you to limit iron or minerals.
Drive up the Osaek road and park at the village lot; the spring is a short walk from the Seoraksan Yaksu visitor centre. Buses to Osaek from Yangyang town run, but infrequently. (Show a driver: 오색약수)
Show this Korean name to your taxi driver or match it to signs: 오색약수
- Best time to visit
- Early morning in autumn, or just after the rainy season when the valley is lush.
- Pair it with
- Jujeongol Valley starts nearby, and Osaek Carbonated Hot Spring and Tobaki Sikdang are both within walking distance.
- Great for
- Parents, Solo travelers
- Local tip
- A spring with a distinctive iron-and-fizz taste. Bring a bottle to fill, but the flow varies after drought or heavy rain.