Bijarim Forest

Character

Thick Torreya trunks crowd the path at Bijarim, their broad bases spreading into exposed roots beneath an evergreen canopy. Many have stood here for centuries. Younger trees rise in the gaps between them, so several generations of the forest are visible within the same compact grove

The trees vary sharply at close range. Some lean or split above swollen bases; younger Torreya and other evergreen species occupy the lower layers. Dark scoria shows through around roots and path edges. The effect builds through accumulation: one old trunk after another, each slightly different, with new growth threaded through the spaces between them

The experience

The main course reaches the dense grove quickly on a relatively level compacted-scoria surface. A second course continues over rougher, stonier ground, extending the time among the trees and opening more irregular sections of the forest beyond the easiest path

Most of Bijarim’s memorable details sit within a few metres of the trail: furrowed bark, roots crossing volcanic ground, broad tree bases and young stems under the old canopy. The repeated trunks shorten the view and keep attention close to the forest floor. Even a short walk gives a strong sense of how unusually concentrated the old Torreya stand is

History

Bijarim is an exceptional concentration of Torreya nucifera in eastern Jeju. Its oldest trees are commonly estimated at 500 to 800 years, and the grove was designated a Natural Monument in 1993. Torreya was historically valued for its hard timber and seeds; the surviving stand now preserves centuries of growth in one protected forest

That forest is still changing. Younger trees establish beneath the old canopy, understory species compete for space, and heavy visitation concentrates pressure along the walking routes. Paths, restricted areas and ecological monitoring protect sensitive ground while allowing regeneration to continue. The management is easy to overlook from the trail, but its result is visible in the mix of old trunks and younger growth sharing the same limited space

Before you go

The main course is the practical choice for an easy visit; the longer branch has rougher footing. Strollers and wheelchairs can use much of the easier route, though assistance may be useful on slopes or uneven sections. Food and pets are restricted inside the forest, so arrive ready to keep the walk simple. Last admission is earlier than closing time