In Search of the Bright and Pristine Nature of Yeongyang

Yeongyang is home to a firefly eco-park, attesting to its status as a pristine, pollution-free region. Camping amidst the clear waters of Seonnyeotang Pool on Irwolsan Mountain and the scenic Geumgang pine forests of Geommasan Natural Recreation Forest offers the perfect chance to reset body and mind. In particular, the ecological experience at the nearby firefly park will be a memorable activity for children.

Along the way

1. 1

   Irwolsan Mountain

   일월산

   Towering high into the sky, Irwolsan Mountain (1,219m) is grand and magnificent. Its summit is gently flat, offering views of the East Sea to the east. It is called Irwolsan (Sun and Moon Mountain) because it is said to be the first place to greet the rising sun and moon. At the summit stand two peaks, Iljabong and Woljabong, along with the temple site of Cheonchuksa Temple, Sanryeonggak Shrine, Hwangssi Buindang Shrine, Yonghwasa Temple, and Cheonhwasa Temple. Located in the lower ridge of Taebaeksan Mountain, Irwolsan is known as a female mountain with strong yin energy. On the last day of the lunar month, shamans from across the nation gather here to perform naerimgut (initiation rituals) said to be enhanced by the mountain's spiritual energy. Believed to make divination particularly accurate, it is revered by shamans as a sacred mountain. Additionally, the wild edible greens (bracken, chamnamul, geumjuk, namulchwi, etc.) growing in its deep mountain valleys are renowned for their fragrant aroma and flavor. MoreLess

   

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2. 2

   Yeongyang Dume Songha Village

   영양 두메송하마을

   Dume Songha Village is a beautiful place boasting a pristine natural environment, surrounded by Maebongsan Mountain with its lush forests of pines and broadleaf trees, neighboring Tugubong Peak, and the clear waters of Songha Valley winding through the village. Along with rare flora and fauna such as Eurasian eagle-owls, otters, musk deer, evening primrose colonies, and reed beds, Songha Valley is inhabited by freshwater fish like Chinese minnows and slender shads. Trout farming using the clean valley water also allows visitors to observe various freshwater fish and sample distinct dishes. The village features a self-built Jangseung (totem pole) Theme Park and the Haedalmoe Learning Experience Center, offering a wide range of interactive hands-on programs. MoreLess

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3. 3

   Lunch (Seonbawi Garden)

   점심식사(선바위 가든)

   Peppers grown in Yeongyang-gun, where the daily temperature range is wide, are thick-skinned, rich in plant oils, and vividly colored. When ground, they produce plenty of powder and impart rich color and deep flavor to broths. Due to this nationwide reputation, 'Yeongyang Chili Peppers' are famous, but the region is equally renowned for its wild mountain greens. The wild greens of Irwolsan Mountain—named for being the place where one can greet the sun and moon earliest—were once presented as royal tributes during the Joseon Dynasty. In particular, 'geumjuk' was highly prized at the royal court for its outstanding flavor and fragrance. It is highly recommended to try the local specialties prepared with wild greens freshly gathered by the owner's family on Irwolsan Mountain. MoreLess

   

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4. 4

   Yeongyang Market

   영양시장

   Opened in 1918, Yeongyang Market is a traditional market with deep roots. While it originally developed as a barter market exchanging fresh seafood from the East Coast for agricultural produce grown inland, it has now become the central local market dealing mainly in agricultural goods. Outstanding local produce such as wild mountain greens, dried red peppers, and fruits are traded here. Nearby attractions include the Firefly Eco Park, Seonbawi Tourist Site, and Irwolsan Mountain. MoreLess

   

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5. 5
   National Geommasan Natural Recreation Forest

   국립 검마산자연휴양림

   Located in Sinwon-ri, 3.7 km from the center of Subi-myeon, Geommasan Natural Recreation Forest is a physical and mental retreat for families and youth, filled with the aroma of phytoncides (which clear and soothe the mind and body) emitted by forest trees. Equipped with various amenities such as the Forest Culture and Recreation Hall for lodging and dining, a native plant botanical garden, permanent tent sites, camping decks, and hiking trails, it is a popular retreat frequently visited by families and youth groups. Overnight stays are available upon prior reservation. Visitors should bring their own tents and simple cooking utensils. MoreLess

   

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