Embraced by Nature: Upo Wetland in Changnyeong and Hanusan Mountain in Uiryeong

This course takes you through Upo Wetland, one of Korea's premier eco-tourism destinations, and Hanusan Mountain in Uiryeong, famous as a scenic driving course. After taking in the pristine beauty of nature at Upo Wetland, you can immerse yourself in the charm of rocky cliffs and cave temples at Bonghwangdae Cliff and Ilbungsa Temple in Uiryeong. Leading from a wetland to dramatic rock cliffs and mountains, this eco-friendly itinerary is highly recommended for families and couples.

Along the way

1. 1

   Upo Wetland Eco Museum

   우포늪생태관

   The Upo Wetland Eco Museum preserves and studies records of various wetland wildlife, including birds, fish, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles, while showcasing them to the public. It also reminds visitors that humans are a part of nature and guides them on how to coexist with the natural environment. To help visitors better understand the ecological environment, the museum features exhibition halls such as Understanding Upo Wetland, Four Seasons of Upo Wetland, Living Upo Wetland, Families of Upo Wetland, and Understanding the Ecological Environment. MoreLess

   

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2. 2

   Bonghwangdae Cliff (Uiryeong)

   봉황대(의령)

   This cliff is located at the entrance to Byeokgye Reservoir in Pyeongchon-ri, Gungnyu-myeon, Uiryeong-gun, about 23 km from Uiryeong-eup. Bonghwangdae, where gigantic, bizarre rocks create a magnificent spectacle, was named for its resemblance to the head of a phoenix (bonghwang). Climbing along the stone stairs of Bonghwangdae leads to a natural cave nestled between rock walls, and passing through this cave brings you to a narrow stone gate blocking the path. Squeezing through this stone gate, you will encounter another cave featuring a spring that flows with refreshing mineral water all year round, welcoming visitors to Bonghwangdae. MoreLess

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3. 3
   Ilbungsa Temple

   일붕사

   Ilbungsa is a temple located on Bonghwangsan Mountain, surrounded by blessed natural surroundings. What makes this temple famous is its cave sanctuary. Recognized as the world's largest cave sanctuary, it is listed in the Guinness Book of Records. The main halls measure 456.2 m² (approx. 138 pyeong) and 297.5 m² (approx. 90 pyeong). Currently serving as a prayer sanctuary for Buddhists wishing for their prayers to be answered, it receives an average of around 200 Buddhist pilgrims each day. MoreLess

   

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4. 4

   Lunch (Hwangso Georeum Restaurant)

   점심식사(황소걸음식당)

   Formed by five livestock farmers who established the Yeongju Seonbichon Hanwoo Agricultural Cooperative Corporation, this butcher-restaurant is directly run by the corporation. With the goal of providing high-quality, delicious Hanwoo (Korean beef) at affordable prices, it has streamlined its distribution chain into 'Farm - Slaughterhouse - Butcher/Restaurant' to offer meat at reasonable prices. MoreLess

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5. 5

   Byeokgye (Chalbi) Valley

   벽계(찰비)계곡

   Connected to the mountain range of Jagulsan Mountain, the area features grand peaks and deep valleys filled with scenic views created by uniquely shaped rocks; the stream flowing alongside Hanusan Mountain is Chalbi Valley. In the canyon of this valley lies Hanusanseong Fortress, named because its surrounding natural stone walls resemble fortress walls like a natural stronghold. Chalbi Valley boasts breathtaking scenery year-round, with clear water winding and cascading into spectacular waterfalls. MoreLess

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6. 6

   Hanusan Mountain

   한우산

   Hanusan Mountain (764 m) is part of the ridge extending from Jagulsan Mountain. The mountain features grand ridges and deep valleys filled with superb views sculpted by bizarre rock formations, with a refreshing valley stream flowing through the center. This valley is also called Chalbi Valley because it is said to feel as if cold rain falls even in summer, and the valley flowing down from the foot of Hanusan Mountain extends for 3 km. MoreLess

   

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