Starpark (Chilgapsan Astrnomical Observatory) (칠갑산천문대 스타파크)

11.5 Km 11045 2024-02-23

178-46 Hantigogae-gil, Jeongsan-myeon, Cheongyang-gun, Chungcheongnam-do

Starpark, also known as Chilgapsan Astronomical Observatory, is nestled within Chilgapsan Provincial Park in Cheongyang-gun, Chungcheongnam-do. This observatory is a science museum with a focus on astronomy and space, catering to both the general public and students. Conveniently, it's just a five-minute walk from the parking area. The facility is housed in a three-story structure. On the first floor, visitors can enjoy a three-dimensional dome theater and an audiovisual room. The second floor houses a publicity center and an observation deck. The observatory’s main observation room is on the third floor and features Korea’s largest refracting telescope (APO 304 mm), which is used primarily for viewing sunspots and prominences during the day. Additionally, there’s an auxiliary observation room equipped with Korea's first 180-degree hemispherical three-stage sliding system. This room is designed for nighttime stargazing and is fitted with a 400-milimeter reflecting telescope for observing planets, star clusters, and nebulae. Children are particularly fond of the 12-meter geo-massive astronomical projection room, where they can experience 5D images. For those wishing to extend their visit, accommodations are available at Namcheon-ri Sanchon Ecological Village or nearby Alps Village. Staying in these locations provides easy access to both the Chilgapsan Astronomical Observatory and the Cheonjangho Suspension Bridge, making for a comprehensive educational and recreational experience.

Chilgapsan Provincial Park (칠갑산도립공원)

11.6 Km 7439 2021-09-30

241, Janggok-gil, Cheongyang-gun, Chungcheongnam-do
+82-41-635-7690

Chilgapsan Mountain, located in Cheongyang-gun, Chungcheongnam-do, was designated as a provincial park in 1973. This mountain, 561 meters above sea level, has been called “The Alps of Chungcheongnam-do.” Chilgapsan Mountain area has many peaks, a thick forest and beautiful valleys. Each season has its own unique atmosphere. There are romantic cherry blossoms in spring, vivid green leaves in summer, autumn tints in fall and a snow-covered landscape in winter. Mountaineers visit all year round and can choose from seven courses.

Simyeondonggyegok Valley (Seongjugyegok Valley) (심연동계곡(성주계곡))

12.6 Km 44647 2024-02-21

Seongju-ri, Seongju-myeon, Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do

Simyeondonggyegok Valley is a valley formed in an S-shape to the south of Seongjusan Mountain. The name "Simyeon" means deep pond. The landscape is picturesque, and visitors can enjoy forest bathing along the trail lined with pine trees. Even in the summer, the cool flowing water makes it an ideal destination for relaxation.

Alps Village (알프스마을)

13.9 Km 15627 2024-02-23

223-35 Cheonjangho-gil, Jeongsan-myeon, Cheongyang-gun, Chungcheongnam-do

Chilgapsan Mountain, often referred to as the Alps of Chungcheongnam-do, rises majestically above Alps Village. Located in Cheonjang-ri, a name that evokes the imagery of reaching as high as the ceiling, this village is a getaway to the serene Cheonjangho Lake, together forming the picturesque Cheonjang-ri Alps Village. The area is well-equipped for visitors, boasting the Chilgapsan Mountain hiking trail, Korea's longest suspension bridge that crosses Cheonjangho Lake, a center for urban-rural community exchange, and a farm offering well-being experience. Alps Village is renowned for its annual Ice Fountain Festival, a winter highlight that draws visitors eager to behold the snow and ice sculptures and participate in a variety of sledding and ice bobsled activities. Beyond these chilly thrills, visitors can also engage in experiences like zip trekking and crafting traditional bottle gourd art.

Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival (칠갑산 얼음분수 축제)

13.9 Km 40085 2024-02-23

223-35 Cheonjangho-gil, Cheongyang-gun, Chungcheongnam-do
+82-41-942-0797

“Gather, fairyland friends!” Chilgapsan Mountain Winter Wonderland, a magical place where fairy-tale characters gather within an alpine castle crafted from a grand ice fountain. As night descends upon the Alps Village, the castle opens for nocturnal festivities, allowing visitors to don vibrant attires under the twinkling stars of the Milky Way. It’s an enchanting destination for children to create cherished memories and an idyllic setting for a romantic winter date for couples

Cheonjangho Lake (천장호)

14.0 Km 20502 2021-07-19

24-23, Cheonjangho-gil, Cheongyang-gun, Chungcheongnam-do
82-41-940-2723

Cheonjangho Lake is situated on the ridge of Chilgapsan Mountain about 11 kilometers away from the Chilgapsan Recreational Forest. This is reservoir of 1,200 hectares and is used to irrigate nearby farm land. Construction began in 1972 and took seven years to complete. The lake boasts clean water and an outstanding surrounding landscape. When it comes under fog or clouds, it creates a scenic view against the Chilgapsan Mountain landscape. In early spring, smelts are caught in abundance, drawing a growing number of tourists and anglers.

Gwangcheon Cave Salted Shrimp Complex (광천토굴새우젓단지)

14.1 Km 4623 2024-02-26

119, Gwangcheon-ro, Gwangcheon-eup, Hongseong-gun, Chungcheongnam-do

Gwangcheon Cave Salted Shrimp Complex is a collection of shops offering saeujeot (salted shrimp), a specialty of Gwangcheon. Gwangcheon’s proximity to the Yellow Sea makes it a famous place for jeotgal (salted seafood), particularly those made with shrimp. Gwangcheon’s saeujeot (salted shrimp) is stored and aged in a former mine cave tunnel, so it has great quality. There is even an exhibition hall dedicated to Gwangcheon cave salted shrimp. The Gwangcheon Cave Salted Shrimp & Dried Laver Festival is held in October.

Seongjusan Recreational Forest (성주산자연휴양림)

14.1 Km 62205 2022-12-27

57-228, Hwajanggol-gil, Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do
+82-41-934-7133

Seongjusan Recreational Forest in Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do is especially popular in spring because of its cherry blossoms and beautiful wildflowers. Also, the observatory 100 meters below the mountain peak (680 meters in elevation) offers a great view of Seongju-myeon and Oesan-myeon. Roundtrip hike to the peak takes approximately 2-3 hours.

Nearby tourist attractions include the Seongjusaji Temple site and a coal museum (15 minutes on foot), as well as Daecheon Beach and Muchangpo Beach (20-30 minutes by car).

Gwangcheon Cave Salted Shrimp Market (광천 토굴새우젓시장)

14.2 Km 23897 2024-02-26

8-20, Gwangcheon-ro 285beon-gil, Gwangcheon-eup, Hongseong-gun, Chungcheongnam-do

Gwangcheon Cave Salted Shrimp Market is a traditional market located in Gwangcheon, between Hongseong and Boryeong. Gwangcheon’s proximity to the Yellow Sea makes it a famous place for jeotgal (salted seafood), made using seafood and shrimp caught from the Yellow Sea, and laver seaweed. Gwangcheon’s saeujeot (salted shrimp) is stored and aged in a cave tunnel, so it has great quality. The market also offers agricultural goods, seafood, clothing, and sundry items.

Buyeo Muryangsa Temple (무량사(부여))

14.3 Km 25467 2021-11-12

203, Muryang-ro, Buyeo-gun, Chungcheongnam-do
+82-41-836-5066

Muryangsa Temple, located at the foot of Mansusan Mountain in Buyeo-gun, Chungcheongnam-do, is said to have been built during the reign of Silla King Munmu by national preceptor Beomil. Geungnakjeon Hall can be seen after passing through Sacheonwangmun Gate, recognizably the best location for taking in the beauty of Muryangsa Temple. The temple grounds hold the Two-story Geungnakjeon Hall, Five-story Stone Pagoda, and Stone Lantern, all in a row.

The temple is also famous for being the place where Kim Siseup, one of the Saengyuksin (Six Loyal Subjects of the Joseon dynasty), spent his last few days before death. Visitors can see his portrait inside the temple. Although the temple site is included in Buyeo-gun’s administrative district, it is located closer to downtown Boryeong.

Starpark (Chilgapsan Astrnomical Observatory) (칠갑산천문대 스타파크) - Area information - Korea travel information