Petroglyphs of Bangudae Terrace in Daegok-ri [UNESCO World Heritage] (울주 대곡리 반구대 암각화 [유네스코 세계유산])

12.7Km 2025-07-18

Daegok-ri, Eongyang-eup, Ulju-gun, Ulsan

In Daegok-ri, Eonyang-eup sits Bangudae Terrace, a picturesque spot where a ridge of Yeongosan Mountain extends to and stands tall to form quite a spectacle featuring uniquely shaped rocks and cliffs. The name, Bangudae, comes from how it resembles a turtle lying prone on the ground. Petroglyphs are paintings drawn by people from the prehistoric times carved on rocks and depicting various scenes and events in their daily lives. Petroglyphs were often drawn on enormous rocks and other sacred locations of groups, and it is believed that people gathered around them to hold various rituals.
Petroglyphs of Bangudae Terrace in Daegok-ri, Ulju-gun are estimated to have been drawn over several periods since the New Stone Age, and visitors can observe the differences in styles among various ages. Primary objects that were popularly carved include sea animals, land animals, humans and tools and, as our prehistoric ancestors actively engaged in hunting, the hope of abundance in game is believed to be the reason why these objects were frequently carved on rocks. Vividly expressing animals and hunting scenes and colorfully depicting outstanding traits of objects, these petroglyphs are a form of both hunting art and religious art, and they are considered as the greatest masterpieces that give a peek at the life and customs of the prehistoric ages. The petroglyphs on the Bangudae Terrace and the petroglyphs in Cheonjeon-ri, spanning three kilometers altogether along the Bangucheon Stream, have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 12, 2025.

Ulsan Daegok Museum (울산대곡박물관)

12.8Km 2021-05-18

257, Seohacheonjeon-ro, Ulju-gun, Ulsan
+82-52-229-4787

Ulsan Daegok Museum displays artifacts that were uncovered from the area of Daegok-ri during the construction of Daegok Dam. Approximately 13,000 relics were excavated during land inspection prior to the dam construction, including Hasamjeong Ancient Tomb. These findings were collected and became available for public display when the museum opened on June 24, 2009.

Petroglyphs of Cheonjeon-ri [UNESCO World Heritage] (울주 천전리 명문과 암각화 [유네스코 세계유산])

13.2Km 2025-07-18

Cheonjeon-ri, Dudong-myeon, Ulju-gun, Ulsan

The petroglyphs (figures, pictures, and letters were made on the rocks along the mid-stream area of Naegokcheon Stream, which is a tributary of Taehwagang River. The upper and lower sides of the rocks contain petroglyphs that differ in the content and techniques used. The upper side contains petroglyphs made by means of chiseling. The inscriptions include geometric patterns, animals, and abstract human figures. There are concentric circles, with a round figure looking like the sun at the center, four running deer next to them, and several semi-human animals. The figures with simplistic expression and symbolism appear to have been made during the Bronze Age.

The lower side contains line-drawn picture mixed with Chinese characters. They include a procession of horse riders, animals including dragons, and boats. In particular, the procession of horse riders appears in three different places. The boats provide researchers with important information on the offshore activities carried out by people of the Silla dynasty. The 800-plus written characters are about the King and Queen’s visit to the place. They were presumed to have been inscribed on two occasions during the reign of King Beopheung (r. 514-540) of the Silla dynasty. The content on the official positions and the government system makes it a precious material for those studying Silla during or around the 6th Century. The petroglyphs were made by many people over an extended period of time, providing vivid information on the life and thoughts of people from prehistoric times to the Silla dynasty.

The petroglyphs in Cheonjeon-ri and petroglyphs on the Bangudae Terrace, spanning three kilometers altogether along the Bangucheon Stream, have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 12, 2025.

(Source: Korea Heritage Service)

Baenaegol Valley (배내골)

13.3Km 2021-04-03

Wondong-myeon, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
+82-55-382-4112

Baenaegol Valley is located at the heart of the mountainous region affectionately known as the Yeongnam Alps. The valley derives its name “Baenaegol,” meaning “the valley of pears,” from the wild pear trees that grow in large numbers along the valley.

The valley covers nearly 8 kilometers of land between the range connecting Sinbulsan Mountain and Yeongchuksan Mountain and the western range connecting Cheonhwangsan Mountain and Jaeyaksan Mountain in Miryang. It is a popular vacation destination in the summer. Also, many tourists come to drink the water containing acer mono sap, which is known to be produced in this region during the springtime.

Baenaegol Valley is just a short distance away from downtown Yangsan. The valley provides an opportunity to enjoy nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. The long valley is wedged between highlands, which results in at least two hours less of sunshine than other regions, so it feels cooler in the summer months. Strawberries are also widely grown in the area.

Hyangudang (향우당)

13.5Km 2024-12-19

7-8 , Sannaeyachon 1-gil, Miryang-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
+82-10-4902-7216, +82-10-6400-6124

Hyangudang is a 120-year old hanok in Eoreumgol, Miryang-si, Gyeongsangnam-do. Both the anchae and the sarangchae have one large guestroom and two smaller ones; all have underfloor heating, bathroom and kitchen, and guests in the larger rooms have access to a living room. The hanok has a meeting room equipped with a beam projector and sound equipment, a barbecue area, and a parking lot. The owner runs several local farms, and offers experience programs in cheonyeon sea-salt making, magnolia flower tea preparation, and apple picking: guests can buy apples at a discount!

Unmunsa Temple (운문사)

14.0Km 2021-07-21

264, Unmunsa-gil, Unmun-myeon, Cheongdo-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
+82-54-372-8800

Unmunsa Temple in Cheongdo, Gyeongsangbuk-do belongs to Cheongdo-gun in terms of administrative district. However, it is actually more closely connected to Daegu in terms of traffic and lifestyle. Unmunsa Temple was built in 560 during the Silla period. This ancient temple features seven treasured artifacts including the Weeping Pine Tree (Natural Monument No. 180) and stone lantern. There are four small hermitages (Sariam, Naewonam, Bukdaeam and Cheongsinam) around the temple. Moreover, the surrounding forest of pine and fir trees only enhances the temple’s beauty.

Unmunsa is the largest Buddhist nunnery in Korea, maintaining a capacity of roughly 260 bhikkhunis, or Buddhist nuns, who practice Buddhism in a four-year term. But, thanks to its magnificence and lush forest, Unmunsan Mountain, located on the southernmost part of Taebaek Mountain range, has become a favorite spot for many tourists.

Fresh Hill (프레쉬 힐)

15.2Km 2025-03-27

129-15 , Unmunsa-gil, Cheongdo-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
+82-53-371-0700

* Please be advised that this is located in one of the areas affected by the recent wildfire (as of March 27, 2025).

** For real-time wildfire information and emergency upates, visit the Korea Forestfire Information website and the National Disaster and Safety Portal.

Fresh Hill is a clean and friendly hotel in Cheongdo, Gyeongsangbuk-do, just 5-minutes’ walk from the Unmunsa Temple bus stop. The Double and Twin rooms have fine views of lush Jiryongsan Mountain; the Family room is an ondol room that feels like a hanok; while the Superior King Room has a bathtub. A free breakfast is provided and outdoor barbecues can be arranged. In front of the hotel is Unmunsa Solbaram-gil where guests can enjoy a quiet walk to Unmunsa Temple.

Naewonsa Temple (Yangsan) (내원사(양산))

15.5Km 2024-02-23

207 Naewon-ro, Habuk-myeon, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do

Naewonsa Temple, situated in Cheonseongsan National Park, is home to a monumental Buddha statue standing at 5.5 meters, crafted during the Silla dynasty. The temple complex features various structures, including Bogwangjeon and Geungnakjeon Halls, showcasing its captivating architectural style. Renowned for its picturesque mountain landscapes and as a popular destination for autumn foliage, the temple attracts numerous visitors every year.

Naewonsagyegok Valley (내원사계곡)

15.5Km 2021-02-18

207, Naewon-ro, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
+82-55-380-4826

Naewonsagyegok Valley is located just below Naewonsa Temple at the foot of Cheonseongsan Mountain. The valley is surrounded by Jeongjoksan Mountain to the northeast, Wonjeoksan Mountain to the south, and Cheonseongsan Mountain to the southeast. The water running through the numerous valleys between these mountains has formed streams like Yongyeoncheon and Sangnicheon, which form the Yangsancheon Stream out of Naewonsagyegok Valley.

Naewonsagyegok Valley was formerly called Sogeumgang (little Geumgang), meaning that its beautiful scenery is comparable to that of the breathtaking Geumgangsan Mountain. It is also known as the “mystical valley” as crystal clear water flows all year round. The word “Sogeumgang” is distinctly engraved on one side of the cliff and large rocks stand in layers throughout the valley. Some of the rocks are called Byeongpungbawi Rock, literally meaning folding screen rocks, as they are stretched out much like folding screens.

The valley and the surrounding mountains are a popular summer vacation spot and a well-known hiking destination during the spring, fall, and winter. Muk (acorn jelly) made with acorns gathered from this area not only tastes great, but is also very healthy. Nearby attractions include Tongdosa Temple and Hongnyongpokpo Falls.

* Entrance into the upper region of Naewonsagyegok Valley is restricted.

Eden Valley Ski Resort (에덴밸리스키장 (에덴밸리리조트))

15.7Km 2021-12-21

1206, Eosil-ro, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
+82-55-379-8000

Located in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Eden Valley Resort ski slopes have been scientifically designed to disperse skiers and prevent overcrowding. Various slope types are available for skiers and snowboarders of diverse skill levels. Visitors can enjoy winter leisure sports in this international-standard ski resort.

Petroglyphs of Bangudae Terrace in Daegok-ri [UNESCO World Heritage] (울주 대곡리 반구대 암각화 [유네스코 세계유산]) - Area information - Korea travel information