Cheonseongsan 920m

Why it is one of the 100 famous mountains

Selected for its outstanding scenery, often called a miniature Geumgangsan, and its high ecological value with vast grasslands and mountain wetlands near the summit that support rare plants such as sundew and aquatic insects. Azaleas and royal azaleas bloom in spring, silver grass along the ridges forms a spectacle in autumn, and Naewonsa Temple, founded by Great Monk Wonhyo, is situated here.

About Cheonseongsan

It is a mountain described as "steep peaks layered upon layers and valleys deep like caverns." Viewed from Ungsang, its sheer terrain appears as a simple, grand isolated mountain, while toward Yangsan it stretches out several vigorous mountain ridges topped with numerous rocky peaks. Valleys between the ridges are lined with bedrock streams and clear pools. Fitting that description completely, it is a renowned mountain celebrated for both the beauty of its rocky peaks and its mountain streams.

The area around Bukbong Peak (approx. 830m), which was labeled "Cheonseongsan" on older maps, is a haven of silver grass. In the high wetlands scattered throughout this area live rare flora and fauna such as the Korean clawed salamander and sundew, which once made national headlines. It is a unique zone in the upper reaches of Beopsu Valley, which flows in a distinctive T-shape.

It is also famous as one of the first places to see the sunrise in Korea. As such, the vista is magnificent: the nine prominent peaks of the Yeongnam Alps are visible in sharp detail, and to the south, not only Geumjeongsan in Busan, but also Sineosan in Gimhae and Muhaksan in Masan can be seen in the distance.

The name Cheonseongsan originated from the legend that Great Monk Wonhyo brought a thousand people to this mountain and led them all to attain enlightenment as saints (seongin). Another tale claims they were monks from the Tang Dynasty who came seeking Wonhyo out of gratitude after he saved their lives by hurling a dining table, though Wonhyo never traveled to Tang China. Until recently, the highest peak was referred to as Wonhyosan.

Located 7 km toward Busan from the Tongdosa Interchange, cross the Yongyeon Overpass above the Gyeongbu Expressway and continue about 3 km to reach the valley leading to Naewonsa Temple. From here begins Cheonseongsan, reminiscent of the valleys of Geumgangsan with its bizarre rock formations and dense forests.

Public transport

The starting point is Busan. Take Bus No. 12 bound for Eonyang from Myeongnyun-dong Station on the Busan Subway or Nopo-dong Terminal, then get off at Daeseok-ri for Hongnyongsa Valley or at Yongyeon Samgeori (three-way intersection) for Naewonsa Valley and take a taxi. For Ungsang-eup, take Bus No. 2000. Bus No. 57, operating 11 times a day from Yangsan Intercity Bus Terminal, also runs to Ungsang-eup.