Chungnyeongsan 887m

Why it is one of the 100 famous mountains

Selected for its dense mature forests of pine and Korean pine, dramatic cliffs, and outstanding panoramic views from the summit overlooking Unaksan, Myeongjisan, and Hwaaksan to the north, and Cheongpyeongho Lake to the southeast. It is also famous for the Chungnyeong Korean Pine Forest (one of Gapyeong's 8 scenic views), as well as Namibawi Rock and Suribawi Rock tied to legends of General Nami. A natural recreation forest is located here.

About Chungnyeongsan

Passing Maseok along the Gyeongchun Highway and crossing Saeteogogae Pass, the Bukhangang River appears like a forgotten legend. Soon comes Daeseong-ri, featured in Jeong Tae-choon's song 'In Daeseong-ri,' and just before crossing the county border, a fairly large stream is crossed. This is Sudongcheon Stream, known as the Sudong Resort Area.

Located between this Sudongcheon Stream and Jojongcheon Stream in Gapyeong, Chungnyeongsan was long unknown because it was not visible from the national highway and transport was inconvenient. Then, starting in the 1980s, hikers from groups like the Democratic Mountaineering Club who sought quiet, uncrowded places began to visit frequently.

Entering Sudong Valley, Chungnyeongsan stands out impressively above the earthen mountain ridges, as its summit is formed of rock. Thus, it offers the thrilling appeal of rocky ridge hiking along with great panoramic summit views. A panorama of nearly all the mountains in central-northern Gyeonggi, along with Samgaksan and Dobongsan, unfolds.

The original name was Biryeongsan. Written in Idu script where the character for 'pray' (chuk) was meant to be read by its native Korean meaning, it mistakenly became known as Chungnyeongsan since the Japanese colonial period. The place name Biryeong still remains to the northeast and east of the summit.

Located 12km northeast of Hwado-eup (Maseok), Chungnyeongsan (887.1m) rises between Jojongcheon Stream and Sudongcheon Stream. The mountain features a rock called 'Namibawi Rock,' named so because General Nami of the Joseon Dynasty is said to have trained his mind and body here.

Utilizing the dense forest and valleys of Chungnyeongsan, a natural recreation forest has been established, equipped with various amenities such as forest bathing areas, rest areas, athletic facilities, play facilities, and campgrounds.

Public transport

Express buses bound for Maseok run every 5 minutes from in front of Joryeong Pharmacy near Cheongnyangni and Exit 7 of Jamsil Station.

Gyeongchun Line trains run 7 times daily at one-hour intervals. Buses from Maseok to Chungnyeongsan Natural Recreation Forest run 10 times a day.