Gongjaksan 887m

Why it is one of the 100 famous mountains

Selected for its lush forests and the scenic beauty of Suta Valley. The mountain derives its name from its topography, which resembles a peacock spreading its wings. Sutasa Temple, which preserves Volumes 17 and 18 of Worinseokbo (Treasure No. 745), and the 20-ri (approx. 8 km) Suta Valley extending from Sutasa Temple to Nocheon-ri are particularly famous.

About Gongjaksan

It is said that when a mountain resembles an animal, it possesses spiritual energy: Yeongchwisan, Sajasan, Seoraksan whose summit was once called Bongjeong... That is why Buddhist Master Jajang enshrined Buddha's genuine relics at the feet of these mountains. If such a mountain had been discovered after all relics had run out, one could not help but lament in awe. Gongjaksan is a prime example.

Tracing up Guneopcheon Stream, which serves as the catchment basin for eastern Hwachon-myeon on both sides of the Hongcheongang River, the summit unmistakably resembles the head of a bird, spreading both wings to the borders of Naesampo-ri and Eungbongsan. The ridgelines west of Angongjakjae Pass swirl around, waving a long tail toward the Hongcheongang River. At this sight, one can truly grasp the geomancer's wistful feeling of discovery.

Gongjaksan is better known for Sutasa Valley forming its southern boundary, where water flowing from open fields enters deep into the mountain to create a hidden wonderland. Gongjak Falls cascades 40 meters down a rock slab, and there is a historic temple where national treasures (Treasures Nos. 745 and 746, Worinseokbo) were discovered. How could it not be considered a celebrated mountain?

Gongjaksan straddles the border between Dong-myeon and Hwachon-myeon in Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do. Resembling a peacock spreading its wings, its rocky peaks and ancient pine trees harmonize to evoke a panoramic Oriental ink painting.

From Sutasa Temple, located about 6 km along the southwest ridge from the summit, the 8 km-long Suta Valley stretching toward Nocheon-ri boasts outstanding bedrock formations and stream scenery, making it a renowned summer getaway. The summit commands an open view of Hongcheon-gun, where scenic vistas and sheer cliffs create a magnificent spectacle.

Suta Valley, stretching about 8 km from Sutasa Temple to Nocheon-ri about 6 km below the southwest ridge, is unmatched with picturesque rock formations and scenic beauty. Looking out from the peak, all of Hongcheon-gun comes into view. In spring, royal azaleas bloom, in autumn, fall foliage blends with ancient pines and steep cliffs to captivate visitors, and snow-covered slopes in winter continue to enchant hikers.

Public transport

Hongcheon serves as the starting point.

Intercity buses run 52 times daily from Dong Seoul Terminal and 41 times from Sangbong Terminal.

To start at Guneop-ri, take the local bus bound for Eoron departing every hour. For Gulun-ri, take the Seongsan-bound bus (15 times daily), get off at Songjeong, and walk about 2 km.

Local buses run to Sutasa Temple and Sinbong-ri 3 times daily each. For the entrance to Gongjakgol, take the bus bound for Mulgol (3 times daily) and get off at Nocheon-samgeori Intersection.