Yongmunsan 1,157m

Why it is one of the 100 famous mountains

Celebrated historically as the Geumgangsan of Gyeonggi, it features striking rock formations and towering ridges. It holds high historical and cultural value, home to Yongmunsa Temple, founded during Queen Seondeok's reign in the Silla Dynasty, and an ancient ginkgo tree (Natural Monument No. 30) reaching 62 m in height and 14 m in circumference. As the fourth-tallest mountain in Gyeonggi-do, it was originally called Mijisan until King Taejo of Joseon ascended the throne and renamed it Yongmunsan.

About Yongmunsan

Yongmunsan is a prominent mountain seen when traveling from the Seoul metropolitan area toward Seoraksan. Along National Route 44, there are higher peaks, but because the road winds through valleys, their full scale is often hidden. In contrast, Yongmunsan stands like a folding screen at the northern end of Yongmun-myeon, clearly displaying its majestic presence.

The main peak itself has a rounded, massive, and solemn shape. On the other hand, Baegunbong Peak on the southern ridge rises sharply like a triangular cone, leaving a lasting impression. In the early morning hours of autumn or winter, its view above the rising water mist is remarkably serene.

While the southern face is steep and rocky, the northern slope forms a gentle, soil-rich terrain covered in wild blossoms. In early spring, dogtooth violets bloom, followed by yellow woodland poppies in May, creating quiet flower fields that make up for the summit being restricted due to government facilities.

In autumn, the ancient ginkgo tree at Yongmunsa Temple is a major highlight—a genuinely ancient tree standing the test of time.

Yongmunsan is the fourth-highest mountain in Gyeonggi-do, featuring both steep crags and soaring ridges. Originally called Mijisan, legend says it was renamed Yongmunsan after King Taejo founded the Joseon Dynasty.

Because the summit is restricted, hikers take detours around it. In front of Yongmunsa Temple, founded during the reign of Queen Seondeok of Silla, stands a 62-meter-tall ginkgo tree with a circumference of 14 meters (Natural Monument No. 30).

Public transport

Buses for Yongmunsa Temple run twice daily from East Seoul Bus Terminal and Sangbong Bus Terminal.

For the Gail-ri direction, take the bus toward Yumyeonsan (runs 8 times daily from Sangbong Bus Terminal).