Sobaeksan Optical Astronomy Observatory (소백산천문대) - Area information - Korea travel information

Sobaeksan Optical Astronomy Observatory (소백산천문대)

Sobaeksan Optical Astronomy Observatory (소백산천문대)

14.4Km    2024-02-28

639, Sobaeksan-gil, Danyang-eup, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do

Located within the Sobaeksan National Park, the Sobaeksan Optical Astronomy Observatory (SOAO) was the first astronomy observatory in Korea to install a modern telescope. SOAO is in a great location to observe the stars because it is located on the highest point of southern Korea and far away from the light pollution of cities. To enter the observatory as a private visitor, one must climb the mountain from Jungnyeong Pass or Huibangsa Temple. 

Sobaeksan National Park Nature Center (소백산생태탐방원)

Sobaeksan National Park Nature Center (소백산생태탐방원)

14.4Km    2024-12-10

253 Yeongdan-ro, Dansan-myeon, Yeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Located inside Sobaeksan National Park, the Sobaeksan National Park Nature Center specializes in ecological experiences and environmental education. The center operates various programs by leveraging the superb ecological system of the Sobaeksan Mountain area. Programs include Sobaeksan Mountain climbing and ginseng experiences for physical health; forest meditation for mental health; and wellness programs with a focus on visiting world heritage sites related to Buddhist culture, for social well-being. Other programs include seasonal ecotourism programs (short-term programs); environmental education for future generations; and cooking classes using local specialties to lead the way for ecological well-being. Additionally, the center has an auditorium & classrooms(for education, training or conferences), and a cafeteria. Individuals and group visitors can use the facilities. Nearby tourist destinations include the Red Fox Eco Park, where visitors can observe first-class endangered wild animals; and historical and cultural sites, such as Buseoksa Temple and Sosuseowon Confucian Academy, which were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Seongmun - Stone Gate (석문)

Seongmun - Stone Gate (석문)

14.7Km    2020-06-13

644-33, Sambong-ro, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do
+82-43-422-1146

Two hundred meters upstream from Dodamsambong Peaks is a large rainbow-shaped stone gate on the left side of the river. This oddly-shaped stone arch is called Seongmun, which means Stone Gate. Due to its fascinating scenery, Seongmunm is the second of Danyang’s Eight Scenic Beauties. To the left of the Stone Gate is a small cave. Inside the cave is Okdap (Stone Field), which is believed to have been cultivated by an old enchantress. The legend of Okdap says that an old enchantress who lived in heaven once came to the earth to get water and then dropped her binyeo (traditional Korean hairpin) near Seongmun. As she searched for her binyeo, she was extremely impressed by the beautiful views. Mesmerized, she left heaven and lived near Seongmun as an ordinary peasant, growing crops and expanding farmlands.

Dodamsambong Peaks (도담삼봉)

Dodamsambong Peaks (도담삼봉)

14.7Km    2024-03-15

644 Sambong-ro, Maepo-eup, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do
+82-42-422-3037

The Dodamsambong Peaks consist of three distinctive stone pillars - Janggunbong, Cheobong, and Cheopbong Peaks - that rise majestically from the Namhangang River. Janggunbong, the tallest of the trio, hosts the historic Samdojeong Pavilion, a famed gathering place for the region's literati. Adjacent to these natural wonders, the Dodamsambong Tourist Area offers amenities and attractions such as the Sambong Story Hall, the Hwangpo Sailboat, a cruise ship quay, and a rest area, enhancing the visitor experience.

Sono Moon Danyang Ocean Play (소노문 단양 오션플레이)

Sono Moon Danyang Ocean Play (소노문 단양 오션플레이)

14.7Km    2025-03-15

187-17, Sambong-ro, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do
+82-1588-4888

Sono Moon Danyang Ocean Play is an indoor water park supplying clean heated water. With numerous hot springs and amusement facilities that are open year round, it is the perfect vacation spot for families, couples and friends. The water park has the biggest bade pool in Korea as well as pools including couple bath, cave bath, event bath and more. The health pool with carbonated water will help guests relax from the hustle and bustle of the city life.

Sono Moon Danyang (소노문 단양(구 대명리조트 단양))

Sono Moon Danyang (소노문 단양(구 대명리조트 단양))

14.7Km    2021-07-02

187-17, Sambong-ro, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do
+82-1588-4888

Sono Moon Danyang is located in the central region of Korea where various famous landmarks like Eight Scenic Spots of Danyang, Chungjuho Lake, Sobaeksan Moutain, Gosudonggul Cave, and Guinsa Temple are situated. The resort is thought to be a base camp for resting, leisure and sports. The resort also features a 8-meter-high grand aquarium, housing 22,000 freshwater fish from 187 different species in Danuri Aquarium, is the largest freshwater fish ecological hall in Korea. Aqua World is a special facility of Danyang Resort available all year round for health and resting. Natural carbonated water from 750 meters underground is used for varied baths. The bade pool is largest of its kind in Korea and gives a fun experience of a health pool with carbonated water.

Dodamsambong Motorboat (도담삼봉 모터보트)

Dodamsambong Motorboat (도담삼봉 모터보트)

14.9Km    2024-11-14

644-13 Sambong-ro, Maepo-eup, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do

Dodamsambong Peaks refer to a trio of rocks that jut as islands in the upper Namhangang River. The trio is often considered one of the most beautiful tourist sites in Danyang. Indeed, many prominent characters from Korean history have sung its praise. Because it is located in the middle of the river, it can be seen from a distance, but a motorboat service allows visitors to get closer to the peaks. The ride takes about 10 minutes.

◎ Travel information to meet Hallyu’s charm

Dodamsambong Peaks have been featured in both “2 Days & 1 Night” and “IDOL 1N2D.” The scenery is so breathtaking that the peaks are considered one of Danyang’s Eight Scenic Views. For a leisurely experience, take a cruise boat like the “2 Days & 1 Night” cast, or, for a bit more excitement, hop on a motorboat as ENHYPEN did in “IDOL 1N2D.”

Donggang River Rafting (Yeongwol) (동강 래프팅 (영월))

Donggang River Rafting (Yeongwol) (동강 래프팅 (영월))

14.9Km    2017-06-29

100, Jebangan-gil, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon-do
+82-33-370-2946

Yeongwol’s Donggang River is one of the top three rafting places in Korea, the other top three being Hantangang River and Naerincheon Stream. Each river has distinguished characteristics, so it is recommended to search for information like nearby attractions based on travel. Donggang River features breathtaking scenery comparable to Guilin in China.

The area called Donggang River includes Seogang River (Pyeongchanggang River), where Joyanggang River meets Dongnamcheon Stream and Yeongwol-gun. The river is a typical meandering stream with a limestone riverbed.

Byeolmaro Observatory (별마로천문대)

15.1Km    2021-09-25

397, Cheonmundae-gil, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon-do
+82-33-372-8445

Byeolmaro is a public astronomical observatory built on the peak of Bongnaesan Mountain (alt. 799.8 m) in Yeongwol. The term ‘Byeolmaro’ combines the words byeol (star), ma (peak) and ro (peaceful). Together, they collectively represent the wish to view stars in a clean and peaceful environment. The observatory has a variety of telescopes, including one with a diameter of 80 centimeters. The observatory also has accommodation facilities, audio & visual rooms, and a lecture hall, making it suitable for educational programs.

Jangneung Boribapjip (장릉보리밥집)

15.2Km    2024-02-16

178-10 Danjong-ro, Yeongwol-eup, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon-do
033-374-3986

Jangneung Boribapjip is known for its boribap (steamed barley rice). Here, boribap is served in the style of bibimbap, accompanied by potatoes, a variety of vegetables, and a red chili paste seasoning. The inclusion of potatoes in the boribap preparation enriches its flavor. Additionally, the mukchae (chilled acorn jelly soup) offered by the restaurant is distinctive for its unique taste, achieved with perilla oil and seasoning. The restaurant also sells a range of wild and medicinal vegetables, freshly harvested from the surrounding areas.