Pohang Naeyeonsan Bogyeongsa Temple, Walking Through the Verdant Valley Whispered by Twelve Waterfalls
2026-08-14
A Cool Breeze with Every Step, Entering the Embrace of Naeyeonsan Mountain(Naeyeonsan)
The road leading to Naeyeonsan Mountain(Naeyeonsan) in Jungsan-ri, Songra-myeon, Buk-gu, Pohang(Pohang) was filled with the fresh scent of trees from the very beginning. The moment I stepped out of the car, the air felt completely different from the city. As its nickname 'Geumgangsan Mountain of Gyeongbuk' suggests, the 710m-high Naeyeonsan Mountain(Naeyeonsan) exudes a grand energy the moment you enter. Leaving behind the historical traces of Queen Jinseong of Silla, who sought refuge here, I began my walk along the Cheonghagol Valley(Cheonghagol) path.
Walking along the valley was healing in itself. The sound of trickling water lingered in my ears, and the sunlight filtering through the trees pleasantly cooled the sweat on my back. The 12 waterfalls, the pride of Naeyeonsan Mountain(Naeyeonsan), greet travelers with different charms throughout the walk.
Pouring Streams, the Secret Scenery of Gwaneum and Yeonsan
After climbing for a while along the path, the 6th waterfall, Gwaneumpokpo Falls(Gwaneumpokpo), finally revealed itself. The scenery, surrounded by steep cliffs like fortress walls, is more than just overwhelming. The mysterious coolness felt only by those who enter the large Gwaneumgul Cave(Gwaneumgul) next to the waterfall and the refreshing feeling of the mist touching my cheeks will be a long-lasting memory. The magnificence of the 7th waterfall, Yeonsanpokpo Falls(Yeonsanpokpo), which I met after crossing the suspension bridge hanging just above, was truly spectacular. I couldn't help but let out a long gasp before the spectacle created by the water pouring down unstoppably from 30m high, harmonizing with the Hakso-dae(Hakso-dae) cliffs. Just looking blankly at the water stream felt like my complicated mind was slowly being washed away.
Tips for Enjoying the Serenity of Bogyeongsa Temple(Bogyeongsa) and Naeyeonsan Mountain(Naeyeonsan)
The beginning and end of exploring Naeyeonsan Mountain(Naeyeonsan) are always at Bogyeongsa Temple(Bogyeongsa). Built after Master Iljo brought the Eight-Faced Mirror from India during the reign of King Jinpyeong of Silla, this temple holds a static beauty different from the dynamism of the valley. I took a moment to catch my breath while gazing at the Wonjinguksa Monument(Wonjinguksa-bi) and the stupa, which are treasures within the temple grounds.
Personally, I recommend the approximately 7.5km course that starts at Bogyeongsa Temple(Bogyeongsa), passes through Bohyeonam Hermitage(Bohyeonam), goes by the Sogeumgang Observatory(Sogeumgang), and returns via the Eunpokpo Falls(Eunpokpo) three-way intersection, Seonildae Cliff(Seonildae), and Yeonsanpokpo Falls(Yeonsanpokpo). You can fully enjoy the essence of Naeyeonsan Mountain(Naeyeonsan) in about 3 hours comfortably. As there are steep sections, comfortable hiking boots are a must. Since it is a path following the valley water, it is cool even in summer, but I really want to visit again in autumn when the mountains are covered in colorful fall foliage. Rather than early dawn, visit after 10 AM when the sunlight enters the valley sufficiently to encounter even more beautiful scenery.
FAQ
- How can I park when visiting Naeyeonsan Bogyeongsa Provincial Park(Naeyeonsan Bogyeongsa Provincial Park)?
- There is a large public parking lot at the entrance of Bogyeongsa Temple(Bogyeongsa), making it convenient to use. A well-maintained walking path leads from the parking lot to the temple entrance.
- Can hiking beginners see all 12 waterfalls?
- The path from Bogyeongsa Temple(Bogyeongsa) to Yeonsanpokpo Falls(Yeonsanpokpo) is relatively gentle, so you can certainly make the trip. However, as the terrain can become rugged deeper into the waterfall area, we recommend adjusting the course according to your physical stamina.
- When is the best time to visit?
- In summer, you can feel the coolness of the valley with your whole body, and in autumn, the entire Naeyeonsan Mountain(Naeyeonsan) turns into a magnificent view with fall foliage. While it is great in all four seasons, we recommend May-June or September-October if you want a pleasant hike.