Climbing the Steep Trails of Woraksan | Travel Course | K-Travel Mate

A 4.5-meter-tall pagoda from the Goryeo period built on the site of Binsinsa, designated as a treasure on January 21, 1963. The pagoda is in relatively good condition and features four roof stones on a two-tiered base. The lower base is inscribed, providing the creation history, while the upper base uniquely supports the pagoda body with four lions. A statue of Vairocana Buddha is enshrined in the space inside each of the four lions at the corners. The seated Vairocana Buddha wears a headpiece and has an intriguing expression. This pagoda is modeled after the National Treasure Hwaeomsa Sasaja Three-Story Stone Pagoda from the Unified Silla period, and several other pagodas are also preserved. The pagoda currently retains four roof stones; inscriptions on the lower base reveal it originally had nine stories. Built in the 13th year of King Hyeonjong of Goryeo (1022), this pagoda is crucial for dating other pagodas due to its clear chronological origin and details of structure, style, and carving techniques.

Woraksan is located in the middle of the Baekdudaegan mountain range connecting Sobaeksan to Songnisan. The terrain is rugged, with jagged cliffs soaring like fierce tigers, harmonizing with deep valleys, waterfalls, and pools to boast exceptionally beautiful scenery. Woraksan National Park was designated as the 17th national park on December 31, 1984. Administratively, it spans Jecheon-si, Chungju-si, Danyang-gun, and Mungyeong-si, with Chungju and Cheongpung lakes surrounding Woraksan to the north, Danyang Palgyeong and Sobaeksan National Park to the east, and Mungyeong Saejae and Songnisan National Park to the south, all featuring beautiful natural landscapes. The highest peak, Yeongbong, also known as Guksabong, has long been considered a sacred mountain. Centered on Woraksan are magnificent peaks such as Haseolsan, where snow remains even in summer, along with Munsubong and Mansubong. From the summit (Yeongbong), you can see pine trees that have endured the ages standing green year-round, with a clear, open sky to the north, south, east, and west, and the beautiful views of Chungju and Cheongpung lakes at a glance. In summer, the abundant streams cool visitors, while in winter, snow-covered mountains and valleys create a breathtaking scenery reminiscent of where hermits might have wandered. Notably, the area was once the border region between Goguryeo and Silla, and relics in Deokjugol hold poignant tales about Prince Ma-ui and Princess Deokju. Some hiking trails are restricted due to wildfire prevention and natural rest periods, so it is advised to contact the Woraksan National Park office for detailed information. Around Woraksan, cultural and scenic resources are abundant, including Chungju and Cheongpung lakes, Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park, prehistoric sites in Danyang Jeokseong, numerous caves formed in limestone areas, and the cultural heritage complex of Cheongpung.