Yeongcheon

Yeongcheon is in North Gyeongsang. Between Seoul and Busan on the Gyeongbu Expressway, the city is the birthplace of Choe Mu-seon and Jeong Mong-ju.

Yeongcheon is a city located in the southeastern part of Gyeongsangbuk-do. It is adjacent to major cities in Gyeongsangbuk-do, such as Daegu, Cheongsong, and Cheongdo, and is situated in a basin surrounded by various mountains, including Mount Bohyeon, Mount Palgong, and Mount Unju. Furthermore, as it is located along the upper reaches of the Geumho River, both urban and rural areas have developed side by side.

Yeongcheon is the hometown of General Choi Mu-seon, who was the first to manufacture gunpowder in Korea during the late Goryeo period. Because of the science museum dedicated to his achievements, Yeongcheon is also regarded as a patriotic travel destination in Korea. Also, Yeongcheon was not originally called Yeongcheon. In 1413 during the Joseon Dynasty, Yeongju-gun was renamed Yeongcheon-gun, and it has been known by that name ever since.

Yeongcheon has a climate similar to that of typical Korea. However, due to its basin-like geography surrounded by mountains, the area experiences higher temperatures and more humidity in summer, while winters are characterized by strong, cold winds and dryness compared to other regions. Since rainfall is concentrated in summer, it is advisable to pay attention to the possibility of rain in July and August.

Yeongcheon has distinct four seasons and relatively low rainfall compared to other regions, making it a great place to travel in all seasons. Spring is great for traveling because the weather is mild and sunny. I especially recommend enjoying the cherry blossoms that begin to bloom from late March to early April. In summer, be careful of the heat as it can be very hot during the daytime. Many people enjoy starlight festivals or stargazing at night to see the clear skies. Clear and cool weather continues into autumn, making it ideal for leaf-peeping trips or outdoor activities. However, since the temperature difference between day and night is large, it is recommended to bring a light jacket. Because of the inland location, cold winds blow in winter and temperatures can drop below freezing, so it is advisable to wear warm clothing when traveling.

The name 'Yeongcheon' means 'river(cheon) that flows forever(yeong).' This is because many rivers around Yeongcheon flow into the Geumho River, one of North Gyeongsang's major rivers.

• Yeongcheon Tourism, ☏ +82 54-330-6585.  
• Korea Travel Hotline, ☏ 1330 (within the country), +82 2-1330 (from abroad). Multilingual travel information and interpretation services. 

The closest major airport is 35.8942128.65891 Daegu International Airport (TAE ^IATA), about 42 km southwest of Yeongcheon.

• 35.9595128.9392 Yeongcheon station. Yeongcheon's railway station is on the Jungang and Daegu Lines.  

From Seoul, drive along the Gyeongbu Expressway for around 350 km. Yeongcheon is accessible via the Gyeongbu Expressway, the Daegu–Pohang Expressway, and the Sangju–Yeongcheon Expressway. From Seoul, take the Gyeongbu Expressway to Yeongcheon IC; the drive takes about 4 hours. From Busan, the drive via the Gyeongbu Expressway takes about 1½ hours.

Yeongcheon Bus Terminal has intercity and express bus connections from Daegu, Pohang, Cheongsong, Busan, Gumi, and Seoul. Travel time is about 45 min from Daegu, 1 hr from Pohang, 1 hr 20 min from Busan, 1 hr 30 min from Gumi, and 3 hr 30 min from Seoul.

There are many buses that circulate throughout Yeongcheon; there are also numerous buses that travel to and from neighboring areas. Bus intervals vary from about 10 minutes to once a day. Adult fare is ₩1,700 when paying in cash and ₩1,500 when using a transit card, also on buses operating outside the city. By visiting the city bus website, you can find information on Yeongcheon’s city buses, including route details, schedules, bus stops, and real-time bus locations.

Taxis are a convenient way to get around downtown Yeongcheon. You can either hail a taxi directly on the street or book one using an app like KakaoT. The base fare is ₩4,500 for the first 1.7km, with an additional ₩100 charged for every 128m traveled. A 20% surcharge applies during late-night hours.

Yeongcheon operates a sightseeing taxi service. Using this service allows you to visit the various attractions on a tour. To use the sightseeing taxi service, you must make a reservation at least five days in advance. Fares are divided into three tiers: 3 hours (₩60,000), 6 hours (₩120,000), and 10 hours per day (₩150,000). Each taxi can accommodate up to four passengers, and you can board the taxi at any location within Yeongcheon that you specify. Reservations can be made on the website.

• 35.9809129.11011 Yeongcheon National Cemetery (국립영천호국원), 1720, Hoguk-ro, Gogyeong-myeon. Everyday 09:00 - 18:00. As Korea’s first national memorial park, it was established to honor the sacrifices and contributions of national veterans and to foster a spirit of patriotism. In addition to the Memorial Tower, this place features outdoor exhibits and a relaxation area, attracting many visitors.  (updated Sep 2020)
• 36.1437128.96482 Bohyeonsan Dam Zip Wire (보현산댐 짚 와이어), 196, Baenamujeong-gil, Hwabuk-myeon, ☏ +82 54 330 2755. 09:30 ~ 11:30 / 13:00 ~ 17:00, Closed every Monday. The Yeongcheon City Bohyeonsan Dam Zip Wire is a sport where you walk across the dam from a starting point on the mountain overlooking the dam to the destination, hanging onto a single wire and moving as if dropping. Ride the 1,411-meter distance in about 90 seconds and experience speeds up to 100 km/h. A mountain monorail takes you from the ticket office to the start of the zipline, and a shuttle bus runs from the destination to the ticket office. ₩15,000 for weekday, ₩28,000 for weekend.  (updated Sep 2020)
• 35.9732128.93853 Hwarang Seolhwa Village (화랑설화마을), 426-5 Geoyeo-ro, Geumho-eup, ☏ +82 54-331-5613. 10:00-18:00. A Hwarang-themed cultural park featuring interactive exhibits, VR experiences, a 4D dome theater, traditional Korean archery, and outdoor attractions inspired by Silla-era Hwarang legends.  (updated Sep 2026)

• 35.9921128.794 Eunhaesa Temple (은해사), 479 Chiil-ri, Cheongtong-myeon (catch a bus from Yeongcheon bus station), ☏ +82 54-335-3318. Literally meaning "Temple of the Silver Sea", the interior is as beautiful as its name. Eunhaesa was built in 809 during the reign of the Silla Kingdom. ₩3,000 entrance fee.  (updated Sep 2018)
• 36.0397128.7185 Sudosa Temple (수도사), 404, Chisangwanggwang-gil, Sinnyeong-myeon. The monk’s temple is located near Chisan Valley on the slopes of Palgongsan Mountain and houses the Nodasanbul Gwaebultang, Treasure No. 1271.  (updated Oct 2026)

• 35.933129.03146 Dolhalmae Wishing Stone (돌할매) (484, Dolhalmae-ro, Bugan-myeon). Everyday 07:00 ~ 22:00. Dolhalmae is a famous site made of mysterious granite with a history of about 350 years, where people make a single wish and fortune-telling. They lift an oval granite stone, about 25 cm in diameter and weighing around 10 kg, to make a wish. Here, there is a method for making wishes: first, empty your mind and lift the stone to feel its weight. After that, say your name, date of birth, and address, and make a wish. If the stone feels heavy or does not move when lifted again, it is interpreted as a sign that the wish will come true. Conversely, if the stone feels light or is lifted abruptly, it is interpreted as meaning that the wish has not come true or that more effort is needed. free.  (updated Oct 2026)
• 36.0169128.97337 Imgoseowon Confucian Academy (임고서원), 447, Poeun-ro, Imgo-myeon. Open year-round at all times. Imgo Seowon is a Confucian academy built to commemorate Jeong Mong-ju, one of Korea’s most prominent historical figures. "Seowon" was one of the educational institutions established during the Joseon Dynasty to teach Confucian values. Designated as Gyeongsangbuk-do Monument No. 62 on October 15, 1985, this site is well preserved as a former educational institution from the Joseon Dynasty. Since it is open year-round, you can visit anytime during your trip. for free.  (updated Oct 2026)
• 35.98402128.955558 Uroji Ecological Park (우로지생태공원), 91-12, Eonhaegongdan-ro. Open year-round. A lakeside ecological park with walking paths and scenic views, suitable for a relaxing stroll and enjoying the surrounding natural landscape. free.  (updated Sep 2026)

• 36.0323128.88939 Cian Art Museum (시안미술관), 경북 영천시 화산면 가래실로 364 (364 Garaesil-ro, Hwasan-myeon), ☏ +82 54-338-9391. 10:30~17:30, closed every Monday. Cian Art Museum was established by renovating Hwadong Elementary School, which closed in 1999. The school, with its European-style architecture and garden, has now become a venue for exhibiting contemporary Korean art. Works by Korean artists are exhibited here according to different periods, and various hands-on programs are also offered. ₩4000 for adult, ₩3000 for student.  (updated Sep 2020)
• 36.1402128.996410 Bohyunsan Astronomical Science Museum (보현산 천문과학관), 681-32 Byeolbit-ro, Hwabuk-myeon, ☏ +82 54-330-6447. Programs start every hour from 14:00 to 22:00. Bohyeonsan is the mountain in Korea where the stars are most clearly visible. The Bohyeonsan Astronomy Science Museum is an observatory located at the summit of Bohyeonsan with these characteristics. The Bohyeonsan Astronomy Science Museum is a research facility equipped with advanced astronomical observation equipment such as optical telescopes, and it offers a variety of hands-on experiences and exhibitions related to astronomy. ₩4,000 for adult, ₩2,000 for student.  (updated Sep 2020)
• 35.96769128.9244311 Yeongcheon Folk Museum (영천민속관), 54 Undongjang-ro, ☏ +82 54-330-6515. 10:00-17:00, Closed every Monday. The Yeongcheon Folk Museum exhibits and preserves a variety of folk materials, including ancient artifacts used in the Yeongcheon region. In addition to viewing artifacts, a variety of hands-on programs are available. Group visits can be arranged by making a prior inquiry through the website. free.  (updated Sep 2026)
• 36.01859128.9299712 Yeongcheon History Museum (영천역사박물관), 2F, 9 Seonchang-gil, ☏ +82 54-337-7990. 10:00-17:30, Closed every Monday. The Yeongcheon History Museum is the first private museum in Korea to specialize in local history. This place hosts exhibitions related to the humanities of Yeongcheon and the cultural heritage associated with them. With a collection of approximately 40,000 items, it is a great place to explore Yeongcheon’s past and future. free.  (updated Sep 2026)

36.0953128.583513 Yeongcheon Bohyeon Mountain Starlight Festival (영천보현산별빛축제), 681-32, Byeolbit-ro, Hwabuk-myeon (Bohyeon Mountain Astronomy Science Museum located within Bohyeon Mountain), ☏ +82 70 4232 1865. The Yeongcheon Bohyeonsan Starlight Festival will feature the opening of the Astronomy Center, astronomy lectures, and various hands-on programs. Using telescopes installed in the experience center, visitors can observe the sun during the day and various celestial bodies at night. In addition, the Bohyeonsan Observatory will be open only during the festival, allowing visitors to conduct astronomical observations using various equipment installed inside.  (updated Oct 2026)

• 36.0351128.996731 Unjusan Horse Riding Recreation Forest (운주산 승마자연휴양림), 105, Seungmahyuyangnim-gil, Imgo-myeon, ☏ +82 54-330-2770. Unjusan Equestrian Natural Recreation Forest is Korea’s first forest recreation forest where visitors can enjoy both forest bathing and horseback riding. A natural recreation forest spans a large area of pine woods, and both an indoor and outdoor riding arena are available nearby, allowing visitors to enjoy horseback riding according to their preferences.  (updated Sep 2020)
• 36.016964128.973362 Imgoseowon Confucian Academy, 447 Poeun-ro, Imgo-myeon.  (updated Sep 2020)
• Cheonsunurim-gil Trail.  (updated Sep 2020)
• Chisan Tourist Site Trail Entrance.  (updated Sep 2020)
• 35.94882128.868073 Let's Run Park Yeongcheon, 1 Gyeongmagongwon-ro, Geumho-eup, ☏ +82 1566-3333. 09:30-18:00. Multi-purpose cultural space suited for families. Leisure activities and sports. Special horse races held every Sunday.  (updated Sep 2026)
• 36.14101128.978624 Yeongcheon Wood Culture Experience Center, 334 Baenamujeong-gil, Hwabuk-myeon (within the Bohyeonsan Natural Recreation Forest), ☏ +82 054-336-6617. 10:00-18:00. Forest culture experience space about forest ecology, education, and culture, for people of all ages, including toddlers and young children, who can create craft. Wide variety of programs; also just having a simple forest retreat is possible.  (updated Sep 2026)

• 35.9642128.93851 Yeongcheon Public Market, Wansan-dong, 80 Sinseongil-ro, Daechang-myeon, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (10 minute walk from Seodaemun Prison), ☏ +82 54-331-1772, 01000mk@naver.com. 09:00 ~ 17:00. A traditional Korean-style market selling fresh food, medicinal herbs, groceries as well as local arts and crafts. It is primarily for the locals so it is a challenge for English speakers to get by. Try the twisted bread sticks and gomtang soup.  (updated Sep 2026)
• 35.9584128.90992 E-mart Yeongcheon, 83 Choemuseon-ro, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (5 minute walk from Yeongnam University Yeongcheon Hospital, in the outskirts of the city), ☏ +82 54-330-1234. 10:00~22:00. E-Mart Yeongcheon is a large supermarket. Also household goods and home appliances.  (updated Sep 2026)
• 35.97128.943 Star Grocery Mart, 31 Dongbu-ro, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride from Yeongcheon City Hall.), ☏ +82 54-336-3388. 07:00~22:00. Bulk food items and fresh produce, meat, and seafood.  (updated Sep 2026)
• 35.96128.934 Yeongcheon Uri Whole Foods Mart, 64-34 Wansan-ro, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (10 minutes walk from Yeongcheon Public Market), ☏ +82 54 335 5454. 08:00~23:00. Supermarket that stays open late. It has a well-stocked selection of meat, seafood, and produce.  (updated Sep 2026)
• 35.96128.945 Gwangjang Grocery Mart, 30 Yakjeon-gil, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (5 minutes walk from Yeongcheon Public Market), ☏ +82 54-706-7775. 08:00 ~ 23:00. Specialty grocery store.  (updated Sep 2026)

• 35.96128.921 Pyeondaejang Yeonghwa Sikdang, 남부-dong, 50-15 Gangbyeon-ro, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (right next to the entrance to the Yeongcheon Intercity Bus Terminal), ☏ +82 54 334 2655. Everyday, 10:00AM-8:30PM. Known for its light and refreshing Hanwoo beef yukhoe, tossed with fresh water dropwort, green onions, and sesame oil. The signature dishes are the yukhoe—made with thinly sliced, tender round steak that brings out the meat’s natural umami—and the yukhoe bibimbap. ₩10,000-₩30,000.  (updated Sep 2026)
• 35.9629128.92432 Hwapyung Daegun, 212 Choemuseon-ro, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (5 minutes taxi ride from the Yeongcheon Intercity Bus Terminal), ☏ +82 54-334-2514. Everyday 10AM-10PM. Hwapyung Daegun is a restaurant specializing in beef. Their Hanwoo yukhoe, yukhoe bibimbap, and soju mulgogi are popular. When you order a meat dish, you get a free serving of doenjang jjigae. ₩10,000~₩20,000.  (updated Sep 2026)
• 35.9642128.93853 Pohang Halmae Jip, 52 Sijang 4-gil, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (in the Gomtang Alley inside the Yeongcheon Public Market), ☏ +82 54-331-1772. Everyday 7AM-9PM. Beef soup restaurant that has been passed down through three generations since 1950. Famous for its beef head gomtang, made with beef head broth simmered for hours in a large cast-iron pot and generously loaded with beef head meat. ₩10,000~₩20,000.  (updated Sep 2026)

• 35.9863128.94821 Dew it, 1st-2nd floors, 91-14 Eonga-gongdan-ro, ☏ +82 010-2327-4106. 09:30-22:00. Dewit is a popular café in Yeongcheon City, with spacious interior. Group seating and sofa seating available. Menu items include the butternut squash and ricotta cheese sandwich, vanilla bean latte, and grapefruit ade. Parking is available in the lot in front of the store or at the Uroji Ecological Park public parking lot.  (updated Sep 2026)
• 35.9723128.95672 Lake 410, 2F, 91-12 Eonhagongdan-ro, ☏ +82 054-337-7997. 11:00-22:00. Lake 410 is a spacious café with views of Uroji Lake in Yeongcheon. Try yje Teddy Cheese Cake and Chocolate Cake. Americano and cake set menu  (updated Sep 2026)
• 35.9818128.95663 letter coffee, 64-2 Mangjeong 3-gil. 11:00-22:00. Specialty filter coffee shop Wide variety of coffee drinks, including decaf and oat lattes. Also desserts. Spacious interior. Dogs welcome.  (updated Sep 2026)

• 36.0351128.99671 The Unju Mountain Equestrian Nature Recreation Forest (운주산 승마자연휴양림), 105 Seungmahyuyangnim-gil, Imgo-myeon, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (inside the Unju Mountain Equestrian Center), ☏ +82 54 330 6287. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. The Unju Mountain Equestrian Nature Recreation Forest is a public recreation forest resort nestled in a lush pine forest rich in phytoncides, with possibilities of forest bathing and horseback riding. A variety of accommodations, including detached log cabins and the Forest Culture and Recreation Center itself. Walking trails through the forest. Reservations can be made on the resort’s website. 6-person room: 80,000 won, 9-person room: 110,000 won, 10-person room: 120,000 won, 14-person room: 160,000 won.  (updated Sep 2026)
• 36.065128.872 Gwiae Historic House (귀애고택), 37-17 Gwiho 1-gil, Hwanam-myeon, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Next to Gwaejeong in Yeongcheon), ☏ +82 10 5556 8043, orangestyle@naver.com. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. A National Registered Folk Cultural Heritage hanok stay by a late Joseon-era folk village. Traditional Korean ondol-heated floor. Gwi-aejeong (Private Villa), 8 guests, 420,000 won per night.  (updated Sep 2026)
• 35.9775128.92183 Dongui Chamnuriwon (동의참누리원(영천 한의마을)), 485 Cheonmun-ro, Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (within the Yeongcheon Korean Medicine Village), ☏ +82 54 330 2750. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 11AM. Dongui Chamnuriwon (Yeongcheon Korean Medicine Village) operates lodging with modern amenities, in addition to a Korean medicine-themed space. The exterior retains the traditional hanok style, but the interiors are modern. 100,000 on weekdays and 150,000 on weekends, based on a 6-person room.  (updated Sep 2026)

PC bangs (internet cafés) can be found in commercial areas of Yeongcheon. They offer high-speed internet access and computer use at relatively low hourly rates.

• Daegu
• Head east to get to the coastal and industrial city of Pohang