Daegu Yangnyeongsi Herbal Medicine Market
대구약령시
A century-old Korean herbal medicine market dating back to 1658, with the aroma of herbs filling the streets. Visitors can tour the Korean medicine museum and try foot baths.
Yangnyeongsi originated in 1658, during the reign of King Hyojong of Joseon, when the Gyeongsang Provincial Governor organized a medicinal herb market held twice a year, in spring and autumn. It later grew into a national trading center for Korean medicinal herbs, rivaling Gyeongdong Market in Seoul. Today, about 700 meters of streets along Namseong-ro in central Daegu are still lined with hundreds of herb shops, Korean medicine clinics, and herbal cuisine restaurants. Ginseng, deer antler, goji berries, and angelica root are displayed at the storefronts, and the air carries a faint herbal scent. The Yangnyeongsi Korean Medicine Museum in the district (free or low-cost) uses physical objects and recreated scenes to explain the market's history and Korean medicine. Activities inside include herbal foot baths, Korean herbal tea, and sachet making. Gyesan Cathedral and the Modern History Street are nearby and can be explored on foot. Note: When buying expensive herbs, choose a reputable shop and ask for a receipt. Bringing herbs into the country requires following customs regulations. Getting there: about a 5 to 10-minute walk from Banwoldang Station on Subway Line 1 or Daegu Medical Center Station on Line 2.
Opening hours
Shops approx. 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; museums closed Mondays
Nearby sights
- Gyeongsang Gamyeong Park
- Dongseong-ro
- Modern History Street (Cheongna Hill)
- Gukchae-bosang Movement Memorial Park
- Seomun Market Night Market
- Dalseong Park
- Kim Gwang-seok Street
- 83 Tower