Cheonwangbong Peak
천왕봉
The main peak of Mount Jiri and the highest inland peak in South Korea at 1,915 m. Locals say its sunrise can only be seen by those whose family has accumulated merit for three generations.
Cheonwangbong is the main peak of Mount Jiri, and a stone marker on the summit is inscribed with the words 'Where the spirit of the Korean people originates'. The shortest route starts at Jungsan-ri in Sancheong County and passes Beopgye Temple. The one-way hike is about 5.4 km and takes 4 to 5 hours uphill, or 8 to 9 hours round trip, and is physically demanding. To see the sunrise, you need to stay the night before at the Jangteomok Shelter near the summit (reservations must be made on the national park website), or set out in the middle of the night. A traverse from Nogodan to Cheonwangbong is about 25 km and generally takes two days. Check mountain entry-control times before hiking, and bring crampons and warm gear in winter. The peak is about 50 km by car from Namwon.
Opening hours
Open all day (hiking-in times restricted by season)
Nearby sights
- Samseonggung Shrine
- Silsangsa Temple
- Ssanggyesa Temple
- Baemsagol Valley
- Piagol Valley
- Baraebong Peak
- Hwagae Market & Cherry Blossom Road
- Choi Champan House