Petroglyphs along the Bangucheon Stream
반구천의 암각화
A prehistoric rock art complex inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 2025. The Bangudae rock wall bears carvings of whales and whaling scenes, among the earliest whaling images known to humanity.
The Bangucheon Stream petroglyphs include the Bangudae petroglyphs in Daegok-ri and the Cheonjeon-ri carvings about 2 km away. Both were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2025. The Bangudae rock wall has about 300 images. The most famous depict whales, deer, tigers and whaling scenes. The rock art lies across the stream, so it can only be viewed from a distance. Bring binoculars, or first visit the free Ulsan Petroglyph Museum at the entrance, which has replicas and explanations. The Cheonjeon-ri carvings include inscriptions from the Silla period. The site is in the mountains of Ulju County, about 30 km from the city centre, so driving or taking a taxi is recommended.
Opening hours
All day (museum 09:00–18:00; closed Mondays)
Nearby sights
- Taehwagang National Garden & Simnidaebat
- Ulsan Grand Park
- Yeongnam Alps & Ganwoljae Silver Grass
- Seoknamsa Temple
- Oegosan Onggi Village
- Jangsaengpo Whale Culture Village
- Ulsan Bridge Observatory
- Jujeon Mongdol Beach