A trace of time captured, Goun Choe Chiwon’s secret carved on Cheongnyongdaegak Seok
At the entrance to ancient Gaya, where seawater once flowed in and out, a small rock, now turned into land, stands peacefully. The weighty inscription carved on it, 『Cheongnyongdae Chiwonseo』, eloquently shows a thousand years touched by the hand of Go-un Choe Chiwon, the great scholar of the late Silla period. Cheongnyongdaegakseok is not merely letters carved on a stone, but a witness to history that speaks to us.
For what reason did he cast his fishing rod here, and why did he want to carve his name on the rock to pass it down to future generations? This deep trace left by the greatest intellectual of his time, beyond a mere relic, leads us to a place where the anguish and elegance of an era are intertwined Space. Shall we journey together into that mysterious story?
The Rock Where Silla’s Intellectual Resided: Choe Chiwon’s Footprints in Cheongnyongdaegakseok
Under the road of Gajudong, which borders Busan, a small granite rock sits peacefully. This rock, measuring 2.4m x 1.4m, may seem ordinary at first glance, but the 60cm x 35cm inscription carved on its southeastern part indicates that it holds a great history. It is none other than Cheongnyongdaegakseok, where the legend is told that Go-un Choe Chiwon, the great scholar of the late Silla period, enjoyed fishing and recited poetry.
In particular, the fact that the intaglio inscription 『Cheongnyongdae Chiwonseo』 is presumed to be Choe Chiwon’s autograph further enhances the historical value of this rock. It is said that at that time, seawater flowed in and out up to this rock, and just imagining him gazing at the open sea, forgetting his worries and befriending nature, fills one with emotion. Although it has now become land, this rock, preserving the memory of the sea, still holds Choe Chiwon’s essence.
A Message Passed Down Through a Thousand Years
- The Elegance of a Scholar You can glimpse a facet of Choe Chiwon’s life, who, after retiring from office, wandered the country and disciplined his mind and body in nature.
- Witness to History It is not merely a relic, but a place imbued with the anguish and contemplation of an intellectual who lived through the tumultuous late Silla period, making it profoundly significant.
- Geological Change It also holds value as a geological record, showing topographical changes where a former sea has turned into land.
The Path to History: Finding Cheongnyongdaegakseok
Cheongnyongdaegakseok, imbued with the breath of history, is located near 150-137 Gayajinsa-gil, Wondong-myeon, Yangsan, Gyeongnam, adjacent to Busan. It is more convenient to use a private car than public transportation, and the beautiful scenery along the way is an unmissable pleasure.
Steps Towards Cheongnyongdaegakseok
- By Car You can easily find it by searching for ‘Cheongnyongdaegakseok’ or ‘Gayajinsa’ on your navigation system. Parking spaces are available nearby.
- By Public Transport You must take a taxi from Wondong Station or take a Yangsan city bus (Wondong direction), alight, and then walk. Checking the bus route is essential.
Please refer to the map below for the exact location.
Yangsan Historical and Cultural Course with Cheongnyongdaegakseok
After visiting Cheongnyongdaegakseok, you can complete a richer historical trip by exploring the hidden gems nearby. We suggest a special course centered around places related to Choe Chiwon.
Recommended Attractions in Yangsan, Embracing History and Nature
| Recommended Course | Main Content | Estimated Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Gayajinsa | It is a ritual space dedicated to the founding deity of the Gaya Kingdom and the Dragon God of the Nakdong River. It is close to Cheongnyongdaegakseok, making it good to visit together. | 30 minutes ~ 1 hour |
| Baenaegol | Part of the Yeongnam Alps, it boasts clear valleys and magnificent natural scenery. Ideal for a drive or a light walk. | 1 hour ~ 2 hours |
| Tongdosa | It is a sacred site of Korean Buddhism, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can feel tranquility in this historic temple. | 2 hours ~ 3 hours |
Tips for an Unforgettable Cheongnyongdaegakseok Visit
Here are some tips for a more meaningful visit to Cheongnyongdaegakseok, a precious historical site.
- Prior Historical Study If you learn about Choe Chiwon and the late Silla period beforehand, you can understand the meaning of this place more deeply.
- Comfortable Attire Since the area around the rock is natural, it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
- Environmental Protection To protect this valuable cultural heritage and nature, please take your trash with you and be careful not to leave any traces.
- Photography As this is a place of deep historical significance, take wonderful commemorative photos with the beautiful scenery. However, be careful not to cause any damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the significance of Cheongnyongdaegakseok?
It is a rock where Go-un Choe Chiwon, the great scholar of the late Silla period, enjoyed fishing. The inscription ‘Cheongnyongdae Chiwonseo,’ presumed to be carved by him, remains, giving it high historical value. It also serves as evidence of geographical change, as seawater once flowed in and out of the area.
Q2. What is the basis for it being Choe Chiwon’s autograph?
Considering the style of the inscription on the rock, the period of Choe Chiwon’s activities, and various circumstances, it is highly presumed that it was directly carved by the scholar himself, rather than being a stele created by later generations.
Q3. Can Cheongnyongdaegakseok be visited for free?
Yes, you can visit freely without a separate entrance fee. It is located near Gayajinsa, making it good to explore together.
Q4. Is there a particular season that is best for visiting?
While each season offers a different landscape, we recommend visiting in spring or autumn when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. In spring, especially, the surrounding flowers add to the beauty.
Q5. Are there places to eat nearby?
There are restaurants near Cheongnyongdaegakseok where you can have a simple meal. If you prefer more diverse options, it is recommended to look in downtown Yangsan or around nearby tourist attractions.
