Chungcheongnam-do(Seosan-si)
Gayasan Mountain has easy and enjoyable hiking trails connecting Gayabong Peak, the main
peak with other 5 picks and mountains including Wonhyobong Peak (677m), Ongnyangbong Peak
(621.4m), Illaksan Mountain (521.4m), Sujeongbong Peak (453m), and Sangwangsan Mountain.
The trails are as easy, and suitable for all hikers including the elderly, and young hikers. A distant
view of the west sea is even visible from the top f the mountain. Gayasan Mountain offers amazing
scenery all year round, and most notably in the spring, when azaleas, royal azaleas, and an array
of wildflowers are in full bloom.
The mountain also contains the Seosan Rock-carved Buddha Triad (National Treasure No.84),
which is considered the best rock-carved Buddha from the Baekje Period. The mountain is also
home to three Buddhist temples including Bowonsaji Temple site, Gaesimsa Temple, and Illaksa
Temple. With 1 national treasure, 6 treasures, and 4 cultural assets preserved on the mountain,
it is safe to say that the mountain is the heart of the Naepo Culture Zone (northwestern region of
the province of Chungcheongnam-do), making the entire mountain a cultural asset.