Yeongyang-gun in Gyeongsangbuk-do, situated at the foot of the Taebaek Mountains, is an attractive travel destination where pristine nature and a long history and traditional culture breathe life. Here are five recommended places to visit in Yeongyang, where you can glimpse the wisdom of ancient ancestors amidst serene landscapes.

1. Tranquility of the White Forest, Yeongyang Birch Forest (Jukpa-ri, Subi-myeon) This is an artificial forest spanning approximately 30.6 hectares, where visitors can walk along a 2-km promenade and enjoy the harmonious scenery of white birch bark and green leaves. The soft sunlight filtering through the leaves and the crisp air unique to the forest bring peace of mind, and the gentle slopes make it easy for anyone to walk up and down. It is an ideal spot for those seeking healing in tranquility. While vehicle access is restricted on the 4.7-km section connecting Jukpa-ri Village and the forest, free shuttle buses operate, providing excellent accessibility.

2. Exploring the Mysteries of the Universe, Star Ecology Experience Center Yeongyang Firefly Observatory (Suha-ri, Subi-myeon) This is a special space in Yeongyang, known as a firefly habitat, where you can experience stargazing. Thanks to the pristine natural environment, on clear days, the stars and the Milky Way adorning the night sky can be observed more clearly, allowing you to fully appreciate the mysteries of the universe.

3. Breath of Ancient Ancestors, Dudeul Village (Wonri-ri, Seokbo-myeon) Dudeul Village, meaning 'village on a hill,' is a clan village of the Yeonan Yi family that developed after Seokgye Yi Si-myeong settled there to escape the Manchu War in 1640. Within the village, about 30 traditional houses, including Seokgye Old House and Seokcheon Seodang, remain serenely preserved. Visitors can also find the monument of Lady Jang of Andong, the wife who authored "Eumsik dimibang," the first Korean cookbook, and the Gwangsan Literary Research Institute founded by author Yi Mun-yol. In particular, the ink engravings carved by Seokgye's fourth son remain distinctly visible on the cliff rocks of the Hwamaecheon Stream in front of the village, proving the village's deep history.

4. Traces of Wise Ancient Lives, Yeongyang Mountain Village Life Museum (Yeondang-ri, Ibam-myeon) This is a space where you can catch a glimpse of the mountain village culture of the Yeongyang region. It exhibits the daily tools, lifestyles, and traces of lives of past mountain villagers, greatly helping visitors understand and experience the unique, humble, yet wise mountain village life of the ancients.

5. The Essence of Joseon Dynasty Gardens, Yeongyang Seoseokji (Yeondang-ri, Ibam-myeon) As a national heritage harmonizing a pond and a pavilion decorated with natural rocks, it showcases the essence of Joseon Dynasty garden architecture. It is a scenic spot where you can glimpse the noble spirit of scholars in harmony with nature amidst beautiful landscapes that change with every season.