Nonsan-si is one of 16 cities, counties and districts in Chungcheongnam-do. It has 15 neighborhoods (2 dong · 2 eup · 11 myeon) and 105,661 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Chwiam-dong with 32,991.
15neighborhoods
105,661residents
Landmark stamp: Gwanchoksa Temple
Perched on Mount Banya in Nonsan, this serene Buddhist temple is celebrated for its colossal stone Maitreya Buddha statue and ancient pavilion structures.
History
Founded during the Goryeo dynasty under King Gwangjong, this temple was established to enshrine a colossal stone Maitreya Buddha statue.
What to see
Gazing upon the iconic stone standing Buddha wearing an elaborate headdress delivers a striking and serene impression.
Legends & stories
Legend tells that the master artisan successfully raised the enormous statue by learning from village children playing with mounds of clay.
Food, festivals and stories of Nonsan-si
Local food
Sweet, fragrant strawberries grown in modern greenhouses and traditionally fermented Ganggyeong salted seafood are signature specialties of Nonsan.
Festivals
Every spring, the popular Nonsan Strawberry Festival invites berry lovers to pick, taste, and celebrate sweet freshly harvested strawberries.
On screen
Sunshine Land in Yeonmu-eup is a vibrant retro studio where key scenes of the hit television drama Mr. Sunshine were filmed.
Neighborhoods of Nonsan-si (15)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Ganggyeong-eup강경읍eup · 6,836 residents
Story: Legend has it that a heavenly fairy descended to Ongnyeobong Peak to bathe after being enchanted by the Geumgang River.
Photo spot: Climbing to the summit of Ongnyeobong Peak reveals panoramic views of the curving Geumgang River and historical river port scenery.
Food: Visitors can sample a wide variety of savory, fermented seafood along the alleys of the famous salted seafood street.
Story: A historical legend recounts how ancient Baekje soldiers built Noseongsanseong Fortress and staunchly defended their homeland against rival forces.
Photo spot: The spacious courtyard of Myeongjae Historic House, decorated with hundreds of traditional earthenware jars, makes a stunning photographic setting.
Story: The heroic legacy of General Gyebaek endures here, honoring his steadfast loyalty before facing the historic Battle of Hwangsanbeol.
Photo spot: Walking along the wooden lakeside deck of Topjeongho Lake offers wonderful opportunities to photograph shimmering waters and calming vistas.
Food: Chewy dried persimmons naturally cured by crisp mountain breezes are celebrated as a wonderful sweet delicacy during winter.
Fun fact: Clear streams originating from Daedunsan Mountain nourish pleasant riverside spots that attract vacationers looking for cool summer retreats.
Photo spot: Strolling across the Topjeongho Suspension Bridge allows photographers to capture breathtaking views of golden evening sunsets over the water.
Fun fact: An ecological park along the peaceful lakeside provides tranquil walking paths lined with various vibrant seasonal blooms.
Local notes were drafted with the help of AI from public information. Population: Ministry of the Interior and Safety resident registration, September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.