Yangsan-si is one of 22 cities, counties and districts in Gyeongsangnam-do. It has 13 neighborhoods (8 dong · 1 eup · 4 myeon) and 360,962 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Mulgeum-eup with 117,251.
13neighborhoods
360,962residents
Landmark stamp: Tongdosa Temple
Nestled along the pine-forested slopes in Yangsan, this revered sanctuary enshrines historic Buddhist relics instead of conventional statues within its main hall.
History
Monk Jajang established this temple during the Silla Dynasty to enshrine sacred relics of the Buddha brought from Tang China.
What to see
The main hall unusually lacks a Buddha statue because it directly faces the sacred Diamond Altar enshrining genuine relics.
Visitor tip
Walking slowly along the pine tree pathway allows visitors to enjoy soothing forest breezes and the sound of rushing streams.
Food, festivals and stories of Yangsan-si
Local food
Yangsan is famous for fresh Wondong water dropwort, traditionally grilled alongside pork belly during the scenic spring season.
Did you know?
UNESCO World Heritage Tongdosa Temple enshrines the holy relics of the Buddha, uniquely having no Buddha statues in its main hall.
Festivals
Every spring, the Wondong Plum Blossom Festival attracts travelers with stunning floral vistas alongside the historic Nakdong River railway.
Neighborhoods of Yangsan-si (13)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Mulgeum-eup물금읍eup · 117,251 residents
Name: Its name originated from an old river crossing where travelers and trading boats were allowed to pass freely without inspection or taxes.
Photo spot: Hwangsan Park along the river boasts colorful seasonal flower gardens and vast silver reed fields that offer splendid photo spots for visitors.
Story: A local legend says an angler retrieved a buried Buddha statue from the river sand and built a temple after seeing an auspicious dream.
Photo spot: Beopgi Reservoir showcases towering hundred-year-old cypress trees standing along quiet waters, creating a tranquil setting perfect for taking memorable landscape pictures.
Story: Centuries ago, dedicated Joseon potters crafted refined tea bowls at the historic kilns of Beopgi-ri, creating renowned pottery treasured across borders.
Fun fact: Standing tall in Seoksan-ri, Yangsan Tower offers visitors wide panoramic views overlooking both the bustling city and the winding Nakdonggang River.
Photo spot: The Sunmaewon terrace captures an iconic spring view of railway trains gliding along the river through blossoms of white and pink plum trees.
Story: The renowned scholar Choe Chiwon visited this scenic river cliff during the Silla era, composing famous poems inspired by the breathtaking natural scenery.
Food: Fragrant water parsley nurtured by clean mountain aquifers is famously paired with sizzling pork belly as a beloved seasonal spring delicacy.
Photo spot: Nestled deep within lush woodlands, Hongryong Falls pours over sheer crags beside a cliffside shrine, crafting an exquisite natural portrait.
Story: An ancient myth tells that a divine dragon dwelling beneath the roaring cataract created brilliant rainbows before ascending gracefully into the clouds.
Story: Monk Jajang subdued nine troublesome dragons living in an ancient marsh, leaving behind a small pond where one faithful dragon stayed to protect the temple.
Photo spot: The Mupunghansong path, surrounded by hundreds of twisting centuries-old pine trees along a mountain stream, provides an enchanting avenue for capturing peaceful photographs.
Food: Restaurants near the entrance of Tongdosa serve wholesome mountain herb meals seasoned with fragrant perilla oil and wild woodland delicacies.
Name: Bearing a name that signifies the center, this area historically housed the ancient county magistracy and served as the administrative core.
Food: The alleyways of historic Nambu Market treat hungry visitors to comforting dishes like freshly cooked savory pancakes and hearty homemade noodle soup.
Story: Historic records recount that distinguished scholars and poets frequently visited Ssangbyeongnu Pavilion atop the old fortress gate to admire the scenic hills.
Name: The neighborhood resurrected the classic Silla-era administrative name Yangju to honor the long, illustrious historical heritage of the Yangsan territory.
Photo spot: Yangsan Water Park showcases illuminated water fountains dancing over a central lake, creating dazzling reflections perfect for captivating nighttime urban photography.
Name: The name Samseong originated from three ancient earthen and stone fortresses that historically stood across the prominent surrounding ridges.
Photo spot: Strolling along the grassy burial mounds of Bukjeong-ri gives visitors lovely photo angles combining ancient earthen tombs with modern townscapes.
Name: The district was aptly named Gangseo because its fertile lands and historic settlements lie directly west of the flowing Yangsancheon stream.
Story: Chunghyeolsa Shrine commemorates the legendary Silla diplomat Park Je-sang, who bravely rescued a royal prince from foreign captivity at the cost of his life.
Name: Its name derives from an essential western storehouse built during the Joseon period to safely collect and distribute grain taxes across the region.
Food: Visitors browsing the colorful five-day market can taste piping-hot bowls of simmering beef soup and traditional fried treats in a bustling atmosphere.
Photo spot: Nestled beneath Cheonseongsan Mountain, Baekdong Reservoir reflects peaceful forest greenery across its calm waters, offering an ideal setting for tranquil landscape photographs.
Fun fact: Bordering the pristine upper reaches of Hoeyagang Stream, the area provides pleasant riverside walking trails where residents stroll alongside clear flowing waters.
Story: Valleys beneath Cheonseongsan Mountain carry legends of Great Master Wonhyo lecturing on sacred Buddhist scriptures to guide one thousand disciples toward spiritual awakening.
Name: The neighborhood received its peaceful name because early village settlements developed across comfortably flat and gently sloping land beneath the mountains.
Photo spot: Ungsang Sports Park features bright green fields and wide open walking tracks where people capture lively, cheerful snapshots during morning exercise.
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.