Cheongsong County is located in the central-eastern part of North Gyeongsang, South Korea. Part of its land is rugged and mountainous, owing to the influence of the Taebaek Mountains and other ranges. It shares borders with Yeongdeok and Pohang to the east, and with cities like Andong and Yecheon toward the west and south. Almost the entire county is part of the Cheongsong UNESCO Global Geopark. More than 80% of the county is covered in forests, giving it some of the cleanest air in Korea. The area is renowned for its apples, natural mineral springs, and traditional festivals celebrating local agricultural and cultural heritage. With less summer heat and severe winter cold due to its basin and mountainous geography, Cheongsong is ideal for those seeking beautiful scenery and the tranquility of rural Korea.
Cheongsong is known for premium apples and high-quality red pepper, both of which are major agricultural products. It also has many natural attractions such as Juwangsan National Park, Jusanji Pond, the Ice Valley, and Dalki Mineral Springs.Traditional culture remains strong—local handicrafts like Cheongsong pottery and traditional paper (hanji) are preserved, and historical legacies such as remnants of the Cheongsong Dohobu and sites related to the So-hyun Royal lineage are part of the county’s heritage.
The name “Cheongsong (靑松)” originated in 1424 when two former administrative areas, Jinbo County and Songsaeng County, were merged. The name combines 'Cheong' (blue/green) and 'Song' (pine), referencing the green pines of the area.
Cheongsong is a place with a unique history, evolving from ancient times to the modern era. Here is a simplified history for foreigners to easily understand. Cheongsong’s history is especially significant during the Joseon Dynasty. King Sejong, one of Korea’s most respected kings, married Queen Soheon, who was from Cheongsong. Because of this special connection, Cheongsong was elevated in status from a simple county to a more important administrative district, a 'Dohobu'. This royal connection gave Cheongsong special treatment and prestige for centuries. Later, in the early 20th century, the Japanese colonial government reorganized the administrative map, and Cheongsong absorbed neighboring areas to become the county we know today.
In short, Cheongsong is not just a beautiful natural area; it's a place that was once highly regarded by a king because it was his queen's hometown. This unique royal history makes Cheongsong a special part of Korea's heritage.
Cheongsong County, located in the inland region of Gyeongsangbuk-do, has a typical continental climate, which means there's a significant temperature difference between summer and winter, unlike coastal areas. Summers are hot and humid, with most of the annual precipitation concentrated in July and August due to the monsoon season and heavy summer rains. In contrast, winters are very cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping significantly below freezing and very little precipitation (including snow). The average annual precipitation is relatively high at about 1,300mm, but the climate as a whole clearly demonstrates the characteristics of a continental climate with four distinct seasons and a dry winter.
The main gateway to Cheongsong is the Cheongsong Intercity Bus Terminal, located in Cheongsong-eup. There are direct intercity buses to Cheongsong from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (via Andong and Jinbo), Daegu (Dongdaegu and Bukbu terminals), Busan, Andong, and nearby cities. Buses run multiple times daily to Daegu—typically 1.5 to 2 hours—and also connect to Andong and Yeongcheon. All rural and city buses within Cheongsong County are free for residents and visitors alike.
Cheongsong is easily accessed by car, especially since the construction of the SeoSan-Yeongdeok Expressway and improved tunnels. Drive time from Seoul is about 3 to 3.5 hours. Well-maintained roads link Cheongsong with Andong, Yeongdeok, Pohang, and other nearby districts, though some mountainous roads may be winding.
Cheongsong does not have its own train station. The nearest major train stops are Andong and Yeongcheon Station. Visitors can take the KTX or regular trains to these cities from Seoul, Busan, or Daegu, then continue to Cheongsong by bus.
Driving to Cheongsong is facilitated by improved highway connections and mountain tunnels from major cities like Seoul and Daegu. Although the winding mountain roads require careful driving, using a private car offers the most flexibility for exploring the scenic landscape and rural attractions at your own pace.
Cheongsong County operates an extensive bus network with 63 routes throughout the region, offering free rides to all passengers. The buses, including eco-friendly rural buses, connect villages, towns, and key tourist destinations. Intercity buses run regularly to and from nearby cities such as Daegu, Yeongcheon, and Pohang, providing convenient access via the Cheongsong Bus Terminal.
Demand-responsive taxi services branded ‘Cheonwon Taxi’ allow easy and affordable travel within the county, especially to areas outside regular bus routes. The taxi fare is a flat 1,000 KRW, making it an accessible option for residents and visitors alike.
Cheongsong Eoreumgol36.4013129.13111Cheongsong Eoreumgol (청송 얼음골), 1 Naeryong-ri, Juwangsan-myeon, ☏ +82 54-870-6111. Open all year round. Cheongsong Eoreumgol Valley is a gorge located on Juwangsan Mountain in Cheongsong. It is known for its warm winters and cool breezes in the summer, creating a mystical atmosphere. In May 2017, it was recognized for its geological value and certified as a UNESCO Global Geopark. During the summer, when the temperature exceeds 32 degrees Celsius, ice forms in the valley, melting when the temperature drops below 32 degrees Celsius. The area boasts impressive rock formations and stunning landscapes, attracting many tourists with its springs, and artificial falls. (updated Sep 2025)
36.5266129.04112Cheongsong Yasong Art Museum (군립청송야송미술관), 5162 Gyeongdong-ro, Jinbo-myeon, ☏ +82 54-872-6536. 10:00-18:00. It opened in 2005, was created by remodeling the former Sinchon Elementary School. With modern exhibition halls of various sizes and an art library, the museum offers a unique cultural space to experience creativity and contemporary art in Cheongsong. Free. (updated Sep 2025)
Jusanji Pond36.3628129.18663Jusanji Pond (주산저수지), 73 Jusanji-ri, Juwangsan-myeon, ☏ +82 54-870-6111. Open all year round. Jusanji Pond is a small reservoir located in Juwangsan National Park. It is a man-made pond that was dug out in August, 1720 and completed in October the year after. The pond has been used as a source of water for agricultural use as well as for drinking water. Even though it is small in size, about 200 meters long and 8 meters deep, the pond has never dried up from any drought. 150-year-old willow trees are rooted in the pond, which makes a fantastic balance with the surroundings, creating a picturesque scenery found nowhere else. (updated Sep 2025)
36.349254128.9966211Baekseoktangol Buri Area (백석탄골부리권역 캠핑장), 541-21, Baekseoktan-ro, Andeok-myeon, ☏ +82 54 873-5678. It known for its scenic natural surroundings and cultural heritage. The area features the Baekseoktangol Buri Area Activation Center, which serves as a hub for local programs, community activities, and cultural events. Visitors can explore the region’s natural beauty, participate in hands-on experiences, and engage with local traditions. (updated Sep 2025)
36.377419129.1086112Cheongsong white porcelain (청송백자체험장), 32-16, Cheongsongbaekja-ro, Juwangsan-myeon, ☏ +82 54-874-7748. It offers visitors a chance to explore the beauty and tradition of Korean white porcelain, known as baekja. Located in Cheongsong, an area renowned for its pure natural environment, the center provides hands-on programs where participants can create their own porcelain works while learning about the history and craftsmanship behind this cultural heritage. It is a unique destination to experience both artistry and tradition in one place. (updated Sep 2025)
36.378035129.1086783Sono belle cheongsong (소노벨청송 솔샘온천), 494-1 Juwangsan-ro, Juwangsan-myeon, ☏ +82 1588-4888. 7:00-21:00 (cleaning time 13:00-14:00). This is a modern hot spring resort located in Cheongsong. Visitors can enjoy both indoor and outdoor hot springs amid pristine natural scenery, offering relaxation and wellness throughout the year. It is a place where families, couples, and travelers can stay comfortably and unwind while surrounded by nature. (updated Sep 2025)
36.429968129.0560041Cheongsong NH Hanaro Mart (하나로마트 청송농협본점), Geumwol-ro 238, Cheongsong-eup, ☏ +82 54-870-3231. 8:30 -20:00. It is a supermarket run by Nonghyup, which sells groceries and household goods to local residents (updated Sep 2025)
36.527068129.0436152Jinbo Sikjajae Mart (진보식자재마트), 4193 Gyeongdong-ro, Jinbo-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1439-5021. 8:00 - 22:00. It's a large supermarket specializing in food ingredients and supplies (updated Sep 2025)
36.419129.1181Minbakchon Restaurant (민박촌식당 청송본점), 11-3 Dangaemal-gil, Juwangsan-myeon, ☏ +82 0507-1356-4778. 08:00 – 20:00. Minbakchon Restaurant is located near the entrance to Juwangsan National Park in Cheongsong. It has been run by the same family for two generations and offers traditional dishes such as herb bibimbap, chicken soup cooked with mineral water from Dalgisul, and grilled deodeok (Codonopsis lanceolata). The restaurant provides ample parking and a clean dining environment. It is a popular choice for hikers and families visiting the area. Meals are served relatively quickly, and the atmosphere is calm and comfortable. (updated Sep 2025)
36.419129.1182Sinchon Yaksu Restaurant (신촌약수식당), 18 Sinchon Yaksu-gil, Jinbo-myeon, ☏ +82 0507-1356-4778. 09:30 – 20:00. Sinchon Yaksu Restaurant is located near the Sinchon Yaksu mineral spring in Cheongsong. It specializes in chicken dishes such as spicy chicken soup, grilled chicken wings, and other local specialties prepared using the mineral spring water. The restaurant provides ample indoor seating and parking space. It is recognized for serving traditional regional cuisine popular with both locals and visitors. (updated Sep 2025)
36.436422129.0272131Baekilhong (백일홍), 21 Songso-gotaek-gil, Pacheon-myeon, ☏ +82 10-3676-1977. 10:00 -18:00. It is a traditional Korean-style cafe (Hanok cafe) located inside Songso Gotaek, a historic house. It's a place where you can enjoy tea and coffee while experiencing the beauty of traditional Korean architecture. (updated Sep 2025)
36.377391129.111252Moon Garden (문가든), 493 and 494-1 Juwangsan-ro, Juwangsan-myeon, ☏ +82 10-2244-4534. 17:00 - 23:00. It's a pub in Cheongsong where you can enjoy various alcoholic drinks along with Korean dishes like Pork Stir-fry (Duruchigi), Grilled Pork Belly (Samgyeopsal), and Spicy Sliced Squid with Vegetables (Ojingeo-chomuchim). (updated Sep 2025)
36.376669129.1103061Sono Belle Cheongsong (소노벨 청송), Juwangsan-ro 494-1, Juwangsan-myeon. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. It is a resort located about a 15-minute drive from the Cheongsong Bus Terminal, with close proximity to popular attractions like Juwangsan National Park, Cheongsong Natural Recreation Forest, and the Gaekju Literary Museum. The resort is well-equipped with various facilities including a hot spring, a game room, a karaoke room, a mart, and a souvenir shop. Rooms are available in Family and Suite types, with a choice between condo-style rooms that include cooking facilities and clean-style rooms that do not. Each room comes with essential appliances such as a TV, air conditioner, and refrigerator, along with provided toiletries, and guests can also dine at the on-site restaurant. (updated Sep 2025)
Andong (about 1.5 hours away): A city famous for its traditional Korean culture and UNESCO-listed Hahoe Folk Village. It offers excellent opportunities to experience Korean traditional architecture and Confucian heritage. Accessible by bus and car.
Yeongdeok (about 1 hour away): A coastal city known for its fresh seafood, especially king crab. Visitors can enjoy maritime scenery and seafood delicacies.
Pohang (about 1.5 hours away): An industrial city home to Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) and Hyundai Steel. Also known for the Homigot Sunrise Festival and several popular beaches.
Uljin (about 2 hours away): Situated on the east coast, Uljin is celebrated for its beautiful beaches and hot springs, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation.
Gyeongju (about 2.5 hours away): The ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is packed with historical sites and cultural heritage, perfect for a history-themed trip.
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