Miryang (밀양시) is a city in South Gyeongsang (Gyeongsangnam-do), in South Korea, well known for its scenic beauty, cultural traditions, and historic sites. The rivers and fertile plains that run through Miryang have supported local agriculture for centuries, while the city’s mountainous surroundings, including soaring peaks like Gajisan and Hwaaksan, make it a destination for hikers and nature lovers. Miryang is especially renowned for the Miryang Arirang, a local version of Korea’s iconic folk song, and the Yeongnamnu pavilion, which has been praised in literature for its panoramic views. The area is also rich in legends and historic temples such as Pyochungsa. With modern transport connections, Miryang’s unique landscape and vibrant local culture make it an appealing stop for travelers exploring southeastern Korea.
Miryang, located in the northeastern part of Gyeongsangnam-do, is a pleasant country town surrounded by mountains and valleys. It is also the birthplace of Korea's first wool textile industry.
The city shares its borders with Yangsan and Ulju-gun of Ulsan to the east, Changnyeong to the west, Gimhae and Uichang-gu of Changwon to the south, and Cheongdo to the north.
Sitting between Busan and Daegu along the Gyeongbu Line, it is also close to Ulsan and Changwon. From Miryang City Hall, it is about 31 km to Changwon, 47 km to Busan, 43 km to Daegu, and 51 km to Ulsan, making all these cities reachable within a 1-2 hour drive. This central location means Miryang is influenced by various surrounding regions.
Due to its accessible location, Miryang is a popular summer getaway for Busan residents seeking to escape the coastal heat. The city is also a well-known location for the Korean film industry and was the setting for the award-winning film 'Secret Sunshine,' which won the Cannes 2007 Best Actress prize. Fittingly, the name 'Miryang' itself means 'secret sunshine.'
Miryang's history begins as Mirim-midongguk of the Byeonhan confederacy. It later became part of the Gaya confederacy before being annexed by Silla. Over time, its name and administrative status changed multiple times, including Chuhwa-gun and Milsong-gun, before finally becoming Miryang.
The city was a crucial transportation hub throughout history, serving as a major stop on the Yeongnam-daero during the Joseon dynasty. With the opening of the Gyeongbu Line in 1905, it continued its role as a key railway center. Although Samnangjin Station was more important during the colonial era, Miryang Station later gained prominence, leading to the city's growth.
Miryang is also known for its deep connection to Korean independence movements. A significant March 1st Movement protest took place here in 1919, and the city is famous for its close ties to the independence group Uiyeoldan.
In 1995, the city and county of Miryang were reunited to form the current urban-rural complex city.
The climate of Miryang is generally considered to be a continental climate, similar to that of nearby Daegu. The city is a basin surrounded by mountains such as Gajisan and Hwaksan to the north, Jaeyaksan to the east, and Jongnamsan to the southwest, which influences the weather patterns. It is often described as being suitable for living due to its generally mild climate, except for the high temperatures in the summer.
Like many inland areas, Miryang experiences distinct seasons. The average annual precipitation is about 1,200 to 1,300 mm, with about 65% of the total rainfall concentrated in the summer months of June, July, and August. Despite the heavy rainfall, there is little to no flood damage due to the city's well-equipped drainage systems.
Unlike coastal cities that receive a lot of sea breeze, Miryang's inland location means it is more susceptible to high temperatures in the summer, and its winters can be quite cold and dry, especially with the influence of seasonal winds. However, it is known for being a pleasant place to live due to its generally stable and comfortable weather conditions.
Busan's Gimhae International Airport is the nearest airport. Take the monorail to Busan's Seobu bus station to take a bus into Miryang. Otherwise from Incheon International Airport there is a high speed KTX directly to Miryang (Busan line). You can also take the A'rex train to Seoul Station for more frequent KTX services.
35.4751128.77141Miryang Station (밀양역), 62 Jungang-ro. Miryang Station is a stop on the Gyeongbu Line, with KTX, ITX-Saemaeul, and Mugunghwa trains all making a stop here. It offers a convenient way to get to Miryang from major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu. Since the station is a bit far from the city center, you'll need to take a taxi or a local bus to get to your final destination. (updated Sep 2025)
35.4982128.74372Miryang Bus Terminal (밀양버스터미널), 7 Bukseong-ro. The Miryang Intercity Bus Terminal is located in Naei-dong, Miryang. It serves bus routes to nearby cities such as Busan, Masan, Changwon, Ulsan, and Gimhae. Note that the bus route to the Seoul Express Bus Terminal has been discontinued. (updated Sep 2025)
Taxis are a convenient way to get around Miryang. As of 2023, the basic fare for a standard taxi is ₩4,000 for the first 2 km. Additional charges may apply for late-night rides (22:00-04:00), trips outside the city limits, or travel between the city's neighborhoods and rural towns.
Several local bus routes operate within Miryang. Key routes connect major points like Miryang Station, the Intercity Bus Terminal, Miryang City Hall, and Yeongnamnu Pavilion. There are also routes that go to the outer towns and villages. Since Miryang is a smaller city, cycling is also a great option if you want to explore at a more relaxed pace.
35.491831128.7551681Yeongnamnu Pavilion (영남루), 39 Naeil-dong, ☏ +82 55-359-5590. Daily 09:00-18:00. This is considered one of Korea's three greatest pavilions, alongside Jinju's Chokseongnu and Pyeongyang's Bubyeongnu. This large two-story pavilion with a paljak roof is a popular spot to relax and cool down on a hot day. From its location on a cliff near the town center, it offers commanding views over the Miryang River. Originally a subsidiary pavilion of the Silla Dynasty's Yeongnamsa Temple, the current structure was rebuilt in 1884. (updated Sep 2025)
Eoreumgol
35.58004128.9855832Eoreumgol (얼음골), 166-2 Samyang-ri, Sannae-myeon (city bus from Miryang Intercity Bus Terminal to Nammyeong or Eoreumgol Valley departs every 40 min and takes 50 min)). A valley referred to as the 'Ice Valley' that is unusually cold. There is trekking around the valley, and you can see ice at the top all year round. (There isn't much at the height of summer, but it is there.) (updated Sep 2025)
35.533128.9613Pyochungsa Temple (표충사), 23 Gucheon-ri, Danjang-myeon, ☏ +82 55-352-1150. This is a temple named by the state to honor the patriotic spirit of the great Buddhist monk Samyeongdaesa, who achieved significant merit during the Imjin War. While the temple was rebuilt in 1715 (the 41st year of King Sukjong's reign), all its buildings, except for the Eungjinjeon Hall, were destroyed in a fire in 1926. The temple was subsequently reconstructed, and the buildings you see today are the result of that restoration. (updated Sep 2025)
35.546482128.7159884Wiyangji (위양지), Wiyang-ri, Bubuk-myeon, ☏ +82 55-359-5641. This is a popular travel destination, considered one of the Eight Scenic Views of Miryang. The majestic cluster of fringe trees that lines the reservoir boasts a picturesque landscape throughout all four seasons. The best time to visit Wiyangji Pond is in the spring when the fringe tree blossoms are in full bloom, looking as if they are covered in white snow. On a clear day, the reflection of the fringe trees on the pond is as beautiful as a watercolor painting. (updated Sep 2025)
35.4664128.78775Twin Tunnel (트윈터널), 1026-4 Mijeon-ri, Samnangjin-eup, ☏ +82 0507-1430-8829. 10:30-19:00. Twin Tunnel is a theme park of light and characters, created by transforming an abandoned Gyeongbu Line railway tunnel. Inside, nearly 100 million lights illuminate the space, filling it with countless photo zones. The tunnel is divided into 10 different themed sections, each offering unique experiences. The Twin Tunnel was originally a railway tunnel built under the order of King Gojong during the late Joseon Dynasty and was once used by trains. Although no longer in use, the tunnel has long been shrouded in mystery, with local legends of ghostly lights appearing during the Japanese colonial era and stories of people finding glowing stones that brought them great fortune. These mystical tales of light have now been combined with creative characters to form a unique theme park. The tunnel maintains a constant temperature year-round, making it pleasantly cool in summer and warm in winter. ₩3000-₩10000. (updated Sep 2025)
Miryang Library35.4525128.86416Miryang Library (밀양도서관), 7, Maneo-ro, Samnangjin-eup, ☏ +82 55-353-6977. 9:00-18:00. The library provides a comfortable environment and various reading spaces for children and adults. Visitors can access books, digital materials, and DVDs, and join cultural programs in recently renovated, bright facilities. It is a recommended destination for tourists looking for a quiet place to read or experience local Korean culture (updated Oct 2025)Oyeonjeong
35.4846128.77127Oyeonjeong (오연정), 477-17 Yongpyeong-ro. 10:00 – 20:00. A traditional pavilion originally built by a Joseon Dynasty scholar, now offering experiences of Korean traditional cuisine and hanok stays. The site is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful old cherry blossom, ginkgo, and maple trees, and serves elegant meals featuring lotus leaf rice and seasonal side dishes. (updated Oct 2025)
35.50216128.760511National Miryang Meteorological Science Museum (국립밀양기상과학관), 480-8 Gyodong, ☏ +82 55-981-7370. 10:00 - 17:30. It opened in May 2020 and offers the largest tornado simulation experience in Korea. It is closed every Monday, on January 1st, and during major holiday periods. In addition to the tornado and climate phenomena experiences, the museum features various attractions such as the Ice Valley icicles, weather forecasting, and briefing sessions. (updated Sep 2025)
35.582785128.9870192Miryang Ice Valley Cable Car (영남알프스얼음골케이블카), 241 Eoreumgol-ro, Sannae-myeon, ☏ +82 55-359-3000. Vary by month (Please check the website for details). This is a round-trip cable car with a track length of 1.8km, which can take you to the upper station at an altitude of 1,020m. You can experience something new with the Yeongnam Alps Ice Valley Cable Car, taking in the magnificent Yeongnam Alps and traveling along the mysterious "Sky Road" that connects to Cheonhwangsan Sky Garden. (updated Sep 2025)
35.4313128.81073Hyesan Seowon (혜산서원), 17-18, Dawon 1-ri-gil, Sanoe-myeon, ☏ +82 55-359-5640. Open all year round. Hyesan Seowon in Miryang is a tranquil Confucian academy where visitors can take part in traditional hanbok experience programs. Participants can choose from a variety of colorful hanbok, stroll through the serene academy grounds, and take memorable photos against the backdrop of the elegant buildings and scenic courtyard. The program may also include additional cultural activities such as traditional tea ceremonies, Korean music performances (gayageum, daegeum, or gugak singing), and craft workshops. The hanbok experience is one of Miryang’s representative traditional cultural tourism programs, making it a perfect activity for families, friends, or couples to create special memories together. (updated Sep 2025)
35.4878128.7561No Brand Miryang Sammun (노브랜드 밀양 삼문점), 30 Miribeol-ro, Sammun-dong, ☏ +82 55-354-7773. 10:00 – 22:00. It offers a wide variety of household goods and groceries at budget-friendly prices. It closes on two Sundays every month. (updated Sep 2025)
35.4892128.74042Homeplus Miryang (홈플러스 밀양점), 45 Jeompiljae-ro, Nae-dong, ☏ +82 55-359-8000. 10:00 – 22:00. This store offers a variety of products including groceries, household goods, clothing, and electronics. It closes on the second and fourth Sunday of every month. (updated Sep 2025)
35.507348128.7770111Miryang Halmae Megi-tang (밀양할매메기탕), 438 Yongpyeong-ro, ☏ +82 55-356-6664. 11:00-20:30 (closed every Monday). This is a local restaurant recommended by residents. The spicy and hearty catfish stew with sujebi (hand-torn noodles) is incredibly delicious. Since the restaurant closes once ingredients for the day are sold out, it's a good idea to arrive early for dinner. The interior features three large rooms, and there's an annex in addition to the main building. (updated Sep 2025)
35.384928128.8241621Assemble Coffee Roasters (어셈블커피로스터즈), 32 Samnangjin-ro, Samnangjin-eup, ☏ +82 507-1350-1024. Daily 09:30-21:00. This is a popular cafe known for its signature fresh strawberry milk, made with strawberries from Samnangjin, and its 12-hour cold-brewed Earl Grey milk tea. With its spacious parking lot, reasonable prices, and pleasant atmosphere, it's a place many visitors want to return to. It is especially recommended for cyclists. (updated Sep 2025)
35.479004128.753841Hotel arina (호텔 아리나), 82 Sammun-gangbyeon-ro, Miryang-si, ☏ +82 55-350-7000, [email protected]. It is a modern hotel offering comfortable and convenient accommodations. It's known for its clean rooms and friendly service, making it a good choice for both business travelers and tourists. The hotel is situated in a location that provides easy access to key parts of the city. (updated Sep 2025)
35.577522128.9831372Ever miracle hotel (에버미라클 호텔), 358-9 Eoreumgol-yetgil, Sannae-myeon, ☏ +82 55-351-0100, [email protected]. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. It is a hotel located near Miryang's Eoreumgol, surrounded by a beautiful natural environment. It's highly rated for its clean rooms and friendly service, providing a comfortable place to relax. The hotel features a variety of convenient amenities like a sauna, a karaoke room, and a restaurant, and it offers easy access to nearby tourist attractions such as the Yeongnam Alps Eoreumgol Cable Car. (updated Sep 2025)
Gimhae: Located close to Miryang, this city is rich in history with many relics from the Gaya Kingdom. It's also a transportation hub, home to Gimhae International Airport.
Changwon: As the provincial capital of Gyeongsangnam-do, Changwon is a planned, clean, and well-organized city. It's especially famous for its annual Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival.
Busan: South Korea's second-largest city and main port. You can find popular beaches like Haeundae and Gwangalli, along with a vibrant urban atmosphere.
Yangsan: This is a developing city situated between Busan and Ulsan. It blends the convenience of a modern city with historical sites like Tongdosa Temple.
Cheongdo: A county to the north of Miryang, Cheongdo is known for its bullfighting festival and delicious persimmons. It offers a quiet, rural atmosphere.
Ulsan: A major industrial city in Korea, Ulsan is well-known for its heavy industries, including automobile manufacturing and shipbuilding.
Daegu: One of Korea's largest cities, Daegu is famous for its textile and fashion industries and serves as a major transportation hub.
This website uses the Wikivoyage API to get and display all the information you see. This is the MediaWiki API, which is a general API for accessing data from Wikimedia projects. You can find information about it here: MediaWiki API.
.jpg)
S