Mireuksan (Tongyeong)

Mireuksan (458.4m) is a majestic mountain standing tall in the center of Mireukdo Island, south of Tongyeong-si. It is also called Yonghwasan, possibly because the ancient temple Yonghwasa is located on this mountain, or because it is considered the Yonghwa Assembly where the future Buddha Maitreya will descend. On the slopes of Mireuksan, there are the ancient temple Yonghwasa and its hermitages Gwaneumam and Dosolam, as well as Miraesa, the birthplace of the Hyobongmunjung lineage. Although not a very high mountain, Mireuksan possesses all the virtues of a renowned mountain, with clear streams flowing through dense forests and various oddly shaped rocks and rock caves. The ancient temples, mineral water, spring azaleas, and autumn foliage are outstanding, and from the summit, the view of the Hallyeohaesang archipelago is indescribably beautiful. On clear days, Japan's Tsushima Island can be seen in the distance.<br>