Enjoy the magnificent panoramas and have your camera ready to snap postcard-perfect shots at Buyongdae Cliff. This 210-feet (64-meter) high cliff overlooks a 16th-century Joseon-era village, the meandering Hakdong River and pristine mountain countryside. Choose a clear and sunny day to visit Buyongdae Cliff to benefit from the most inspiring views.
The name of the cliff means lotus and is a reference to the layout of the Andong Hahoe Folk Village. Look down to see the thatched and tiled rooftops of the village’s houses. Watch as boats cruise gently along the Nakdong River, which flows along three sides of the ancient village. With the use of binoculars you might be able to spot a 600-year-old zelkova tree called Samsindang, said to be the home of the goddess Samsin.
Take a moment to appreciate the stunning natural landscapes of Andong. The cliff stands at the point where the Taebaek Mountains end. Directly to the south is Mount Namsan and a series of wooded peaks. Admire the sandy river beaches, dense pine forests and sprawling patchwork fields.
Another interesting thing to do while here is to spend the night at nearby Ogyeonjeongsa House. The Joseon-era scholar Ryu Seong-ryong established the house in the 1500s as a tranquil retreat to educate his students. He also wrote his memoirs of the Imjin War here. Most of the guest rooms were once used for teaching and give an authentic insight into life during the Joseon Dynasty.
Buyongdae Cliff is a great attraction to include while visiting the UNESCO-listed Andong Hahoe Folk Village. Pay the fee to cross the river by boat and then reach the summit via a short trail. You’ll need to also pay the admission fee for the village if you plan to arrive by this route. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Andong city center or catch a bus to the village of Pungcheon-myeon and then walk.