Located in Gongju-si, Gongsanseong Fortress is a mountain castle which was established during the Baekje Period (234-678). The castle is about 2.5km long, and there are two ways of touring the castle. One way is to start from the parking lot, pass the west gate, Geumseoru, and walk along the cement road. The other way is to turn left at the beginning of the cement road and walk along the top of the castle, which is called Sanseong Road. The cement road is very smooth and you can walk along it comfortably. On the other hand, Sanseong Road has many twists and the passage is narrow, but it has the advantage of following along the Geumgang riverside.
When you begin the tour, the first site that you will meet is the Gongbukru, in front of the Sanseong village. From Gongbukru, follow the Sanseong Road, go over a low hill, and you will see Yeongeunsa, a small temple built in the 4th year of King Se-Jo’s reign. In front of the temple is Manharu and Yeonji, and this place is probably the most elegant out of the whole fortress. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Geumgang riverside right here. Follow the trail path a little further up and Imryugak Pavilion appears, known as the largest of its kind within the fortress. You can glimpse a view of Geumgang River, but the trees may obstruct the open view of the scenery.
It is worth the visit for its historical and cultural significance, and also for the beautiful view Geumgang riverside and the castle’s trail. The whole course is about 3 km, and 110m high, and so if you travel at a leisurely pace, it will take you about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Popular nearby, compatible sites for a private tour in Chungcheongnamdo:
Gongju National Museum
Royal Tomb of King Muryeong
Gongju Folk Drama Museum
Address
280, Ungjin-ro, Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do
충청남도 공주시 웅진로 280 (금성동)
Operating Hours
09:00-18:00 (last admission at 17:30)
* Free admission outside of the time listed above
Closed
The day of Seollal (Lunar New Year’s Day) and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving Day)
Admission Fees
[Admission to Gongsanseong Fortress]
Individuals – Adults 1,200 won / Students 800 won / Children 600 won
Groups – Adults 1,100 won / Students 700 won / Children 500 won
* Free entrance: seniors ages 65 and older
[Combined admission (Royal Tomb of King Muryeong + Gongsanseong + Seokjangni Museum)]
Individuals – Adults 2,800 won / Students 1,800 won / Children 1,300 won
Groups – Adults 2,500 won / Students 1,600 won / Children 1,100 won
* Group: 20 people or more
