Baemsagol Waun Village

Inside Baemsagol Valley sits Waun Village where it is said that even clouds come by to lie down for a while, and, here, you can find Cheonnyeonsong Pine Tree in Jirisan Mountain. A couple of pine trees called “Hanasi” and “Halmae,” which are terms that refer to a grandfather and a grandmother according to the Jeolla-do dialect, stand tall in Waun Village. Between these two, the older and larger Halmae pine tree is considered as the Cheonnyeonsong of Jirisan. Designated as Natural Monument No. 424, it is estimated to be about 500 years old and is still growing slowly from the current height of 20m, girth of 6m at the breast height, and crown width of 12m. Jirisan Cheonnyeonsong boasts a stout but beautiful look that resembles an open umbrella. The continued beauty is thanks to the villagers who ceaselessly manage and protect the tree. This is why the Cheonnyeonsong is considered to have immense folk value as a historic, old tree. Legend has it that Cheonnyeonsong will answer your prayers so, since the olden times, the people of Waun Village host Dangsanje, a ritual to pray for the year’s good harvest as well as the health and longevity of the village in front of the tree on every lunar new year’s day. Those who are selected to lead the ritual do not leave their homes starting from the last day of the year, and put themselves in strict control including purifying their bodies in this valley and then preparing three new outfits. It would be a unique experience to stand in front of Jirisan Cheonnyeonsong and say a prayer in the middle of your Baemsagol Valley trek.