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Bakdaljae Pass is known all over Korea through the song “Crying Over Bakdaljae Pass.” The pass gained its name after a story of unrequited love between Bakdal, a young scholar from Gyeongsang-do and Geumbong, a young lady in Pyeong-dong in the Joseon period. As the only road connecting Chungju and Jecheon in the past, Bakdaljae Pass was always filled with traffic. However, a tunnel has been constructed underneath the pass, redirecting most of the traffic and bringing only those who know the tragic story of Bakdal and Geumbong up the curvy hills. Bakdaljae Pass is being transformed into a love-themed destination and is perfect as a scenic drive course for families and lovers.
Bakdaljae Pass also encompasses the Indeungsan Mountain, making it the only location that features the concepts of sky, land, and people. This is a special location that was not only the starting point of the Korean people, but also a holy place used for performing worship for the heavenly gods. “Bakdal” is a purely Korean word that has no roots in Chinese characters. “Bak” holds numerous meanings such as bright, big, white, high, and holy.
Once you arrive in Jecheon through the Daritje Tunnel in Chungju, you can see Baegun-myeon, a village known for its population of former residents of Seoul. Bakdaljae Pass reveals the high mountain peaks and the bright blue sky after passing through its ninety-nine hills and the cozy Pyeongdong-ri Village.
It takes around 10 minutes to drive through the pass now, but in the past, it took several days to pass through Bakdaljae Pass and Daritjae Pass. With the steep, dangerous hills and overgrown birch trees, seeing mountainous animals like the tiger was a norm, and the pass was filled with thieves. With such perilous conditions, it was said that new brides would never make it back home. The lore tells that the pass gained its moniker, “Crying Over Bakdaljae Pass,” from the tears brides shed upon the thought that they could never go back home again.
To bring closure to Bakdal and Geumbong’s sorrow, a wooden sculpture park has been created in their memory. One sculpture depicts Bakdal, carrying a child on his shoulders, walking down a forest path with Geumbong. Through the hands of Monk Seonggak, the two lovers have been brought together. To illustrate a feeling of longing and waiting, the sculptures feature a long neck or bulging eyes.
Located at the peak of the Bakdaljae Pass, “Namuhyanggi Chahyanggi” sells numerous well-being enzyme teas and exhibits wooden artworks. It is especially well-known for magic clubs made with the Amur maackia tree. The tree is special in that sick mountain animals would rub themselves against it to be cured. The “magic club” is a very popular item since it became known that itbrings wealth. Enjoy a cup of tea and take a look around at the magic clubs.
자연치유도시 제천 문화관광
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