Chungju Lake

Chungju Lake was created in 1985 by the dam on the Namhangang and is among the largest reservoirs in the country, second in volume to Soyang Lake, filling a valley system between Chungju and Danyang with steep wooded ridges dropping straight into the water on both sides. The best way to see it is the boat: sightseeing ferries run between Chungju, the Cheongpung Cultural Heritage Complex and Danyang, taking one to two hours depending on the route, past cliffs, the Oksunbong rock pillars and Gudambong, both counted among the Danyang Palgyeong, the eight scenic views of the district. Cheongpung on the northern shore holds buildings moved uphill when the valley flooded - a gate, pavilions and old houses reassembled above the new water line - along with a cable car and a bungee bridge. Water level varies considerably through the year and low water in a dry spring can shorten or cancel routes.

The landscape

• The ferry run - the boat between Chungju, Cheongpung and Danyang.
• Oksunbong and Gudambong - the rock pillars from the water.
• Cheongpung complex - buildings relocated above the flooded valley.
• The wooded ridges - slopes falling straight to the lake.

When to go

April to June and October for colour and clear air. Ferry schedules thin in winter, and low water in dry periods can suspend some routes - check before travelling to a pier.

Things to know

Ferry timetables are seasonal and routes get cancelled at low water or in bad weather. There is limited shelter on some boats. Piers are spread out and a car helps.

Nearby

Danyang and Gosu cave are at the eastern end; Woraksan rises above the southern shore.