A range of rocks resembling an unfolded folding screen along a Hallasan Mountain trail is called Obaengnahan (오백나한, 五百羅漢). The name Obaengnahan literally means 500 Buddhist saints, referring to saints who had gained the ultimate enlightenment and were entitled to respect and religious service.


Obaengnahan consists of 500 pillar-like rocks that stand along the ridgeline as if soaring to the sky. It is considered one of the most beautiful views on Hallasan Mountain. The formation is also called Yeongsilgiam (영실기암, 靈室奇巖) because it is said the shape of the grand valley looks like a sacred mountain upon which the Buddha delivered his teachings to his students. Obaengnahan can be seen from Yeongsil Trail, which is considered one of the most scenic trails on the mountain. In the winter, hikers may appreciate snow-covered rocks and frozen waterfalls.



By Limb Jae-un
Korea.net Staff Writer
Photos courtesy of Korea Post
jun2@korea.kr