Amethyst Cave Land

In Sangbuk-myeon, Ulju-gun, at the foot of Sinbulsan in Ulsan, Amethyst Cave Land is a former amethyst mine turned into a show cave. Its two levels of tunnels run for about 2.5 km, and the temperature stays at 12–16°C all year, cool in summer and mild in winter. As well as walking through the galleries, you can cross a flooded tunnel by boat, which is what makes the visit unusual.

The amethyst mines of Eonyang

This area has produced amethyst for a long time and was once nicknamed "Oksan", the gem mountain. Some point to crystal necklaces from the 5th–6th centuries found in the Silla tomb Geumnyeongchong as a sign that local quartz was used long ago. The rock here is Cretaceous Eonyang granite, and quartz crystals grew in the cavities (geodes) along its cracks. Eonyang amethyst, purple with a reddish tint, became known for its fine colour.

Large-scale mining ran for about 30 years from the early 1960s. Amethyst was designated a legally recognised mineral in 1981, and in 1982 the mining company behind today's cave was founded and began systematic extraction. Of roughly 100 amethyst mines that once operated nearby, almost all have closed, and one remaining gallery now runs as a tourist cave.

During the Japanese occupation, large amounts of amethyst were mined here and shipped to Japan. At its peak the mine produced anywhere from hundreds to thousands of kilograms of raw stone a year, and the gems were cut and polished locally for sale at home and abroad.

What to see inside

• Huge galleries: the interior covers about 16,500 m², with tunnels wide enough for a truck, branching like an ant colony.
• Amethyst geodes: see up close the hollow rocks lined with dense purple crystals.
• Underground lake by boat: cross a flooded gallery in a small boat, with coloured lights reflecting off the rock and water.
• Jurassic World: a section on the second level with dinosaur models and character lights, a hit with children.
• Themed corners: a wishing cave, a human history display and a media room are spread along the tunnels.

Good to know

This is not a natural limestone cave with stalactites but a themed cave: a man-made mine with lighting and exhibits added. With its bright colours and photo spots it suits family outings and rainy days. Some floors are wet, so wear shoes with good grip.

Tripto tips

• Opening hours: weekdays 09:15–17:00, weekends 09:15–17:30, open every day. Times refer to ticket sales.
• Prices: fees depend on what you do (cave, boat, rides). Check current prices on the official website before you go.
• Time needed: about 1–2 hours including the boat.
• What to wear: the cave is chilly even in midsummer, so bring a light jacket.
• Getting there: the address is 212 Jasujeong-ro, Sangbuk-myeon, Ulju-gun. Parking is free, and a car is the easiest option.
• Combine with: the walled town of Eonyangeupseong, about 10 minutes away by car, and the trailheads of the Yeongnam Alps.