Mt. Myohyang

Mount Myohyang, "mysterious fragrant mountain", lies in North Pyongan Province and rises to 1,909 m^[1]. UNESCO designated it a biosphere reserve in 2009, citing its cultural significance and its cliffs as habitat^[1].

The mountain is home to 12 endangered animal species, and BirdLife International has identified about 7,000 ha of it as an Important Bird Area^[1].

Much of the mountain is covered by mixed broadleaf and coniferous forest. Its cliffs support 30 endemic plant species and 16 globally threatened plant species^[1].

The Myohyang and Jokyuryong ranges stand on the left bank of the Chongchon River, and the mountain's steep cliffs and rocky ridges give it much of its scenery. The cliffs are the habitat of its endemic plants.

Myohyang is a mountain climate in northwestern Korea, with cold winters and warm, wetter summers at lower elevations. Elevations in the reserve run from about 100 m to 1,909 m.

The Samguk sagi listed Myohyang as the home of King Tangun in the Gojoseon foundation myth, though the myth is now believed to refer originally to Mount Paektu^[1]. Buddhist hermitages including Sangwon, Kumgang and Habiro are scattered on the mountain^[1].

The mountain is protected as a national park of 16,000 ha, and it became a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 2009^[1].

Pohyon Temple, built in the 11th century, is the main draw. Visitors can also hike several routes and tour the Ryongmun Cavern, and the International Friendship Exhibition holds gifts given to North Korean leaders^[1].

The mountain is reached from the village of Hyangsan, about 5 km away. The Hyangsan Hotel and the second-class Chongchon Hotel serve visitors^[1].

Myohyang's 30 endemic plants and 16 globally threatened plant species are the main conservation interest, along with 12 endangered animal species^[1].