The name 'Auraji' comes from the local dialect word 'eoreo-ji-da', meaning to be connected or to join together.
Jeongseon Arirang, originated here, is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The traditional ferry operating at the site is pulled manually by rope, maintaining a historical method of river crossing.
The maiden statue, or 'Cheonyeo-sang', is positioned to look toward the mountain path where the man from the lover's legend was said to have walked.
Rafting from this site was a vital economic activity for the region until the construction of modern roads and rail lines.
Auraji is the confluence point where the Songcheon and Goljicheon streams meet to form the main stream of the Namhan River. Historically, this site served as the departure point for raftsmen transporting timber from Jeongseon to Hanyang, now Seoul. It is recognized as the birthplace of the Jeongseon Arirang folk song, which was composed by locals to express the sorrow of separation. The site features a large statue of a maiden and a young man, symbolizing the legendary story of two lovers separated by the rising river waters. A traditional cable ferry, known as a 'julbae', operates across the water to preserve the local rafting heritage. The area is integrated into the larger Jeongseon Arirang cultural trail network. Visitors can cross the river using a pedestrian bridge that provides an elevated view of the confluence. The site remains a focal point for regional cultural festivals and performances reflecting Gangwon-do traditions.
The center of the pedestrian bridge looking down at the exact point where the two distinct water colors of the merging streams meet.
Walk across the pedestrian bridge to get a symmetrical view of the two streams converging.
Visit the small information center nearby to read the specific lyrics and history of the local Arirang songs.
Wear comfortable footwear if you plan to walk the riverbank trails surrounding the confluence.
Do not attempt to swim in the confluence, as currents can be unpredictable and the area is primarily for viewing.
Maintain a respectful volume, as this is considered a site of significant cultural and historical sentiment for the local community.
