Historical surveys during the Silla dynasty identified this site as the exact geographical center of the kingdom's territory.
Excavations in 1917 revealed a miniature sarira stupa and a Goryeo-era bronze mirror inside the pagoda's stone body.
The name 'Jungangtap' literally translates to 'Central Pagoda' in reference to its location at the nation's heart.
The pagoda stands on a natural hill overlooking the Namhan River, chosen to maximize its visual prominence.
Its architecture follows the rigid proportional standards of 8th-century Unified Silla stone masonry.
The Seven-story Stone Pagoda in Tappyeong-ri, also known as Jungangtap, is the only remaining Unified Silla-era pagoda of its height. Standing 14.5 meters tall, it is designated as National Treasure No. 6 of South Korea. It is situated at the geographical center of the Korean peninsula, a location traditionally marked by the Silla kings to define the nation's midpoint. The pagoda displays characteristic Silla masonry techniques, featuring a two-tiered base and seven stacked roof stones. It underwent major restoration in 1917, during which a bronze sarira casket and a mirror were discovered within the body of the pagoda. The structure is located within a riverside park area that includes a central sculpture park and traditional Korean pavilions. It remains the most representative cultural landmark in the Chungju region.
From the riverfront walking path looking upward to capture the pagoda framed by the riverside trees.
Visit the adjacent Chungju Museum to see the artifacts recovered from the pagoda's interior.
Walk along the Namhan River trail for panoramic views of the pagoda against the water.
Bring a picnic blanket as the surrounding park is a designated recreation area with ample grassy space.
Do not attempt to climb or touch the stone structure, as it is a protected National Treasure.
The park area is open 24 hours, but the internal park facilities and museum have specific seasonal and weekly closure patterns.
