The silver grass field sits within the crater of an ancient volcanic formation at an elevation of 756 meters.
The area is home to the remains of Hwawangsanseong Fortress, an ancient stone structure dating back to the Three Kingdoms period.
The field is managed through an annual controlled burning event to prevent forest encroachment and maintain the grassland ecosystem.
Three distinct ponds exist within the crater, which are said to never dry up regardless of the season.
The landscape is designated as a protected hiking and nature area within the Changnyeong-gun regional jurisdiction.
Hwawangsan Silver Grass Field is a expansive 18.5-hectare mountain meadow located on the summit plateau of Mount Hwawang in Changnyeong. The area is defined by its massive, rolling fields of Miscanthus sinensis that turn golden-brown every autumn. The meadow occupies the crater of an ancient volcano, creating a unique flat basin surrounded by rocky peaks. The terrain is marked by three ponds located within the crater walls, which are remnants of volcanic activity. Hikers can traverse the perimeter of the grass field via a well-maintained path along the ridgeline. The location is known for the Hwawangsan Ridge Trail, which connects to the nearby fortress walls. The grass is traditionally burned in a managed festival to rejuvenate the soil, though this event is subject to environmental and safety closures. The field offers panoramic views of the surrounding Gyeongsangnam-do landscape, including the Upo Wetland in the distance.
The elevated path along the fortress wall looking down into the center of the silver grass crater.
Bring a windbreaker as temperatures on the exposed summit plateau are significantly lower than at the trailhead.
Wear high-traction hiking boots, as the paths leading to the plateau can be steep and rocky.
Carry sufficient water as there are no shops or refill stations once you begin the ascent from the base.
Attempting the ascent in sneakers or without a map, as the mountain trails feature steep inclines and uneven rock surfaces.
The area may be restricted during periods of high wildfire risk or extreme weather events; verify local forest access alerts before departure.
Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile grassland ecosystem; drone usage is often restricted due to wildfire prevention regulations.
