Ginkgo Tree of Hasong-ri, Yeongwol

Basic information

Designation

Natural Monument No.76

Category

동식물

Designated year

1962

Location

영월군, 강원특별자치도— 강원 영월군 영월읍 하송리 190-4번지

Coordinates

37.178316, 128.463821

A ginkgo tree can be as old as a fossil. Found in Japan, China and Korea, the gingko tree was introduced to Korea along with Confucianism and Buddhism from China. In fall it produces beautiful leaves which are resistant to insect damage. As ginkgo trees provide broad leafy shade, they are often planted in arbors or by roadsides. The ginkgo tree in Yeongwol is assumed to be about 1,000-1,200 years old. It is about 29m in height, and has a girth of 14.8m. The tree was originally planted in front of Daejeongsa Temple, but the temple has long since disappeared, and it is now situated in the middle of the village in Hasong-ri. This ginkgo tree is still used by locals as a resting place. According to local belief, no animals or insects can approach this ginkgo tree because it was inhabited by a snake with supernatural power. Also, although children fell out of the tree, they never got hurt. Lastly, a long time ago, an infertile woman who wanted to have a baby prayed continuously to this tree and finally gave birth. The ginkgo tree in Yeongwol has been well tended and preserved for many years, making it an important material for biology research. It has been designated as Natural Monument (No. 76) for its protection.

Location