The Jungwon Tappyeongni 7-story stone tower (National Treasure No. 6) is often referred to simply as “Jungangtap” (“Central Tower”) because of its location at the center of Korea. Standing at a x_height of 14.5 meters, the tower is presumed to have been built during the Unified Silla Period. An outdoor sculpture park (the first of its kind in Chungcheongbuk-do Province) has been established in the grassy area around the tower and contains 26 sculptures created by Korean sculptors. The larger Jungangtapsajeok Park is accented by gazebos, small fountains, a hiking path, and is home to the Chungju Museum, an outdoor museum, a musical fountain, 10 sculptures and etc. The park’s convenient facilities have made it a popular leisure retreat for the citizens of Chungju as well as an educational site for children. Chungjujojeongji Dam, located north of Jungangtapsajeok Park, is another popular retreat for the locals.

Located in Jung-gu, Incheon, Gwandong Gallery is a unique cultural space that blends history, art, and architecture. The gallery is housed in a 90-year-old Japanese-style wooden residence, offering visitors a glimpse into Incheon's past while serving as a hub for contemporary artistic expression. Historic Architecture & Cultural Significance The gallery is set in a well-preserved wooden hanok-style building from the early 20th century, reflecting a time when Incheon was a key point of international trade and cultural exchange. The structure retains traditional wooden beams, sliding doors, and tiled roofs, giving visitors an authentic experience of period architecture. It stands as a historical landmark, preserving the legacy of Incheon's architectural evolution. Exhibitions & Programs Gwandong Gallery serves as a dynamic exhibition space, featuring: * Art Exhibitions – Showcasing both modern and traditional Korean and international artworks. * Historical Displays – Exhibits that delve into Incheon's urban and cultural history. * Cultural Events – Workshops, artist talks, and educational programs that engage the local and international community. The gallery continuously curates new content, making each visit a fresh and engaging experience for returning guests. Visitor Information * Location: 38, Sinpo-ro 31beon-gil, Jung-gu, Incheon, South Korea * Opening Hours: Typically open Friday to Sunday (Hours may vary depending on exhibitions) * Contact: +82 32-766-8660 It is recommended to check the gallery’s schedule in advance, as exhibition times and special events may affect visiting hours. Nearby Attractions A visit to Gwandong Gallery pairs well with exploring Incheon’s historic sites, such as: * Incheon Chinatown – Korea’s largest and oldest Chinatown, known for its rich culinary scene and cultural landmarks. * Open Port History District – A heritage zone with preserved architecture from Incheon’s early trade era. * Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village – A colorful neighborhood with murals and themed streets. Why Visit? Gwandong Gallery offers more than just an art space—it is a historical landmark, a cultural storytelling venue, and an immersive artistic experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply looking to explore Incheon’s lesser-known gems, this gallery provides a quiet retreat into the past while embracing the creative pulse of the present.

The Byeokgolje Reservoir in Gimje is the oldest irrigation facility in Korea. According to the Samguk Sagi (history of the three kingdoms), Byeokgolje was first built in the 21st year of the reign of King Heulhae (330 AD) of the Silla Kingdom. However, this region belonged to the Baekje Kingdom at that time, so some counter that the embankment was actually built in the 27th year of King Biryou (330 AD) of the Baekje Kingdom. Historians agree however that the reservoir was mended by King Wonseong of Silla in 790 AD and by King Hyeonjong and King Injong of the Goryeo Dynasty in 1143 AD. In 1415, King Taejong of the Joseon Dynasty rebuilt the whole facility, but it was washed away in heavy rains five years later in the 2nd year of King Sejong. Only about three kilometers of the reservoir embankment remain intact today. Moreover, the original embankment underwent major transformations in 1925 when the Dongjin Land Improvement Association remolded it into a channel for carrying water to nearby fields. In 1975, an archeological study of the sites where the two floodgates once stood revealed that highly refined measuring techniques had been used in the original construction of the reservoir. Thus, despite its many changes, Byeokgolje not only holds significance as Korea’s oldest manmade reservoir, but also as a historical relic that points to the highly developed engineering technology of the past.

Seopori Beach, designated as a national tourism area, is surrounded by a luxurious forest of 100-year-old pine trees. The moderately sloped, white sand beach extends 3 kilometers in length and 300 meters in x_width. The beach and the pine tree forest provide a great recreational area for the 100,000 annual visitors. Leisure facilities include a vast sports field, seaside playground, tennis court, restaurants, karaoke, bicycle rentals, and more. Visitors can enjoy fishing from the rocks on the seashore, swimming in the clean sea, and strolling through the pine forest to appreciate the scenic surroundings.

The historic Dogapsa Buddhist Temple is located within the Wolchulsan National Park and in 1984, was designated Provincial Cultural Property No. 79. At an elevation of 376m, the site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area, so impressive it carries the nickname ‘Sogeumgang River’, meaning “Small Geumgang River” of Jeollanamdo-Province. Founded by Buddhist Monk Doseon during the later years of the Silla Kingdom, the temple houses many historic and cultural treasures, most notable of which is Haetalmun Gate (gate of emancipation); designated as National Treasure No. 50 and one of few remaining original Korean structures. In addition, there are the Maaeyeoraejwasang (National Treasure No.144) and Seokjoyeoraejwasang (National Treasure No.89) sitting Buddha statues, the Mokjomunsu•Bohyeondongjasang (Treasure No. 1134), the Doseonsumibi (Jeollanam-do Tangible Cultural Property No.38) and the Daeungbojeon, or ‘main temple hall.’ An added bonus is the walkway lined with cherry trees leading to Dogapsa Temple. During the spring season, the 1km path offers a fabulous touch to the pristine surroundings. Nearby attractions are Wolchulsan National Park, Historical Site of Dr. Wangin, Yeongam Pottery Museum and Gurim Village.  

Baran Spa in Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do uses salt springs water from 700m underground. The water is rich in minerals, and is known to have many health benefits. The Spa features several different facilities including a sauna, ultraviolet steam spa, jade spa, and bulgama (fire pot) spa.

The Jaun Seowon Confucian Academy is home to the tablets of Yulgok Yi I, a great scholar of the Joseon Dynasty. Yulgok was born in his mother’s childhood home in Gangneung in 1536, the 31st year of King Jungjong’s reign. The site is home to the Memorial Hall (free admission) where artifacts related to Yulgok and his mother Sinsaimdang are on exhibit. The tomb of Yulgok Yi I is located to the west of the Memorial Hall and sits above the tomb of Sinsaimdang with the tombs of other relatives. It is unique that the tomb of Yi I is above that of his mother. The site is home to the memorial hall building as well as the family tombs, tombstones, Sammun and Munseongmun gates, Yulgok Education and Training Center, a lawn plaza, pond, mineral spring, and a room where memorial services are held. In early October every year, the Yulgok Culture Festival, a major festival of Paju, is held beginning with the ritual service offered in memory of Yulgok.

Daeyoo Land opened in 1978 as a hunting ground and shooting range and recently opened an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) track. Situated on 817 acres of land, Daeyoo Land includes a pistol range, rifle ranges, clay pigeon shooting, and an ATV track. It’s a great place to break away from your everyday life and enjoy the freedom of playing in the great outdoors. Closed  Open 365 days a year Operating Hours  09:00 - 18:00 Menu  Some menu items may differ slightly in price and are subject to change without notice. Kkwong Sasimi (Sliced Raw Pheasant): 18,000 won Kkwong Darigui (Grilled Pheasant Legs): 18,000 won Kkwong shabu shabu (Pheasant Shabu-shabu): 12,000 won Kkwong Manduguk (Pheasant Dumpling Soup): 9,000 won Recommended Menu for Foreigners  Kkwong Sasimi (Sliced Raw Pheasant): 18,000 won Kkwong Darigui (Grilled Pheasant Legs): 18,000 won Kkwong shabu shabu (Pheasant Shabu-shabu): 12,000 won Kkwong Manduguk (Pheasant Dumpling Soup): 9,000 won Additional Taxes  VAT Included Maximum Seating Capacity  430 seats Parking Facility  100 spaces Restrooms  Male and Female Separate/ Located within the business Credit Cards  Accepted Reservations  Reservation Available Smoking / Non-Smoking  Non-Smoking Nearby Tourist Attractions  Sanbanggulsa Temple, Yongmeori Beach, Cheonjeyeon Falls, Jungmun Resort Complex, Jeju Art Park, Yeomiji Botanical Garden, etc.  

Hwangnyongsa Temple is attached to the Taegojong Order of Buddhism. No information is available on when the temple was built, but it is thought to have been built by the descendants of Hwang Hee (1363-1462), who returned to his hometown to avoid political strife in the mid Joseon era, wishing for national peace and the prosperity of the family clan. The temple had been taken care of by Hwang Hee’s descendants for generations, but at one time became ruined. The temple had been rebuilt in modern days. The current buildings were re-constructed by Monk Beobin in 1985. Inside, there are Buddhist buildings like Daeungjeon, Gwaneumjeon, Samseonggak, and Beomjongnu. New additions include the three-storied stone pagoda and the Three Buddha statues in front of Daeungjeon Hall. The oldest relic from the temple is the standing Gwanseeumbosal Buddha statue in front of the Three Buddha Statues. The statue is considered to be about a hundred years old.