Beopseongpo (법성포) is where an Indian Monk Mirananta first set foot on Korean territory in A.D 384 to spread Buddhism, having made his journey via Dongjin in China. This area then is being developed as a tourist destination as the originating place of Buddhism in Korea. Note: the word ‘Beop’ in ‘Beop-seong-po’ means Buddhism while ‘Seong’ means a saint, referring to the Indian Monk Marananta. The origins of Buddhism in Korea are clear for Goguryeo and the Silla Kingdoms, but regarding the Kingdom of Baekje it is a little more obscure. It has been claimed by word of mouth in this region that the Indian Monk Marananta came to Beopseongpo of Yeonggwang to deliver his message of Buddhism and built the Bulgapsa Temple (불갑사) which hence became the first monument of Buddhism in the Baekje Kingdom.

Chilgok Dogae Hot Springs opened on June 1, 1998. Its Grand Hot Springs Bath is capable of accommodating almost 2,000 people at once. The Chilgok Dogae Hot Springs has several facilities such as accommodations, convenience stores, a Korean restaurant, and more. Chilgok Dogae Hot Springs uses alkali sulfur spa water that contains 12.3mg of sulfur, 0.01mg germanium, 30.6mg sodium, 3.11mg chlorine, and 3.09mg fluorine and the water is around 35℃. Prior to first use, the water does not undergo any filtering so that it maintains all its natural benefits. There are several tourism attractions near the hot springs like the Songjeong Natural Recreation Forest, Dabudong War Memorial Museum, and Waegwan War Memorial Museum.

Relax your mind and body with a cup of tea Tea therapy is used to relieve the symptoms of diseases or boost one's energy with teas. In the Medicinal Herb Tea Therapy Center, visitors can enjoy teas made with medicinal herbs and can experience aromatherapy by checking their physical condition with aromas. An aroma foot massage and making medicinal herb teas are recommended as well.

The Women’s History Exhibition Hall is a cultural space and exhibition area that covers the history of women Korea, and is the first of its kind in Korea. Continuously exploring and unfolding information and items related to the history of Korean women, and situating the material in a balanced historical context, the Exhibition Hall aims to give women their rightful place in Korean history. In addition, the Women’s History Exhibition Hall intends to enhance women’s sense of pride and expand gender equality through its various activities, including public education programs and special exhibitions.

Ganwolsan Mountain is a popular destination for hikers in the Ulsan and Busan area as well as other regions of Gyengsangnam-do Province. In early August, the reeds and lilies near the summit create a splendid view. To the west, the deep Naerijeong and Wangbonggol valleys channel clean water to Baenaegol Valley. From the Ganwol Gogae Ridge, follow the Singallo Path to Wanbonggol towards Paraeso Falls. There you will find a cave called Jungnimgul, which is sacred Catholic ground often visited by the Catholic faithful. The first church built by Catholics in the Yeongnam region to escape persecution is found in Buldanggol (Ganwolgol) Valley in Ganwolsan Mountain area. The tomb of Kim Agatha who died in persecution is also in the Ganwolgol Valley.

Yeosu City is nestled on the Yeosu Peninsula and the areas of Yeosu-si, Yeoncheon-si and Yeocheon-gun, which all have the same first character ‘려(麗) (ryeo)’ were combined as one into Yeosu-si as of April, 1998. Located at the entrance of the breakwater of Odongdo Island, the park embraces Namhae Sea (south sea). Thousands of evergreen trees and flowering plants spread out over the wide flats when approaching the peak by the steep staircase. The park has a 15m-high Yi Sun-sin statue, built in 1967 to honor his birth along with Jinnamje Festival, Jasangak, Chunghontop (memorial tower) and a fair view with a refreshing sea breeze. In addition, Ilchuljeong, Sunrise Arbor which was constructed in 1998, is beloved as a resting spot by many visitors.

Opened in 2004, the Hangang River Eco Learning Center is situated on the Namhangang Riverside. The site used to be a sandpit before it was turned into a wetland. Effluent from wastewater treatment plants, which in the past was released directly into the Hangang River, now passes through several ponds with various aquatic plants and a one kilometer-long waterway so that it can be naturally purified. This has contributed to an improvement in the water quality of the Hangang River. The learning center was built to restore the Namhangang Riverside area, which was destroyed due to sand extraction, and to restore its natural ecology of willow trees, reeds, and birds. The center organizes a number of ecological excursion programs for children.

Located 13km away from Damyang-eup, Chuwolsan Mountain (731m) is was designated Jeollanam-do Provincial Monument No. 4 and is one of the five famous mountains of Jeollanam-do. It marks the boundary between Jeollanam-do, South Jeolla Province (Wolgye-ri, Yong-myeon, the most northern town in Damyang-gun) and Jeollabuk-do, North Jeolla Province (Bokheung-myeon, Sunchang-gun). The mountain is surrounded by forest areas, rock formations and stones, and rock walls that look like intentionally-built fortifications with a narrow path to the west which can accommodate only one person at a time. Shaped like a Buddhist monk lying down when it is seen from Damyang-eup’s side, it is popular for various naturally grown medicinal herbs as well as rare kinds of Chuwolsan orchids. Bottom of the mountain has gentle slopes and densely-packed old pine trees, making it the best destination for recreation and relaxation for families every summer. Higher part of the mountain is hard to climb despite the fact that the mountain is not high. However, it is visited by mountain climbers all around the year. Located under Sangbong Peak is a hermitage and a mineral spring that reportedly never dries up. The peak also boasts an impressive view of the surrounding area, including Damyangho Lake. Chuwolsan Mountain was a battle site during the Imjin War along with nearby Geumseongsanseong Fortress. The last battle of Donghak Peasant Revolution also took place at Chuwolsan Mountain.  

Mangyeongdae Pavilion (만경대), located on the shore of the East Coast, one-kilometer east of Donghae City Hall, was built in 1613 while old Joseon was under the rule of King Gwanghaegun. However, the pavilion was destroyed by rainstorms and later rebuilt by the Samcheok Kim family some 60 years ago. While offering a spectacular view of sea to the east, the pavilion also offers a refreshing view of expansive pine forests to the north. If you look to the west, you will enjoy a magnificent view of Mt Duta beyond the pavilion’s back lawn as well as the Jeoncheon Stream flowing into the East Sea alongside a steep cliff-wall. As only Jukseoru Pavilion of Samcheok matched its view, poets of former times are said to have frequented Mangyeongdae Pavilion.  

Discover the Healing Tranquility of Romy Zian Garden in Gariwangsan Mountain Nestled in the heart of Gariwangsan Mountain, Romy Zian Garden is a serene, 330,000-square-meter (approximately 100 acres) mountainous retreat surrounded by lush deciduous forests and rare, exotic trees. Designed as a sanctuary for wellness and self-reflection, the garden offers visitors an opportunity to experience both physical and mental rejuvenation in a truly unique setting. A Garden Designed for Healing and Meditation Romy Zian Garden is not only a picturesque natural landscape, but it is also a carefully curated space optimized for healing and meditation. The garden features 23 themed meditation spots and 7 forest trekking routes, each thoughtfully designed to enhance well-being and encourage moments of peace and introspection. Along with its outdoor spaces, the garden also includes indoor areas that evoke the feeling of being immersed in nature, such as the meditation hall, café, and accommodations, allowing guests to relax and restore their energy. A Wellness Destination Recognized by Kangwon Province In recognition of its commitment to promoting wellness tourism, Romy Zian Garden was named one of Kangwon Province's Outstanding Wellness Tourism Destinations for the 2024-2025 period. "Wellness" is a term that combines well-being, happiness, and fitness, and wellness tourism refers to travel experiences focused on healing and recovery through natural therapies, beauty treatments, spas, meditation, and relaxation—offering a perfect escape from the stresses of modern life. A Love Story Behind the Garden The story behind Romy Zian Garden is deeply personal. In 2011, Son Jin-ik, the founder of LBest Group, created this garden for his wife, Romy, who was struggling with health issues. After discovering the pure mountain air at an altitude of 700 meters, Son decided to build the garden as a place for healing and tranquility. Over time, the garden became a symbol of their enduring love, and the name "Romy Zian" comes from the couple's affectionate nicknames. Romy Zian Garden opened to the public in 2017, inviting others to experience the healing energy that had helped the founders restore their health. Reflect and Heal in a Peaceful Setting The garden is designed around themes of life cycles, offering various spaces that reflect stages of life: * Green for Birth: Symbolizing new beginnings and growth. * Red for Youth: Representing vitality and passion. * Black for Maturity: Reflecting wisdom and life experience. Visitors can explore the 60+ meditation spots scattered throughout the garden, each with its own significance. The thoughtfully designed paths, small hills, and tranquil resting areas offer a peaceful environment for reflection and self-discovery. Key Highlights of Romy Zian Garden * Gasibeosi Castle: This iconic structure offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular photo spot. The name "Gasibeosi," meaning "husband and wife" in Korean, symbolizes the love that inspired the garden. * Sky Aura: A stunning collection of limestone formations, creating a unique and serene atmosphere perfect for meditation or photography. * Three Merge Water Viewpoint: A picturesque spot where visitors can observe the merging of three streams, symbolizing harmony and unity. * The Silent Thousand Years: A spiritually charged area known for its profound natural energy, offering visitors a chance to connect deeply with the forest. Wellness Programs for Body and Mind Romy Zian Garden offers various wellness programs aimed at helping visitors reconnect with themselves. These programs include: * Guided meditation walks through the garden's lush trails, * Yoga sessions in peaceful forest settings, * Body scans and wellness assessments at the Mountain House, a modern wellness center designed for physical and mental rejuvenation. With seven trekking routes and 23 thematic walking paths, the garden offers numerous opportunities to explore and experience nature's healing power. Whether you seek mindfulness, physical exercise, or simply a quiet place to relax, Romy Zian Garden is the perfect destination for a rejuvenating escape. A Year-Round Destination for Healing No matter the season, Romy Zian Garden offers a healing experience that changes throughout the year. From the vibrant spring greens to the warm autumn hues, each visit promises new beauty and a sense of renewal. Whether you're visiting for relaxation, wellness, or simply to enjoy the natural beauty, Romy Zian Garden offers a sanctuary that will leave you feeling restored and at peace. ​『 COPYRIGHTS © 강원특별자치도 경제진흥원 All rights reserved. https://www.kwellness.kr』