Auraji is a train station on the Jeongseon line located in Gangwondo. It is about 19.4 km away from Jengsoen-eup, and is the meeting place of two streams, the Songcheon stream from Gujeolli and Imgyemyeon’s Goljicheon stream, which flows down from Samcheok’s Jungbongsan. The name of the station, Auraji, comes from the verb eoureuda, meaning “be in harmony” in Korean. Auraji Station was once named after the region, Yeoryang, but was changed to Auraji, which describes the unique geographical features of the village. The area where the two streams meet and become a river became a bustling business zone in the past, where rafts were floated with lumber all the way to Seoul. It is quite a sight looking at the beautiful scenery enveloped by the crystal clear water and pebbles on the riverside surrounded by Nuchusan, Sangwonsan, Okgapsan, Goyangsan, Ballonsan, and the Wangjaesan Mountains. At the confluence of these two streams, a statue of Virgin Auraji and a newly built pavilion rest on a hill in the middle of the peaceful landscape. There are also rail bikes being operated at this station, which run 7.2 km from Gujeolli Station to Auraji Station. Notably, this is the birthplace of Jeongseon Arirang – Aejeongpyeon. Legend has it that there was a girl and a boy who were deeply in love in this village. The girl lived in Yeoryang and the boy in Gageum, with the Auraji Valley sitting in the middle. One day they were going to pick some camellia flowers in Ssarigol Valley. However, torrential downpours from the night before made the river overflow, making it impossible to use the raft to see each other. Their heart was aching for they couldn’t see each other. The lyrics of the traditional song Arirang were inspired by this story: “Rower in Auraji, listen to me, please let me cross the river.   Beautiful camellia petals in Ssarigol Valley are scattered around.   The beautiful camellia shed its petals and piled up with dead leaves. I miss my dearest one all year around and my heart aches.” The old rafts still remain in Gageum Village (also known as Gagumi) and Yeoryang village. A camp site of about 2,000 square meters is open in the months of July and August each year. Many tourist sites are nearby, such as Ojangpokpo Waterfall, Hanggolgyegok Valley, Hwaamdonggul Cave, Hwaamyaksuteo Mineral Spring and others. Intercity buses operate from Jeongseon, Yeoryang and on to Gujeolli. From April to November, trains run from Cheongnyangni Station to Jeongseon station on days ending with the number 2 and 7 (ie. 2, 7, 12, 17).

The Ecological Culture Exploration Site on Oido Island (오이도) in Siheung City is abundant in natural resources and historic relics dating back to the prehistoric era. Shell mounds are scatted across the island, the scale of the shell mounds is the largest along the west coast and they are the only relics that give any information about exchanges between Korea’s neolithic populations. They show evidence of exchanges between the northern and southern populations that inhabited the peninsula and continent, and how the coastal environment along the west coast changed during the Neolithic Age.

Geumsan is home to 1,500 years of Korean ginseng cultivation. More than 80% of Korean ginseng is cultivated here. To spread the excellence of Korean (Geumsan) ginseng across the nation and the world, ginseng cultivation implements and models, efficacy, foods, and other products containing ginseng are on display in this museum. Visitors can also watch ginseng-related videos to gain a better understanding of Korean ginseng.

Boasting breathtaking views, Jirisan National Park was the first park in Korea to officially be designated a national park in 1967. Its glorious mountain range extends across three provinces and five cities. The magnificent mountains and exceptional scenery make this one of the most famous mountains in Korea. Roughly 1,915 meters above sea level, Cheonwangbong Peak, considered to be the pillar of heaven, is the main peak. Jirisan also features Banyabong and Nogodan, and is home to over 10 famous temples. There are over twenty summits and valleys such as Baemsagol Valley, which are part of "Jirisan Ten Sceneries." As this is the location of the most well-preserved virgin forests in Korea , the majestic and mystical mountain is highly revered. There are many species of animal and plant life, and as the first place to cultivate tea in Korea, herbal medicine cultivation still flourishes here.Jirisan Mountain was also where the Buddhist culture prospered, and there are many cultural assets here, such as Baekjangam Three-Story Stone Pagoda (National Treasure No.10), the Silsangsa Three-Story Stone Pagoda (Treasure No. 37) and more. These regional cultural assets and the superb sceneries of nature give you a unique taste of local history and culture. The weather is temperamental and only 80~100 days out of the year are clear and sunny, but the mist and fog create rare, unparalleled scenes not found anywhere else.

Gujibong Peak in Gusan-dong, Gimhae in Gyeongsangnam-do is believed to be the birthplace of King Suro, the founder of the Gaya kingdom. The peak was originally named Gusubong (“gu” meaning “turtle,” “su” meaning “head”) after its resemblance to the head of a turtle. The flat part of the peak (the turtle’s “head”) is home to the Tomb of King Suro. On the summit is a southern-style dolmen dating back to the 4th century BC that consists of 5 or 6 support stones and a large cover stone measuring 2.5m in diameter. The cover stone bears the inscription “Gujibongseok,” said to be written by Han Ho.Gujibong Peak is considered a sacred place by the local people because, according to legend, it is the place where the creation of the Gaya Kingdom took place. During the Japanese colonial rule, the “neck” of the turtle was destroyed by the construction of a mountain road. Years later, a pedestrian road was built to rejoin the neck and restore the feng shui of the mountain.

Daecheong Dam (대청댐) is a multi-purpose dam consisting of a 72m-tall and 495m-long concrete gravity dam and rockfill dam. It is located where Daejeon and Chungcheongbuk-do meet. The observatory, located at Palgakjeong Service Area, offers a great view of Daecheongho Lake (대청호). A variety of fascinating items are displayed in the Water Culture Center (물문화관) on the left bank of Daecheong Dam. A nearby grassy meadow promises a relaxing and comfortable rest, while local delicacies such as freshwater fish stew and marinated grilled eel are a delight to taste.

Situated on the outskirts of a mountain behind Cheondong-ri (Danyang), Cheondong Cave is a limestone cave of 470m in length. Created 450 million years ago, the cave is known to have beautiful limestone rocks often called “flower trays.” The cave is decorated with a breathtaking array of stalactites, stalagmites, columns and soda straws as if they were part of a lush forest. Abundant animal deposits render the cave a huge specimen gallery.Although it is a relatively small, separate cave, Cheondong boasts plethora of splendid natural features. Along with Gosu Cave (designated as Natural Monument No. 256) in Gosu-ri, Danyang, Cheondong Cave is considered one of the most beautiful limestone caves in Korea. 

Located 4 km southwest from on-site Anmyeon-eup, Kkotji Beach is 3.2 km in length and 300m wide. The beach has perfect conditions with its gentle slope, clear water and its comfortable water temperature. You can enjoy fresh fish from the nearby Port Bangpohang, as well as see the legendary Halmibawi Rock.The beautiful view of the sunset here attracts numerous photographers during all four seasons.

Nestled on the tranquil Seokmodo Island in Incheon, Seokmodo Mineral Hot Springs is a serene retreat perfect for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty during their Korea travel. Overlooking the breathtaking West Sea, this hot spring is a hidden gem that combines rejuvenation with the scenic charm of Incheon travel. Why Seokmodo Mineral Hot Springs is Perfect for Your Korea Trip * Healing Mineral Waters Drawn from 460 meters underground, the spring water maintains a soothing temperature of 51°C and is rich in essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium chloride. These natural properties offer a variety of health benefits: * Skin Care: Helps with dryness and conditions like atopic dermatitis. * Beauty Boost: Leaves your skin hydrated and radiant. * Relaxation and Pain Relief: Eases joint and muscle pain, promoting better blood circulation. * Nature and Relaxation Combined As part of your Incheon travel experience, unwind in the outdoor baths while enjoying the stunning ocean views and peaceful surroundings. With its calming ambiance, Seokmodo Mineral Hot Springs is an ideal addition to your Korea travel itinerary. Plan Your Visit Operating Hours: * April to October: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last entry at 7:00 PM) * November to March: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Last entry at 6:00 PM) * Closed: Every Tuesday Admission Fees: * Adults: 9,000 KRW * Children (Ages 4-7): 6,000 KRW * Spa Clothing Rental: 2,000 KRW Explore Incheon During Your Visit Located at 865-17 Samsannam-ro, Samsan-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon, South Korea, Seokmodo Mineral Hot Springs is just one of the many incredible spots to explore in Incheon travel. Nearby attractions include Bomunsa Temple, known for its rich cultural history, and Minmeoru Beach, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a family outing. With easy access and ample parking, this destination fits seamlessly into your Korea travel plans. Why Add Seokmodo Hot Springs to Your Korea Travel Itinerary? For travelers exploring Incheon, Seokmodo Mineral Hot Springs offers a unique chance to relax, rejuvenate, and connect with nature. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape during your Korea travel or looking to experience the soothing benefits of natural hot springs, this destination is the perfect blend of healing and adventure. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem during your journey through Korea!