Jangneung (장릉) is located in Gimpo, Gyeonggi-do province. This is the tomb of the posthumously designated king, King Wonjong (1580-1619), who was the father of King Injo, and of his wife, Queen Inheon (1578-1626).King Wonjong was the 5th son of King Seonjo. He had deep respect for his parents and a strong affection for his siblings. King Wonjong’s third son was exiled to Ganghwado Island under a false accusation and ended up committing suicide. King Wonjong was shocked at the tragic death of his son and died in 1619.The surroundings of the tomb have been well preserved and landscaped, so visitors can enjoy relaxing and walking in this area. Geunjeongsa Temple is located nearby. 

Its deep valleys and unique mountain formations are what make Jirisan Mountain truly spectacular. It consists of numerous peaks, and is known to be well-preserved and clean. 'Ten Scenic Views of Jirisan Mountain' are particular memorable and simply breathtaking. Perhaps Jirisan Mountain’s most signature highlight is its incredible sunrise; the scarlet sunlight from the horizon in the east is spectacular, and arguably the best place to watch it in Korea. The second highlight is the 'Nogodan Sea of Clouds.' Located to the west of Jirisan Mountain, Nogodan Peak is said to boast the most outstanding views of Jirisan Mountain. If you climb up to the peak following the Hwaeomsa Valley, at times the sea of clouds are visible from below the peak. The third notable highlight is 'Banyabong’s Nakjo.' Banyabong Peak is a huge dome shaped feature. One of the big joys of climbing Banyabong is to see the Nakjo. The fourth selected highlight is the full moon; the beautiful scarlet sky together with the black mountain line produce an exquisite painted background to the rising of the moon. The fifth notable feature is the red sunset seen through the mountain haze. The sixth is the deep waterfall between the peaks of Cheonghakbong and Baekhakbong. The 60m fall produces a tremendous sound. The seventh of Jirisan's highlights is Piagol Autumn Leaves. At the village, walk 10 minutes further towards Piagol and you will come to a pine forest at the edge of Jeollanam-do and Gyeongsangnam-do. It is called Piagol, the best broad-leaved tree forest in Jirisan Mountain area. In the spring, you will see the Azaleas, in the summer the green trees, and in the fall, the autumn leaves, and in the winter, the beautiful view of snow-covered landscape. But the autumnal colors of Piagol are some of the best in the world. Every year the Autumn Leaves Festival is held here. The eighth highlight is the royal azalea blossoming between the rocks. In the spring, the royal azaleas blanket the mountain. There is a field that extends 1200m in the southern area of Jirisan Mountain covered with flowers known as Royal Azalea Plateau. The ninth feature is the Chilseon Valley. With its roots in Cheonwonbong Peak, it is one of our nation’s three best valleys. According to legend, seven gods are said to be living in Chilseondong Valley. Finally, the tenth most scenic feature is Seomjincheongryu. Flowing southwesterly across Jirisan Mountain and into the south coast, the Seomjingang River is so clear that it is sometimes compared to blue silk. The white sandy beaches on either side of the river are also very beautiful.  

Rafting is a challenging recreational activity in which a team of six to eight people navigates fast-flowing rivers. Rafting not only offers excitement, but also gives an overview of the natural landscape. Training for rafting provides participants with an opportunity to gain self-confidence, learn to cooperate with their teammates, and relieve stress.Naerincheon Stream in particular is considered one of the top three rafting spots in Korea along with the Hantangang River and Donggang River. Consisting of over ten rapid sub-streams, Naerincheon is the only stream in Korea that runs from south to north.The stream stretches over 6km from Wondaegyo to Gosari Resting Spot; its narrow x_width and pointed rocks offer one of the most exciting and challenging rafting experiences. Rafts are often turned upside down, and each sub-stream is connected to the others, offering little time for rafters to make each maneuver.Naerincheon Stream Rafting is also known for its excellent amenities, like its modern shower facilities with warm water. 

Mokpo Station is the gateway to the southwestern sea of Korea. It is the nation’s southwestern-most railway station and the last stop of the Honam Line, which is a major railway line serving the Jeolla-do province. The station offers easy access to a number of popular tourist destinations in the region including the Dadohae archipelago, Yeongam-gun, Haenam-gun, Muan-gun, Sinan-gun, and Jindo-gun. It is also a frequent stopover for travelers going to Jejudo, Heulsando, and Hongdo islands by ship. With the launch of the high-speed train KTX (Korea Train eXpress) services on April 1, 2004, the station building was expanded to its present state. The two-story station building is equipped with a reception hall, a ticket office, and various convenience facilities such as convenience stores, bookstore, tourist information center, and ATM machines.

365 Safe Town is a one-of-a-kind safety awareness theme park combining education, entertainment, recreation, and leisure into one public park. It is the world’s first edutainment facility dedicated to teaching the public safety lessons about fire, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. The park consists of three different areas. The Jangseong-jigu Zone (Korea Youth Safety Experience Hall) provides a realistic experience of natural disasters through 3D and 4D installations. The Jungang-jigu (Challenge World) offers a chance to test one’s limits through outdoor experience facilities like the tree track and zip line. Lastly, the Cheoram-jigu (Gangwon-do Fire Fighting Academy) is a specialized training center for fire-fighting officers.

Museum SAN (originally Hansol Museum), has its Welcome Center located in the vast abundance of nature, and is composed of three gardens within. From the Museum’s Welcome Center that is reminiscent of a huge fortress, visitors can walk through the the Flower Garden in full blossom, then to the Water Garden where a dazzling display of water reflecting the surroundings, and finally appreciate the Ando Tadao's Stone Garden featuring nine stone mounds inspired by ancient Silla tombs. The museum aims to rediscover the meaning and value of paper in the exhibition at the Paper Gallery, as well as a collection of artworks that reflects the development of Korean modern and contemporary art, which are presented in the Cheongjo Gallery. Last but not least, the Stone Garden is a space where visitors can view the unique exhibition of James Turrell’s main artworks – Sky Space, Horizon Room, Ganzfeld and Wedgework.

Situated between Miryang (Gyeongsangnam-do) and Ulju (Ulsan), Jaeyaksan Mountain (1,108m) boasts gorgeous landscapes with giant rock formations near its peak. Along a ridge 800m high sits Sajapyeong, one of the largest silver grass plains in Korea. Because of its breathtaking views during the fall, it was commonly referred to as one of the eight scenic sights on Jaeyaksan Mountain.Sajapyeong is a popular hiking destinations in the Yeongnam range (a group of peaks in southeastern Korea). The vast gentle waves of wind-blown silvergrass are reminiscent of ocean waves at sea. At the western foot of Jaeyaksan Mountain are the ancient Pyochungsa Temple, Cheungcheung Falls, Heukryong Falls (both approximately 20m high), and Geumgang Falls (25m high). Another attraction, to the north of the mountain, is Eoleumgol (Ice Valley, designated as Natural Monument No. 224) on Cheonhwangsan Mountain because of its often sub-zero temperatures even during summer months. 

Geumpung Brewery: A Taste of Tradition on Ganghwa Island 1. Overview Geumpung Brewery is a traditional Korean brewery (often referred to as a “양조장”) located on Ganghwa Island in Incheon. Renowned for its production of artisanal alcoholic beverages—particularly traditional Korean rice wines or soju—it has grown into a popular destination for travelers looking to experience Korea’s deep-rooted craft brewing culture. Surrounded by Ganghwa’s serene countryside, Geumpung Brewery combines heritage, taste, and hands-on learning, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to delve into local traditions and flavors. 2. History & Significance * Roots in Korean Brewing Culture Ganghwa Island has long been known for its agricultural heritage, and local breweries have historically relied on nearby farms for high-quality rice and grains. Geumpung Brewery carries on this legacy by using carefully sourced ingredients and time-tested methods handed down through generations. * Revitalizing Traditional Techniques In an era of large-scale industrial production, Geumpung stands out by preserving age-old recipes and natural fermentation processes. By doing so, it offers visitors a glimpse into the classic Korean brewing style that has shaped the nation’s beverage culture for centuries. 3. What to See & Do * Brewery Tours & Tastings Many visitors come to sample makgeolli (unfiltered rice wine), soju, or other craft liquors produced on-site. Brewery tours typically explain the fermentation process, ingredient selection, and cultural significance of each beverage. On some occasions, guests may enjoy guided tastings where they can learn to discern subtle flavor variations or pair them with local dishes. * Hands-On Workshops Depending on the brewery’s schedule, Geumpung Brewery may host short classes or workshops where visitors can try their hand at basic fermentation or bottling. These sessions often include interactive discussions with brewmasters, offering insight into the artistry behind Korea’s traditional liquors. * Traditional Ambience & Architecture The brewery itself may feature rustic wooden structures or courtyard areas reminiscent of rural Korean architecture. Strolling around the premises allows visitors to soak in the calm Ganghwa Island atmosphere, as well as snap memorable photos showcasing a blend of history and modern craft. 4. Practical Information * Location Situated on Ganghwa Island, Incheon, Geumpung Brewery benefits from the region’s peaceful environment—just a short drive or bus ride away from other notable attractions such as temples, coastal walks, and historical sites. * Hours & Admission Operating hours, tour times, and workshop availability can change due to seasonal or production considerations. It’s best to check Geumpung Brewery’s official website or social media channels for the latest updates, reservation details, or special promotions. * Transportation By Car/Taxi: Travel times from central Incheon or Seoul range from one to two hours, depending on traffic. Enter “Geumpung Brewery” or “금풍양조장” in your GPS/map app for directions. By Public Transit: Take an intercity bus to Ganghwa Bus Terminal, then use local bus routes or a short taxi ride to the brewery’s vicinity. * Visitor Tips While some staff may speak basic English, bringing a translation app or knowing a few Korean phrases can enhance your experience, especially if you want to ask in-depth questions about the brewing process. For travelers on a tight schedule, pairing a short brewery tour and tasting with other Ganghwa highlights—like Ganghwa dolmens (a UNESCO World Heritage site) or scenic coastal areas—makes an ideal day trip itinerary. 5. Why Include Geumpung Brewery in Your Incheon Trip * Authentic Cultural Experience Observing how rice wine and soju are still made using traditional methods is a window into Korea’s culinary heritage and the island’s agrarian roots. * Tasting Local Flavors You’ll get to savor freshly brewed rice wines or spirits—often showcasing a more nuanced taste than mass-produced versions. * Hands-On Learning If you join a workshop, you can gain firsthand knowledge about Korea’s unique approach to fermentation—a cornerstone of its food and drink culture. * Ganghwa Island Exploration Ganghwa-do boasts numerous temples, old fortresses, and picturesque landscapes. Adding Geumpung Brewery to your travel route enhances the overall cultural depth of your journey. Conclusion Geumpung Brewery stands as a testament to Korea’s vibrant brewing heritage on Ganghwa Island. Its commitment to preserving age-old techniques, along with offering tours, tastings, and occasional workshops, makes it a standout attraction for foreign visitors. Whether you’re on a day trip from Incheon or planning an extended stay to explore the island’s historical and natural sites, Geumpung Brewery provides an authentic, palate-pleasing introduction to the rich tapestry of Korean traditional alcohol. Enjoy the relaxed pace, savor local flavors, and leave with a deeper appreciation for a centuries-old craft that continues to thrive in modern times.

Sin Jae-Hyo (1812-1884) is a legendary theorist and sponsor of pansori (epic chant). Sin spent his entire life in Gochang-gun, nurturing many disciplines, who later became masters of pansori. He also compiled and edited six pansori madangs (operas) titled Ttoggi Taryeong, Bak Taryeong, Simcheongga, Jeokbyeokga, Chunhyangga, and Garujigi Taryeong.