Hyangiram (Cultural Property Material No. 40) is one of four Buddhist hermitages in Korea where the faithful come to pray. It was originally named Wontongam, established by monk Wonhyo during the fourth year of Baekje King Uija’s reign (644). Monk Yunpil later renamed Wontongam as Geumoam in the 9th year of Goryeo King Gwangjong’s reign (958) and then Hyangiram named by monk Inmuk during the 41st year of Joseon King Sukjong’s reign (1715). Hyangiram was a base camp for Buddhist monks who helped Admiral Lee Sun-shin fight the war during the Japanese invasion.The temple contains Daeungjeon, Gwaneumjeon, Chilseonggak, Dokseodang, and Chwiseongru, all of which are well preserved. Camellias and subtropical plants surround the Bawibong Peak and the fantastic rock of Mt. Geumosan. The mountain path to Hyangiram is very steep and it is one of the exciting mountain courses of Korea. To reach the temple, you will need to climb the rock at the midpoint of the trail and pass the stone gate, situated between two large rocks near the temple.

Visitors can have a chance to make mosi (ramie fabric) firsthand at the village. Walking around the village at dusk, visitors will realize why the village is called Dalgogae (moon hill): the village was built on a flat plain and when the moon rises slowly, the place is illuminated by the moonlight. While basking in the moonlight, people will hear the sound of a flock of wild ducks flying together. In this ordinary-looking village, the long-standing tradition of Hansan mosi (ramie fabric) is passed down and preserved in the hands of the village women. Hansan mosi is also called 'semosi' (fine ramie) because of the time-consuming and labor-intensive process involved. The village offers a variety of mosi-themed experience programs for visitors. Village artisans with valuable mosi-related experience assist the participants. Programs include ramie plant harvesting and ramie fabric weaving. Visitors can also try some highly nutritious ramie rice cakes and tea. Mosi's history can be traced back as far as the period of the Three Kingdoms. It is said that during the Baekje Dynasty, an old man found the ramie plant at the foot of Geonjisan Mountain after a mountain god appreared in his dream. The natural fabric, mosi, is so thin and delicate that it is compared to the wings of a dragonfly. In the Goryeo Dynasty, the king presented the China's king with Hansan mosi. In the Joseon Dynasty, mosi was was offered to the kings. One can see the difference between mosi and regular fabric by trying on mosi clothes made by the artisans. Experience programs at the village also include natural dyeing, making mosi jegi (object used to play jegichagi) and mosi mobile phone accessories. Food made from mosi plants include mosi buchimgae (Korean pancake) and mosi bread. Another fun activity at the village is hangwa (traditional sweets & cookies) making. Hangwa-making, much like producing mosi, is a labor-intensive process. In making hangwa, grains harvested at the village are used. The grains are fried for a short time, carefully mixed with honey, and then flattened. After it cools down and hardens, it is then cut into small pieces. The taste of freshly-made hangwa adds to the joy of the experience, making it the best activity of the program.

Guam Farm Stay Village is located near the city so it is easy to find and is well-equipped with cultural facilities. Nine rocks in the area resemble the back of a turtle so it is referred to as “Guam”. (‘Gu(龜)’ means turtle (geobuk) and ‘Am (岩)’ means rock (bawi)) Farming experiences start from the time when cherry blossom are about to be in full bloom along the road surrounding the foot of Palgongsan Mountain. Visitors can take part in planting various vegetable seeds, thinning out the apple trees, rice reaping, and pulling out beans. The village is abounding in fruits, including apples, grapes, peaches, and chestnuts. Among the many hands-on programs, picking apples and chestnuts has already became famous activities for nearby kindergarten students. To facilitate the farm stay program, Nonghyup operates a weekend farm, where one can grow and taste vegetables such as lettuce and chili.

Wolchulsan Spa is located five kilometers northwest of the town of Yeongam. The spa overlooks the beautiful scenery of Wolchulsan Mountain, the extensive plain of Yeongam, and Yeongamcheon Stream, a tributary of Yeongsangang River. The source of Wolchulsan Spa’s hot spring waters is red feldspar granite (elvan) that forms the aquifer column of Wolchulsan Mountain. The adhesive and purifying properties of the elvan removes harmful organic matter and pollutants, resulting in pure, natural hot spring waters. Rich in all kinds of minerals, dissolved oxygen, and far-infrared emissivity, the elvan hot spring waters are known to be effective for alleviating various ailments such as fatigue, neuralgia, rheumarthritis, skin trouble, and athlete’s foot. Various tourist attractions are located nearby, including the Wolchulsan Mountain, the reed field in Miwangjae, and Dogapsa Temple, so visitors can enjoy a good rest at Wolchulsan Spa after sightseeing.

Discover Incheon's Historic Gem: Naedong Anglican Church A Must-Visit Historical Site in Incheon When planning your trip to Incheon, South Korea, Naedong Anglican Church (인천내동성공회성당) should be at the top of your itinerary. This historic church, nestled in the Jung-gu district, offers a unique glimpse into Korea's rich history and architectural heritage. The Rich History of Naedong Anglican Church The history of Naedong Anglican Church dates back to September 29, 1890, when six British missionaries, including Reverend Charles John Corfe, set foot in Incheon to begin their missionary work. The first church building was completed on September 30, 1891, marking the establishment of the first Anglican church in Korea. In 1902, the church served briefly as the Russian Consulate and from 1904 to 1956, it functioned as an Anglican theological seminary. Unfortunately, the original building was destroyed during the Korean War (1950-1953). The church was reconstructed and reopened on June 23, 1956, restoring its historical significance. Architectural Marvel Naedong Anglican Church stands as a testament to medieval architectural styles combined with traditional Korean elements. The robust stone structure, with its granite walls and major components, exudes the charm of medieval European architecture. The wooden trusses supporting the roof, however, incorporate traditional Korean design, blending the two cultures seamlessly. The intricate detailing on the windows and wall panels further adds to the building's architectural splendor. Why Visit Naedong Anglican Church? * Historical Significance: As the first Anglican church in Korea, it symbolizes the beginnings of Anglican missionary work in the country. * Architectural Beauty: The unique blend of medieval European and traditional Korean architectural styles offers a visual treat for visitors. * Cultural Insight: The church's history and structure provide insights into the cultural exchanges between Korea and Western countries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visiting Information Naedong Anglican Church is conveniently located in the Jung-gu district of Incheon, making it easily accessible from the city center. Public transportation options are available, ensuring a smooth journey to this historic site. The church is not only a place of worship but also a cultural landmark, welcoming visitors who are eager to learn about its rich history and architectural beauty. Conclusion Naedong Anglican Church is more than just a religious site; it is a symbol of historical and cultural fusion. When visiting Incheon, make sure to explore this gem to gain a deeper understanding of Korea's historical interactions with Western cultures. The church's beautiful architecture and storied past will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression, making it a highlight of your trip to South Korea.

Located in Osan-ri, Gosan-myeon, the Gosan Recreation Forest is a popular family destination throughout each of the four seasons. Full of thick groves of larch trees, Korean white pines, rigida pines, and plenty of broad-leaved trees, the forest and its streams offer locals a cool and refreshing retreat during the sizzling summer months. As summer turns into fall, the whole area transforms into a rainbow of bright yellows, reds, and orange. With the coming of winter, the snow covers the trees and blankets the ground, turning the forest in a winter dreamland. Come spring, the azaleas and wild cherry trees burst into full bloom, making the forest a popular date spot for young couples.

Ssanggok Valley, which is located in Chilseong-myeon, Goesan-gun, is 10.5km long stretching from Ssanggok village to Jesurijae.The valley is surrounded by Mt. Bobaesan, Mt. Gunjasan and Mt. Bihaksan and clear water flows all year down the walls of a series of unique rock formations.Thanks to its scenic beauty, many Confucian scholars used to visit here to enjoy literature and nature.Ssanggok Valley is composed of nine valleys and each has its own unique atmosphere.The first valley, Holongso, flows into a swamp area with many old pine trees nearby creating a picturesque view. The second valley is called Sogeumgang and it is said that its appearance changes with every season. Tteokbawi (rice cake rock) Valley gets its name from the shape it takes on, which is like a sliced rice cake. Similar to the first valley, Munsuam Valley, the fourth valley also has water flowing over uniquely shaped rocks with many old pine trees and flora. The fifth valley has quite a view of parallel rocks on both sides, while the sixth valley offers magnificent vistas of water flowing into a pool formed by the rocks. The water cascading down a huge boulder is said to look like the pleats of a woman’s skirt unfolding at the seventh valley. The eighth valley gathers water into a pond shape from the waterfall; legend says that fairies bathe here. The ninth valley is wide and refreshingly cool even during the hottest summer months. 

Cheongwansa Temple is situated in the middle of Cheongwansan Mountain in Jangheung (Jeollanam-do). Although the exact origin of the temple is not known, it was believed to have been built by Monk Tongyeong during the Silla Kingdom (57 BC - 935 AD). It was once known as Hwaeomsa Temple and was home to over 1,000 monks in its 89 buildings. After a period of closure, the temple was rebuilt in 1963 and renamed Cheongwansa Temple. Beneath the temple’s humble exterior is an impressive collection of cultural properties including Cheongwansa Three-Story Pagoda (Treasure No.795), Cheongwansa Seokdeung (stone lantern), Five-Story Pagoda, and Jangheung Tapsansaji Seokdeung (stone lantern). In addition, Cheongwansan Mountain is known for beautiful camellias in spring and gorgeous silver grass in fall as well as an array of fascinating rock formations. Visitors can also enjoy the views of Dadohae (an archipelago) from the top of the mountain.