Travel/Culture List

Donggok Valley is one of four large valleys on Baegunsan Mountain. The valley opens up towards Gwangyang, with the waters of Dongcheon Stream flowing into Gwangyangman Bay. Donggok Valley is wide, making it convenient for transportation, and perfect for a family get-away location during the holidays. Located along Hanjae Pass between the mountain summit and Ttoaribong Peak on the western side, the valley is also sometimes called Dapgoksimni. The valley stretches a distance of 10km and is especially beautiful in fall when surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. Donggok Valley is a protected nature reserve, with over 900 various species of vegetation growing here.

Opened on May 4, 2001, Midongsan Arboretum in Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do is a provincial arboretum, built to develop and propagate forestry techniques and found ecological education environments. Covering an area of 3,114,049.60㎡ (942,000 pyeong), the arboretum houses almost 873 species of plants and 652,000 plants in 11 exhibition halls including an Oak tree hall, a Maple tree hall, and a genetics hall, which presents plant genetic resources like Jeongipumsong hugyemok (succession of pine tree). In addition to the 11 themed arboretum halls, Midongsan Arboretum also has a forestry educational hall, plant seed bank, research center for wild plants, nature experience camp, and more.

The site stretches from North to South on a basin in the Haneuljae mountain pass, which connects Chungcheongbuk-do and Gyeongsangbuk-do provinces. It is said that Mauitaeja, the last prince of the Silla Kingdom, had dream one night as he was traveling to Geumgangsan Mountain where the Goddess Gwanseeumbosal instructed him to erect a statue Buddha. As a result, he built a temple to honor the goddess’ wishes at the current site of Mireuk-ri. Though the temple site has been invaded multiple times, the statue of Buddha has remained intact for over 1,000 years.

At Hwaam Mineral Spring (화암약수), water rises up through a rock crater located in Dong-myeon, Jeongseon. The water is said to be good for stomachaches, eye infections, and skin diseases; and, as it contains nine essential elements such as calcium and fluorine, it tastes crisp and clean. Also, thick trees and interesting rock formations surround the sides of a path connecting the spring to Hwaam Cave. * The mineral spring contains 854.3mg of carbonic acid ions, 26.9mg of iron, 82.9mg of calcium, 0.6mg of fluorine and nine other healthy substances.

Jusangjeolli are columnar rock formations with cross sections in hexagonal or triangular shapes. The jusangjeolli at the shore of Hwaam Maeul Village were created by basalt lava that erupted in the Tertiary period of the Cenozoic Era about 20 million years ago. The columnar basalt formations were created as the lava cooled and shrank into cracks. The rocks look like wood stacked horizontally or vertically en masse. The length of the columns average around 20 meters and diagonally are about 50 centimeters at the longest cross-section. Of the columnar lava formations on the East Coast, the Jusangjeolli in Hwaam are the oldest, so it is academically invaluable. Shaped in various angles, the rocks also offer a great landscape for sightseeing.

OAK VALLEY SKI RESORT Oak Valley Ski Resort is an idyllic winter sanctuary perfectly tailored for beginners and family travelers. Boasting remarkably wide, gentle slopes, it offers a secure and reassuring environment where children and novices can master the art of skiing with absolute peace of mind. Uniquely, the resort complex is home to the world-renowned Museum SAN, allowing guests to effortlessly blend exhilarating winter sports with a sophisticated art tour. Frequented by global cultural icons like BTS leader RM and featured as a scenic backdrop in numerous acclaimed K-dramas, this premier destination promises an unforgettable tapestry of winter memories. Where Alpine Leisure Meets Avant-Garde Art: The Refined Winter Escape at Oak Valley Nestled within the snow-draped landscapes of Wonju, Gangwon Province—just a seamless 90-minute drive from the bustling heart of Seoul—Oak Valley Ski Resort redefines the traditional winter getaway. While Korea offers numerous rugged alpine destinations, Oak Valley distinguishes itself by curating a boutique, low-density winter experience. It is a place where the adrenaline of the slopes harmonizes beautifully with world-class contemporary art, making it the ultimate winter retreat for discerning international travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment.   A Safe and Seamless Haven for Aspiring Skiers and Families For those stepping onto the snow for the very first time, or parents guiding their children through their inaugural ski lessons, terrain geometry is everything. Oak Valley is meticulously engineered with this philosophy in mind. • Gentle, Extra-Wide Slopes: Unlike steeper, more chaotic resorts, Oak Valley features expansively wide runs with gentle, consistent inclines. This thoughtful design minimizes the risk of crowding and collisions, providing novices with a spacious canvas to practice their turns with confidence. • A Nurturing Learning Environment: The resort operates top-tier ski and snowboard academies with multilingual instructors certified to guide international guests. From securing the perfect rental gear to mastering the first snowplow stop, the entire process is smooth, welcoming, and entirely stress-free. • Family-Centric Snow Park: Beyond the main ski runs, the resort features dedicated snow sledding hills and winter play zones. This ensures that even the youngest family members, or those who prefer not to ski, can fully immerse themselves in the joy of a crisp, white winter. Museum SAN: An Architectural Masterpiece Immortalized by K-Culture What truly elevates Oak Valley into a realm of its own is an extraordinary cultural treasure located right within the resort estate: Museum SAN (Space Art Nature). Designed by the legendary minimalist architect Tadao Ando, this world-renowned museum is a breathtaking dialogue between stone, water, concrete, and light, designed to completely isolate the mind from the anxieties of modern life. The K-Culture Connection: Museum SAN has earned global reverence as a sanctuary of inspiration for BTS leader RM (Kim Namjoon), whose visit turned this architectural hidden gem into a bucket-list pilgrimage for global art enthusiasts. Its ethereal, floating concrete structures and serene water gardens have also served as the quintessential filming location for high-profile K-dramas (such as the hit luxury-thriller Mine), capturing the epitome of high-end Korean aesthetic sophistication. After a morning of crisp alpine air on the slopes, guests can transition seamlessly into a quiet afternoon of high art. Wandering through the museum's geometric walkways, exploring the mesmerizing light installations of the James Turrell exhibition, and sipping hot tea at the famous outdoor cafe terrace overlooking the snow-capped valley is an experience unmatched by any other ski resort in Asia.   Premium Living and the Ultimate Après-Ski Comfort The luxury of Oak Valley extends far beyond its outdoor activities. The resort's European-style condominiums and villas are designed to act as a warm, inviting sanctuary after a day in the sub-zero temperatures. Large, panoramic windows offer sweeping views of the snow-covered golf courses and pristine oak forests that give the resort its name. The après-ski experience here is focused on wellness and culinary delight. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining options ranging from comforting, steaming bowls of traditional Korean winter stews to refined international cuisine. With indoor heated pools, relaxing saunas to soothe tired muscles, and beautifully illuminated night walks winding through the property, Oak Valley ensures that every hour spent off the slopes is just as magical as the hours spent on them. For families and travelers looking for a sophisticated, safe, and culturally rich winter narrative, Oak Valley Ski Resort stands as Korea’s most elegant answer.

  ELYSIAN GANGCHON SKI RESORT Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort offers unparalleled accessibility, allowing travelers to journey straight from the heart of Seoul via a seamless subway ride. Out of its 10 meticulously groomed slopes, 8 are thoughtfully designed for beginners and intermediate winter enthusiasts, providing a gentle and comfortable environment for everyone. Its strategic proximity to Nami Island—one of South Korea’s most iconic landmarks—creates the ultimate winter itinerary: enjoy thrilling morning runs down the slopes, followed by a serene afternoon stroll amidst the breathtaking snow-covered pathways of Nami Island. Where Urban Convenience Meets Alpine Splendor: The Seamless Winter Paradise of ELYSIAN GANGCHON Nestled along the scenic valleys of Gangwon-do, Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort represents a revolution in winter travel. For global jet-setters who wish to balance the vibrant energy of metropolitan Seoul with the pristine serenity of Korea’s snow-capped mountains, this resort stands as the definitive answer. It masterfully strips away the typical logistical friction of ski trips—such as long, exhausting drives or complex transfers—offering international guests an effortlessly elegant escape into a winter wonderland. The Only Ski Resort with Its Own Subway Station: Revolutionizing Travel Logistics The most extraordinary luxury Elysian Gangchon offers is time. It holds the proud title of being the only ski resort in South Korea accessible directly via the Seoul metropolitan subway network. Travelers can simply hop onto the Gyeongchun Line or board the premium ITX-Cheongchun high-speed train from major hubs like Yongsan, Cheongnyangni, or Sangbong stations. Within approximately one hour, guests step off at Baeyangri (Elysian Gangchon) Station, where the platform itself opens up to the resort's welcoming gateway. A complimentary, synchronized shuttle service glides guests from the station to the ski house in under three minutes. This unmatched transit efficiency eliminates the need for expensive private car rentals or navigating unfamiliar winter roads, making a spontaneous day-trip from a luxury hotel in Seoul not just possible, but completely stress-free.   A Nurturing Sanctuary for New Skiers and Intermediate Cruisers While expert-level black diamond runs have their place, Elysian Gangchon embraces a philosophy of inclusivity and joyful learning. The resort boasts 10 brilliantly engineered slopes, each carved along a unique valley layout that protects skiers from harsh winter winds while maximizing snow retention. The true charm lies in its layout: 8 out of the 10 slopes are exclusively dedicated to beginner and intermediate levels. Unlike many high-altitude resorts where novice slopes are confined to crowded base zones, Elysian Gangchon features gentle, wide-set panoramic trails that stretch from the higher ridges. This allows less experienced skiers and snowboarders to experience the genuine thrill of high-point descents and sweeping mountain vistas without the intimidation of steep drops. The slopes are exceptionally wide and feature continuous, gentle gradients, drastically reducing the anxiety of collisions and allowing families, couples, and first-timers to master their turns in absolute comfort and safety. The Ultimate Dual-Destination Winter Odyssey: From Slopes to Nami Island What elevates a visit to Elysian Gangchon from a standard sports outing into a world-class travel experience is its geographical synergy with Korea's premier cultural landmarks. Positioned at the border of Gapyeong and Chuncheon, the resort serves as the ultimate basecamp for a curated multi-experience winter holiday. The quintessential premium itinerary begins with a crisp morning session on the uncrowded, freshly groomed slopes. As the midday sun warms the valleys, a short 20-minute transfer carries guests to the legendary Nami Island (Namiseom). Famed globally as the romantic epicenter of the Korean Wave, Nami Island undergoes a sublime metamorphosis during the winter months. Walking down the iconic Metasequoia and Ginkgo lane, framed by majestic frosted canopies and delicate snow blossoms, offers a poetic, cinematic contrast to the high-energy adrenaline of the morning. This flawless combination allows international visitors to check off two bucket-list Korean experiences within a single, unforgettable day.   Midnight Gliding and Foreigner-Friendly Global Hospitality Elysian Gangchon extends its premium experience well into the starlit hours. The resort is highly celebrated for its state-of-the-art night and midnight skiing operations, utilizing an advanced, glare-free LED illumination system that blankets the slopes in a brilliant, soft glow. Sliding down the quiet, crisp night slopes under a star-filled Gangwon sky is a favorite insider experience for discerning travelers. To ensure a flawless stay for global citizens, the resort provides an array of tailored international services: • Multilingual Ski & Snowboard Academy: Certified, English- and Mandarin-speaking instructors specialize in international guest instruction, offering personalized lessons that transform absolute beginners into confident gliders in a single session. • Smart Rental Ecosystem: The resort utilizes a streamlined rental process featuring top-tier international winter sports brands, ensuring that high-performance, sanitized gear and stylish apparel are precisely fitted to each guest. • Wellness and Culinary Indulgence: Beyond the snow, guests can retreat to the premium condominium suites overlooking the illuminated slopes, relax in therapeutic saunas, or indulge in upscale dining venues serving both traditional Korean winter delicacies and refined global cuisine. Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort successfully reframes the entire alpine narrative. It proves that a world-class ski vacation does not require sacrificing urban comforts or spending days in transit. By blending unparalleled subway convenience, a welcoming and safe trail design, and instant access to the romantic snowscapes of Nami Island, it delivers an authentic, sophisticated, and deeply memorable Korean winter experience tailored perfectly for the global traveler.

Below Seongheungsanseong Fortress (built in 501 during the Baekje Kingdom) in Buyeo is an ancient temple called Daejosa (great bird temple).  Inside the temple grounds stands a giant standing stone Buddha statue looking toward the east. The temple, which was founded during the 5th year of the Baekje Kingdom, has an interesting legend behind its origin. According to the legend, an old monk fell asleep after praying under a large rock on the slopes of Seongheungsan Mountain. In his dream, a large bird with a golden glow flew in from the west and sat on the rock where Daejosa currently stands. While the bird continuoulsy flapped its wings, a ray of light shone on the rock and it was there that the statue of Avalokitasvara Bodhisattva appeared. The old monk had the same dream at the same time for many days. He recounted his dream to the seongju (castle lord), who then reported it to King Seong of Baekje. The king interpreted the dream as a sign that it was the right time to move the capital of Baekje to Sabi (now Buyeo) and ordered the construction of a large temple at the location that appeared in the dream. The temple was so big that even at a hurried pace, it would still took 10 years to build. Workers had to work day and night and every time the workers felt tired, birds would come singing to brighten up the atmosphere so that the workers can forget the fatigue and continue working. Hence, the temple was completed after only five years. Because of the golden bird, the temple was named Daejosa, literally meaning 'great bird temple. The rock on which Avalokitasvara Bodhisattva appeared in the dream was turned into a stone statue of a Buddha. This standing stone Maitreya Bodhisattva statue is a fine work of sculpture which, along with the stone Bodhisattva of Gwanchoksa Temple (Treasure No.218), is representative of the early Gorye period.In front of Wontongbojeon Hall (a hall enshrining Avalokitasvara Bodhisattva) stands a pagoda. In the old days, the stone pagoda used to have only the cover stones but as the pagoda body stones were found, the pagoda structure was restored in 1975. This pagoda is assumed to have been built in the early days of the Goryeo Kingdom.

The Julpo Natural Ecological Park is a quiet park in the southernmost end of Buan. The park naturally turned into an ecological marshland after an embankment was built 15 years ago to protect the surrounding low-land areas from inundation. The embankment allowed reeds to overgrow and a freshwater wetland to be formed. The total surface area of the park is 163 acres, with a 40-kilometer long reed field, wild flower bed, and a ginkgo forest path. In the fall, the views of golden reeds and yellow ginkgo trees are splendid. The Julpoman Foreshore near the park was designated a Ramsar wetland in January 2010. The foreshore offers a habitat for 50 or so bird species, salt plants, and wetland animals. Also, there is a large colony of Suaeda japonica, which turns stunningly red in early autumn. This is also a filming site of the Korean drama ‘Lovers in Prague’.

The Gongju Folk Drama Museum is a special museum in which a variety of Korean folk arts can be experienced. The dolls, masks and musical instruments that are used in folk dramas, shamanism-related resources and conventional farming implements are on display, nestled in a small, cozy pine grove (9,398㎡). On Saturdays and Sundays, visitors can participate in a mask making program or watch a puppet show. In spring (before and after mid-March, lunar calendar), the Gyeryongsan Sansinje Ritual is practiced near Mt. Gyeryongsan. During the ritual, local festivals are also held. In fall (the first Friday, Saturday and Sunday of every October), the Asian Monodrama Festival is held at a museum theater and outdoor performance stage. During this festival, visitors can watch historic and contemporary Asian monodramas.