Travel/Culture List

1m Classic Art Hall, located in Daehang-ro is a classic art experience center exclusively for children. The center provides children with the opportunity to enjoy classical music in a fun and interesting way. In the ‘1m Experience Classic’ program (the oldest children’s classical program in the nation), teachers not only provide interesting mini-music learns, but also assist children in trying out a variety of instruments.At the performance halls at the 1m Classic Art Hall, the stage is just 1m away from the surrounding seats, giving young audience members a more intimate musical experience.

Jungmun Beach (중문해수욕장) has a sandy shore so fine that it is called Jinmosal. The white sand beach is 560m long and the water has an average depth of 1.2m. Different shades of black, red, and grey are beautifully mixed into the white sand of the beach. This helps to accentuate Jeju-do Island’s black Hyeonmuam stones. To the right side of the beach is a natural sea cave called Haesikgul Cave. This area is often used for TV commercials, and the turbulent water is great for windsurfing and other water sports.

Jumunjin Beach (주문진 해수욕장) is located in the northern-most part of Gangneung, and is a great place for family vacations due to the beach's shallow water. The flat bottom and clear water make it easy to gather clams and to fish at the nearby lake. You can also easily purchase low-priced, fresh seafood because of its proximity to Jumunjin Harbor. Jumunjin Beach is a medium-sized beach characterized by fine sand and unusually blue water. Many dark colored rocks and stones are visible as well, which are interesting sites for tourists visiting the beach. The fine view of pine trees behind the white sands only accentuates its beauty.Nearby is a place called Mureung Valley, named after its scenery of Mureungdowon, a Chinese landscape where you can see a waterfall flowing down a rock wall and cows grazing in the area. Nearby is a rock called Sikdangam, believed to have been used as a dining table, and Geumgang temple, which was rebuilt in 1964. Sites you don't want to miss are the legendary rock called Adeulbawi Rock (Son Rock), which people believe can grant you a son. Guryong Waterfall, which is made up of 9 different waterfalls of different sizes, and Sogeumgang’s Manmulsang, which looks like a miniature version of Mt. Geumgangsan.

Located in Jocheon-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju Stone Park was inspired by Jeju's history of myth, stone and spirit. The main theme consists of the legend about Seolmundae Halmang (Grandmother Seolmundae) who created Jeju Island and the stones of Obaek Janggun (the Five Hundreds Generals). The park provides a historical and cultural space where collected stones express Jeju's foundation and culture.Take a bus bound for Namjo-ro from Jeju International Airport or Seogwipo-si to reach the park (about 40 min). Other nearby attractions include the Jeju April 3rd Peace Park, Jeju Mini Land, and Jeju Jeolmul Recreational Forest.

Pungnammun Gate was built during the middle of the Joseon Dynasty (1768) and was designated Treasure No. 308. Of the original four gates, this is the only one left standing (located in the southern portion of the city). The structure was partially destroyed during the invasion of foreign forces from 1592-1598. It was later rebuilt in 1978. Jungcheung and mullu are located at the center of gate lending to the arch-like features. The round features aid in the protection capabilities of Pungnammun Gate, as well as the overall grandeur.

Situated on the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula, Hallasan is 1,950m in x_height and is the highest mountain in South Korea. Formed from volcanic activity, the mountain is a dormant volcano made mostly of basalt. Home to the magnificent Baekrokdam (lake-filled crater), the mountainside is covered with alpine flora and lush trees. The mountain is characterized by majestic cliffs, steep slopes, interesting rock formations, and, in particular, myriads of colorful azaleas. There are over 360 small mountains (uniquely-shaped volcanic mountains called “Oreum” in Jeju dialect) surrounding Halla Mountain that offer new delights to visitors with the coming of each new season. Along with Hallasan, the oreums were officially named the Hallasan Natural Protection Area (Natural Monument No.12) in 1966. There are six hiking trails along Hallasan. Seongpanak Trail on the east and Gwaneumsa Trail in the north go all the way up to the summit (Baekrokdam). Those looking for a less rigorous hike are advised to take the shorter trails reaching midway up the mountain. All trails are relatively short (less than 10km) and can be hiked in less than a day. Visitors are advised, however, to start early in the morning if planning on hiking up to the summit and to check official operating hours, as some trails are only open during certain hours of the day. Keep reading for information on some of the most popular trails. * Gwaneumsa Trail (North)—Summit Trail Gwaneumsa Trail offers hikers the best view of Hallasan’s deep valleys and stunning terrain. Midway along the trail is Guringul (a lava cave) and Tamna Valley. Tamna Valley is especially beautiful during the fall when the leaves are changing and during the winter when the entire area lays under a dusting of snow. * Seongpanak Trail (East)—Summit Trail This relatively long, gently sloping trail is perfect for beginners. Lush broadleaf trees give shade from the beating sun and in spring the azaleas bloom and turn the mountainside into a dazzling array of color. * Eorimok Trail (Northwest) This short trail is another relatively easy trail for beginners. In spring, the nearby meadows are adorned with red royal azaleas. From the stone pathway to Mansedongsan visitors can catch a breathtaking panoramic view of the countryside and the island’s signature Oreums. * Yeongsil Trail (Southwest) As the shortest trail in Hallasan, this trail boasts Yeongsilgiam (a spectacular cliff with series of unusual rock formations). It is covered with azaleas and royal azaleas in spring and vibrant autumn foliage starting in October.  

The Bosingak Belfry was used during the Joseon Dynasty to keep the time. There were four gates in Seoul that allowed people in and out. At 4 a.m., the bell would ring 33 times and then the gates were opened. At 10 p.m. the bell would ring 28 times and the gates would close. The bell served as a siren. The original bell melted in that spot due to a fire accident. In 1468, the bell was remade and still exists today. However, for preservation purposes that bell now sits in the national museum. The bell that replaced it in Jongno was made in 1985 with contributions from the public. The Bosingak Belfry was built by the Seoul Municipal Government in 1979 and is restricted on normal days. Currently, a daily bell-ringing ceremony is conducted at Bosingak. A special ceremony is held on new Year's Eve where the bell is rung 33 times in front of large crowds.  More Info.Bosingak Bell-Ringing Ceremony- Period: All year round (not available on Mondays)- Time: 11:30-12:20 (Bell-ringing from 11:40/ once a day) Bosingak Bell-Ringing Experience- Application: Online Reservation (Korean)- Foreign visitors may participate in the program on Tuesdays (onsite registration).

Busan National Science Museum was built to spread science culture and give a chance for anyone interested in science to enjoy everything science has to offer. With a theme around the nearby cities of Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongsangnam-do region, the main theme of the museum consists of vehicles, space ships, nuclear energy and more. The museum aims to promote futher understanding of science to the masses.

Ulsanbawi is composed of six granite peaks, each bearing a x_width of 4km. You can see the spectacular scenery of Seorak Mountain, the East Sea, Dalma Peak, and Haksapyeong Reservoir from the top. There are three varying theories as to what the name Ulsanbawi implies: that it looks like a fence, that its name was copied from Ulsan of Gyeongsangnam-do, and that the Korean term of “crying mountain” was translated into Chinese characters. Because of the way the whole mountain reverberates the sound of thunder in rain, it is also referred to as Cheonhusan.The arduous 4km hike up that takes roughly two hours to reach the peak is worth it. Views from the top are simply breathtaking.