Travel/Culture List

Eight areas designated as the most beautiful sceneries in Danyang, are Haseonam, Jungseonam, Sangseonam, Sainam, Gudambong, Oksunbong, Dodamsambong, and Seokmun. These areas were visited many times by numerous scholars during the Joseon Period (1392-1910), and contain many historically and culturally important relics. There are Giamgwiseok on Mt. Sobaeksan, Mt. Geumsusan, and Mt. Doraksan and clear water flows through numerous falls in the valleys.The most famous of the eight is Dodamsambong Peak. Three Rocks create a large “S” figure as it stands tall in the middle of Namhangang River. This is the only place in the world where you can see such three longest rocks protrude in the middle of a river. The following legend still lives through to this day; among the three rocks, the big rock is called Nampyeonbong, Janggunbong the rock on the right side is called Cheobong (or Adeulbong), and the rock on the left is called Cheopbong (or Ddalbong). According to the legend there lived a couple who loved each other, but had no child. They found a mistress because they wanted to have a baby, but once she had the baby, she began to mistreat and taunt the wife. The heavens saw them, and turned all of them into stones. The way the rocks stand next to one another is very interesting.If you go to the opposite side of Dodamsambong, there is a small pavilion called lhoyangjeong. It was built to comfort the locals who lost their homes due to the flooding caused by Chungju Dam. When you look down from the pavilion, you can take in the entire Dodamsambong at once. If you walk in opposite direction from lhayangjeong Pavilion, a stone gate appears. As there is a big hole in the middle of the large stone, you would think it is artificial, but it is a natural rock. The other eight views should not be missed while you visit here.

There are 3 legendary boundary gates at Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park, on rough mountaintops, which are reputed to be too tall for even birds to fly over.Mungyeongsaejae, which overlays Mt. Joryeongsan, has always been the highest and most dangerous mountain pass. It was cleared during the time of Kim Taejong (reign 1400~1418) of Joseon Period, and was used until a new road was built through the Ihwaryeong Gyegok Valley.The boundary gates and castle walls were raised here after the Japanese Invasion of Korea (1592 and 1598). The second boundary gate, Jogokgwan, was raised in 1594, and in 1708 Juheulgwan and Joryeonggwan were raised and were used as fortresses for national defense. They were damaged after that point, but in 1966 the No. 1, 2, and 3 boundary gates and castle walls were designated collectively as historical relic No. 147 and were later restored in 1976.Take the big road beside boundary gate No. 1 of southeastern Korea, Juheulgwan, for about 1.5km and you’ll arrive at Joryeongwon. There are only stonewalls left from the many inn-like dwellings, which were built to accommodate government officials on official tour. Past the tavern, which was restored in 1983, you’ll reach the Jogokgwan. The area around Jogokgwan is famous for its birch trees, and the Mungyeongsaejae Revolt Monument can be seen on the left side of the road.It’s 3.4km from Jogokgwan to Joryeonggwan, through a walkway with its harmonious scenery of rocks and cool streams. Instead of taking the big road, you can take the road with the sounds of stream water, to a waterfall. 30 minutes farther and you’ll arrive at Hyeguksa Temple.Hyeguksa Temple is at the edge of Juheulsan, and is the place where King Gongmin (reign 1351~1374) stayed while avoiding the peasant uprising. Past Hyeguksa Temple and the Royal Palace about 1km, you’ll reach the sacred peak of Mt, Juheulsan. The view of the winding mountain ranges from the mountaintop is spectacular. From the mountain top, past the valley, is Jogokgwan.The 3rd boundary gate is at Juheulsan (1,106m), and it takes about 4~5 hours to get to Jogokgwan from Juheulgwan. The area was designated as a Provincial Park in 1981.KBS drama studio is located in Mungyeongsaejae Provincial Park, specializing in historical dramas, and it is the largest scale studio in the world. There are three palaces and many houses from the Goryeo Period, spread over 60,000 m2.

Songdo Comarine West Boat House: Enjoy Waterside Leisure in a Modern Canal Setting Overview Songdo Comarine West Boat House is a boating facility in Incheon’s Songdo district, renowned for its futuristic cityscape of towering skyscrapers and well-maintained canals. Its biggest draw is the chance to glide through the canals at a relaxed pace, soaking up Songdo’s urban charm from the water. Adjacent to the canals are numerous parks, cafés, and commercial facilities, allowing you to fully experience the Songdo area before or after your cruise. Main Activities • Canal Cruise Hop on a motorboat for a sightseeing cruise that offers a quick overview of Songdo’s highlights—from its futuristic skyscrapers and stylish bridges to lush, green walkways. Some cruises include a guided tour, explaining the background of Songdo’s development and its commitment to sustainability, providing a unique perspective on the city. • Pedal Boats & Small Boat Rentals Depending on the season and operating schedule, you may be able to rent pedal boats or rowboats to explore the canals on your own. These self-operated options are perfect for families or groups of friends, giving you plenty of opportunities for photos and leisurely waterborne fun. • Special Events & Private Cruises During peak seasons or as part of limited-time programs, sunset and night cruises are sometimes available for those who want to enjoy the scenery at dusk or under city lights. If private boat charters are offered, they’re an excellent option for celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries. Facility Information & Access • Location Songdo is relatively easy to reach from Incheon International Airport and is about one to one and a half hours from central Seoul by car or public transportation. To get to the Boat House in the heart of Songdo, head to “Songdo International City” Station via subway or bus, then take a short walk or taxi ride. For smooth navigation, search for “Songdo Comarine West Boat House” on your preferred map app. • Hours & Reservations Operating hours vary by season, weather, and holidays, and services may be suspended in bad weather. It’s a good idea to check the official website or social media channels beforehand. While same-day tickets are the norm, online or phone reservations might be available during busy seasons, so making arrangements in advance can give you peace of mind. • Safety & Guidelines Wearing a life jacket is mandatory. Always follow staff instructions and adhere to capacity and route regulations. Drinking alcohol onboard or straying off designated routes is typically prohibited—be sure to check all usage rules before boarding. Tips for Maximizing Your Songdo Experience • Aim for Sunset or Night Cruises From evening to nighttime, city lights reflect off the canals, creating a romantic atmosphere—perfect for couples or photography enthusiasts. • Combine with Nearby Attractions The Boat House is surrounded by shopping malls, cafés, and restaurants. Many visitors enjoy dining or shopping before or after their canal cruise, exploring the walkable futuristic neighborhood on foot. • Plan a Group Outing Rent multiple small boats with friends or family, or look into private cruise packages. If you’re traveling with children, check in advance for any special programs or services designed to ensure a safe, family-friendly experience. Songdo Comarine West Boat House offers a one-of-a-kind perspective on Songdo—a cutting-edge urban landscape harmonized with scenic waterways. With everything from casual pedal boats to event-specific cruises, plus parks and cafés just steps away, it caters to families, friends, and couples alike. Check the weather and operating hours before your visit, and get ready to enjoy an extraordinary trip through Songdo’s canals and futuristic skyline.

If you follow National Road No. 15 up from the Bamboo Museum, you’ll come across a beautiful and exotic boulevard that looks like it is came straight out of a fairytale. This unearthly place is the Metasequoia-lined Road. Metasequoia trees were planted along the street in the early 1970s when the Ministry of Internal Affairs officially designated the road as a “boulevard.” At that time, the saplings were only 3 to 4 years old and their branches stretched sparsely out into the sky; now, the trees have grown so high that they seem to block out the sun! Thanks to these stately trees, in 2002 the Korea Forest Service selected the boulevard as one of the most beautiful roads in Korea. The 4 kilometer-long boulevard is located along National Road No. 24 and is one of the most popular driving routes in Korea, especially during summer when the trees’ lush green leaves are at their x_height of beauty. Feel free to stop your car along the roadside to take a walk among these 10 to 20-meter-tall trees and breathe their fresh scent. Bicycling along this route and appreciating its real beauty at a leisurely pace is also highly recommended.  

Jumunjin Breakwater was built to protect the coastline from the effects of erosion and longshore drift. It became a popular attraction after its first appearance in the television drama "Goblin" (2016) as many visitors look forward to taking photos of a scene reanactment from the drama.

Stretching from the (former) Jeollanam-do Provincial Government Office to the Geumnam-ro area, this famous plaza is where the landmark May 18th Democratic Uprising took place. In May 1980, the Jeollanam-do Provincial Government office building was the headquarters of the civil resistance movement and the scene of a number of rallies. The plaza has been officially known as the May 18 Democracy Square (5.18 민주광장, Minju Gwangjang) since 1996.

Yeonan Pier is the starting point for all coastal passenger ships bound for the numerous islands in the western sea. The nearby Incheon Fish Market is always bustling with people who come to buy fresh fish and pickled fish at reasonable prices. Also located near the pier is the sliced raw fish market operated by the Marine Products Association. The southern quay is where the boats and ships leave for sea fishing. The ships here are also available for rent for various purposes so events like reunions and seminars can be held aboard the ship.

Joanne Bear Museum located in Jungmun Resort Complex in Seogwipo-si, on Jeju-do Island is a gallery exhibition hall for Joanne Oh, a world-famous teddy bear artist. The museum, which boasts the motto “nature and environmentalism", showcases teddy bears that are made of all-natural materials. The eco-friendly pieces mimic the natural beauty of Jeju Island and give visitors a feeling of comfort and refreshment.Joanne Bear Museum features a variety of teddy bears, polar bears, and 'joon bears' that were created based on the character of Bae Yong-joon, a famous Hallyu star. Due to the ‘joon bear’s world-wide acclaim, the museum is frequently visited by many Japanese tourists.At the museum, visitors can watch Joanne Oh’s teddy bear making process in person. The museum offers other conveniences as well: a café on the second floor and a backyard garden. Visitors are even permitted to go to the rooftop to enjoy the view. A variety of cultural events are also offered to double your fun. Those who wish to have a ‘joon bear’ of their own may purchase a mini joon at the museum’s souvenir shop.Joanne Oh, as a teddy bear artist, has given much thought on her role in saving polar bears from endangerment. As a result, she has designed a family of polar bear teddies and launched a campaign called STPB (Save the Polar Bear). She continues to seek to expand her efforts to preserve nature and help the environment. 

Located in Danyang, Danuri Aquarium houses a lot of fish with a wide array of fish species from Korea and overseas countries, consisting of 13,000 fish of 83 species and 2,000 fish of 62 species, respectively. Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of fish including Siniperca, a traditional fish from Namhangang River, sweetfish and Korean bitterling, as well as various fish species from other countries all in one spot. Also, the aquarium offers a special sightseeing point, in the form of a fish tank decorated with the theme of Eight Scenic Views of Danyang.* Fish tanks: 82 exhibition tanks, 36 habituating tanks, approx. 854 tons* Display state: 145 species from domestic and overseas countries, 15,000 fish (83 from Korea (approx. 13,000 fish) / 62 from overseas countries (approx. 2,000 fish)

Opened in May 2007, Suseong Artpia is a major art center in Daegu. It has specialized, independent spaces for housing performances, exhibitions, and art camps. The art center’s facade was designed to resemble a crane flying away with its wings stretched out in order promote the image of Muhaksan Mountain (named as such because its shape is reminiscent of a flying crane or hak), the mountain on which the center is located. When viewed from the sides however, the center is shaped like a ship, as it was once the site of a large pond. With such an impressive exterior further highlighted by impressive lighting at night, water fountains, and landscaping, Suseong Artpia has become a rising attraction of Daegu. The center is equipped with a mega concert hall that can accommodate diverse genres of performing arts such as an opera, musical, ballet, theater, dance, music concert, and more.