Incheon(Ganghwa-gun) , Ganghwado Island

Jeondeungsa Temple, located on Ganghwa Island in Incheon, South Korea, is a historic Buddhist sanctuary with a rich legacy dating back to 381 A.D. during the Goguryeo Kingdom. Surrounded by the peaceful Samnangseong Fortress and lush greenery, the temple provides a serene escape for visitors seeking cultural and spiritual enrichment. A Glimpse into History Established by the revered monk Ado-hwasang, Jeondeungsa holds an important place in Korean Buddhist history. The temple has witnessed significant historical moments and played a vital role in the spiritual life of the region. The main hall, Daeungjeon, is particularly famous for its exquisite wood carvings, showcasing the architectural excellence of the mid-Joseon period. During the temple's history, soldiers engraved their prayers for victory and protection on the walls and columns of Daeungjeon, leaving behind a tangible connection to Korea’s past conflicts. Architectural Marvels Jeondeungsa Temple is home to various structures of cultural and artistic significance, including: * Daeungjeon Hall: The temple’s central structure, admired for its intricate carvings and deep historical roots. * Beomjong Pavilion: This bell pavilion houses the ancient temple bell, which continues to be used in traditional Buddhist ceremonies. * Samseonggak Shrine: A sacred space dedicated to the Three Sages, reflecting the harmonious blend of Buddhist tradition and Korean spirituality. A Scenic and Spiritual Getaway Set amidst dense forests and gentle hills, Jeondeungsa Temple offers more than just history. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking trails, admire the vibrant seasonal foliage, and soak in the peaceful ambiance. The temple complex is an ideal destination for those looking to reconnect with nature while exploring Korea’s cultural heritage. Why Visit Jeondeungsa Temple? Jeondeungsa Temple is more than just a historic site; it’s a place where history, culture, and nature come together in harmony. Whether you’re an avid history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply looking for a quiet retreat, Jeondeungsa offers a unique experience that leaves a lasting impression.


Daegu(Dong-gu)

Located in the center of Gyeongsang-do, Daegu International Airport is a convenient local transportation hub that provides access to most parts of the country. It is the only international exchange center in Gyeongsangbuk-do (Gyeongbuk). The cities of Gyeongsan and Yeongcheon are about 30 minutes from the airport, which serves as a major hub in Yeongnam region. Popular Gyeongbuk-area attractions including Gyeongju, Andong, and Pohang, are 90 minutes away. The airport’s main building is shaped like a soaring crane, with an interior theme based on a poem by Joseon-era scholar Yun Seon-do called “Owooga” (a song for five friends: water, rock, pine tree, bamboo, and moon).  


Gyeonggi-do(Paju-si) , Paju(Heyri Art valley)

Jangneung (장릉) is located in Paju, Gyeonggi-do province. For preservation reasons, this royal tomb is not open to the general public. This is the mausoleum of King Injo (1595-1649, reign 1623-1649), the 16th ruler of the Joseon Dynasty, and Queen Illyeol.King Injo took the throne in 1623 after having overthrown the previous king, Gwanghaegun, in a military revolt. During his reign, King Injo faced challenges from two foreign invasions in 1627 (Jeongmyohoran, 정묘호란) and 1637 (Byeongjahoran, 병자호란). He died in 1649 in Changdeokgung Palace. 


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Andong-si)

In Dongbu-dong, there is a 8.35 m (27 4/10 feet) high brick pagoda from the Unified Silla Kingdom Period (AD 654-935). Each brick is 27.5 cm (10 4/5 inches) long, 6 cm (2 1/3 inches) thick and 12.5 cm wide (4 9/10 inches). In the past, it was 7 stories high. In 1598, during the Japanese Invasion of Korea, the top motif was destroyed and the structure was further damaged during the Korean War. The pagoda was repaired in 1962. Rumour has it that the pagoda was once located inside the old Beomnimsa Temple. The Dangganjiju, which is located 5 m west from the pagoda, supports this story. One can see the small place to keep sculptures of the god on each floor. By looking at these with the tiled roof, it is possible to see what style was fashionable. On the second story from the southern viewpoint, one can see the beautiful remnants of the In Wang-sang statue. It is conveniently located on the left side of an open space at the end of the parking lot at Andong Train Station. * Designated National Treasure 56 on January 21, 1963.


Gyeonggi-do(Icheon-si) , Icheon

Icheon Ceramics Village produces traditional Korean ceramics, which are of high quality. The village became the center of traditional pottery during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) for about 500 years due to the easily obtainable materials in the areas. Icheon Ceramics Village was also the center of Joseon Baekja ceramics. Presently, about 80 pottery factories are congregated at the village, and about 300 pottery kilns are in use.Visitors can observe the pottery production process, and purchase them directly. It is worthwhile to see the crafts of these potters known as Living Cultural Treasures of Korea for creating the highest quality handicrafts. Not only are the traditional Cheongja,Baekja, and Buncheong pottery produced here, but you can also view modern design pottery. The Haegang Ceramics Art Center is the only ceramics Art Center in Korea, where you can learn about ceramics. One of the must-see events at Icheon Ceramics Village is the internationally famous “Icheon Ceramics Festival” held every year. Displayed pottery as well as, pottery classes, traditional kiln handling, pottery character show, and even parades are held.


Gangwon-do(Yangyang-gun)

South of Naksansa, along the seashore, is Hajodae Beach, with a water depth of 0.5~1.5m and a fine, white sand beach that stretches for 1.5 km.It is 13 km south of Yangyang-gun, and 1 km north of the 38th parallel. There’s a pine forest behind the beach and if you follow the seashore from the entrance of the beach for about 1.5 km, there is a pavilion on top of a cliff. This hexagonal pavilion is Hajodae, where it is believed the retainers of the Joseon Period (1392~1910) named Haryun (1347~1416) and Jojun (1346~1405) spent their last years in hiding. The flat bottom and low depth of the beach make it a suitable place for family vacations. It first opened in 1976, and is now operated as a camping ground and beach. Also in the area are Osaekoncheon (hot springs), Osaekyaksu (natural springs), Naksansa, Seoraksan National Park, Odaesan National Park, Tongiljeonmangdae (reunification observation platform), and Hajodeungdae (lighthouse), etc. Across from Hajodae there is a rock indicating the 38th parallel. Fresh water flows into the right side of the beach. The south side is great for fishing because of its bulwark, rock island, and Giamgoiseok (fantastic rocks and stones), and you can see Jo island to the right. On the left side of the beach there is an unmanned white lighthouse. This lighthouse is open from 9am to 7pm and you can enjoy a view of the whole area from the top. 


Gangwon-do(Samcheok-si)

The Sea Train is a tourist train, travelling along the Western sea, comprised of four divided cabins including two special rooms, one standard room, and one family room. The first and second cabin feature a special themed cabin, equipped with movie-watching system and seats facing the windows. The third car is for family members prepared with table seats, general subway-alike seats, and a cafeteria. The fourth cabin is for groups featuring three-seated and two-seated chairs. The Sea Train has plenty of things to see as it was decorated with a marine theme, including trick art images of clams, ocean creatures and shark as well as unfolded ocean views looking through the windows. Also, monitors equipped inside the room broadcasts music and games that will provide a fun entertainment while in the train. Another interesting feature of the train is the colorful lights that will change its color to green, red, and blue while passing through a tunnel.


Incheon(Seo-gu) , Incheon Center

Since opening on October 25, 2002, the Nokcheongja Museum has been running ceramic classes for visitors and offering academic data about the Green Celadon Kiln Site in Incheon (Historic Site No. 211). The excavation work for the Green Celadon Kiln Site in Incheon was conducted on four separate occasions from December 1965 to May 1966 by joint research teams of the National Museum of Korea and Incheon Metropolitan City Museum. The celadon fired in this kiln has a dark green or brownish green glaze with an uneven surface. The Green Celadon Kiln Site was the first cultural property in this area to be designated as a Historic Site (designated on May 1970).


Seoul(Jung-gu) , Seoul City Hall・Gwanghwamun

The Agricultural Museum first opened in 1987 and, after going through renovations, was reopened in July, 2005. The museum has three exhibition halls: the Agricultural History Hall, the Agricultural Community Hall, and the Agriculture Promotion Hall. In the museum, there are 2,000 artifacts on display and replicas of paddy fields, traditional homes, and marketplaces of agricultural societies. Through its variety of learning tools, the museums hopes visitors can gain a better understanding of what life was like for farmers in the past.


Jeollabuk-do(Iksan-si)

The Ssamgneung (Twin Tombs) in Iksan are stone chamber tombs that were unearthed during an academic excavation survey in 1917. At the time of the survey it was discovered the tombs had already been illegally excavated, most likely during the reign of King Chungsukwang of the Goryeo Dynasty. Though looters had stripped the tombs of any burial accessories, the wooden coffins were found to be relatively intact. The coffins were severely damaged in the aftermath of the Korean War, but were later restored by the Jeonju National Museum. When they were first found, the twin tombs measured 3.1 meters high and 0.5 kilometers wide, but some of the original wood was lost during the tombs’ tumultuous history and the restoration that followed. The larger of the restored tombs now measures 30 meters in diameter and 5 meters in x_height while the smaller tomb measures 24 meters in diameter and 3.5 meters in x_height. On January 21, 1963 the tombs were designated Historic Site No. 87. The Twin Tombs are roughly 200 meters apart, with the tomb in the east called Daewangmyo (big royal tomb) and the one in the west Sowangmyo (small royal tomb). The interiors of the tombs are done in the same style as the stone chamber tombs found in the tomb cluster of Neungsan-ri, Buyeo. Considering that the nearby Mireuksaji Temple Site was built during the reign of King Mu of Baekje Dynasty, it is highly likely that the Twin Tombs are those of King Mu and his wife, Queen Seonhwa.