Incheon(Jung-gu) , Incheon Center

Incheon National Maritime Museum: Discover Korea’s Seafaring Legacy 1. Introduction Nestled along Incheon’s coastal landscape, the Incheon National Maritime Museum immerses visitors in the evolution of Korea’s maritime heritage. Through vibrant exhibits and educational programs, guests can trace the nation’s nautical journey—from early fishing communities to modern shipping powerhouses—while gaining a deeper appreciation for its dynamic relationship with neighboring seas. 2. Exhibitions & Key Features * Maritime Roots & Traditions Dive into sections covering indigenous fishing methods, boatbuilding craftsmanship, and the courageous voyages of Korean explorers. Historical artifacts and immersive storytelling bring the oceanic past to life. * Contemporary Marine Technology Learn how today’s engineers and researchers tackle global challenges in shipping, ocean conservation, and sustainable resource development. Interactive installations cater to inquisitive minds of all ages. * Hands-On Learning Family-friendly zones offer activities that blend entertainment with knowledge—ranging from simulated steering exercises to hands-on workshops about marine biodiversity. 3. Architectural Flair Boasting a sleek modern design, the museum building provides a panoramic perspective on Incheon’s bustling ports and the expansive waters beyond. Floor-to-ceiling windows and open-concept galleries underscore the city’s role as a key maritime hub, linking Korea’s historical past to its forward-looking present. 4. Practical Information * Location & Transport Positioned in an easily accessible waterfront area, the museum can be reached by public transit, car, or taxi. Up-to-date travel details are typically available on official tourism sites. * Hours & Admission Schedules may change due to seasonal events or holidays, so confirm timings before visiting. Ticket policies vary for adults, children, and group entries, with certain special exhibits possibly requiring an additional fee. * Visitor Services Amenities often include a souvenir shop, a small café, and spacious rest areas. Guided tours (occasionally in multiple languages) help ensure an engaging and informative experience. 5. Nearby Points of Interest * Songdo Urban Complex Marvel at cutting-edge city planning, modern architectural highlights, and eco-friendly initiatives in Incheon’s futuristic business district. * Chinatown & Open Port Area Relive the early days of international trade through historical structures, eclectic dining venues, and cultural events celebrating Incheon’s global connections. * Wolmi Island Enjoy seafront amusement parks, ocean vistas, and fresh seafood spots perfect for a scenic day out. 6. Reasons to Visit * Comprehensive Insight Examine how Korea’s maritime story intertwines with its economy, cultural practices, and global outlook. * Engaging for All Ages Interactive stations and themed programs let visitors of different generations learn, play, and discover together. * Vision for the Future Reflect on advancements in marine innovation and environmental stewardship, topics that resonate with both casual onlookers and dedicated enthusiasts. Plan Your Visit If you’re heading to Incheon or simply want to delve into the world of Korean maritime endeavors, the Incheon National Maritime Museum presents a thorough look at how the sea has molded Korea’s identity. Its broad range of exhibits, hands-on sections, and stunning coastal views create a memorable encounter with Korea’s oceanic narrative—past, present, and future.


Incheon(Ongjin-gun)

Sindo Island is a 16.1 km-long (6.92㎢) piece of land situated 14km northwest of Incheon and 5km south of Ganghwado Island. Its highest point is Gubongsan Mountain (178.4 meters high). The name of the island, ‘Sindo’ (meaning ‘trust’ in Korean), came from the fact that the residents of the island are trustworthy and diligent. The island is also known as ‘Jinyeom’ (meaning ‘true salt’ in Korean) since the island is known for its high-quality salt.  Though relatively small in size, the island has a diversity of geographical features. Along the southwest coast is a large bay, while the northern and southern regions are more mountainous. Wide tidelands surround the entire island and provide a habitat for rare birds including the Chinese Egret and Black-tailed Gull, which also populate nearby Sido and Modo Islands.  Residents of Sindo make their living through farming and fishing. Goby and shellfish are caught off the coast and sweet grapes are grown in the fields. The villages of the island, such as Pyeongchon in the east, Gonam-ri in the southwest and Guroji in the southwest, serve as an important fishing points for locals.  From the peak of Gubongsan Mountain, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the islands of the Yellow Sea (including Yeongjongdo Island). Travelers to Sindo can also conveniently visitor neighboring Sido Island via the 579 meter-long Yeondogyo Bridge, constructed in 1992. 


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Gimcheon-si)

Jikjisa, located in Hwangak Mountain, Daehang-myeon, Gimcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, has a temple stay program which offers an opportunity for busy urbanites to relax and have some quality time for themselves. The temple stay includes learning temple etiquette, yebul (Buddhist service), 108 prostrations, talks with a monk, lecture on Buddhist culture, chamseon (Zen meditation), and barugongyang (formal monastic meal). Unique to the temple is an early morning walk to Hwanhuidae through which you may look deep down your heart and clear out all your afflictions.


Gangwon-do(Gangneung-si)

The waters of Guramy spa come from hot springs located 500 meters underground. The hot spring waters are perfect for children and old-aged patients since they contain very little salt and are therefore hypoallergenic. The waters are believed to be effective against neuralgia, muscular pains, and even women’s diseases.Visitors can also drink the hot spring waters, which can help digestive ailments such as constipation. In addition, Guramy Spa’s hot springs water is said to gently soothe the skin to eliminate skin irritations, reduce pains, and is even great for dandruff problems.


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Gyeongju-si)

Samneung means "three royal tombs," and has strong ties to history. The three royal tombs house three kings of the Silla Kingdom: King Adala (8th King of the Dynasty), King Sindeok (53rd) and King Gyeongmyeong (54th). King Adala, who cared deeply for his people, mobilized his soldiers to rescue his subjects that were abducted by the invaders of Baekje. After a while, Baekje asked for peace treaty and King Adala released the prisoners he took during the engagement. A kingdom in Japan sent an envoy to ask for friendly relations with the Silla. King Adala’s tomb is 58m in circumference at the base, 5.4m in x_height and 18m in diameter. As King Hyogong died without any heirs, the people of the kingdom crowned his son-in-law as their next king – King Sindeok. During his reign, King Sindeok devoted himself to protecting his kingdom from invasions by Gyeonhwon and Gungye. The royal tomb is 61m in circumference at the base, 5.8m in x_height and 18m in diameter. It was robbed twice, inviting investigations in 1953 and 1963. The investigations revealed the tomb to be a chamber made of stone. King Gyeongmyeong, the son of King Sindeok, together with Wanggeon, the founder of the Goryeo Dynasty, successfully thwarted Gyeonhwon’s attack against Daeyaseong Fortress. During his reign, he attempted to establish diplomatic relations with the Hudang Dynasty of China, but was unsuccessful. The tomb is 50m in circumference at the base, 4.5m in x_height and 16m in diameter.


Jeju-do(Seogwipo-si) , Seogwipo

Seogwipo Natural Recreation Forest is found along the east of 1100 Road which stretches across west of Hallasan Mountain, connecting Jeju-si and Seogwipo-si’s Jeju Jungmun Resort. Forests composed of various plant species fill the reserve along while serving as a habitat for rare animals such as pheasants, roe deer, etc. Modern and convenient forest lodgings, water activities, and walking trails are available for visitors to enjoy. There is also an observatory deck that offers a bird’s-eye view of Jeju World Cup Stadium, Jeju Convention Center, and Gwanghan Jungmun Tour Resort that stretches over 3.5 million ㎡.


Jeollanam-do(Gangjin-gun)

Gaudo Island is the only populated island of the eight islands in Gangjinman Bay. The name, meaning "cow head," comes from its appearance when seen from Boeunsan Mountain. The island is connected to the mainland on both sides by hanging bridges. The island also features a 2.5 km-long trekking course that showcases the beautiful environment of both the mountains and the ocean.


Jeollanam-do(Yeosu-si)

Yeongchwisan Mountain is not very tall, rising just 510 meters above sea level, but the mountain has long been deemed as a spiritual guardian of the Yeosu peninsula. During the old days, people held rituals for rain or offered wishful prayers here. Geumseongdae and Dosolam Hermitage are two Buddhist places of worship on the mountain. As Yeongchwisan Mountain is not very tall, taking any hiking course will lead you to the peak within about four hours. The mountain is a perfect place for family travelers to go hiking. Yeongchwisan Mountain is also widely known as the first place in Korea where azaleas begin to bloom in the spring, and is one of the top three most famous places in Korea for azalea blossoms. In April each year, the azalea festival is held in the mountain. The festival offers a variety of programs including a ritual for the god of the mountain, a writing contest for students, a photo contest, and Miss Azalea beauty pageant. During the festival, visitors can enjoy various events and local foods.


Gangwon-do(Taebaek-si)

As the only natural energy source available in Korea, coal played its part as an important fuel for the industrial development of the nation. Now that the country relies more on cleaner energy sources, the demand for coal has been in steady decline and the coal industry is gradually losing its significance. The Taebaek Coal Museum is a place where you can learn about the history of Korea’s coal industry through the well-organized exhibitions.* The exhibitions will win the attention of visitors because:i) the unique story-telling method of the exhibitions is both interesting and eye-catching;ii) the exhibitions are presented in a way that facilitates the visitors’ understanding and take advantage of a spacious venue;iii) excavation and coal-collecting techniques are demonstrated by means of videos and mannequins;iv) various technologies are integrated into the simulation system, including special lighting, sound effects, and other mechanisms to enhance reality. 


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Ulleung-gun)

A caldera basin (a large volcanic depression, caused by collapse or explosion), Nari is the largest flat area in Ulleungdo Island. Its land is well drained and composed of fertile volcanic ash soil. While most island residents are fishers, those living in the basin earn a high income by producing medicinal plants.