Gyeonggi-do(Suwon-si) , suwon

Hwaseong Fortress is an impressive structure from the latter part of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) and the official fortress of Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do. The fortress (constructed from 1794 to 1796) was built as a show of the King’s filial piety towards his father Jangheonseja and to build a new pioneer city with its own economic power.The fortress wall stretches for a total of 5.52km and has a great variety of military facilities that’s hard to find anywhere else. Four gates face each of the cardinal directions—Janganmun (north), Paldalmun (south), Changnyongmun (east), and Hwaseomun (west)—and the seven-arch style Sumun gates straddle the point where the nearby stream reaches the palace. Above the Sumun gates is a pavilion called Hwahongmun.Hwaseong Fortress was constructed under the guidance of Yu Hyeong-Won (1622-1673) and Jeong Yak-Yong (1762-1836), and is believed to have been constructed very scientifically. The fortress wall was built using Seokjae and Jeondol (bricks) and the holes between the bricks are just big enough to fire guns, arrows, or long spears through in case of an attack.During construction of the fortress Jeong Yak-Yong invented ‘Geojunggi,’ which uses a ‘hwalcha’ (lever) to lift up heavy stones, greatly reducing construction time.The Suwon Hwaseong Fortress went through many turbulent times and damage, and in the battle of June 25th, many of the facilities became so damaged that they were deemed irreparable. Even though the fortress restoration initiative (1975-1979) restored many of the sites to their former glory, Paldalmun to Dongnamgakru (an area 491 meters in length) has still not been renovated.The fortress was designated as Historical Monument No. 3 in January 1963, and in December 1997, it was designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.a variety of performances and evens are held everyday and Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival takes place every autumn.>> Click here for more on Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Youngpoong Bookstore has six branches as well as an on-line bookstore. Of those, the most famous branches are the Jongno and the Gangnam stores. Since both places are connected to the subway station, the location is very convenient. The Youngpoong Bookstores are not ordinary bookstores. They are exclusive cultural centers that carry all kinds of cultural products. The Jongno branch, located in the Youngpoong Building is spread out over two floors. There are roughly one million books to choose from here. Various kinds of stationary are also available and you can also enjoy fast food at several adjoining restaurants. At the record shop you can listen to the latest Korean hit songs. Since you can reserve tickets there for events and performances, if you see something on the posters that interest you, you can purchase them on the spot. At the large bookstore you will find quite a number of people reading books. Facilities for visitors such as photocopy machines, a gift-wrap center and photography studios are on hand. Outside the bookstore, the streets are directly connected to the areas of Jongno and Euljiro. As one of the most intricate places in Seoul, Jongno offers many places to eat and enjoy oneself. Euljiro has so many buildings that it actually seems like a forest of buildings. If you follow these buildings you will soon find yourself in the area of Myeongdong, another Mecca for shoppers.The Youngpoong Book store in Gangnam is located in the basement of Central City's Young Plaza, the area's giant shopping mall. It is 3600 pyong (pyong = 2.2 m2), roughly 600 pyong larger than the Jongno store. It provides all the latest cultural information and features a book café, event hall, magazine plaza, and information center. Even those not wishing to purchase any books can still spend time enjoying the atmosphere. Central City Plaza also has a lot to offer visitors seeking enjoyment: a department store, movie theater, hotel, car exhibition, game room, record shop, sauna, international conference rooms, bank, post office, medical center, and food courts. Therefore if you feel bored staying inside the bookstore, you can always get out and enjoy the many other activities on hand. The Express Bus Terminal is also connected to the bookstore. You may want to buy a book for your bus ride to the countryside. 


Seoul(Jung-gu)

Seoul Global Cultural Center is located in the heart of Myeong-dong, Seoul's major shopping district. It is more than just an information center. It is an inviting space for global cultural exchange between residents and visitors.The center not only offers information in English, Chinese, and Japanese, but also facilities such as free internet and coin-operated lockers. Moreover, the center regularly hosts cultural programs.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Samcheongdong・The Northern Part of the Seoul

Opened in April 2004, Donglim Knot Museum has on exhibit a variety of decorative traditional Korean maedeup (knots): norigae for hanbok, belts, pouches, as well as materials like thread, cord, and accessories. Housed in a hanok, a traditional Korean house, the gallery has a variety of exhibits, including old and new artwork, and creations that reflect modern trends.The museum also operates a maedeup class taught by an apprentice of museum curator Sim Yeong-mi. Lessons are available in a one-day program as well as in a long-term program. To participate, call (+82-2-3673-2778, Korean) at least two days in advance. The classes operate from 10am to 6pm and have a maximum capacity of 12 people. The museum is closed on Mondays. Instructions are given only in Korean, so foreigners are advised to come with a local guide. 


Gyeonggi-do(Gwacheon-si) , Seoul Grand Park

Seoul Zoo is an open space of natural education, created to foster children’s interest in and love for animals and nature. The zoo runs educational programs where children can learn about various animals. Through the programs, children are able to interact with and feed dogs, monkeys, rabbits, deer, goats, and more.


Seoul(Gangnam-gu) , Gangnam・Samseongdong(COEX)

Once known as Gyeonseongsa Temple, Bongeunsa Temple is located to the north of COEX building, and was constructed in the 10th year of Silla King Weongseong’s reign (794). In 1498, Queen Jeonghyeon refurbished Gyeonseongsa Temple at the east of King Seongjong’s royal mausoleum and renamed the temple as Bongeunsa. Originally located near the royal maulsoleum (1km southwest), the temple was transferred to its current location during Joseon King Myeongjong’s reign. 3,479 Buddhist scriptures of 13 types, including the works of Kim Jeong-hee, are stored here. The Buddhist ceremony called Jeongdaebulsa, is held every September 9th of the lunar calendar, where monks march carrying the scriptures on their heads and recite the Beopseongge (Buddhist rites).


Seoul(Yangcheon-gu) , Yeouido・Yeongdeungpo・Mapo

Mokdong Ice Rink was built with international competitions in mind so many national and international competitions are held here. Normally, it is open to both the public and athletes as a regular ice rink to enjoy skating. When there are games, events or competitions, it also serves as a professional skating arena.


Seoul(Jung-gu) , Dongdaemun

Regarded as the capital of Korea’s fashion industry, Dongdaemun Fashion Town is a fashion town that never sleeps. Reports state that 45% of Seoul’s foreign tourists have also visited Dongdaemun Fashion Town.The Dongdaemun Fashion Town Special Tourist Zone consists of both wholesale and retail markets. The town started as a traditional market for wholesale, but the advent of modern shopping buildings now allows shoppers to purchase either in wholesale or retail. Dondaemun appeals to many travelers as it is easily accessible by public transportation. The fashion town is conveniently located near Dongdaemun Station (Seoul Subway Line 1 & 4) and Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Seoul Subway Line 2).Dongdaemun Fashion Town is more than just a place for selling clothes; the entire process, from planning to production also takes place here. The setting is preferred by young designers who are looking to challenge themselves. The surrounding area has also been revitalized through the positive ripple effects brought about by events and performances organized by the shops and malls in the town.The name of the town came from Dongdaemun Gate, originally called Heunginjimun Gate. The gate was built during the Joseon Dynasty and is located in the vicinity of Dongdaemun Fashion Town.[Dongdaemun Fashion Town Special Tourist Zone]Areas included: Areas around Dongdaemun Design Plaza, newly established and traditional MarketsArea size: 585,709 ㎡Tourist attractions: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Chungmu Art Hall, shopping malls (Doota, Migliore, etc.), wholesale clothing mall and traditional market.


Seoul(Gangnam-gu) , Gangnam・Samseongdong(COEX)

The Café Rainbow is the first of the nine lookout cafés along the Hangang River to be opened to the public. The 76.4㎡ café occupies the third and fourth floor of a four-story building (1st and 2nd floor to be used as a common space for an elevator and stairways). The Café Rainbow consists of a café, an outlook and an exhibition hall, all of which are centered around the theme of biking.The 3rd floor, which is used for theme promotion and marketing, is decorated with bike-related items and designed in accordance with the overall biking theme. Moreover, the café distributes information for free about Hangang River events and festivals while supporting programs and events related to bicycling. From the 4th floor, visitors can enjoy a picturesque view of the Hannam Bridge, and Namsan Mt., and at night, indoor lights will be lowered to provide the best lighting for the fantastic night view. The café's interior has many comfy chairs, and equipment for visitors to take a rest. The menu reflects the idea of overall health with a selection of healthy foods and beverages, the perfect match to a day of bike riding.


Gyeonggi-do(Gwacheon-si) , Seoul Grand Park

Covering an area of about 9,157,000 ㎡ (2,770,000 pyeong), Seoul Grand Park consists of themed areas for education, nature, and amusement. The park is known for its various amusement facilities and scenic beauty. Seoul Grand Park’s major attractions include Seoul Grand Park Zoo, Children's Zoo, a rose garden, Seoul Land amusement park, and the Seoul Museum of Modern Art.Seoul Zoo is home to over 2,975 animals belonging to about 348 species from all over the world. The zoo is the 10th largest in the world and a recognized member of the International Species Information System (ISIS) and the World Zoo Organization (IUDZG-WZO).* SizeSite area 9,157,066m² (2,770,000 pyeong)Zoo and botanical garden 2,423,151m² (733,000 peyong)Amusement park 820m² (248,000 pyeong)Lake 274,381m² (83,000 pyeong)Youth training center 76,033m² (23,000 pyeong)Rose garden 178,513m² (54,000 pyeong)Exercise facility 36,364m² (11,000 pyeong)Management office 327,274m² (99,000 pyeong)National Museum of Contemporary Art 66,116m² (20,000 pyeong)Natural green belt 2,323,977m² (703,000 pyeong)[Children’s Grand Park]Children’s Grand Park covers 530,000 square meters and is an ultimate leisure facility for families, offering a zoo, botanical garden, amusement facilities, and diverse performance events. Children can learn about animals at the children’s zoo or through the classes where they can get up close and personal with the animals by feeding them.[Rose Garden]The Rose Garden, which is located near the lake, has about 30,000 roses belonging to over 200 species. The roses are in full bloom in June, attracting many visitors to the park.[Botanical Garden]The Botanical Garden in Seoul Grand Park is located near the foot of Cheonggyesan Mountain. Opened on May 1, 1985, the garden has an area of 2,825㎡ and exhibits tropical and subtropical plants, succulent plants such as cactus, orchids and ferns.[Forest Bathing Park]The Seoul Grand Park Forest Park is located inside the natural forest of Cheonggyesan Mountain, which surrounds the Seoul Grand Park. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including 470 tree species and 35 bird species. It also has a 6.3㎞-long hiking trail that is divided into four sections, as well as rest areas with different themes like the Forest of Meditation featuring a 450m barefoot walking path. It is an ideal place for a forest bath, which involves exploring through a forest all the while enjoying the positive energy, beautiful sights and soothing atmosphere that the forest has to offer. Visitors will enjoy 11 different themes such as ‘forest with nature,’ ‘forest for meditation,’ and ‘forest for rest.’ Walking through the forest bathing area takes as little as 50 minutes or as long as 2.5 hours.* What is Forest Bathing (Sallimnyok)?Forest bathing is the act of taking a leisurely walk in the woods while breathing in the aromatic scent of trees and nature. Wearing moisture-wicking clothes is recommended to keep you cool and comfortable during the warmer months.