Gyeonggi-do(Yangpyeong-gun)

Only 40 minutes from Seoul, the Jungmisan Observatory is located within the Jungmisan Recreational Forest 437km above the sea level. In addition to the beautiful natural scenery, the main draw of this particular location is that there is no other place close to Seoul that has such clean air and thereby offers such an excellent view of space and the stars. From Seoul (on a good day) you might expect to see 3 stars, while at the Jungmisan Observatory you can typically view over 3,000 stars.Jungmisan Observatory is the first experience learning center to provide astronomy experience programs for infants and young children. In-house instructors help children gain a deeper understanding of space and basic astronomy by leading them through a variety of programs. The observatory has also made its mark on the community at large by introducing astronomy experience programs from advanced nations to further contribute to the public’s knowledge of this branch of science.The observatory houses a forest eco experience center, outdoor observatory field, four-wheel mountain ATV experience center, camping site, water fun site, and more. During the public school vacation period, the observatory holds an astronomical science camp.


Jeollanam-do(Gurye-gun)

Located in Gurye, southwest part of Jirisan Mountain, and built during the Unified Silla Period, Cheoneunsa Temple is a branch temple of Hwaeomsa, and is one of the three great Buddhist temples on Jirisan Mountain. Situated on the sunny side of the mountain, water flows from the deep valleys just next to the temple and a majestic peak softly embraces the temple.Cheoneunsa Temple is believed to have been built by Monk Deokun from India in 828 A.D. during the 3rd year of King Heungdeok. Because it initially lay next to spring water as clean and cold as morning dew, the temple was also called Gamrosa, meaning Sweet Dew Temple. The spring water was rumored to clean one’s body and soul, leading to throngs of Buddhist monks to visit the temple. During King Chungryeol’s reign, the temple was named the Best Temple in the South.The temple was later renamed Cheoneunsa. Legend has it that while the temple was being rebuilt after the Japanese Invasion (1592-1598), somebody killed a large serpent appearing out of nowhere and, subsequently, the spring water miraculously dried up. Hence, the name Cheoneunsa, meaning Disappearance of Spring Water, was given.The temple is home to Geukrakbojeon (a Buddhist sanctuary) and a Buddhist painting called Amita Hubul Taenghwa (National Treasure No. 924). The temple is enveloped by an exquisite pavilion called Suhongru and Iljumun Gate. 


Jeollanam-do(Damyang-gun)

Located in Damyang, Jellanam-do, Gwanbangjerim (Natural Monument No. 366) is a forest that was made along the banks of Damyangcheon Stream. The two-kilometer-long forest stretches from Dongjeong Village in Namsan-ri to Hwanggeum-ri, Subuk-myeon and Gangui-ri, Daejeon-myeon. Gwanbangjerim is a special manmade forest that was planted to prevent flooding along Damyangcheon Stream. It is comprised of large trees such as muku trees, zelkova trees, nettle trees, and cherry trees that are about 200 to 300 years old. The forest’s beauty is so well known that it was even selected as “Korea’s Most Beautiful Forest” by the Korean Forest Services. Visitors enjoy this gorgeous natural getaway all year round, with many stopping by the forest Sculpture Park for pictures. Nearby attractions include the Jungnogwon Bamboo Garden and the Metasequoia-lined road.  


Gangwon-do(Samcheok-si)

Leave your car behind and enjoy fishing along the seaside path that winds from the entrance of Samcheok Port to Saecheonnyeon Coastal Road.


Gyeongsangnam-do(Changwon-si)

Junam Reservoir features a large migratory bird sanctuary spread throughout three reservoirs (Sannam, Junam, and Dongpan), and is one of Korea’s top nature-watching areas for visitors. It operates Ramsar Culture Center, ecology educational hall, bird-watching site and Junam Environment School free of charge and a guide tour is available to explore the reservoir with ecological explanations. In addition, a lotus field and flower road can be visited in the reservoir.


Gangwon-do(Pyeongchang-gun)

Within winter skiers’ Mecca, Gangwon-do Pyeongchang-gun Yongpyong Resort, summer targeted water park, Peak Island, is opening. As a center of family vacation spots, Peak Island is offering enjoyment throughout all four seasons. Yongpyong Resort, well known as a ski resort, focused in winter interior which reflects to be very unique western image. Peak Island is located at Korea’s highest above the sea level of 700m which consists of one basement floor and four ground floors. Over 3,500 people can facilitate together at once and basement floor is for golfers to enjoy spa after the golf games. As main facilities there are beach pool, sweat chamber, Kid’s pool, running water pool, open-air theme pool, slides, sauna, and various events are available. In addition, with waterfall ice cave, it is possible to enjoy winter’s snow falling ambiance just as Finland’s winter.


Gyeongsangnam-do(Namhae-gun)

Situated on the outskirts of Sinbulsan Mountain (part of the Yeongnam mountain range, in southeastern Korea), Deungeok Hot Springs (72,727m²) is a sprawling geothermal site which includes the Sinbulsan, Eonyang, and Gajisan Hot Springs. Nearby to the Sinbulsan, Gajisan, and Ganwolsan Mountains of the Yeongnam mountain range, the complex is ideal for visitors seeking rest and relaxation after their hiking adventures. The water found in the area contains high concentrations of sodium bicarbonate (substance similar to baking soda), which is believed to be a remedy for dermatitis, indigestion, bronchitis, high blood pressure, and many other ailments. Nearby attractions include Amethyst Cavern Park, Dokkaebi Road, Jakcheonjeong, Ganwol Natural Recreation Forest, and Seongnamsa Temple. ​


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. 


Jeju-do(Seogwipo-si) , Seogwipo

The Kim Young Gap Gallery is a former elementary school turned gallery. Photographer Kim Young Gap, who had been suffering from Lou Gehrig’s disease, spent his life capturing the beauty of Jeju Island. He created the gallery during his last days so that he could ensure his works be shared for years to come. The gallery shows the photographer’s artistic passion, and his photos reflect the sublime beauty of Jeju Island, captured day after day in all kinds of weather. It is said that Kim Young-gap lived a life of poverty, spending the little money he had on film and developing supplies. Visitors to the gallery will surely be impressed by the commitment and lifetime sacrifice Kim Young-gap made