Gangwon-do(Wonju-si)

0Discover Museum SAN: A Hidden Gem in Korea’s Mountains Nestled in the tranquil mountains of Gangwon-do, Museum SAN (Space Art Nature) is an architectural masterpiece designed by the world-renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. Opened in May 2013, this museum harmoniously blends minimalist concrete structures with the surrounding natural landscape, creating a serene environment for visitors to connect with art and nature. Complementing Ando’s architecture are the captivating works of James Turrell, celebrated for his innovative use of light and space. Museum SAN offers more than just exhibitions—it’s a journey of discovery. The experience begins at the Welcome Center and takes visitors through the Flower Garden, Water Garden, Main Building, Meditation Hall, Stone Garden, and finally, the James Turrell Hall. The Main Building’s unique design, featuring square, triangular, and circular wings, reflects the architect’s philosophy of connecting the earth, sky, and humanity. Recognized as a "2024-2025 Gangwon Wellness Tourism Destination," Museum SAN is a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and renewal. As a wellness tourism hotspot, it provides an ideal space for rejuvenation through nature, meditation, and art, offering a restorative retreat for the modern traveler. In addition to its permanent and special exhibitions, the museum offers interactive programs, including workshops and educational experiences, ensuring an engaging visit for all ages. Operating Hours * Museum: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Last entry: 5:00 PM) * James Turrell Hall: 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM * Meditation Hall (January–February): 10:25 AM - 5:05 PM Admission Fees 1. Museum Ticket (Includes Outdoor Garden, Paper Museum, Art Museum): * Adults: KRW 19,000 * Children/Teenagers: KRW 11,000 * Preschoolers: Free 2. Meditation Ticket (Includes Outdoor Garden, Paper Museum, Art Museum, Meditation): * Adults: KRW 35,000 * Children/Teenagers: KRW 25,000 * Preschoolers: Not permitted 3. James Turrell Ticket (Includes Outdoor Garden, Paper Museum, Art Museum, James Turrell): * Adults: KRW 35,000 * Children/Teenagers: KRW 25,000 * * Preschoolers: Free (3:00 PM slot only) 4. Integrated Ticket (Includes Outdoor Garden, Paper Museum, Art Museum, James Turrell, Meditation): * Adults: KRW 40,000 * Children/Teenagers: KRW 28,000 * Preschoolers: Free admission to James Turrell (3:00 PM slot only); not permitted in the Meditation Hall (Children: Elementary to high school students; Preschoolers: Ages 6 and under) ★ Note: Prices and operating hours may vary. Please check the museum’s official website for the latest information. Why Visit Museum SAN? Museum SAN is more than a museum—it’s an immersive sanctuary for the mind and spirit. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a unique and serene getaway during your Korean travels, this destination offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit to Museum SAN and discover the perfect harmony of art, nature, and architecture. ​『 COPYRIGHTS © 강원특별자치도 경제진흥원 All rights reserved. https://www.kwellness.kr』


Gyeonggi-do(Yongin-si) , Yongin

Deungjan (등잔, Korean lamps) that used to light up the nights in Korea, and have all but disappeared into the ‘back streets’ of history, have now been gathered together in one place – the Korean Deung-Jan Museum (한국등잔박물관) – where their enchanting flames are once again illuminating Korea. Based on materials that were collected for roughly 40 years by the now octogenarian Dr. Kim Dong-hwi, the Korean Deung-Jan Museum was established in September 1997 as a theme museum of Gyeonggi Province in Neungwon-ri, Mohyeon-myeon, Yongin City, Gyeonggi Province. The museum was built to mimic the image of the fortress walls in Hwaseong, Suwon, and as a result the building bears a resemblance to a lighthouse. The first and second floors of the building, which has one underground floor and three floors above ground, are exhibition halls. The basement floor is a rest area for seminars and a wide range of performances. There is also an outdoor exhibition space that measures around 2,644 m2 and includes native rocks, various types of trees, and a pond.


Jeollanam-do(Yeongam-gun)

The historic Dogapsa Buddhist Temple is located within the Wolchulsan National Park and in 1984, was designated Provincial Cultural Property No. 79. At an elevation of 376m, the site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area, so impressive it carries the nickname ‘Sogeumgang River’, meaning “Small Geumgang River” of Jeollanamdo-Province. Founded by Buddhist Monk Doseon during the later years of the Silla Kingdom, the temple houses many historic and cultural treasures, most notable of which is Haetalmun Gate (gate of emancipation); designated as National Treasure No. 50 and one of few remaining original Korean structures. In addition, there are the Maaeyeoraejwasang (National Treasure No.144) and Seokjoyeoraejwasang (National Treasure No.89) sitting Buddha statues, the Mokjomunsu•Bohyeondongjasang (Treasure No. 1134), the Doseonsumibi (Jeollanam-do Tangible Cultural Property No.38) and the Daeungbojeon, or ‘main temple hall.’ An added bonus is the walkway lined with cherry trees leading to Dogapsa Temple. During the spring season, the 1km path offers a fabulous touch to the pristine surroundings. Nearby attractions are Wolchulsan National Park, Historical Site of Dr. Wangin, Yeongam Pottery Museum and Gurim Village.  


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Mungyeong-si)

The Mungyeong Spa is an enormous hot springs complex that first opened in March 2001 and is able to accommodate up to 2,500 visitors at one time.The Mungyeong Spa offers two types of hot springs water. The yellow earth-colored hot springs water comes from 900 meters underground and is effective in treating skin irritations and heart disease. The other hot springs water comes from 750 meters below the ground and is beneficial to healing wounds and respiratory organs.Due to Mungyeong Spa’s two different hot springs waters, you can have several different healing experiences all in one place. 


Gwangju(Gwangsan-gu)

Wolbongseowon Confucian Academy (built in 1578, the 11th year of King Seonjo) was established to honor Ki Daeseung's study and virtue by Kim Gyehwi and other confucian scholars through Mangcheonsa Shrine in Sanwol-ri, Bia-myeon, Gwangsan-gun. The location of the confucian academy was moved to its current site in 1646 (the 24th year of King Injo) and the name 'Wolbong' was made by King Hyojong in 1654. In 1671, Bak Sang and Bak Sun's shrines were placed from Deoksansa Shrine by suggestions of Song Siyeol. Also, Kim Jangsaeng and Kim Jip's shrines were additionally placed in 1673. Unfortunately, the confucian academy was abolished due to the abolition policy of Daewongun in 1868 (the 5th year of King Gojong). Later, Bingwoldang Confucian Academy, comprised of five rooms, was built by Jeollanam-do's Confucian scholars in 1983. In addition, Gojiksa Shrine comprised of four rooms in 1972, Jangpangak Pavillion comprised of three rooms and Oesammun Gate in 1978, Sau in 1980 and Naesammun Gate in 1981 were established in order. Bingwoldang is desigated as Gwangju Monument No. 9 and woodblocks of Gobongjip (a collection of works of Gobong) are preserved in Jangpangak Pavilion.      


Gangwon-do(Yangyang-gun)

Including the beautiful bay, Maeho, Namae-ri has three beaches. The northernmost among the three is the largest, with a sandy beach measuring 2 kilometers long and 100 meters wide. The sand is great quality, and the water is shallow, with an average water depth of only 1 to 2 meters. Also, a field of reeds is beautifully stretched out like a painting on both sides of the water road in Maeho Bay. Near Maeho Bay is the breeding ground for egrets and grey herons in Pomae-ri, designated as Natural Monument No. 229. Namae 3-ri Beach, 1.3 km in length and 100 m in x_width, is close to Namae Harbor so that fresh seafood is always available. Namae 1-ri Beach is a small beach located in the southernmost area, measuring only 600 meters in length. Namae Harbor is one of the famous sunrise spots in this area of the East Sea, along with Chuam Beach in Donghae, and Naksan Beach in Yangyang.


Seoul(Jongno-gu)

The 19km-long Bugak Skyway runs along the northeast ridge of Bugaksan Mountain. Opened in September 1968, the road quickly became known as one of Korea’s most scenic driving routes. The road offers lovely views of Bukhansan Mountain’s Bibong Peak and Munsubong Peak on one side and Namsan Mountain on the other side. Trees line the roadside and different flowers bloom per season. The skyway leads to an octagonal pavilion at the top called Palgakjeong, where visitors can get a panoramic view of the city, take photos, and have a meal or coffee while enjoying the scenery. There’s also a parking lot that can accommodate up to 130 cars. http://bukak-palgakjeong.tistory.com


Gyeonggi-do(Gapyeong-gun)

Situated in Gapyeong, the city of peace and relaxation, Interactive Art Museum is the first of its kind to be opened in Korea. The museum displays artworks that incorporate state-of-the-art technology, offering unique and interactive art experiences to viewers, and distinguishes itself from regular art museums. Interactive Art Museum engages visitors to enjoy art with all their five senses through interactive three dimensional artworks and illusory multimedia effects.


Seoul(Seodaemun-gu) , Sinchon・Ewha Womans University

On the second floor of Yonsei’s Student Assembly Hall is the gathering place, of foreigners and students of Yonsei, to come together and share ideas in foreign languages. The Global Lounge has an area for debates and a multimedia TV on which, with a headset, you can listen to multinational broadcasts.


Jeollabuk-do(Gimje-si)

The Byeokgolje Reservoir in Gimje is the oldest irrigation facility in Korea. According to the Samguk Sagi (history of the three kingdoms), Byeokgolje was first built in the 21st year of the reign of King Heulhae (330 AD) of the Silla Kingdom. However, this region belonged to the Baekje Kingdom at that time, so some counter that the embankment was actually built in the 27th year of King Biryou (330 AD) of the Baekje Kingdom. Historians agree however that the reservoir was mended by King Wonseong of Silla in 790 AD and by King Hyeonjong and King Injong of the Goryeo Dynasty in 1143 AD. In 1415, King Taejong of the Joseon Dynasty rebuilt the whole facility, but it was washed away in heavy rains five years later in the 2nd year of King Sejong. Only about three kilometers of the reservoir embankment remain intact today. Moreover, the original embankment underwent major transformations in 1925 when the Dongjin Land Improvement Association remolded it into a channel for carrying water to nearby fields. In 1975, an archeological study of the sites where the two floodgates once stood revealed that highly refined measuring techniques had been used in the original construction of the reservoir. Thus, despite its many changes, Byeokgolje not only holds significance as Korea’s oldest manmade reservoir, but also as a historical relic that points to the highly developed engineering technology of the past.