Jeollanam-do(Yeosu-si)

Nestled at the foot of Maraesan Mountain (alt. 385.2 m), Chungminsa Temple (Historic Site No. 381) was built by Lee Sieon (unknown - 1624), and was commissioned by Lee Hangbok (1556-1618) after the Imjinwaeran War (Japanese Invasion) upon King Seonjo's (1601) command. The shrine was forced to be demolished by Japan in 1919, and only two sections remained. In 1947, they were then rebuilt by local residents in the end. It was designated as Historical Site No. 381 on June 1, 1993. * Chungminsa Hamabi (stone statue) At the entrance of Chungminsa Temple, Hamabi (stone stuatue) is set up with a 1.4 m-x_height, 42 cm-x_width, and 10 cm-thickness, with the word "Hamabi" written on the stone, meaning "expressing one's respect", and in front of the palace is a Confucian shrine, the birthplace of the sages that symbolizes the temple's significance. This stone used to be 100 m away but was moved to its current site when a detour road was built.


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

Paju Samneung (파주 삼릉) consists of the Gongneung, Sulleung, and Yeongneung tombs.Gongneung (공릉) is the royal tomb of Queen Jangsun (1445-1461), consort of King Yejong, the 8th ruler of the Joseon Dynasty. She died when she was still a crown princess, so her tomb is very simple. There is not even a “Mangjuseok”, which is the name for the pair of stones that stand on either side of the mound.Sulleung (순릉) is the tomb of Queen Gonghye (1456-1474), a consort of King Seongjong, the 9th ruler of the Joseon Dynasty. Sulleung is similar to Gongneung in many ways, but it has more stonework. Queen Gonghye was the 4th daughter of Han Myeong-Hoe, a high-ranking government officer, and a sister of Queen Jangsun, who is buried in Gongneung. This was the only time in the history of the Joseon dynasty that two sisters both became queen.Yeongneung (영릉) is the tomb of the posthumously designated king, King Jinjong (1719-1728), the first son of King Yeongjo, and Queen Hyosun (1715-1751). King Jinjong became the crown prince at the age of 7, but he died when he was only 13 in Changgyeonggung Palace. Queen Hyosun became the crown princess when she was 13 years old. In 1751, she died at the age of 37 without an heir. 


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.  


Chungcheongnam-do(Taean-gun)

Cheollipo Arboretum located in Taean Coast National Marine Park was built in 1966 by C. Ferris Miller. The park currently contains approximately 14,000 different plant species, including some rare and endangered species. [Suggestion: Officially recognized by the International Society of Arboriculture, the arboretum is one of the most beautiful in Korea.This arboretum consists of 7 areas (ex: Main Garden, Dakseom Island, Sea Dune Area, etc.) on a 595,044m² (180,000 pyeong) of land. Almost 7,000 different species have been collected for nearly 3 decades. The arboretum also enjoys a coastal climate, and can sustain a variety of plant species from subarctic to subtropical environments. Tours are available throughout the year.The value of Magnolia kobus (1,800 plants in 450 species) and Ilex cornuta (400 species) received international recognition during the hosting of the World Magnolia kobus Seminar in 1997 and World Ilex cornuta Seminar in 1998. Additionally, thanks to the balanced and healthy ecosystem, a variety of birds (nearly 60 species per year) and insects also make their homes in this arboretum.* Capacity: 60ha, 7,000 different species (Native: 1,000, alien: 6,000)1) Buildings: 15 buildings (1487.61m², 450 pyeong), 3 traditional houses, 1 thatched cottage, 4 modern-style traditional houses2) Greenhouse: 11 greenhouses (3305.8m², 1,000 pyeong)3) Pond: 7 ponds


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.


Chungcheongbuk-do(Yeongdong-gun)

Nangye Korean Traditional Music Experience Center was established to celebrate the musical talents of Nangye Park Yeon and preserve it. Furthermore, the center contributes to making Yeongdong the origin of gukak (Korean music), featuring a hub of gukak (Korean music) as well as world-famous traditional culture. Near the experience center, Nangye Korean Classical Music Museum, Nangyesa Shrine, and Nangye Gukak Instrument Production Village are situated to further experience the spirit and soul of Park Yeon. Nangye Korean Traditional Music Experience Center offers opportunities to play musical instrument as much as visitors want. Also, professional lecturers who majored in gukak (Korean music) work in the center to assist visitors in handling Korean musical instruments such as gayageum (Korean twelve-stringed zither), geomungo (Korean six-stringed musical instrument), janggu (double-headed drum with a narrow waist in the middle), haegeum (traditional Korean stringed instrument), and buk (drum).  


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.


Jeju-do(Jeju-si) , Former Jeju

Maze Land is a themed park boasting the world’s longest stone maze, measuring roughly 5.3km in total length. The maze is made mainly using stone and wood found on Jeju and is created to reflect the Jeju's three principle items or "Samda," which describes the things abundant on Jeju Island: rocks, wind, and women. Not just a fun activity for you and your friends, the maze is also good for your health, as the stones emit high levels of far-infrared radiation and the wood (T. occidentalis) produces a large volume of phytoncides. The park, with its variety of trees several decades old, is the perfect place for "forest bathing,” in which people surround themselves with nature (particularly trees) to soak in the natural benefits. In addition to the mazes of tree and stone, visitors are encouraged to check out the maze museum detailing the history of mazes starting from their origin in the 14th century. During the museum tour, visitors may also participate in hands-on activities such as puzzles and games.


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Andong-si)

Andong School of Korean Etiquette, which is located in Andong, is a Mecca of Korean traditional Confucian culture and provides an opportunity to experience and be coached in Korea traditional etiquette. In addition to Korean traditional etiquette, Andong School of Korean Etiquette also teaches tea etiquette and Korean traditional melodies using traditional instruments such as Janggu (double-headed hour-glass shaped drum) and Gayageum (a 12-stringed Korean harp). Students can also experience the joy of learning how to play folk games such as Yut-nori, a stick-throwing board game, and kite-flying. The school offers a wide variety of hands-on programs: Korean traditional masked dance; traditional paper craft; traditional cooking; traditional weddings; and eco rafting on Nakdonggang River. There are other popular tourist attractions nearby such as Dosan Seowon Confucian School, Forest Science Museum and Yi Yuk-sa Literary Hall.


Incheon(Ganghwa-gun) , Ganghwado Island

Unravel Korea's Rich Textile Legacy at the Donggwang Textile Cultural Center! Step back in time and delve into South Korea's textile tapestry right in the heart of Incheon's Ganghwa Island. From its heyday in the swinging '60s and '70s, the Donggwang Textile Factory was a cornerstone of the Korean textile boom. Today, after a spectacular makeover, it's a shining example of urban revival and a testament to Korea's industrious spirit.       Take a Walk Down Memory Lane! Established and broadened in 1963 by the visionary Yun Mansik, Donggwang Textile was the talk of the town, leading the Korean textile movement with a workforce of over two hundred passionate professionals. But as the saying goes, every silver lining has a cloud. As the industry shifted gears, this iconic landmark fell silent. Yet, thanks to a whopping 3.2 billion KRW boost from the Ganghwa local government, this phoenix has risen once more. Now, it's a treasure trove of attractions: from vintage textile machinery showcases and high-tech viewing rooms to quaint book nooks and multifunctional event spaces. A Blast from the Past Meets the Present! Entering the Donggwang Textile Cultural Center is like flipping open a vibrant scrapbook of Korea's textile legacy. Situated alongside the likes of Joyang Bangjik Cafe and Ganghwa Sochang Experience Center, this hub is a melting pot of Korea's textile milestones. No wonder it's lighting up Instagram feeds and topping travel bucket lists left and right.       Dive into Yesterday, Today! With no admission fee, it's a no-brainer for anyone looking to soak up some culture. Just a heads-up: they hit the pause button every Monday to keep things spick and span for your next cultural deep dive. If South Korea is on your radar, pencil in a pitstop at Ganghwa Island and the illustrious Donggwang Textile Cultural Center. Immerse yourself in Korea's textured past, engage in unique experiences, and craft tales that you'll reminisce about for years to come. #TextilesOfKorea #HiddenGemsOfGanghwa #KoreaBound Join the narrative of Korea's rich fabric. Catch you on Ganghwado Island!