Jeollanam-do(Yeosu-si)

Jinnamgwan Hall (National Treasure No. 304) was the naval base of Jeolla-do Province during the Joseon Dynasty. Admiral Yi Sun-shin used this site as his headquarters, and at that time there was a watchtower called Jinhaeru. The original building burned down during the Jeongyujaeran (the second Japanese invasion in 1597), and Admiral Yi Si-eon constructed a large guesthouse (official residence) with 75 rooms on the burnt down site of Jinhaeru in 1599, a year after the conclusion of the Imjinwaeran War (Japanese invasion, 1592-1598). At the hall entrance is a small museum outlining the history of Jinnamgwan and the Imjinwaeran War, and the famous Yeosu Stone Statue (Tangible Cultural Asset of Jeollanam-do No. 33) is located within the precincts of the hall. Nearby attractions include Jasan Park, Odongdo Island, Dolsan Bridge, Chungminsa Shrine, and Manseongni Beach.


Jeollanam-do(Haenam-gun)

Constructed in the eighth year of King Gyeongdeok of the Shilla Dynasty (749), Mihwangsa Temple is located on the west side of Mt. Dalmasan (489m), the Mt.Geumgangsan of Southern Sea, and is situated the furthest south of all temples in the Korean peninsula. The beautiful sunset and the view of the graceful Mt. Dalmasan from the temple attracts numerous tourists. The foot of the mountain found behind the temple blends well with the suitable-sized temple and the appearance of Daeungbojeon gives out an aura of comfort and tranquility. The cornerstone of Daeungbojeon is carved with sea creatures, such as turtles and crabs that cannot be observed elsewhere. Moreover, you can enjoy observing various stone and statues, such as Gwebul (national treasure no. 1342), where people pray for rain during the dry season. Other attractions include 18th century murals on the walls of Daeungbojeon and Unginjeon, and Buddhist statues such as bosal, nahan, dongja and shinjangsang.


Jeollanam-do(Yeosu-si)

Located approximately halfway between Yeosu-si City and Jeju Island, Geomundo Island is part of the Dadohae Maritime National Park. It is divided into Dongdo, Seodo, and Godo Islands, all of which offer scenic views of quaint towns and surrounding nature. Also, Geomundo is the access point for the famous Baekdo Island group, a spectacular array of uninhabited rock pinnacles attached with numerous legends. Island History Geomundo Island's history dates back to the bronze era with the discovery of a stone sword on one of the islands. Subsequent discoveries of coins from the Han Dynasty (206BC-220AD) that were used for more than 700 years up to 621AD have also been found. Discoveries of celadon from the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) have also been located on Geomundo’s islands. Geomundo had been commonly known as Godo until the British sailors arrived on the island in 1885, and put claim to the island in order to construct a naval port to fight off the Russian fleets. They named it Port Hamilton. Soon, Admiral Jeong Yeochang came to Geomundo to challenge the audacity of the British, and, in turn, was struck by the high literacy level of the islanders. He recommended to the then ruler that the island be renamed ‘Geomun,’ meaning ‘great literacy.’ The British sailors eventually perished, but their graves can be found in a well-preserved cemetery on the island.


Jeollanam-do(Suncheon-si)

Suncheon Bus Terminal provides both intercity and express bus services connecting multiple cities in the country.


Jeollanam-do(Sinan-gun)

Located 54.5 kilometers from Mokpo in Jeollanam-do Province, Bigeum-do Island is part of the Dadohae Maritime National Park. Its spectacular coastline is dotted with numerous islands. Bigeum-do is the first and leading production center of sun-dried salt in Korea, which is its main source of income.Among the 827 islands along the shores of Sinan, Bigeum-do is the seventh-largest island. It is popular as a vacation spot as it is less visited and the natural environment is still well preserved. Because development has been particularly slow compared to other islands, it has a marked shortage of accommodations and recreational facilities. However, this is also the reason it is relatively unpolluted.The two major beaches are Wonpyeong and Hanuneom, which was the filming location for TV drama "Spring Waltz". Hanuneom, also known as Heart-shaped Beach, beckons young couples seeking romance.The island is also home to a number of tourist attractions and historical sites, including Seongchisanseong Fortress (built during the Goryeo period), Seosansa Temple, Beacon Hill, and Naewolli Seokjangseung, a stone totem pole.Hanuneom Beach: Located in southwestern Bigeum-do, Hanuneom lives up to its pure Korean name, meaning that “only the sky and sea can be seen.” Low mountains surround the white sandy beach, which is 500 meters long and 60 meters wide. There is a restroom, shower facilities, and drinking fountain. The entrance to the island is the Gasanri dock. The beach is open from July 20 to August 20.Wonpyeong Beach: Known as the most beautiful beach in Bigeum-do, Wonpyeong is particularly spectacular in spring when the wild roses are in full bloom. The beach, located on the northern side of the island, is 4.3 kilometers long and 60 meters wide. When the tide is low, the beach extends an extra 150 meters. Wild roses cover over 4 kilometers. Past the beach, a dense acacia forest and a reservoir also attract visitors.The area is open from July 21 to mid-August.


Jeollanam-do(Jindo-gun)

The most beloved breed of dog in Korea is the Jindo Dog (진도개), named after the island from which they are said to originate. The breed has been designated a national treasure, and great efforts are made to keep the bloodline pure. For example, any non-Jindo dog that comes to Jindo Island must be sterile. Jindos were originally hunting dogs, raised to take down small to large sized prey. They are known for their extreme loyalty and keen homing sense. Traditionally Koreans hunted without guns, instead taking with them a pack of Jindos. After making a kill, one dog promptly returns to the master while the others stand guard over the prey. The Jindo dog is registered with the Federation Cynologique Internationale and the British Kennel Club.


Jeollanam-do(Hampyeong-gun)

Hampyeong’s ‘Haesujjim’ is a medical treatment method that has been widely used ever since the 1800’s. Nutrients are added to seawater, which is then heated for bathing, creating a “Haesujjim (seawater bath)” that combines the benefits of hot springs and bathing.This is especially popular among housewives since it is proven to be an effective treatment for neuralgia, post childbirth discomfort, arthritis, and dermatitis.


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Daehuengsa Temple is told to have been built during the time of King Seong of the Baekje period by Adohwasang, a Shilla Monk and the site was the restoration of Samjae bulipjicheo of Buddhist culture, which protects Samjae, the three disasters of one’s life.Pyochungsa and Iljiam Tea Garden display writings and traces of the prominent men of the time such as Chusa Kim Jeong-hui and Chouiseonsa Buddhist monk. Inside the temple, Daeungbojeon, Chimgyeru, Myeongbujeon, Eungjindang, Cheonbuljeon, Cheonbulsang, Pyochungsa, Daegwangmyeongjeon, Iljiam, Bungmireugam, and Seongbo Museum are situated. The Rock-carved Seated Buddha at North Mireugam Hermitage of Daeheungsa Temple, Haenam (National Treasure No. 308) and Bronze Bell with Inscription of Tapsansa Temple (Treasure No. 88) are preserved as well as various cultural assets and fables such as Budojeon, and Stupa Courtyard, the largest in Korea.


Jeollanam-do(Gwangyang-si)

Gwangyang International Maehwa Festival takes place in Seomjin Village, home of the largest number of plum blossom trees in Korea. During the festival period, visitors can enjoy a walk beneath the plum blossoms, and also sample and purchase local organic plum products.


Jeollanam-do(Gurye-gun)

Its deep valleys and unique mountain formations are what make Jirisan Mountain truly spectacular. It consists of numerous peaks, and is known to be well-preserved and clean. 'Ten Scenic Views of Jirisan Mountain' are particular memorable and simply breathtaking. Perhaps Jirisan Mountain’s most signature highlight is its incredible sunrise; the scarlet sunlight from the horizon in the east is spectacular, and arguably the best place to watch it in Korea. The second highlight is the 'Nogodan Sea of Clouds.' Located to the west of Jirisan Mountain, Nogodan Peak is said to boast the most outstanding views of Jirisan Mountain. If you climb up to the peak following the Hwaeomsa Valley, at times the sea of clouds are visible from below the peak. The third notable highlight is 'Banyabong’s Nakjo.' Banyabong Peak is a huge dome shaped feature. One of the big joys of climbing Banyabong is to see the Nakjo. The fourth selected highlight is the full moon; the beautiful scarlet sky together with the black mountain line produce an exquisite painted background to the rising of the moon. The fifth notable feature is the red sunset seen through the mountain haze. The sixth is the deep waterfall between the peaks of Cheonghakbong and Baekhakbong. The 60m fall produces a tremendous sound. The seventh of Jirisan's highlights is Piagol Autumn Leaves. At the village, walk 10 minutes further towards Piagol and you will come to a pine forest at the edge of Jeollanam-do and Gyeongsangnam-do. It is called Piagol, the best broad-leaved tree forest in Jirisan Mountain area. In the spring, you will see the Azaleas, in the summer the green trees, and in the fall, the autumn leaves, and in the winter, the beautiful view of snow-covered landscape. But the autumnal colors of Piagol are some of the best in the world. Every year the Autumn Leaves Festival is held here. The eighth highlight is the royal azalea blossoming between the rocks. In the spring, the royal azaleas blanket the mountain. There is a field that extends 1200m in the southern area of Jirisan Mountain covered with flowers known as Royal Azalea Plateau. The ninth feature is the Chilseon Valley. With its roots in Cheonwonbong Peak, it is one of our nation’s three best valleys. According to legend, seven gods are said to be living in Chilseondong Valley. Finally, the tenth most scenic feature is Seomjincheongryu. Flowing southwesterly across Jirisan Mountain and into the south coast, the Seomjingang River is so clear that it is sometimes compared to blue silk. The white sandy beaches on either side of the river are also very beautiful.