Jeollanam-do(Suncheon-si)

Heungryunsa Temple is a Buddhist center of the Jogyejong Order. Located in Jukdobong Park (downtown Suncheon), Heungryunsa Temple is a shrine of the god Sakyamuni (the main statue of Buddha). The site was previously used as an archery range. * History Heungryunsa Temple is a branch of Hwaeonsa Temple, which is the 19th local temple of the Jogyejong Order. It is said that Heungryunsa Temple was constructed during the reign of King Seonjo of the Joseon Dynasty and that the site was used as a place where naval forces practiced archery during the Japanese invasion in 1592. At the same time, the temple was the first military base of monk-turned-military officers from Hwaeomsa, Songgwangsa, and Seonamsa Temples. The current building was re-constructed in 1986 by Monk Jongwon, who is still the chief abbot of the temple.  


Jeju-do(Jeju-si) , Former Jeju

Seosara Cultural Street Festival is held along the Jeonnong-ro Street which is covered with big cherry blossom trees and cheongsachorong, traditional Korean lanterns made with red-and-blue silk shade. The views at night with the cherry blossoms and the lights of cheonsachorong are picturesque. There are diverse events like walking along the cherry blossom road, a painting contest, photo and video contest, balloon making, making traditional knots, and more.


Gyeongsangnam-do(Namhae-gun)

Daraengi Village in Namhae is famous for terraced rice paddies on a steep hill on the outskirts of Mt. Seolheul reaching almost 500 meters. The rice paddies with 108 steps (consisting of stones and soil) are very picturesque and great for taking photographs. Located in the south, the village is balmy in winter, and spring greens (such as mugwort and spinach) sprout before any other place in Korea. Environment-friendly agriculture flourishes because the sea breeze prevents insect pests.This land of friendly people and fertile soil is home to Daraengi Rice Paddy Festival every spring. The festival offers a slew of interesting programs allowing visitors to experience traditional farming and learn cultural and natural heritage in Daraengi Village: Harrowing a Field, Straw Rope Ssireum (Korean Wrestling), Rice Planting, Running on Rice Paddies, Carrying a Wooden Carrier, and colorful performance events.


Gangwon-do(Goseong-gun)

The villa of Kim Ilsung, former leader of North Korea, is perhaps better known as the Castle of Hwajinpo, for its fortress-like exterior. The villa was used as a summer house not only by the Kim family, but also by high-level members of the Communist Party from 1948 to 1950. The interior of the castle keeps history alive through a set-up of personal items and materials used by the Kim family. There is one photo in particular of a young Kim Jongil standing at the foot of the stairs that brings a sense of intimacy to this secretive family.


Jeollanam-do(Yeongam-gun)

The district of Jeollanam-do is located on the western coast, bordering Jangheung-gun in the east, a narrow bay in the west, Haenam-gun and Gangjin-gun to the south, and Naju-si to the north. Its entire area spans over a 565.9 ㎢, with a population of almost 60,000 (as of January, 2015) and is divided into of 121 ri, 9 myeon,and 2 eup. Its county office is in Dongmu-ri, Yeongam-eup. * Nature Having Noryeongsanmaek Mountain range descending from the top of Cheonwangbong Peak (alt. 809 m), Wolchulsan Mountain forms the mountain ranges in the southeast. The northwest district features flatlands unfolding toward the vicinity of the Yeongsangang River and Yeongsanho Lake, and the southeast area mainly features rolling hills. Nearly 20 streams, including Yeongamcheon Stream, begin in the vicinity of Wolchunsan Mountain and other nearby mountains, passing by the plains and joining up with the Yeongsangang River. The river eventually flows into Seohae (West Sea) through an estuary at the mouth of the Yeongsangang River in Samho-myeon. * Culture The Yeongbo Cultural Event is a folk event held by each myeon (township) of Yeongam-gun every 5th of May. Also, Yeongbo Aehyanghoe, organized and held in Deokjin-myeon, has been giving awards for filial children since 1979, and also holds a gukak (traditional Korean music) festival to honor the independence movement of Hyeongjebong Peak in May 1931 by inviting of survivors and bereaved families. During the feast, various folk games take place, as well as Jehyang (an ancestral ritual). Wangin Culture Festival is also held in the area of Yeongam to view the achievements of Dr. Wangin, who spread knowledge, culture, and art of Japan using Chunhyangdaeje, Doil Parade, Dopoje juldarigi (tug-of-war), Yeoseoksan Ssangpae nongak (farming music), as well as food exhibitions from each eup and myeon units. Folk games of this area include hwaetbul nori (torch parade), yut nori (Korean board game), juldarigi (tug-of-war), and ganggangsullae (Korean circle game). In particular, ganggangsullae is mainly done by women at night on the day of Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving), and it is said to have originated during the Imjinwaeran War (Japanese invasion). Also, there are other ancestral rites such as Dangsanje, Sanje, Mireukje, Saeamje, Saemje, Chonje, Jeonghoje, and others that are held at dawn on the 15th of January on the Lunar calendar.


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Pohang-si)

Robo Life Museum is located on the first floor of the Korea Institute of Robot and Convenience. The museum consists of the Intelligent Robot Interest Hall, Intelligent Robot Experience Hall, KIRO Promotion Hall, Robo Café and Intelligent Robot Education Center. Visitors can experience futuristic everyday conveniences made possible by robots through exploring each of the robots' functions.


Seoul(Seodaemun-gu)

GYROS is known as the first Greek food restaurant in Seoul. The menu includes gyros (roast chicken or pork wrapped in pita bread) and souvlaki (skewered meat and vegetables brushed with olive oil and then roasted). Some foreign visitors even come here to buy the delicious pita bread. TIP: For a meal serving two, try the Olympic Set and enjoy several choices.


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Cheongsong-gun)

Located in Cheongsong-gun County, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, Pyeongsansinssi Pansagongpa Jongtaek is the head house of the noble Pyeongsan Sin family line. The house was created by Sin, Han-Tae, during the era of King Sukjong (1674-1720) of the Joseon Dynasty. Ever since its construction centuries ago, the house has been inhabitated by the descendants of Sin, Deuk-Cheong, the 15th eldest grandson of the General, Sin, Sung-Gyem. This house has all of the features that are representative of upper–class houses of the Joseon Era. The buildings of the house are built in a rectangular shape, with the courtyard in the center. The compound consists of Soteuldaemun (high-rising gate), Haengrangchae (servants’ quarters located next to the gate), Gotgan (storeroom in which grain and other items were stored), Anchae (room for the female family members) and a pavillion. Within the same village as Pyeongsansinssi Pansagongpa Jongtaek are Seobyeok Gotaek and Sanam Gotaek, houses of the Sin clan. The entrance of the village is protected by thick pine groves and the Yonjeconcheon Stream (a tributary of Nakdonggang River), both of which add natural beauty to the deeply historic area.


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Uiseong-gun)

Sansuyu Village is the venue for the Uiseong Sansuyu Festival in Uiseong-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do. Every March, the village is gilded with the bright yellow of tens of thousands of sansuyu flowers. Visitors are sure to enjoy a joyful view of the sansuyu flowers both day and night, thanks to the street lights illuminating the beautiful yellow flowers.


Incheon(Jung-gu) , Incheon Center

Discover the Scenic Wonders of Incheon: Wolmi Observatory and Beyond Wolmi Observatory: Your Window to Incheon's Beauty If you're planning a trip to Incheon, South Korea, the Wolmi Observatory should be at the top of your list. Located on the summit of Wolmisan Mountain, this observatory offers panoramic views of Incheon Port, the Incheon Bridge, the coastal passenger ship terminal, and the surrounding islands. Reaching the top of Wolmisan Mountain is an adventure in itself. You can choose to hike for about 30 minutes or take the convenient Seal Car shuttle, which takes roughly 15 minutes. At the summit, the circular stairs of the Wolmi Observatory lead you to a platform with breathtaking views. Below, you can see the blue waves of the West Sea and the bustling Incheon Port, while a glance upward reveals the cityscape of Incheon and the historic Freedom Park. The observatory is particularly famous for its stunning sunsets and vibrant night views. The 23-meter high, three-story glass structure creates a magical atmosphere, making it a popular spot for couples and photographers. The Moonlight Maru Cafe, located within the observatory, provides a perfect spot to relax with a cup of coffee while enjoying the panoramic scenery. Nearby, you can explore Wolmisan Peak Plaza and Yepo Plaza, which offer additional scenic spots and activities. Must-See Attractions Around Wolmi Observatory Moonlight Music Fountain Located on Wolmi Culture Street, the Moonlight Music Fountain is a delightful evening attraction. Although it is not very large, the synchronized water and light show set to music is a visual feast. Operating from May 1st to October 31st, with regular maintenance on Mondays, the fountain's evening shows are particularly enchanting with their colorful lights and patterns. Wolmi Theme Park Wolmi Theme Park is a popular destination for families and couples, offering a variety of amusement rides. This park provides numerous attractions that cater to all ages, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone. Wolmi Sea Train The Wolmi Sea Train is a monorail that loops around Wolmido Island, covering a distance of 6.1 kilometers in about 42 minutes. This elevated train ride offers excellent views of the island, Incheon Inner Harbor, the West Sea, and the distant Incheon Bridge. Wolmi Cruise For sea lovers, the Wolmi Cruise is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the West Sea. The cruise provides views of Incheon Port, Yeongjong Bridge, and stunning sunsets. Passengers can even feed seagulls from the deck, adding a unique interactive element to the experience. Culinary Delights Wolmido is renowned for its seafood restaurants, with over 50 establishments offering fresh seafood dishes. A must-try is "Kalguksu," a handmade noodle soup. Additionally, numerous cafes provide the perfect spot to enjoy coffee while taking in the sea breeze, making it an ideal place to relax. Wolmido Island is a hidden gem in Korea, offering beautiful scenery, delicious food, and exciting activities. It's the perfect destination for a day trip, allowing you to explore and enjoy without straying far from the city. When visiting Incheon, be sure to experience the charm and attractions of Wolmido Island.