Gyeongsangbuk-do(Gyeongju-si)

Girimsa Temple is located in Mount Hamwolsan in Yangbuk-myeon, Gyeongju. The temple was built in the Silla era and, with 16 buildings, is the second largest temple after Bulguksa.Legend has it that the temple was originally built by the Venerable Gwang-yu, a sage from India, in the early part of the Silla Kingdom. The temple was reportedly called ‘Imjeongsa’ at first, but was later changed to ‘Girimsa’ after undergoing expansive renovations by Monk Wonhyo. It is still unclear exactly what year the temple was built in.Girimsa is divided into two main areas. The first is the area around Daejeokgwangjeon Hall where the statue of Birojanabul is enshrined. The second is the area around the majestic 500-year-old bo tree (a kind of large fig tree) that is home to a wooden pagoda, the Seongbo Museum, Samsingak, Mangbujeon, and Gwaneumjeon halls. The Daejeokgwangjeon Hall was first built during Queen Seondeok's reign, and was rebuilt six times since its original construction. Its simple but majestic architecture is characterized by baeheullim (aka, entasis columns) and a Dapoyangsik (Dapo-style) single-tiered gabled roof.Girimsa is famous for Ojongsu, water that is said to have five different tastes. It consists of gamrosu, which is best for making tea; hwajeongsu, which supposedly gives comfort to the drinker; janggunsu, which makes the body stronger; myeongansu, which gives clear vision; and otaksu, which is said to sparkle so brightly that it attracts all the birds of the air. During Japanese colonial rule, the source of janggunsu, literally meaning ‘water of a general,’ was reportedly blocked off by Japanese soldiers, who were afraid the water would give the Korean people the strength to overthrow them. Except for janggunsu, water still continues to flow from each source.On the way to Girimsa temple is the Golgulsa Temple, well known for its 12 grottos. Golgulsa was originally a hermitage (monastery) of Girimsa. After becoming an independent institution, it became the center of Seonmudo practice in Korea. The temple aims to promote the art of seonmudo on a national and international level.* Major Cultural Properties Lacquered Seated Mercy Bodhisattva of Girimsa Temple (Treasure No. 415)Daejeokgwangjeon Hall (Treasure No. 833)Sojo Birojana Samjonbul (Treasure No. 958)Sutras kept inside the Vairocana Buddha of Girimsa (Treasure No. 959) 


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Wiki Cafe is a cafe near Gyeongbokgung Palace and is owned and operated by the mother of Sung Min from Super Junior, the famous boy band. With light steps, and just as if you are in your neighbor’s home, you can walk up the wooden stairs to the 2nd floor of the cafe, which is a terrace, and on that terrace, you can see a view Gyeongbokgung Palace. During the evening, as lights fall on the rampart stairs of Kwangwhamun, it creates/exudes a very warm mood. It is a good place to rest after viewing Gyeongbokgung Palace, Kwangwhamun Plaza, and galleries around these attractions. Its menu is filled with beverages such as coffee and teas, desserts such as waffles, cakes, and many other varieties of desserts. Imagine what it would be like: having a warm cup of tea while sitting on a terrace that overlooks Gyeongbokung Palace.   In the cafe, there are all kinds of pictorials and photos of Sung Min from Super Junior. Also, on one corner in the cafe, there are many messages from fans written on the wall, and they are countless! There are also various forms of merchandise that are sold there; the merch shows different characterized versions of Sung Min  


Daegu(Jung-gu)

Daegu Danim Backpackers provides its own tour courses, which includes not only famous tourist and cultural attractions, but also the local clubbing and food cultures. The host also hosts occasional makgeolli parties, and the jam served at breakfast is home-made.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

This is a Korean cuisine located in Jongno, Seoul. The best menu at this restaurant is spicy braised monkfish. Stewed monkfish is a spicy seafood dish made of fish and vegetables.


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Sangju-si)

The Sangju Bicycle Museum has a large collection of bicycles of all types and sizes, and from all over the world. On the first floor, bicycles are arranged in the order of production year and model. On the second floor, a special exhibition is set up to show the history of bicycles in Korea. Finally, the museum runs a free bicycle rental in the yard outside the main building.    


Incheon(Jung-gu) , Incheon Center

Incheon National Maritime Museum: Discover Korea’s Seafaring Legacy 1. Introduction Nestled along Incheon’s coastal landscape, the Incheon National Maritime Museum immerses visitors in the evolution of Korea’s maritime heritage. Through vibrant exhibits and educational programs, guests can trace the nation’s nautical journey—from early fishing communities to modern shipping powerhouses—while gaining a deeper appreciation for its dynamic relationship with neighboring seas. 2. Exhibitions & Key Features * Maritime Roots & Traditions Dive into sections covering indigenous fishing methods, boatbuilding craftsmanship, and the courageous voyages of Korean explorers. Historical artifacts and immersive storytelling bring the oceanic past to life. * Contemporary Marine Technology Learn how today’s engineers and researchers tackle global challenges in shipping, ocean conservation, and sustainable resource development. Interactive installations cater to inquisitive minds of all ages. * Hands-On Learning Family-friendly zones offer activities that blend entertainment with knowledge—ranging from simulated steering exercises to hands-on workshops about marine biodiversity. 3. Architectural Flair Boasting a sleek modern design, the museum building provides a panoramic perspective on Incheon’s bustling ports and the expansive waters beyond. Floor-to-ceiling windows and open-concept galleries underscore the city’s role as a key maritime hub, linking Korea’s historical past to its forward-looking present. 4. Practical Information * Location & Transport Positioned in an easily accessible waterfront area, the museum can be reached by public transit, car, or taxi. Up-to-date travel details are typically available on official tourism sites. * Hours & Admission Schedules may change due to seasonal events or holidays, so confirm timings before visiting. Ticket policies vary for adults, children, and group entries, with certain special exhibits possibly requiring an additional fee. * Visitor Services Amenities often include a souvenir shop, a small café, and spacious rest areas. Guided tours (occasionally in multiple languages) help ensure an engaging and informative experience. 5. Nearby Points of Interest * Songdo Urban Complex Marvel at cutting-edge city planning, modern architectural highlights, and eco-friendly initiatives in Incheon’s futuristic business district. * Chinatown & Open Port Area Relive the early days of international trade through historical structures, eclectic dining venues, and cultural events celebrating Incheon’s global connections. * Wolmi Island Enjoy seafront amusement parks, ocean vistas, and fresh seafood spots perfect for a scenic day out. 6. Reasons to Visit * Comprehensive Insight Examine how Korea’s maritime story intertwines with its economy, cultural practices, and global outlook. * Engaging for All Ages Interactive stations and themed programs let visitors of different generations learn, play, and discover together. * Vision for the Future Reflect on advancements in marine innovation and environmental stewardship, topics that resonate with both casual onlookers and dedicated enthusiasts. Plan Your Visit If you’re heading to Incheon or simply want to delve into the world of Korean maritime endeavors, the Incheon National Maritime Museum presents a thorough look at how the sea has molded Korea’s identity. Its broad range of exhibits, hands-on sections, and stunning coastal views create a memorable encounter with Korea’s oceanic narrative—past, present, and future.


Seoul(Yeongdeungpo-gu) , Yeouido・Yeongdeungpo・Mapo

Yeongdeungpo Station is located in Yeongdeungpo-dong 1-ga, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul-si, and runs between Singil Station and Sindorim Station. It began operating as an ordinary station on September 18, 1899, and was included as part of the Gyeongbuseon Line from the Gyeonginseon Line in 1936. In 1971, it was the first station where the special train made a stop. The station sells tickets for passengers carrying luggage, and visitors can use the station to take the Saemaeul Line, the Mugunghwa Line, and the metropolitan subway as well.


Busan(Haeundae-gu) , Haeundae

Polar Bear Swimming Contest is held in every winter that allows participants to swim in the sea, just like a polar bear. It offers an exciting experience to participants and sightseeing to tourists, along with various programs as a famous winter festival. More than 2,000 people from Korea and abroad are expected to be participating in this event as the festival was thought to be one of the best winter festivals in the nation.


Gyeonggi-do(Gapyeong-gun) , Yangpyeong

Chi-ong Art Hall is a cultural complex center, established to support local artists and also citizens’ various artworks who lives in north-east of Gyeonggi-do, with Gapyeong as the central region. They operate schools that offer a variety of cultural programs such as making of earthenware, pottery, natural soap, natural dye, tea ceremony, traditional songs and samulnori. Also, they hosts exhibitions, outdoor performances, and a regular Youth Art Festival. Moreover, visitors can learn the process of how a hanok is built through the outstanding skills and knowledge acquired through over 20 years of research, as well as a whole representation of traditional hanok structure.


Gyeongsangnam-do(Namhae-gun)

Ulsan Petroglyph Museum was established on May 30, 2008 at the entrance to Petroglyphs of Bangudae Terrace, National Treasure No. 285 in Ulju-gun. The museum is comprised of 311 exhibit materials, an exhibition hall (1,249㎡), a storage room (45.42㎡), an office room (72.96㎡), a research room (30.36㎡), and an audiovisual room (79.52㎡). The exhibition hall presents models for the petroglyphs of Bangudae and petroglyphs of Cheonjeon-ri (National Treasure No. 147), video facilities for petroglyphs, a children’s hall, and family experience facilities. Visitors can also take a look at models of petroglyphs famous from Korea and overseas in an outdoor space.