Gyeongsangbuk-do()

The Guryongpo Specialty Gwamegi Festival celebrates the local specialties of the Pohang city region. Pohang city is widely-known as the village where Gwamegi, dried mackerel, originated, and the festival promotes this delicious dish as well as other local specialties, such as snow crabs and squid. The Gwamegi Festival presents folk games, traditional Korean music performances, specialty product (squid, Gwamegi) competitions, free sampling exhibitions, and other cultural experience programs.


Incheon(Jung-gu) , Incheon Center

Experience the Palmi-do Cruise in Incheon Looking for a memorable maritime adventure just outside Seoul? The Palmi-do Cruise offers the perfect mix of scenic ocean views, fascinating history, and a glimpse into Korean coastal culture. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip: 1. Convenient Location * Short Trip from Seoul: Incheon is located just west of Seoul, making it an ideal day trip for travelers staying in the capital. * Easy Access: Most Palmi-do cruises depart from Incheon Port, which you can reach by public transportation or taxi. 2. Stunning Ocean Views * Panoramic Coastline: Enjoy sweeping views of Korea’s western coast as you sail, dotted with smaller islands and the open sea. * Unforgettable Sunsets: If you can, choose a late-afternoon or evening cruise. You’ll be treated to a spectacular sunset—truly a photographer’s dream! 3. Historical Highlights * Palmi-do Lighthouse: One of Korea’s earliest lighthouses, it has guided ships for more than a century. Though you might not always be able to go inside, seeing it up close is a real treat. * Maritime Heritage: Incheon is a major port city with a pivotal role in Korea’s modern history. Many tours include stories about its growth and significance. 4. Exploring the Island * Island Stopovers: Depending on your cruise, you may have the chance to disembark briefly and explore Palmi-do on foot. * Lighthouse Trails: If you can set foot on the island, follow trails leading to the lighthouse and enjoy gorgeous viewpoints of the surrounding sea. 5. Local Delicacies * Fresh Seafood: Take the opportunity to sample Incheon’s renowned seafood before or after your cruise. * Street Food: Near the port, you’ll find a variety of local snacks to enjoy—perfect for a quick bite before setting sail. 6. Traveler Tips * Book Ahead: Cruises can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Secure your spot in advance. * Check the Weather: Coastal weather can change suddenly, so bring a light jacket or windbreaker. * Mind the Tides: Cruise schedules sometimes depend on tidal conditions, so confirm departure and return times ahead of your trip. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply in search of an off-the-beaten-path excursion, the Palmi-do Cruise offers an unforgettable voyage along Korea’s western coastline. Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture every moment of this scenic journey! We hope you enjoy exploring Palmi-do and discovering all that Incheon has to offer. Safe travels!


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.


Jeollanam-do(Gokseong-gun)

Dangunjeon Shrine was built in honor of Dangun, a legendary figure known to be the founder of Gojoseon, or the ancient Korea. He is known to be the grandson of the heavens and the son of Hwanung. According to the legend, Hwanung was approached by a bear and a tiger who wished to become human beings. Hwanung attended to their plea by instructing them to avoid sunlight for 100 days and live only by consuming garlic and mugwort. Unlike the tiger who gave up, the bear followed the instructions faithfully and transformed into a woman, who then married Hwanung and gave birth to Dangun. Located near Yeonguncheonbyeon in Gokseong-eup, Dangunjeon Shrine was first founded in Hakjeong-ri, Samin-dong in 1916 by Shin Tae-yun, also known as Baekdang, but later moved to its current location and went through reconstruction in 1931. An annual ancestral rite takes place at the shrine on October 3 (National Foundation Day) and March 15 to pay respects to Dangun. Dangunjeon Shrine was also a place where civilians gathered to take an oath of patriotism in action against the Japanese during Japanse colonization period; a stone plaque commemorating the March 1st Independence Movement and Baekdang Memorial Hall dedicated to Shin Tae-yun can also be found within the area. Shin Tae-yun was captured by the Japanese soldiers during the March 1st Independence Movement and served two years in prison.


Seoul(Dongdaemun-gu) , Dongdaemun

Green Chicken Doctor specializes in chicken cooked to perfection, such as a steak dish topped with homemade grill sauce on fresh meat. Located near the main gate of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS), it serves as a great place for college students to quell their hunger and quench their thirst after a long day of classes.      


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.  


Jeollanam-do(Gurye-gun)

Gurye is the first famous national park in Jirisan Mountain and is home to clean water and spacious fields near Seomjingang River. The main products of this area include a variety of wild herbs, vegetables, sansuyu (cornus fruit) and plums from Jirisan Mountain and Baegunsan Mountain. Houses with cornus fruit trees are easily found in the district of Sandong-myeon, Gurye-gun and the whole village gets dyed yellow in the spring and red in the fall. The amount of sansuyu from the area accounts for nearly half Korea’s total. Also, chestnuts are common in Gurye Market as a complex of chestnut tree takes up 1,400 ㏊ of the land.


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).  


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