Introduction
Korea, known for its bustling cities and cultural landmarks, also hides lesser-known gems waiting to be explored. In this article, we delve into five unexpectedly amazing spots that offer a unique perspective on Korea’s beauty and charm.
Exploring Beyond the Ordinary
While popular tourist destinations have their allure, there’s something special about venturing off the beaten path. Offbeat destinations offer a chance to discover hidden treasures, immerse in local culture, and create unforgettable memories far from the crowds.
5 Unexpectedly Amazing Spots to Visit in Korea
Amazing Spot 1: Manhwabangcho (만화방초) in Gangwon Province
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and unwind amidst the tranquil beauty of Goseong’s green tea fields. Located in South Korea’s Gangwon Province, this picturesque destination offers breathtaking views of rolling hills blanketed in vibrant green tea bushes.
Manhwabangcho, literally meaning “all kinds of flowers and fragrant grass,” is situated at the base of Byeokbangsan Mountain, straddling the boundary between Goseong-gun and Tongyeong-si, Gyeongsangnam-do. The area changed over twenty years ago when acacia trees were removed to create room for a tea plantation and the planting of wildflowers. What was the outcome? ‘Manhwabangcho’ is the new name for a beautiful secret garden.
It is still mostly kept secret from the general public and is only available to insiders, especially on weekends. Within its boundaries, visitors can marvel at more than 700 different kinds of wildflowers as well as an enormous stretch of wild green tea fields measuring 66,115.7 ㎡ (out of a total of 330,578.51 ㎡). Winding trails lead to scenic photo spots, an immersive learning center, and natural rock gardens.
For the adventurous, hiking trails ascend Byeokbangsan Mountain, offering glimpses of unexplored vistas and breathtaking views of the South Sea to the east, south, and west. Unlike overly maintained gardens, Manhwabangcho preserves its natural appeal, creating the atmosphere of a charming village backyard. It’s a haven for nature, enabling people to immerse themselves in its peaceful beauty.
Amazing Spot 2: Dongpirang Village in Pohang, Gyeongsangnam Province
Step back in time and wander the colorful alleyways of Dongpirang Village in Pohang. Once a struggling fishing village, Dongpirang has transformed into an open-air art gallery adorned with vibrant murals and sculptures, each telling a story of hope, resilience, and community.
“Dongpirang” comes from combining “dong” for “east” and “birang,” which means “hill” in the Tongyeong dialect. So, it basically means “East Hill.” In October 2007, the Green Tongyeong 21 Promotion Council organized a statewide initiative to paint Dongpirang Road. This collective effort turned the seaside hill community into a bright canvas, with paintings covering walls, lanes, and roadways. Dongpirang Alley has several branches, each with stunning artwork that transforms the village into a beautiful fairyland. Furthermore, the panoramic view of the Gangguan seascape from the village is breathtaking, adding to the attractiveness of this idyllic setting.
Amazing Spot 3: The Parting Sea in Jindo, Jeollanam Province
Experience a natural wonder like no other at the Jindo Sea Parting Festival, where the sea miraculously parts to reveal a temporary land bridge connecting Jindo Island to Modo Island. Held annually in March, this mesmerizing event draws visitors from around the world to witness the breathtaking spectacle of nature.
Every year, a phenomenon known as the “Korean version of the Miracle of Moses” occurs when the sea separates between Yeongdeungsa-ri at the end of the second month of the lunar calendar, and between Hoedong Village, Gogun-myeon, and Modo, Uisin-myeon, in mid-June. During this event, the water recedes, revealing a seaway 30 to 40 meters wide and 2.8 kilometers long. This marine road remains open for around an hour before closing again.
Legend has it that this strange sea path is linked to the story of Grandma Pong, who was left behind in the hamlet when others fled to Modo owing to regular tiger attacks. Grandma Pong prayed to the Dragon King every day to be reunited with her family. Eventually, at the conclusion of the second month of the lunar calendar, a sea route opened, allowing her to reconnect with her family. Sadly, Grandma Pong died from weariness shortly after. To honor her memories, the locals started an annual ancestral rite called Yeongdeungsari.
Jindo’s Mysterious Sea Road first gained international attention in 1975, when the French Ambassador to Korea experienced the phenomenon while visiting Jindo. He described his experience in a French publication, comparing it to the “Miracle of Moses.” Since the late 1970s, the Yeongdeung Festival has been held in Jindo-gun to commemorate Yeongdeungsari. The festival includes various events such as ancestral rites at Grandmother Mulberry’s shrine, Yongwangje ceremonies, and traditional folk performances like Dasiraegi, Ganggangsulrae, Namdodeul Song, Jindo Manga, and drum performances, attracting visitors from around the world.
Visitors can also experience the mysterious sea route firsthand at the Jindo Mysterious Sea Route Experience Center, regardless of when the sea parts.
Amazing Spot 4: Salt Farm in Jeungdo, Jeollanam Province
Immerse yourself in the ancient art of salt harvesting at Jeungdo Salt Farm, located on the tranquil island of Jeungdo. Here, visitors can participate in hands-on salt-making activities, stroll through picturesque salt fields, and learn about the time-honored traditions of salt production.
Immerse yourself in the ancient art of salt harvesting at Jeungdo Salt Farm, located on the tranquil island of Jeungdo. Here, visitors can participate in hands-on salt-making activities, stroll through picturesque salt fields, and learn about the time-honored traditions of salt production.
Jeungdo Island, along with Damyang and Wando, is Asia’s first slow city, with a tranquil pace of life. As you enter onto Jeungdo Island, your attention is pulled to the vast Taepyeong Salt Farm, Korea’s largest salt production area. Wander through the salt farms and you’ll come across Ujeon Beach in Ujeon-ri. Ujeon Beach is 4 kilometers long and 100 meters wide, with beautiful white sands and a spectacular view of around 90 uninhabited islets dotting the horizon. The crystal-clear seas and beautiful pine forests that surround the beach create an excellent setting for a relaxing summer escape.
Jeungdo Island is surrounded by the sea on all sides, making salt production a major industry. As a result, salt is a highly valued local specialty, supplemented with an abundance of seafood aquaculture. The nearby fishing grounds produce fresh, uncontaminated catches, which improve the flavors of raw fish delights. Anglers can catch sea bass and eel in abundance on Naegaldo Island, Oegaldo Island, Myeongdeok Island, Daeseom Island, Bunamdo Island, and Myeongseom Island. Furthermore, Jeungdong Salt Lake is well-known for its excellent freshwater fishing, with prospects to easily catch crucian carp and eel.
Amazing Spot 5: Baekdudaegan National Arboretum in Gyeongsangbuk Province
Escape into nature’s embrace at the Baekdudaegan National Arboretum, a sprawling botanical garden nestled in the heart of Korea’s mountainous landscape. Home to a diverse array of plant species, including rare and endangered varieties, this hidden oasis offers a serene retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The National Baekdudaegan Arboretum in Chunyang-myeon, Bonghwa-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do is the largest arboretum in Asia, preserving the natural environment with high conservation value plant resources. It features an exhibition garden, Baekdu Mountain Tiger, and Seed Vault, the world’s first permanent storage facility for wild plant seeds. The 1,400km Baekdudaegan Mountain Range houses 33% of Korea’s native plants, with 27% endemic and 17% rare.
Breaking Away from the Crowd in Amazing Spots
Venturing off the tourist trail allows travelers to forge their path, uncover hidden gems, and create authentic experiences that transcend the ordinary. Embrace the spirit of adventure and discovery as you explore Korea’s lesser-known wonders and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Korea’s unexpectedly amazing spots offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and hidden treasures. Whether you’re seeking tranquility amidst lush green tea fields or marveling at the awe-inspiring spectacle of the sea parting, these offbeat destinations promise unforgettable experiences that will leave you enchanted and inspired.
