A Serene Retreat Near Yadang-dong: The Haogojae Cedar Forest Trail
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A Serene Retreat Near Yadang-dong
Haogojae Cedar Forest Trail
Hello, this is Paju Alimi.
In our busy lives, it would be wonderful to have a space where we can walk slowly among the trees and take a moment to rest without having to travel far.
In September, the newly created Cedar Forest in Yadang-dong opened its doors!
Upon hearing the news of its completion, I visited the Haogojae Cedar Forest Trail located in Yadang-dong.
Although it is close to residential areas, just a short walk down a small path reveals a trail with grassy areas, barefoot walking paths, and resting spots.
It was a lovely little forest in the city, perfect for a short walk and a breather.
Let me introduce you to the Haogojae Cedar Forest that I explored.
The Haogojae Forest Trail, cultivated by the community, features an information board at the entrance that tells its story.
According to the board, this area was developed through a community revitalization project in Paju City, where residents transformed a neglected forest into a walking trail.
It was impressive to see how a once-abandoned space has been revitalized into a place for relaxation in nature through community participation.
The name 'Haogojae' also has its own story. It was originally called 'Hakgogae' because it was a place where cranes used to fly and play. Over time, it transformed into 'Haogojae,' the local name of Yadang-dong.
Looking at the comprehensive guide, I found various facilities such as a footbath, forest playground, grassy plaza, outdoor stage, and clay ball area, in addition to the walking paths.
I visited using my car, but I found it difficult to find parking nearby. It seemed more convenient to use public transportation.
There is a bus stop near the Cedar Forest Trail, and at the time of my visit, routes 082 and 084 were available.
Following the signs indicating 'Haogojae Cedar Forest Trail 70m' from the bus stop leads you directly to the entrance of the forest, which is easily recognizable.
As I walked into the forest, I found a path winding through the trees. The overall slope was gentle, making it easy to walk slowly.
It seemed suitable for families with children or for seniors looking for a light stroll.
However, some areas had decking and stairs, so not all parts of the trail were completely flat.
As the sun began to set during my visit, lights started to illuminate various spots in the forest.
With streetlights and ground lighting along the trail, I could experience a different atmosphere in the evening compared to during the day.
Since it is a wooded area, there were some dark spots away from the lights, so I recommend visiting before sunset to fully enjoy the surroundings.
As I walked along the path, I encountered a spacious grassy area, making me forget for a moment that I was in the city.
Many people enjoy barefoot walking these days, and there is a path for it in the Cedar Forest.
Though I didn’t walk barefoot during my visit, I explored the area around the barefoot path.
On one side of the forest, there was a small clay ball area with footprints left behind, showing signs of use.
Facilities such as a footbath and shoe storage were also available for those who want to walk barefoot.
Rules for using the footbath, such as turning off the faucet after use and not using cleaning agents, were clearly posted.
Additionally, pets are not allowed on the barefoot walking path, so if you plan to visit with pets, it’s best to check this in advance.
Personally, my favorite feature was the resting areas nestled between the trees.
There were not only regular benches but also chairs designed for reclining, perfect for a short break during a walk.
Just sitting among the trees made me feel a bit more relaxed.
There was also a forest playground for children and outdoor exercise equipment for simple workouts.
It was great that visitors could enjoy the forest in various ways, not just through walking.
In one part of the forest, there was an automatic insect repellent sprayer installed, providing a small convenience before walking the trails.
During my visit, I didn’t see anyone walking with their dogs, but there were signs installed throughout the forest reminding visitors of pet etiquette.
Pets are not allowed on the barefoot walking path, and there were reminders to clean up after them and not to bring them too close to nearby houses.
As a community forest located near residential areas, it’s important for everyone to follow basic etiquette for a comfortable experience.
The Haogojae Cedar Forest is not a flashy tourist spot but rather a local forest where you can take a short walk and relax.
Walking slowly along the forest cultivated by the community, enjoying barefoot walking and exercise, and resting on a chair under the trees are the charms of this space.
Knowing that a once-abandoned forest has been transformed back into a space for people through community participation made the seemingly ordinary trail feel different.
To me, it felt like a 'small retreat in the city' where I could unwind without traveling far.
If you’re looking for a place to take a light stroll around Yadang-dong, I recommend taking a slow walk along the Haogojae Cedar Forest Trail.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/paju_si/224431001890
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