Exploring the Beauty of Haddukje in Early June
At the beginning of June, I visited Haddukje, a lotus flower habitat in Dangjin.
Although it is not yet the peak blooming season for the lotus flowers, I was hopeful to see some buds emerging.
This is the view of the spacious parking lot. The white building on the left is the Hadduk Agricultural Museum, where visitors can learn about the now-vanished agricultural culture of the area and glimpse the wisdom of our ancestors.
On the right is the village shop, Hadduk Miro, which offers menus featuring local agricultural products.
Hadduk Miro also serves as a café. After taking a stroll around the lotus pond, I plan to enjoy a fragrant lotus leaf latte here.
Next to it, there are public restrooms available.
As I walked towards the lotus pond, willows lined the path, welcoming me in a row.
The leaves swayed gently in rhythm with the wind, creating a soothing atmosphere.
Walking under the shade created by lush leaves, I felt coolness, and the sound of rustling leaves was refreshing to my ears.
Under the grand willow, there is a swing that can accommodate four people.
This is a perfect spot for family or friends to enjoy leisurely and peaceful moments together.
I peeked into the vibrant lotus leaves, wondering if any lotus buds had emerged, but it seems the timing is not yet right.
It is said that the lotus flowers reach their peak in July.
The origin of Haddukje is not entirely clear, but it is believed that Gyeonhwon of Later Baekje created this reservoir to station troops and secure drinking water and supplies.
Currently, it is used as agricultural land, with the embankment remaining in its original form, while some sections have been converted into lotus ponds.
Haddukje is one of the three major reservoirs from the Joseon Dynasty.
With over a thousand years of history, this reservoir has improved agricultural productivity and quality of life, earning the designation as a 'World Irrigation Heritage' in October 2017.
When the lotus flowers bloom, Haddukje is referred to as the lotus pond.
The scenery is predominantly green, with two white bicycles adding a touch of freshness.
While most paths around Haddukje are dirt trails, some sections are paved for pedestrians.
This is the view from the end of the deck path. The blue sky and green lotus pond create a serene atmosphere, providing a sense of peace and healing just by looking at it.
I noticed some gentlemen on a raft in the pond, using sickles to cut something. When I asked, they confirmed they were cutting weeds.
It seems there is a lot of vegetation in the pond, making maintenance challenging.
Later, I learned that it wasn't weeds but 'olbanggae,' which is edible when cooked.
Scattered around the lotus pond are various photo zones, perfect for capturing memories.
Taking a picture amidst the green freshness now, and then again next month when the lotus flowers are in full bloom, will allow for an interesting comparison and a tangible feeling of the changing seasons.
As I walked along the winding paths, I noticed how they sometimes converge and then disperse again.
Taking my time to stroll along the naturally curved embankments, I felt no need to rush, allowing me to notice the small details around me, including wildflowers blooming low and even a dragonfly resting on a blade of grass.
The lush lotus leaves swayed in the direction of the wind.
As I observed, I could see the color and texture of the undersides of the lotus leaves.
In the distance, trees lined the horizon between the sky and the lotus pond, creating a picturesque scene crafted by nature.
As the lotus bloom season approaches, flowers will flourish along the tunnel paths.
Crimson weeping willows are in bloom, hanging down gracefully.
The sight of them drooping like bells is charming, and the scene of fallen petals coloring the ground red is beautiful as well.
There is a sculpture indicating the Bugnae Pilgrimage Path.
Haddukje is part of a Catholic pilgrimage route, starting from Solmoe Sanctuary to the tomb of an unnamed martyr, Wonsijang, Wonsibo's well, Haddukje, Hadduk Jungsubi, Hadduk Cathedral, and finally Shinri Sanctuary.
For reference, Hadduk Jungsubi and Hadduk Cathedral are located right next to each other.
As I strolled along the embankment, a charming hut invites visitors to take a break if they feel tired.
This hut is one of the old landscapes that can no longer be seen today, but sitting here to cool off while enjoying fruits or drinks brought from home would be a delightful experience.
This banner announces the Hadduk Lotus Festival, which runs from July 3rd to 5th, featuring famous singers and an evening event with colorful fireworks.
Haddukje showcases a vibrant array of colors throughout the four seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, summer brings lotus flowers, autumn hosts a chrysanthemum festival, and winter welcomes migratory swans.
Being able to witness all four seasons in one location is indeed a blessing.
I hope many people will participate in next month's lotus festival and fully enjoy the peak of summer.
Haddukje is located at 1-45 Seongdong-ri, Hadduk-eup, Dangjin-si, Chungcheongnam-do. There is free parking available.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/sinmunman/224317574249
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