Exploring the Beauty of Sanghwar Garden in Boryeong
408-52 Nampodaegyo-ro, Nampo-myeon, Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do, Republic of Korea
상화원
Sanghwar Garden (상화원) is a stunning traditional Korean garden located on Jukdo Island in Boryeong, offering a unique harmony between preserved architecture and the vast West Sea. While the garden takes a short break during the coldest winter months, it is a premier destination to save for your spring travel list, as it reopens in April to showcase its breathtaking coastal scenery.
Famous for housing the world's longest roofed corridor, Sanghwar Garden allows visitors to circle the entire island while staying protected from the elements. Whether you are wandering through the relocated Hanok village or sitting quietly in the Sunset Garden, this destination provides a peaceful retreat where the sound of the waves and the beauty of Korean tradition meet.
The World's Longest Roofed Corridor
The centerpiece of Sanghwar Garden is its magnificent 2km-long roofed corridor. This architectural marvel encircles the island, providing a comfortable wooden deck for visitors to walk on. The design is intentionally kept at a height close to the sea level, ensuring that the rhythmic sound of the crashing waves accompanies you every step of the way.
This corridor is not just a walkway; it is a prime spot for photography. The endless perspective of the roofed path set against the blue ocean creates a deep, meaningful aesthetic that is perfect for capturing life’s best photos. Regardless of the weather, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll while immersed in the coastal atmosphere.
A Hanok Village Perched on a Cliff
As you follow the corridor, you will encounter a Hanok village unlike any other. These are not modern replicas but actual historical houses, such as those from Gochang Eupseong and Hongseong, which have been carefully restored and relocated here. Seeing these traditional tiled roofs positioned on a cliff overlooking the West Sea offers a rare and beautiful visual contrast.
Golden Hours at the Sunset Garden
On the western side of the island lies the Sunset Garden, a space specifically designed to optimize the viewing of the crimson horizons. With 108 wooden benches stretching toward the sea, visitors can sit without any obstructions and watch the sun dip below the water line. It is a space for true relaxation and "sea gazing."
When the golden hour arrives, the sunlight filters through the corridor’s structure, enveloping the entire garden in a warm, dreamy glow. This atmosphere is perfect for letting go of complex thoughts and finding inner peace while listening to the natural music of the ocean.
Sweet Moments: Welcome Food and Tea
One of the most thoughtful aspects of a visit to Sanghwar Garden is the welcome food included in the entrance fee. Midway through your tour, you can visit the visitor center to exchange your receipt for fragrant coffee or dandelion tea accompanied by chewy rice cakes. Sitting in the resting area with a warm drink while looking at the sea adds a layer of emotional value to the trip.
Planning Your Spring Getaway to Boryeong
Sanghwar Garden is a testament to the beauty of Korean gardens and the serenity of the West Sea. Since it reopens in April after its winter break, it is the perfect destination to plan for your spring travels. The combination of historical architecture, the innovative corridor, and the generous hospitality makes it a high-satisfaction destination for all visitors.
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