Exploring the Early Summer Charm of Myeoncheon
Spring is slowly coming to an end, giving way to early summer. While mornings and evenings can be a bit chilly, the midday heat is starting to make its presence felt.
Early summer is a great time for travel. Recently, I visited Myeoncheon in Dangjin, a popular travel destination, where I explored Myeoncheon Hyanggyo and Goljeongji.
With the introduction of half-price tourist taxis in Dangjin, the city has become an even more attractive tourist spot.
Many people visit Myeoncheon-myeon to learn about its rich history and culture. The area serves as a repository of Myeoncheon's past and continues to create new cultural experiences.
Myeoncheon has a long history and was once the center of Dangjin. In 1914, Myeoncheon-gun was incorporated into Dangjin-gun, and the area is home to historical sites like Myeoncheon-eupseong, Myeoncheon Hyanggyo, and Goljeongji.
Based on Myeoncheon's history and culture, the '2026 Ttobom Myeoncheon' festival will be held from June 13 to 14 at the Myeoncheon Eupseong, showcasing the area's vibrant cultural atmosphere, which has attracted many from the MZ generation.
A short one-minute drive along the village road from Goljeongji leads to Myeoncheon Hyanggyo. After parking in the courtyard, I took a look around.
While Seowon was a private institution, Hyanggyo served as a public educational institution during the Joseon Dynasty. You can see the Hongsalmun gate at the entrance, which was installed at Seowon and Hyanggyo, as well as at royal tombs and the homes of loyal subjects.
Next to the Hongsalmun is a Hamabi stone, indicating that anyone passing by on horseback must dismount. On one side of the courtyard is the administrative office, with restrooms located behind it.
The exact date of Myeoncheon Hyanggyo's establishment is unclear, but it is believed to have been built in 1366 or in 1392 during the reign of King Taejo of Joseon to educate and guide local residents.
Existing structures include the outer and inner three gates, Daejeong, Dongjae, Seojae, and Myeongnyundang. Myeongnyundang, the inner three gates, and Daejeong are arranged in a straight line, with the learning area in front and the shrine behind. The outer gate, resembling a traditional gate, serves as the main entrance.
The Daejeong, where rituals are conducted, has three rooms in the front and two on the sides. Inside, the tablets of Confucius, Mencius, and other Chinese sages are enshrined, along with those of 22 sages from the Song Dynasty and 18 from Korea. Rituals are held every February and August.
Exiting Myeoncheon Hyanggyo, you will find a large pond, Goljeongji, which features a pavilion believed to have been built during the time of Park Ji-won, the governor of Myeoncheon. Although it was lost during the Japanese occupation, it was restored by Dangjin City in 2006.
A man-made island has been created in Goljeongji, with a grass pavilion built on it and a stone bridge connecting the two. The pavilion, named 'Geon-gon Ilchojeong,' symbolizes 'a grass pavilion between heaven and earth' and is inspired by a line from a poem by Du Fu.
Sitting in the pavilion and taking in the surroundings offers a sense of healing. The area, which is tranquil now, bursts into beauty with cherry blossoms in spring and lotus flowers in summer. Currently, you can see lotus seeds floating on the water.
There are walking paths around Goljeongji, making it pleasant to stroll and take in the scenery. Local residents often walk here, and several pavilions provide spots for rest.
The area is designed like a park, with exercise equipment available for visitors to use while walking. As the leaves turn green, Goljeongji looks even more beautiful.
Throughout Goljeongji, you can find postings about Park Ji-won, offering insights into his contributions and information about Goljeongji. Reading these while walking can enhance your experience.
Additionally, a stamp tour is available at several locations, allowing you to feel the history and culture of Myeoncheon while collecting stamps. This interactive experience brings you closer to Myeoncheon, and on that day, I spotted a heron engaged in feeding activities.
There are parking lots on both sides of Goljeongji, accommodating about ten cars, with restrooms nearby. Facilities for washing hands are also available, and several pavilions provide resting spots.
If you visit Myeoncheon while traveling in Dangjin, exploring Myeoncheon Eupseong and Myeoncheon Hyanggyo will allow you to connect more deeply with the area's history and artifacts. Encountering the lush greenery of early summer at Myeoncheon Eupseong and Goljeongji will surely bring you joy.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/dangjin2030/224292305210
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