Exploring the Historic Nong Bridge in Jincheon, South Korea
- Original source
- blog.naver.com
I recently visited Nong Bridge, the oldest stone bridge in South Korea and a prominent tourist attraction in Jincheon County, Chungbuk. Designated as a cultural heritage site in 1976, it has been loved by many visitors over the years. As we approach November, the autumn foliage is beautifully changing, making it a great time to introduce this destination for a fall getaway.
Nong Bridge is easily accessible, with ample and clean parking facilities. I recommend parking near the second parking lot, which is close to the bridge. The parking fee is 4,000 won for a day, and it’s free if you return within an hour.
After parking, it takes about a 3-minute walk to reach the bridge. You’ll find a spacious lawn area and walking paths, along with a photo zone to capture your moments at the bridge. The early autumn vibes were already evident, confirming that summer has passed.
Now, let’s cross the bridge! Nong Bridge, recognized as one of Korea’s beautiful roads and an excellent local resource, is steeped in cultural significance. Legend has it that General Im built this bridge during the Goryeo Dynasty, and it has withstood the test of time, earning the nickname “the thousand-year bridge.”
This bridge is constructed of natural stones fitted together without the use of any adhesives like lime or cement, giving it a rustic charm. Unlike grand stone bridges, crossing this humble, ancient bridge offers a unique experience close to the water.
The scientific structure of Nong Bridge, built with red stones interlocked like fish scales, is truly fascinating. It remains sturdy even in the face of heavy floods, making the experience of crossing it while watching a breathtaking sunset even more enjoyable.
After crossing, you can stroll along the deck paths and trails around the nearby Mir Forest. With many trees, it’s a perfect spot for a refreshing walk during this cool season. As of October 20, many trees were still green, with hints of autumn colors starting to appear.
On the day of my visit, the weather suddenly turned cold, and many people were seen wearing thick coats. The area around the bridge, being near the water and forest, felt chillier than other places, so dressing warmly is advisable.
As I walked up the deck, the scenery began to resemble winter, with cherry trees already stripped of their leaves. Just looking at the landscape gave off a sense of briskness.
There’s also a sign explaining the origin of Jincheon, which has historically been a fertile area with plenty of water and wide plains, making it a great farming region. This abundance has contributed to the kind-hearted nature of its people, leading to the name “Saenggeo Jincheon.”
Along the walking paths, you’ll find phrases like “Opportunities for Happiness, Mirjima” and “Hello Mir Forest,” along with cute sculptures of Jinmireu, the character symbolizing the bridge. Although the surroundings felt a bit desolate with fallen leaves, I can imagine how beautiful it will be in spring when the cherry blossoms bloom.
After crossing the bridge again, I took a leisurely stroll through the surrounding forest and rested at a pavilion. If you continue up the sloped path, you’ll find the Chopyeongho Suspension Bridge, which is not operational after sunset, so I plan to visit earlier next time.
Returning to the lawn area, I found another smaller, elongated stone bridge nearby. Opposite this bridge, there’s a walking path lined with metasequoia trees, offering a picturesque view, especially at sunset.
With the days getting shorter, even around 5 to 6 PM, you can enjoy the beautiful sunset colors reflecting on the water. Visiting during the sunset in autumn is highly recommended for a stunning experience.
Crossing the stone bridge, you’ll see a wooden sculpture featuring the phrase “Us, Today, Side Path” with a beautiful path lined with metasequoia trees extending inward. The early autumn atmosphere was palpable as the leaves began to change color. The weather is pleasant this time of year, making it a perfect time for a walk!
Source :https://blog.naver.com/jincheongun/224451359389
More from Travel
No comments yet.
