Exploring the Scenic Drive of Gangneung's Heonhwa Road
Driving along the eastern coast of Gangwon Province, you may find yourself questioning, "Is this really a road?" as you experience breathtaking views.
With the window down, you can hear the sound of waves and smell the salty sea breeze.
On one side, steep coastal cliffs rise dramatically, while on the other, the vibrant blue waters of the East Sea stretch endlessly.
Gangneung is home to a unique road that offers such special landscapes.
This is none other than the renowned Heonhwa Road, the best driving route along the East Coast.
But where does the name Heonhwa Road come from?
The name Heonhwa Road (獻花路) is not just a reflection of its beautiful scenery.
This road conceals a story that spans over a thousand years.
The origin dates back to the Silla Hyangga, "Heonhwaga," recorded in the historical text, Samguk Yusa.
During the reign of King Seongdeok of Silla, Governor Sunjeong and his wife, Lady Suro, were traveling to Gangneung when Lady Suro spotted azaleas blooming on a cliff.
She asked, "Who can bring me those flowers?" However, the cliff was too dangerous for anyone to attempt.
At that moment, an elderly man passing by climbed the cliff, picked the flowers, and sang a song, which became known as Heonhwaga.
Heonhwa Road connects Okgye-myeon and Jeongdongjin in Gangneung and stretches approximately 6 kilometers along the coast.
While it may seem short, it is regarded as one of the most impressive driving routes on the East Coast.
The true charm of Heonhwa Road lies in a segment of about 2 kilometers that runs from Geumjin Port to Singok Port.
This stretch of road was constructed by reclaiming land from the sea and is known as "the coastal road closest to the ocean in the Korean Peninsula."
On calm days, the sea appears crystal clear, while on windy days, white foam can splash onto the road.
The scenery visible through the car window creates an illusion of driving over the water.
Heonhwa Road is not just a road; it showcases the unique coastal terraces of the East Coast.
Along this route, you can encounter towering rock cliffs, unique rock formations, the emerald sea, and an endless horizon all at once.
The changing colors of the sea throughout different seasons, weather, and times of day add to the allure of Heonhwa Road.
It has become a famous spot for photographers and travelers alike.
For an enjoyable experience, the recommended route on Heonhwa Road is from Geumjin Beach to Singok Port and then to Jeongdongjin.
Traveling from south to north allows you to enjoy increasingly dramatic landscapes.
Initially, you will encounter peaceful beaches, but suddenly, cliffs and crashing waves leave a strong impression.
Additionally, as you drive with the sea on your right, you can enjoy the stunning views of the East Sea.
In fact, Heonhwa Road is also a great path for walking!
While you can pass through by car in five minutes, walking slowly reveals a different scenery.
There are benches along the road, making it an excellent spot for a leisurely stroll.
Heonhwa Road is not just a simple coastal road; it is a historical space imbued with the story of the Silla Hyangga and a driving course that offers the best views along the East Coast.
With the blue sea unfolding beyond the car window, waves crashing below the cliffs, and the tale of Lady Suro and Heonhwaga from a thousand years ago, if you are planning a trip to Gangneung, slow down and take a drive along Heonhwa Road.
Here, you will encounter the unique landscapes that Gangneung has to offer.
Where will your next travel destination be? Stay tuned for more!
Source :https://blog.naver.com/gogw1234/224319921795
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