Discovering Hidden Gems in Goyang City: A Winter Walk
As winter gives way to milder temperatures, residents of Goyang City are flocking to Ilsan Lake Park for exercise and relaxation.
To fully explore the park, one needs a considerable amount of time. Today, I will briefly introduce some lesser-known spots, starting from the Natural Learning Center next to the singing fountain, wandering around Herb Island and Dalmaji Island, and heading back towards Parking Lot 1.
Upon entering Parking Lot 1, a large tourist information map is visible, detailing the park's main facilities and pathways.
For safety within the park, please note that the use of certain electric mobility devices, like scooters, is restricted in some areas.
As you enter Parking Lot 1, the singing fountain is on the right, while on the left, there are animal enclosures.
Due to the cold weather, there weren't many people around, and the usual sight of cranes, pheasants, chickens, and peacocks was absent.
Upon closer inspection, it was quite quiet as no animals were moving about, likely staying in warmer spaces to avoid the cold.
Near the lake, the surface was thickly frozen, illustrating just how harsh this winter has been. Even long-term residents of Goyang noted that they hadn't seen the entire lake frozen like this before.
Despite the cold, birds gathered at the lake, searching for food and creating a winter scene.
Although spring has passed, the wind still feels chilly. Entering a vine-covered tunnel, one can find a night exhibition space utilizing LED screens, showcasing famous artworks, making it a lovely spot for families and couples to pause and enjoy.
Continuing on, one passes the site of a traditional Chinese pavilion donated by Qiqihar City in Heilongjiang Province, which has since been removed, leaving an empty space that once symbolized the friendship between Goyang and its sister city.
As you ascend, a small island named Herb Island comes into view, known for its diverse plant life, though public access is restricted.
In winter, it may appear that the ice is thick enough to cross, but for safety, stepping onto the lake's ice should be avoided.
Even from a distance, the scenery is stunning and enjoyable.
The next highlight is a sculpture related to Goyang's international exchanges. Within Ilsan Lake Park lies a small hill called Araetmal Mountain, where two lion statues stand at the entrance of a stone staircase, commemorating the friendship with Binzhou City in Shandong Province, China.
This sculpture is not prominently featured in park brochures or signage, making it easy to overlook, but the entrance sign provides its background.
Further up, two jujube trees, also from Binzhou, stand in front of the cactus garden, accompanied by a commemorative stone from their visit. However, due to climate and soil differences, jujubes do not bear much fruit here.
Now, as I make my way back towards the starting point of the park, I recall a photo taken in this very spot during summer. The once vibrant mist trees now stand bare, revealing their stark branches.
As warm spring approaches, I anticipate the return of beautiful scenery. Especially this year, the Goyang International Flower Festival will take place at Ilsan Lake Park from April 24 to May 10, promising a colorful display of flowers throughout the park.
This post is a submission for the Goyang City Hidden Gems SNS event.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/letsgoyang/224205452410
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