A Cold but Beautiful Busan Morning by the Sea

The morning sea in Busan was especially beautiful, even with the temperature dropping to minus three degrees.

Despite the cold, surfers were already out in the water, riding the waves as if winter didn’t matter at all.

Watching them made me wonder if surfing is really that enjoyable, especially in this freezing weather.

A Hidden Spot at the Accommodation

While enjoying the morning, I discovered a hidden spot in our accommodation that I completely missed the day before.

I didn’t even know this place existed, but honestly, even if I had known earlier, I probably wouldn’t have used it anyway.

Meanwhile, my diligent friends went out for a morning walk while I stayed comfortably in bed.

Slow Start and New Year Wishes

The morning passed quietly, with no rush and no strict plans.

At that moment, all I could think about was wishing everyone happiness in the New Year of 2026.

Exploring IKEA Before Lunch

After checking out, we headed to IKEA to spend some time before our lunch reservation.

Walking through the showroom made me want to decorate my home beautifully just like the displays.

It was the perfect place to stroll around, get inspired, and stay warm before heading out again.

Reservation-Only Teppanyaki Lunch with a View

For lunch, we visited Guro Mats for teppanyaki, a place that requires a reservation in advance.

The meal was unforgettable, complete with a steak fire show and a beautiful sea view.

It was one of those lunches that feels like a highlight of the entire trip.

Windy Afternoon and a Cozy Coffee Stop

After lunch, we wanted to take a walk along Harrydan-gil since we were full.

However, Busan had been windy since the day before, and the cold air made walking outside tough.

In the end, we chose to wrap up the day with a warm cup of coffee before heading home.

Looking Forward to the Next Trip

As the trip came to an end, we were already talking about the next journey.

The plan for next time is a temple stay, something completely different but equally exciting.

Busan Day 2 ended quietly, leaving behind warm memories despite the cold winter wind.

Why the Wassuh Ulsan App Became My Go-To Travel Tool

Whenever people ask where they can find all Ulsan travel information at once, this is the platform I confidently recommend.

While participating in supporter activities and covering tourist attractions, I realized that the app functions as a benchmark for Ulsan tourism rather than just an information list.

The biggest strength I felt was how everything related to Ulsan travel is consolidated into one place.

All Ulsan Tourism Information in One App

From major travel destinations to festivals, hands-on experiences, recommended courses, and restaurants, everything is accessible without separate searches.

This made content planning far more efficient, especially when time was limited.

During tight schedules, the app helped me quickly organize routes and double-check key details.

Tourist Site Search with Solid Basics

The feature I used most frequently was the tourist site search.

It included well-known landmarks like Taehwagang National Garden and Daewangam Park, as well as lesser-known spots.

This allowed me to see Ulsan through the eyes of first-time visitors while still learning something new.

Clear information on operating hours, locations, and nearby details made on-site preparation much easier.

Thematic Recommendations That Improve Content Planning

The thematic recommendation feature, organized by themes such as nature, family, experiences, and walking paths, was especially helpful.

It allowed me to structure content around who would enjoy each place rather than writing simple location reviews.

Articles planned using these themes received noticeably better responses from readers.

Festival and Event Information That Reflects the Current Season

The app also excels at providing up-to-date festival and event information.

By clearly showing when, where, and what is happening, it quickly answers the question of what you can do in Ulsan right now.

This made it possible to create timely and relevant content during my supporter activities.

Travel Course Recommendations That Ease Route Planning

When deciding how to group multiple locations into a single day, the course recommendation feature proved invaluable.

Suggested routes that consider distance and flow helped me plan realistic schedules and reflect them directly in my articles.

This function is useful not only for visitors but also for Ulsan residents.

An App That Also Serves Ulsan Citizens

Through the supporter experience, I realized that this app is not limited to tourists.

Even familiar places felt new when viewed through organized tourism information.

I often encountered reactions like discovering places or programs that people didn’t even know existed.

Final Thoughts After the Supporter Experience

The supporter activities felt less like promotion and more like documenting Ulsan as a local.

The Wassuh Ulsan app supported this process by providing reliable structure and improving overall content quality.

If you are planning a trip to Ulsan or simply want to understand the city better, starting with this app is the fastest and most accurate way.

A long-awaited Haidilao meal in Seoul

Today was one of those unexpectedly busy days.

I went to Seoul again and finally had the Haidilao meal I’d been looking forward to with my brother.

Even though we made a reservation in advance, the waiting time was longer than expected.

By the time we actually started eating, it was already around 5 PM.

Eating until completely full

I was so hungry that I didn’t hesitate and just dove straight into the food.

We ordered a lot, just like the time I ate here with Na-eun and Sun-young.

It honestly felt like I might burst, but somehow we finished everything.

The expensive Haidilao meal still felt worth it in the end.

Light sightseeing after a heavy meal

After eating, we were so full that we decided to walk around and do some sightseeing.

There were so many cute things to look at, which made the walk enjoyable.

My brother mentioned he was watching Sakamoto, and we ended up chatting about it while wandering.

Sold-out gacha and popular characters

I tried to get some gacha prizes, but unfortunately, everything was sold out.

I really wanted to get Gojo, but it seems he’s incredibly popular.

A café stop and unexpected laughs

We stopped by a café in Yongsan, but I was still too full to fully enjoy it.

Instead, we took some funny photos together.

Seeing how different my face looked made me laugh, but I actually liked it.

It felt oddly cute.

Ending the day with more food and home comforts

Later on, we went to eat some fresh tuna, which was delicious.

After a full day centered around food, we finally headed home.

We gave our dog, Yonghi, some treats, and he was clearly very happy.

New Year thoughts to wrap up the day

Overall, it was a day filled with good food and fun moments.

Happy New Year.

I hope to become stronger this year.

Let’s keep our spirits up and enjoy life as it comes.

Meeting at Seoul Station and the start of the journey

The trip officially started on January 4, 2026.

We were supposed to meet at Seoul Station at 9:30 AM, but of course, Seong-joo and Byeong-wook were late.

After finally meeting, we caught up over breakfast while I explained the travel plan I had carefully prepared.

MBTI talk before boarding the KTX

During breakfast, they insisted I had a J personality because of how detailed my plan was.

Strangely, I always test as a P, which left me questioning everything.

After eating, we headed to the platform and boarded the 10:58 AM KTX, bickering like old friends along the way.

First stop in Busan, Taejongdae

Once we arrived in Busan, we dropped off our luggage and went straight to Taejongdae.

Since it was already past 2 PM, we had to move quickly.

The sea seen from Taejongdae Observatory felt incredibly wide, different from the feeling of a beach.

It’s a place locals visit for quiet walks, and it’s perfect if you want to see an endless ocean.

Songdo Beach without the cable car

Next, we headed to Songdo Beach.

We considered riding the cable car, but the short ride and price made us decide to simply enjoy the view.

They spent time looking out at the sea from Turtle Island.

Later, I learned Songdo Beach is famous for sunrises, giving me a reason to return someday.

Dinner with sashimi and warm side dishes

As evening approached, hunger set in and we went for dinner.

The menu included yellowtail sashimi, assorted sashimi, and spicy fish soup.

The soup was made with fish parts and seasoning, simple but deeply flavorful.

Side dishes like corn cheese, grilled mackerel, and sweet potato fries were unexpectedly good.

A satisfying research success

This restaurant was one I had researched in advance.

Seeing everyone enjoy it made me feel quietly proud.

Bupyeong Kkangtong Night Market timing trouble

We planned to visit Bupyeong Kkangtong Night Market after dinner.

The problem was timing, since the market opens at 7:30 PM and we finished eating too early.

After an hour of chatting, we headed there and grabbed fried pork ribs.

That was pretty much the highlight, but it was still fun.

First night stay and late-night YouTube time

After checking into our Airbnb near Busan Station, we unpacked and settled in.

The place met all my criteria: affordable, clean, spacious for three people, and a cooking area.

We paid under 20,000 won per person, which felt like a great deal.

From military videos to idol performances

We watched YouTube on TV late into the night.

It started with military training videos for Byeong-wook, who is enlisting soon.

Later, it turned into idol performance debates, jumping from one group to another.

We finally went to sleep around 2 AM.

Day two breakfast at Lee Jae-mo Pizza

On January 5, thanks to my alarm, I woke up at 8 AM.

We checked out and went straight to Lee Jae-mo Pizza near Busan Station.

Since we arrived early, the wait wasn’t long.

The cheese crust pizza lived up to expectations, and the kimchi fried rice was surprisingly addictive.

Haeundae Beach and coastal views

After breakfast, we headed to Haeundae.

The tall buildings made me feel like I had stepped into a different city.

Seagulls filled the beach, making the name ‘Busan Seagull’ feel very real.

Beach train, sky capsule, and a missing wallet

We rode the beach train and later boarded the sky capsule.

On the way, I realized my wallet was missing, which made my heart drop.

Still, we continued with the plan and visited Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory.

The glass floor was thrilling and slightly terrifying.

Sunset views and relief

The sky capsule ride was slow and peaceful, perfect for watching the sunset.

Afterward, I thankfully found my wallet at the luggage storage.

We checked into our second accommodation, which exceeded expectations.

Final night and last meal in Busan

We ordered pizza for dinner and watched a movie together.

On the last day, we debated between two pork soup restaurants and chose a Michelin Bib Gourmand spot.

The rich broth and boiled meat were a perfect way to end the trip.

Wrapping up the trip

Although we didn’t visit tourist spots on the final day, everyone loved the pizza I brought home.

This was my first trip of the year and my second time in Busan.

The wide sea, abundant seafood, and time with friends made it unforgettable.

I hope everyone has a wonderful year ahead.

A Winter Trekking Escape in Tongyeong

If you are searching for a different kind of winter journey in Tongyeong, Suudo Island offers a refreshing alternative to crowded tourist spots.

Set against the deep blue waters of the South Sea, the island’s terrain has been shaped over time by wind and waves, creating dramatic coastal scenery that feels raw and untouched.

First Impressions Upon Arriving on Suudo Island

The moment you step onto Suudo, the atmosphere feels noticeably different from the city.

The pace slows naturally, and as you begin walking, the island gradually reveals viewpoints hidden among rocks and cliffs, making the trek feel exploratory rather than planned.

Coastal Trails Shaped by Wind and Waves

Suudo’s trekking routes follow the coastline, with gentle rises and dips that keep the walk engaging without being overwhelming.

Even without formal observation decks, the scenery opens unexpectedly through natural rock frames, where the sea and sky align like a living photograph.

These unplanned moments are part of Suudo’s charm, encouraging frequent pauses simply to look and listen.

Walking the Island at a Comfortable Pace

Many sections of the trail run close to the water, allowing you to experience the sea from various angles as you make your way around the island.

The changing terrain keeps the walk interesting, while the surrounding views reward each step forward.

Open Vistas and the Geography of the South Sea

At certain points along the trek, the landscape suddenly opens up, offering wide views of neighboring islands scattered across the South Sea.

On clear winter days, these layered island silhouettes highlight Suudo’s unique geographical setting and add depth to the journey.

Each open viewpoint feels like a quiet reward, enhancing both the sense of distance traveled and personal accomplishment.

A Slow Island Journey Filled with Sound and Stillness

Suudo Island is not a place to rush through. It encourages slow walking, long pauses, and quiet observation.

The constant presence of wind and waves becomes part of the trekking experience, replacing city noise with natural rhythm.

In winter, this calm atmosphere feels even more pronounced, making the island especially appealing for reflective travel.

Why Suudo Island Suits Winter Travel

Winter does not limit island travel here. Instead, it enhances it.

The combination of camellias in bloom, crisp sea air, and fewer visitors allows Suudo to show its most authentic side.

For travelers looking for a quiet island escape and a complete trekking loop in Tongyeong, Suudo Island offers an experience that feels both grounding and memorable.

Whenever I visit Seoul from Cheonan, I usually go to Seoul Station or the Express Bus Terminal.

However, this time I had to go to Jamsil, so I booked a ticket from Dong Seoul Terminal.

As I was heading towards Dong Seoul Terminal, I noticed people getting off at Jamsil Station.

Having lived in Cheonan for 10 years, I was shocked to learn this for the first time.

I thought I should share this information in case others are unaware like I was.

Here are the ways to travel from Cheonan to Seoul:

1. Intercity Bus (Dong Seoul, Jamsil, Garak Market)

2. Express Bus (Seoul Express Terminal)

3. KTX, SRT (Cheonan-Asan Station)

4. Mugunghwa Train (Cheonan Station)

With these four options, it's best to check your desired location in Seoul and get off at the nearest station.

To visit Jamsil, I took the bus from Cheonan Terminal heading to Jamsil Central.

At Cheonan Express Terminal, there is a direct bus to Seoul Express Terminal.

If you board at Cheonan Intercity Terminal, you will head towards Garak Market and Jamsil Station.

Don't get confused!

If you follow my instructions, you can easily board the bus.

Let me explain in detail from here.

When you get off at Jamsil Station, there is a bus stop located between exits 6 and 7, making it easy to catch your bus.

My husband and I always take the bus or train when visiting Seoul.

The time difference is significant.

Buses run on dedicated lanes, so it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Dong Seoul, which saves a lot of time.

I remember getting lost on the day of my trip because I couldn't find the exact location.

When you exit from either exit 6 or 7 of Jamsil Station, cross the pedestrian crossing to reach the bus stop in the center.

Make sure to search for 'Jamsil Central' instead of just 'Jamsil Station' when booking your bus ticket.

I booked my ticket using T-money GO.

While regular buses are cheaper, we opted for a deluxe seat because it was the only option available at the time, and it was very comfortable.

If you see Kyobo Bookstore in front of you at the bus stop, you're in the right place.

Check the electronic board for confirmation.

The bus number 1309 runs between Cheonan and Dong Seoul Terminal.

Bus number 1312 operates between Dong Seoul and Asan Intercity Terminal.

The electronic board displays the schedule, so you can board with confidence.

Did you know that bus stop seats in Seoul can be heated?

Various locations such as Ansan Terminal, Pyeongtaek Intercity Terminal, and Incheon Terminal also have services to Dong Seoul Terminal.

Before heading towards Gangbyeon, the buses pass by Jamsil Station.

For those visiting Jamsil, including Lotte World and Lotte Tower, getting off at Jamsil Central Station makes it much closer and easier to walk.

It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to get from Cheonan to Jamsil.

We had a very convenient walk to our destination.

First impression of Jeju Aewol Dream Aroma

As soon as I entered Jeju Aewol Dream Aroma, a gentle and pleasant scent filled the air. The interior was modern, clean, and warmly designed, making it easy to relax despite it being my first visit.

The cozy atmosphere felt welcoming rather than formal, creating a sense of comfort that made the experience feel special from the very beginning.

Deep relaxation through the aromatic foot bath

The foot bath was far more relaxing than expected. Warm water infused with aromatic oils slowly eased the tension from my body, starting from my feet.

The refreshing yet calming sensation felt like a gentle sea breeze, and it reminded me how powerful simple moments of rest can be.

Expert foot massage that melts away fatigue

The foot massage exceeded all expectations. Skilled hands applied just the right amount of pressure, targeting sore points and releasing accumulated fatigue.

The deep, precise movements created a level of comfort that made it impossible not to relax completely. It is an experience worth repeating.

A private healing space without distractions

One of the most appealing aspects of Aewol Dream Aroma is its privacy. Located within a hotel, it offers a quiet environment away from crowded tourist spots.

Parking was stress-free, and the calm surroundings allowed me to fully focus on relaxation without interruptions.

Healing moments with Jeju’s natural scenery

Enjoying a massage while looking out at palm trees and the sea is an experience that stays in your memory. The natural scenery added an extra layer of peace and emotional comfort.

The combination of skilled massage and Jeju’s tranquil environment made the healing feel complete.

A healing experience worth returning to

This visit to Jeju Aewol Dream Aroma left a lasting sense of happiness and comfort. The thoughtful details, from aroma to technique, created an experience that felt genuinely restorative.

No matter which massage course I choose next time, I am confident it will be just as satisfying. It is a place I would gladly revisit and recommend to friends seeking true relaxation.

At the end of November, I went on a 2-day trip to Busan with my parents and my fiancé!

This turned out to be our last trip before the wedding.

Now, let me share my honest review of my self-funded trip to Busan.

[2-Day Itinerary]

✅ Grilled eel & Anchovy sashimi

✅ Patterned squid sashimi & Squid guts

✅ Beef and lamb intestines

✅ Cod soup

✅ Eel rice bowl

Located in Gijang, Busan, the Gijang Ihwajang Sashimi Restaurant has a 30-year tradition.

When you think of Busan, isn't grilled eel the first thing that comes to mind?

I searched for grilled eel and found this place, as I was concerned about the cleanliness of the restrooms elsewhere.

They were grilling eel over charcoal right outside the restaurant.

Although the menu mentioned straw-grilled eel, it was actually cooked over charcoal.

So, the eel I had that day was not straw-grilled. 😅

While waiting for the eel, we ordered the anchovy sashimi (mixed).

This was my first time trying this dish, and I found the anchovies to be surprisingly large and salty.

As for the straw-grilled eel, I discovered that I really enjoy mild-tasting grilled eel!

Since it was our first meal in Busan, we enjoyed it with a drink.

Drinking Dae-sun in Busan was fantastic!

Indeed, a trip to Busan is incomplete without Dae-sun! 🍻❤️

[Review Event]

If you write a review with your receipt, you can receive an abalone!

They ask for a few photos and a few lines of writing, and they check thoroughly before giving you the abalone (one per person).

After our meal, we visited Haedong Yonggungsa to digest our food.

We took a walk, snapped some photos, and lit a family candle! 🕯️

I prayed sincerely for a peaceful year-end and for everyone around me to have a calm day like today.

I wish everyone reading this peace and success. Let's all be happy! 😊

We also visited a large Christmas tree in Haeundae.

It was so big that there was a line of people waiting to take photos.

We quickly took a diagonal shot and moved on!

Next, we went to Haeundae White Squid House, known for its fresh squid sashimi.

They use only squids flown in fresh daily from the source.

Since my fiancé loves squid, I made sure to include it in our dinner menu.

We were worried that we might not be satisfied with common tourist trap restaurants.

The side dishes were impressive, served in beautiful and diverse dishes.

The squid guts paired well with the innards, making it mild and savory, and both the body and legs were tender and delicious!

Finally, we tried the patterned squid, which I had been eagerly anticipating.

Having heard from a friend that patterned squid is incredibly chewy, I was excited to try it.

In conclusion, patterned squid = bliss!

Make sure to eat it raw; the texture is twice as good!

We took the subway for the first time in Busan, and I found it very convenient.

We headed to Jagalchi Station to eat beef and lamb intestines.

At Baekhwa Yanggobchang, which was originally recommended by my dad, I was pleasantly surprised by how fresh the food was!

When you enter through the vintage door, you find yourself in a new space.

Just a tip: wear clothes that you don’t mind smelling of grilled food!

Even though my stomach was full, I still wanted to try everything!

We ended our trip with a delightful eel rice bowl from Unaju, a traditional Hitsumabushi restaurant.

It was a memorable trip filled with delicious food and family moments.

Here are some photos from our journey:

Jeomchon Jumpang-gil is home to unique shops that have preserved the distinct flavors and charms of Jeomchon, making it an ideal spot for a family trip. During this visit, I experienced a gourmet tour, exploring the eateries, cafes, and diverse shops along Jeomchon Jumpang-gil.

1. Introduction to Jeomchon Jumpang-gil

Jeomchon Jumpang-gil in Mungyeong is a street created as part of a project to revitalize the commercial district of Mungyeong City. It includes Mungyeong Central Market, Jeomchon Station Market, and Happiness Shopping Street.

I participated in a workshop organized by the Mungyeong City Revitalization Foundation last Saturday morning. This area is not just a street of shops; it also plays a role in boosting the local economy and serving as a tourist attraction. With free local buses available, it's easy for tourists to visit. The map shows that everything is located nearby, making it perfect for a walking gourmet tour.

2. Mungyeong Yakdol Pig Gungmul Duruchigi

The highlight of my trip to Mungyeong in Gyeongsangbuk-do was, of course, the food tour. When you think of 'Mungyeong,' you can't leave out 'Yakdol Pig'. This Yakdol Pig is used to create a Gungmul Duruchigi (stew-like dish) menu, which can be enjoyed at specific restaurants. So, I decided to try it for lunch.

We visited 'Kimgane Seafood Noodle'. The interior was clean and pleasant, creating a comfortable dining atmosphere.

Mungyeong Yakdol Pig Gungmul Duruchigi

Medium: ₩27,000 / Large: ₩40,000 (Rice not included)

We ordered the medium size for two people and were surprised by the generous portion. Two types of kimchi are served as side dishes. Although the recipe is the same, each restaurant uses slightly different ingredients, and this place includes sujebi (hand-pulled dough).

The moment the sizzling pork and spicy sauce filled the air, I scooped up a spoonful. I usually can't handle spicy food well, but this Mungyeong Yakdol Pig Gungmul Duruchigi wasn't too intense, which suited my taste. Above all, it used Mungyeong's specialty, Yakdol Pig, so there was no unpleasant smell, and it was both chewy and tender. Because it's served in a stew-like style, it's even more flavorful when eaten with rice.

3. Gourmet Tour Course

The entire Jeomchon Jumpang-gil in Mungyeong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, felt like a 'gourmet tour' course. This is how I planned my day:

After a hearty meal of Mungyeong Yakdol Pig Gungmul Duruchigi, I visited a chicken gangjeong (sweet and sour chicken) place called 'Dak Ggochi for You' for a snack.

Shrimp-Embraced Chicken (₩24,900)

Set: 400g chicken + 15 shrimp

Here, I ordered 'Shrimp-Embraced Chicken' with omija (magnolia berry) sauce. The spicy and sweet sauce harmonized well with the ingredients and was a real treat. The omija in the sauce added a tangy flavor, making it a good choice for both a snack with drinks and a meal.

Next, I stopped by Solbeige. This place is famous for its red bean shaved ice and sweet red bean latte, using red beans produced in Mungyeong. It's also a Blue Ribbon-certified cafe, and it's fun to browse the vintage props.

With two floors and a large space, the atmosphere is cozy, and it's a great place to take pictures. The signature sweet red bean latte is sweet and nutty, making it a great way to take a sweet break during your trip.

For a dessert gift, I chose 'Samil Bakery', a local bakery in Mungyeong. This place is popular for its omija rice castella, which has a wonderful omija fragrance. It was special to enjoy omija, which is what comes to mind when you think of Mungyeong, in a unique way. The packaging is pretty, making it a good gift.

Visiting these various stores in order wasn't just a trip to eat and walk around, but rather a gourmet tour in the alleyways. Each shop had its own personality and story, making it enjoyable to experience them one by one.

4. Must-Visit Places in Mungyeong, Gyeongsangbuk-do

The course I visited this time in Mungyeong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, was attractive because I could feel both old memories and new sensibilities at the same time. It was a time to feel small but happy, from looking around the traditional market to eating delicious food. This course is recommended for those who like gourmet trips, those who like to take pictures, and those who want a small alley trip.

If you are planning a trip to Mungyeong, be sure to visit Jeomchon Jumpang-gil, where you can taste the local culture and food.

Introducing the Best 7 domestic summer vacation destinations for 2025 that will satisfy both kids and adults!

From nature and experiences to water activities and relaxation!

We've handpicked family-friendly travel destinations, so be sure to read until the end!

Top Domestic Summer Vacation Spots for Families

1. Sokcho, Gangwon-do – A Getaway with Both Sea and Mountains

✅ Sokcho Beach: Shallow waters and lifeguards make it perfect for kids to play in the water!

✅ Seoraksan Cable Car: Enjoy cool, high-altitude scenery

✅ Daepo Port & Central Market: A paradise of delicious food like Dakgangjeong (sweet and sour crispy chicken), fresh seafood, and Squid Sundae (stuffed squid)

Sokcho, Gangwon-do, consistently ranks high as a domestic summer vacation destination! Sokcho Beach is safe for children to play in the water due to its shallow depth, and you can also enjoy the cool mountain scenery by riding the Seoraksan Cable Car.

In addition, Daepo Port and Sokcho Central Market are popular with families because you can taste fresh seafood and unique Gangwon-do delicacies. It's the perfect August family getaway that combines nature and city life.

2. Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do – A Healing Trip Blending Tradition and Nature

✅ Hahoe Folk Village: Traditional cultural experience, perfect for educational trips with children

✅ Nakdong River Cruise: Relaxing cruise with a cool river breeze

If you are looking for a great place to go with children, Andong Hahoe Village is the perfect place. It is full of educational and fun activities such as Hanok experience, traditional games, and exploration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

In addition, a Nakdong River cruise is a good alternative to a family valley trip because you can blow away the midsummer heat while enjoying the river breeze. Highly recommended for families who want to spend quiet and meaningful time!

-We also recommend Nakgang Mulgil Park, Dosan Seowon Confucian Academy, and Andong Jjimdak (braised chicken) Street.

3. Damyang, Jeollanam-do – Healing in Green Nature

✅ Juknokwon Bamboo Forest: Cool walk in the bamboo forest path

✅ Metasequoia Road: Famous photo spot & cycling

✅ Tteokgalbi (grilled short rib patties) Alley & Noodle Street: Satisfies even gourmet families!

If you are planning a family trip during summer vacation, you can't miss Damyang, Jeollanam-do. Juknokwon, with its impressive bamboo forest path, is the best place to heal in nature. Thanks to the cool shade, it is good to walk even in the middle of the day.

Also, Metasequoia Road is perfect for cycling or walking with children. Be sure to taste the local specialties, Tteokgalbi and Damyang noodles. It is highly recommended as a quiet and rich family travel destination.

4. Danyang, Chungcheongbuk-do – Fulfilling with Caves, Valleys, and Experiences

✅ Gosu Cave: Escape the heat with an average temperature of 15 degrees

✅ Mancheonha Skywalk: Thrilling experience

✅ Sogeumgang Valley: A good valley for children to play in the water

Danyang is a must-see for your 2025 summer family trip! This is a representative domestic summer resort where leisure and nature harmonize, including Mancheonha Skywalk, Sogeumgang Valley, and Gosu Cave.

The average temperature inside the cave is 15 degrees, so you can explore comfortably even in the middle of summer. It is highly recommended if you are with active children as you can enjoy various experiences along with valley water play.

It's perfect for a family vacation with experiences + nature + coolness!

5. Eastern Jeju – Quiet Nature and Marine Experiences

✅ Seopjikoji & Seongsan Ilchulbong: Representative eastern Jeju attractions

✅ Aqua Planet Jeju: Indoor experience to enjoy regardless of the weather

✅ Many quiet pensions and pool villa accommodations recommended for families

Jeju Island is still a popular travel destination for many families, but the eastern part of Jeju is especially quiet and peaceful. Attractions such as Seopjikoji, Seongsan Ilchulbong, and Aqua Planet can be enjoyed regardless of the weather, making them popular family travel destinations.

It is easy to get around by rental car, and there are various family accommodations. It is a suitable course for families who want to enjoy both nature and experiences at the same time.

-Escape to the famous but quiet eastern region!

6. Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do – Best Place for a Family Outing Near the Metropolitan Area

✅ Nami Island: Walking, cruise, and cycling courses

✅ Jaraseom Camping Site: Glamping is OK even for beginner families

✅ Garden of Morning Calm: Emotional trip with children

Gapyeong is the best place to go if you are looking for a family valley trip near Seoul. Nami Island is still very popular, and Jaraseom Camping Site or Glamping Site is also recommended for beginner camping families.

Also, the Garden of Morning Calm is full of photo zones that are great for taking pictures with children in nature. It is an ideal choice for a day trip or a 1-night, 2-day course.

7. Buan, Jeollabuk-do – A Quiet Summer Resort with Sea, Scenery, and Temples

✅ Byeonsan Beach: Relaxing beach to enjoy

✅ Chaeseokgang: See sea cliffs and sunsets

✅ Naesosa Temple: Quiet temple walk with family

Enjoy the cool sea at Byeonsanbando Beach and admire the mystery of nature at the nearby Chaeseokgang Cliff. The tranquil Naesosa Temple is great to visit with parents and is perfect for taking a walk and contemplating.

This quiet yet natural and cultural place is a summer travel destination that will satisfy the whole family.

Things to Check Before Going on Summer Vacation with Your Family

Since it is a vacation in the hot summer, be sure to pack sunscreen, hats, change of clothes, towels, water play supplies, etc., and if you are with children, there are many more things to pay attention to, so be sure to carefully prepare emergency medicine.

If you want a trip that will make your whole family happy this summer

Leave for one of the Best 7 domestic family summer vacation destinations introduced now!

✅ Enjoy nature

✅ Experience it

✅ Even delicious food!

A list of the best family travel destinations to help you forget the heat.

I hope you make wonderful memories with your family

✅ This post is content written directly by a travel blogger.

Places to visit in Gangneung and Yangyang – Indoor activities

Lately, with the scorching summer heat in full swing, I’d like to introduce a 2 nights 3 days domestic travel destination where you can enjoy the cool sea and leisurely natural scenery. That place is Gangneung and Yangyang in Gangwon-do.

From a coastal drive along the blue East Sea, to surfing in the sea breeze, to relaxing in indoor exhibition halls — it’s a course where you can enjoy both scenery and indoor activities. If you’re planning a 2 nights 3 days trip to Gangwon-do, this could be a good reference. In fact, combining the attractions of both regions would easily give you over 30 places to visit, but considering realistic time, travel routes, and stamina, I’ve organized it into around 15 recommended spots.

1. Places to visit in Gangneung

???? Sacheonjin Beach
???? Haslla Art World
???? Arte Museum
???? Anmok Beach
???? Wolhwa Street
???? Gangneung Jungang Market

<Sacheonjin Beach> The first stop of this 2-night, 3-day domestic trip begins in Gangneung. The first destination is Sacheonjin Beach. It’s a calm and quiet beach with clear blue water, and there are rainbow-colored breakwaters and observation facilities that overlook the surrounding scenery. It’s a good spot for taking pretty photos even during a short 10–15 minute visit, so I recommend it.

<Haslla Art World> A recommended indoor destination in Gangneung. It features a sculpture park set against the sea and an indoor art museum, offering a wide variety of sights. There are many stylish photo spots where nature and art harmonize.

<Arte Museum> A media art immersive exhibition in a cool indoor space, making it a good place to avoid the heat. You can experience grand and beautiful visual media. If you're looking for unique indoor activities in Gangneung, it’s worth a visit. Nearby are Gyeongpo Lake and an aquarium, so if time allows, you can also stop by them. Or you could visit the aquarium instead of the Arte Museum.

<Anmok Beach> Famous for its coffee street, there are many large cafes where you can enjoy ocean views. If you visit in the afternoon, the sunlight allows you to capture the blue sea and sky in one frame. It’s not a must-visit, but still worth checking out. Alternatively, you could visit well-known cafes like Terarosa Coffee Factory or Park Yi-chu Coffee.

<Wolhwa Street> Located right next to the central market, this street has beautiful landscaping and is pleasant for a walk. There are photo zones and lots of cute accessory shops along the way — great for browsing.

<Jungang Market> You can wrap up the first day of your 2-night, 3-day Gangwon-do trip at Jungang Market. You’ll find a variety of foods like Gangwon’s traditional dishes such as sweet-and-spicy chicken (dakgangjeong), sussubukkumi (glutinous rice pancakes), as well as fresh seafood like crab and sashimi.

Transfer from Gangneung to Yangyang

???? Sacheonjin Beach
???? Adele Rock
???? Mulchi Beach
???? Yangyang Surfing
???? Buchae Rock + Jukdo Observatory

<Sacheonjin Beach> After visiting the must-see spots in Gangneung on day one, the second day of this 2-night, 3-day trip involves moving from Gangneung to Yangyang. Along the coastal road of the East Sea, you’ll encounter places like Sacheonjin Beach or the filming site of the drama "Goblin." These are great for short photo stops of about 10–15 minutes.

<Adele Rock> The final spot in Gangneung before entering Yangyang is Adele Rock, located at the border. It features natural rock formations carved by waves. The scenery is impressive, and because the area is relatively flat, it’s easy to access even in the summer heat — a quick and worthwhile stop.

<Surfing Experience> If you tour the surrounding areas in the morning and move along, you’ll likely arrive in Yangyang by around 1–2 p.m. If you want a more active experience in your 2-night, 3-day trip, you might consider booking a surfing lesson in advance. Yangyang is Korea’s surfing mecca, with courses for beginners and intermediate surfers. There are various beaches like Jukdo and Ingu offering lessons, so you can choose based on your preference.

<Buchae Rock & Jukdo Observatory> After the surfing experience, if you have remaining time and energy, consider visiting Buchae Rock, a spot famous for its scenic views in Yangyang. Located near Jukdo Beach, you can walk along a trail to the Jukdo Observatory, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

If you skip surfing and have more time on day two, you can consider visiting Naksansa Temple or the Osan-ri Prehistoric Museum for indoor activities.

3. Places to visit in Yangyang

???? Hyuhyuam Temple
???? Namdaecheon
???? Hajodae
???? Yangyang Market (5-day market)

<Hyuhyuam Temple> On the last day of the 2-night, 3-day trip, lightly go over the remaining places in Yangyang before heading back home. First up is Hyuhyuam, a temple located by the sea with beautiful scenery. You can even walk down from the temple to the seaside for more things to see.

<Namdaecheon Ecological Park> Located at the lower end of Namdaecheon, which is famous for salmon swimming upstream. In summer, the surrounding reed fields along the walking path turn lush green. The combination of the blue stream and dense greenery gives a different kind of emotion than viewing the sea or mountains. Personally, I think this is the most beautiful natural attraction in Yangyang during summer.

<Hajodae> Ranked fifth among the eight scenic spots of Yangyang, this coastal area is filled with huge rock formations and dense pine forests. From the Hajodae Observatory, you can enjoy a full view of the surrounding beaches and mountains.

<Yangyang Market> End the itinerary by experiencing the local atmosphere at this traditional market. Even on regular days, it’s worth a look, but on 5-day market days, it’s packed with local produce, regional delicacies, and various foods — a fun way to wrap up the trip.

Through this itinerary, I’ve introduced the domestic destinations of Gangneung and Yangyang that you can enjoy within a short time. If you’re looking for a refreshing summer destination away from the city, where you can enjoy nature and escape the heat, I think this route would be a great choice.

Today I’m sharing a fun and refreshing one-day summer trip I took to Gapyeong’s Lakeside Valley Pension (호수유원지 민박) — a hidden gem where you can enjoy water play, cook your own meals, and spend a relaxing time surrounded by nature.

A Quick and Easy Day Trip from Seoul

Getting to Gapyeong from Seoul doesn’t take long, which makes it the perfect spot for a spontaneous day trip. While Gapyeong can be a doable location for public transportation travelers, I’d definitely recommend driving or getting picked up — especially if you're headed to Lakeside Valley Pension.

First Stop: Hanaro Mart for Supplies

After getting picked up at Gapyeong Station, my friends and I drove to Hanaro Mart to stock up on essentials.

While there are a few well-known supermarkets in the area, we found Hanaro Mart to have the best prices.

We grabbed drinks, snacks, and all our BBQ ingredients there, and for meats, we crossed the street to a butcher shop that had great value!

Lakeside Valley Pension

Address: 1953-29, Gahwa-ro, Buk-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do

It took about 30 minutes to reach the pension from the mart.
Even though we visited at the end of August, the place was still buzzing with people enjoying the water.

There’s ample parking space, which makes it ideal for a day trip without worrying about where to leave your car.


 

Water Fun with Peace of Mind

There were life jackets available for rent and even lifeguards on duty, which made the experience safer and more relaxing.

???? Tip: Get there early to rent adult-sized life jackets — they run out fast!

The water was clear and cool — perfect for beating the heat!
Some spots were deep enough that I (171 cm) couldn’t touch the bottom, but the shallow areas up front were great for kids to safely splash around.

Flat Platform Rental (평상)

We had pre-booked a flat platform by phone and were guided to our spot as soon as we arrived.
As of August 2024, the rental fee was ₩70,000, with an additional ₩30,000 deposit.

Usage Time: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

In addition to the platform, you can also rent tubes, grills, burners, pots, pans, and tables for ₩5,000 each, plus a ₩5,000 deposit per item.

We rented everything we needed for a full-on barbecue party!

Bringing your own gear? There's a free air pump station on-site too.

On-Site Store & Dining Options

There’s a convenience store inside the pension, stocked with essentials like charcoal, butane gas, disposable plates, snacks, ramyeon, and instant rice.

They also sell drinks and beer — super convenient if you run out.
Hungry? There’s a restaurant on-site where you can order dakbaeksuk (boiled chicken soup) or dakbokkeumtang (spicy braised chicken).

 Pet-Friendly & Super Refreshing

The entire area is lined with platforms by the valley, offering shaded spots where you can sit and enjoy the cool breeze.

Many people brought their pets along too — definitely a plus if you're traveling with a furry friend!

We unpacked, ate some sweet & spicy chicken to refuel, then dove right into the water. It was a little chilly at first, but so refreshing. Floating on our tubes, we soaked up the summer vibes.

???? Must-Haves:

• Flip-flops

• Towel & change of clothes

• Arrive early for a shaded spot!

BBQ Time!

After swimming, we got hungry again and started our BBQ — grilled meats, doenjang stew, and even ramyeon. There’s nothing quite like eating hot food by the water after cooling off in the valley.

We played and ate right up until platform rental closing time.
Since we arrived after 11 AM, the time felt a bit short — come early for the full experience!

Clean-Up & Amenities

Before leaving, we had to clean up our space and sort our trash for disposal.

Also, all rented utensils and cookware must be washed and returned, so don’t forget to bring a disposable sponge — they don’t provide one.

There’s a microwave available too for quick heating of meals like instant rice.

 Shower & Restroom Notes

There’s a shower facility, but the water was ice cold!
I just rinsed quickly and changed clothes — I preferred to shower properly at home.

???? Showers get very crowded near closing, so go early if you want to avoid the lines!

Final Thoughts

From floating in the cool valley water to a sizzling BBQ feast, this Gapyeong one-day trip was packed with fun and relaxation.

We loved having a comfortable platform, being able to cook and eat there, and just taking it slow in nature.

Though the restrooms and facilities could use a little improvement, the affordable prices made it totally worth it.

We'll definitely be returning to Lakeside Valley Pension again this summer! ????

Day Trip Checklist for Lakeside Valley Pension (호수유원지 민박)

• Check the Gyeongchun Line schedule in advance

• Plan transportation from Gapyeong Station

• Don’t forget towels, flip-flops, and a change of clothes

• Arrive early to grab a prime spot by the water

Since it's chilly, we focused on indoor activities.

Our itinerary included a visit to the aquarium, a candy-making experience, the Hello Kitty Island museum, a café tour, and hunting down delicious restaurants.

As soon as I got out of the car, the sky was filled with stars! ⭐

The photo captures just a single moment, but in reality, the stars seemed to be pouring down from the sky. On July 25th, thanks to the clear weather, the starlight was so vivid that you could almost see the Milky Way!

I saw the stars at an accommodation I visited during a trip to Cheongsong. I'd love to recommend the place, but I arrived late and didn't take many photos. So, I'll start by recommending it as a fantastic stargazing spot!

The accommodation where I saw the stars is Juwangsan Hwangtobang Bungalow Pension!

According to the owner, the stars are usually visible like this whenever the weather is good. Especially during clear summer days or early autumn, you can see them even more clearly!

I still vividly remember that moment when I was completely lost in watching the sky. I never imagined I would see such amazing stars in Cheongsong! If you love stargazing, I highly recommend adding Cheongsong to your travel itinerary.

If the weather cooperates, you can be just as moved without having to travel far overseas!

Hello, it's Moong & Ming! :)

Today's the day for my first overnight trip with Moong!

I'd been looking forward to it so much since we planned it a few days ago, but my body just wasn't cooperating...

The IV drip I got yesterday... is this what they call true dedication?

Until last night, it was a constant back and forth between "I'm going!!" and "No, I don't think I can..." 😥

Kind Moong suggested we see how I felt when I woke up. Thankfully, I felt much better after the IV, so we somehow managed to depart! 🎉 (That expensive IV... it was worth the money... Thank goodness I have insurance...)

Moong made an apple pie!

A man who's good at cooking and baking 😍

The doctor told me to be careful about what I eat, but... how can I resist when Moong made it? 😭

I wanted to devour it all, but I decided to only eat a little bit.

First stop, **Samgojeongmun Restaurant** in Samcheok!

We arrived in Samcheok after a long drive and headed straight here!

Even the fish looks different from the start. 🐟

The restaurant is spacious and the side dishes are so neat and delicious!

It seems like a great place to bring family or older relatives!

It was so delicious, but I couldn't fully enjoy it because I wasn't feeling well 😭

We had the Grilled Fish Set Meal, but it seems like the Soy Sauce Set Meal is also popular!

I want to try that one next time! 😊

Next up, the **Samcheok Sea!**

Oh my gosh, the Samcheok sea...? It's seriously my #1 favorite among the East Sea views! ☝

I wanted to keep admiring the beautiful sea, but because I wasn't feeling well and it was cold, we couldn't stay long and went straight to our accommodation!

Our accommodation, **Sol Beach Samcheok** is known for its amazing views!!

If I go to Samcheok again, I don't need anything else, I just want to go to Sol Beach Samcheok for the view! 😄

Sol Beach Samcheok at night was so pretty too!

And the sunrise from Sol Beach Samcheok... It was absolutely breathtaking!

I happened to wake up early and sat by the window for dozens of minutes, completely mesmerized by the view from dawn until the sunrise 😍

Such an amazing view with the sound of the waves as background music... it was pure beauty.

It was the most healing time during the trip!

Maybe it was even better because I was there with Moong 😊

I loved the views and the atmosphere of Samcheok's sea so much that if someone asks me which sea is the most memorable, I still answer 'Samcheok' without hesitation!

Even the toilet at Sol Beach Samcheok had an ocean view! Haha.

I relaxed and healed at the accommodation, and felt much better, so we decided to do something active on the second day!!!

January 12, 2023

**Donghae Doddaebi-gol Sky Valley**

Things to do at Doddaebi-gol Sky Valley:

We took a stroll through Doddaebi-gol and experienced being thin, wrote postcards at the slow postbox, and rode the Giant Slide and Sky Cycle!

I think Moong was more scared than I was while riding the Sky Cycle~~ keke.

It doesn't look scary, but it's actually quite frightening!

The ocean view seen amidst the fear is art!!!

And there's an episode related to the slow postbox...

Thinking that I might move in a year, I sent a postcard to Moong's parents' house.

The postcards arrived when Moong wasn't there, so his mother read them all... 😳😳😳 So embarassing... 😳😳😳😳

At Samcheok Doddaebi-gol Sky Valley, you can ride a bike relying on a single rope while enjoying the ocean view, and have a fresh experience!

There are many small games and sights to see inside Doddaebi-gol, so I recommend adding it to your Samcheok trip itinerary 👍

For dinner, Mulhoe (spicy raw fish soup) and Spicy Fish Stew!

A fun day out ending with mulhoe and spicy fish stew marks the end of our first overnight trip and Samcheok adventure. 😊

Moong, thank you for taking care of me while I wasn't feeling well and for driving back and forth. You worked so hard! This is our first trip together and it will remain in my memory for a long time. Thanks! ❤️

Today's the day for our valley trip to Gapyeong!

It's been ages since high school since I last visited a valley.

So excited!

We met at Ori Station and grabbed coffees before heading out.

Do you have a pet with you?

The weather was perfect.

Just right for playing in the water.

Around noon, we grabbed a quick lunch at a rest stop.

And then we left for Gapyeong!

After about an hour and a half, we arrived.

We shopped for groceries at the Hanaro Mart closest to the valley.

It's a bit small, but they have everything we need.

We stopped by the pension to drop off our luggage and then headed straight to the valley!

It's a 5-minute walk from the pension. Great!

I found this valley while searching for deep valleys in Gapyeong.

It has A, B, and C zones,

Divided into deep, shallow, and medium depth areas.

The water is deep and clear.

Life jackets are available for free rental; you just need to provide your phone number.

Life jackets are mandatory; you can't enter without them.

Immediately cracked open a beer, haha.

Terra Light... too bland; not a fan.

We really enjoyed ourselves for two solid hours.

Even if my feet didn't touch the bottom, I wasn't worried because of the life jacket.

Did some diving and gave Song Jung-min a water torture session.

So much fun, lol.

Water torture session for Song Jung-min that would make even the devil cry, haha.

Promoting Terra.

Play in the water, drink beer, play in the water, drink beer...

* 100

Getting into my mid-20s, even two hours of playing is tiring.

Played without regrets and headed to the pension!

I booked this place immediately because it also showed up when I was looking for valleys.

I immediately got the last room available.

The pension is clean overall,

And the owners (both the husband and wife) are really friendly.

The price is reasonable too.

Highly recommend Gipeunsan Valley Mountain Villa Pension!

Took a shower and went straight to the BBQ!

I prepare the ingredients,

I grill the meat,

I pour the drinks...

I don't eat meat grilled by others, lol.

I'm a good griller, right???‍♀️

It makes me happy to see them enjoy the charcoal-flavored meat~

We bought 600g of pork belly and 300g of pork shoulder, but

We all have small appetites, so we left about half.

A person who is popular with bugs.

What's your secret, lol?

Came back to the room and had a second round with soft tofu stew and snacks.

I think we drank about 4 bottles of soju.

July 9th, 2025 (Saturday)

Woke up at 7 AM, went outside, and took a walk.

Thankfully, I don't have a hangover.

Dipped my feet in the water to wake myself up, and it's so refreshing.

A local restaurant strongly recommended by the pension owner!

If you're going nearby, you must go!

Many side dishes and delicious.

The beef and bean sprout soup is beyond words.

A true hidden gem!!

Took out coffee and returned home....?‍♀️

Whenever I go on a trip, I always plan, research, and act as the treasurer.

I think this suits my personality.

Very satisfying Gapyeong trip. End!

When you think of Gangneung, do Gyeongpodae Beach or Anmok Beach come to mind first? ☕????

But to really experience Gangneung, the unique and off-the-beaten-path spots are much more fun! ???

On my previous trips to Gangneung, I stumbled upon hidden gems while searching for less crowded places!

???? If you're looking for fun things to do in Gangneung, you might be surprised by what you find! ????

Let me introduce you to some quiet and enjoyable places!

What to do in Gangneung? A summary of must-visit places.

???? **Chodang Heo Gyun and Heo Nanseolheon Memorial Hall**

Honestly, the name might make you think, "Isn't that just a stuffy history museum?"

But once you go, the atmosphere is completely different! ???

From a garden full of traditional Korean house vibes to quiet walking paths,

there's everything, and the exhibition hall inside is neatly organized.

Heo Gyun and Heo Nanseolheon's poems are displayed so you can read them directly,

and if you enjoy them with quiet music, you'll lose track of time. ???

Outside, there's also a lush bamboo forest, giving you a feeling of an urban oasis.

Admission is free, so there's no pressure!

It was perfect for clearing my head and taking a quiet walk alone because there weren't many people.

???? I highly recommend this unexpected healing spot for those looking for things to do in Gangneung.

???? **Gangneung Solhyang Arboretum**

An arboretum full of the scent of pine trees!

Just following the walking path makes you feel refreshed. ???

The entrance fee is relatively inexpensive,

and above all, the space is enormous.

It's like a forest world within Gangneung. ???

There's a space for children to play,

and the plants are beautifully arranged in the greenhouse, so it's great for taking pictures. ????

It has a different atmosphere in each of the four seasons,

so you can fully enjoy nature whenever you go in spring, summer, or fall.

I went there in the summer before,

and there was plenty of shade, so it wasn't hot at all!

???? Among the things to do in Gangneung,

this is the best recommendation for those who want to relax with nature!

???? **Chodang Coffee Garden**

When you think of Chodang-dong, only soft tofu comes to mind, but

this is the real hidden gem of Gangneung! ☕

‘Chodang Coffee Garden’ is a unique cafe-style garden

hidden in a quiet residential area.

In a landscape like a foreign rural village,

tables are placed among flowers and trees.

You order from a small window inside,

and when you get your coffee, you can sit anywhere in the garden

and spend your time leisurely.

Rather than a cafe, it's really a space like a 'rest area'. ???

Among the things to do in Gangneung,

if you want real healing instead of noisy tourist spots,

this is the perfect place.

When I went there myself,

I still remember the taste of the iced americano

I drank while sitting alone and feeling the breeze! ????

???? If you're looking for silent healing and

an emotional cafe, be sure to visit!

???? **Aranabi Monorail**

This is a truly unique experience among the things to do in Gangneung! ???

Between Gangneung and Jeongdongjin,

riding the monorail along the cliff

and running along the coastline is amazing!

The view of the sea and trees mixed together

was really unique. ????

Because it moves slowly,

even those with a fear of heights don't have to worry.

The videos and photos you take while riding

are surprisingly emotional. ????

It's good to ride alone,

and it's an experience that everyone will enjoy on a couple's trip or family trip.

???? Among the things to do in Gangneung,

there's nothing better for those looking for experiential activities!

???? **Nocheusan Mojeong Forest Trail**

Not far from downtown Gangneung,

this place is like a complete forest!

The Forest Trail of Mother's Love is full of emotion from its name. ????

If you walk slowly along the walking course,

you can hear the sound of the stream,

and there are benches in the middle.

It's really nice to walk, and it's so peaceful. ????

It's an easy course even for beginners,

so all you need are sneakers!

When I went there before,

I took a walk for about an hour,

and it felt like my mood was getting clearer.

When you don't like crowded places,

these quiet forest paths are perfect.

???? If you're looking for things to do in Gangneung,

this is highly recommended for those who like to take walks!

???? **Gyodongtaekji Gamja Ongsimi Alley**

This is a specialized alley

where Gangneung locals go to eat Gamja Ongsimi. ????

Around Gangneung Gyodongtaekji,

there are restaurants selling chewy Gamja Ongsimi, such as 'Anjib Gamja Ongsimi', 'Ojukheon Ongsimi',

and 'Chuncheon Gamja Ongsimi',

so it's fun to choose because they're clustered like an alley!

A bite of chewy Ongsimi

and cool anchovy broth!

It's a local taste that you can only feel in Gangneung,

so I went there before and came back stuffed. ????

???? If you want to have a good meal

as a foodie course among the things to do in Gangneung, I recommend this place!

???? Let's summarize the things to do in Gangneung!

✅ When looking for things to do in Gangneung,

unique places are more memorable than places that are too famous!

✅ If you like nature,

I recommend Solhyang Arboretum and the Forest Trail of Mother's Love. ????

✅ If you want to recharge your emotions,

I recommend Heo Nanseolheon Memorial Hall and Chodang Coffee Garden.

✅ If you're looking for experiential activities,

Aranabi Monorail is perfect. ????

✅ If it's a course that includes food,

move to Gyodongtaekji Gamja Ongsimi Alley!

???? Small tip!

The bus intervals in Gangneung

are long, so be sure to check the schedule!

If you're a walking traveler,

be sure to plan your course with plenty of time. ⏰

???? If this Gangneung to-do list post

helped you make plans,

let's find the next travel destination together! ????

I'd like to introduce you to Firefly Pension, which I found after hiking Deogyusan Mountain. It's the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Ideal for hiking trips with family and friends, this pension perfectly blends a swimming pool with beautiful natural scenery.

Especially, its proximity to a nearby valley makes it great for enjoying water activities.

I was overwhelmingly satisfied with the relaxing break I was able to take in this charming place.

Firefly Pension is close to Deogyusan Mountain, making it an optimal place to comfortably rest after a hike.

The beautiful natural scenery surrounding the accommodation made it a great place to take photos.

With a pristine valley nearby, you can enjoy water activities, and with an outdoor swimming pool, you can have even cooler fun in the summer.

The rooms are also clean and comfortable, making you feel like the stress is flying away.

Best of all, the owner is so kind!

The interior of the rooms is neatly and pleasantly maintained, making it ideal for finishing a long day.

The bedding was also clean and comfortable, so I slept well.

Firefly Pension has several room options available for families or couples, so you can choose according to your taste.

Also, the valley is close by, making it perfect for enjoying water activities with friends.

If you want to escape the summer heat, try the outdoor swimming pool at Firefly Pension!

The swimming pool is kept clean and is spacious, so I was able to enjoy it comfortably.

The fun of laughing and chatting with friends while playing in the water has become an unforgettable memory.

Firefly Pension is the place where you can relax while enjoying swimming and sunbathing at the same time.

Thanks to the variety of activities and beautiful natural scenery, it was a truly happy time.

Don't forget the valley near the pension!

There is a valley nearby, making it the perfect place to enjoy cool water activities.

Swimming leisurely in nature and listening to the sound of leaves rustling in the wind made me feel healed in both body and mind.

In particular, I had a time to chat around a campfire near the valley in the evening, and that moment felt precious.

The experience of being with nature at Firefly Pension will remain in my memory.

Firefly Pension is close to the Deogyusan Mountain hiking trail and the tourist gondola, making it easily accessible.

It's a 5-minute drive away, so you can easily move around after enjoying Deogyusan Mountain.

It was a great value for money, so it was nice to be able to stay with friends without feeling burdened.

I was so happy to have a good time at a pension with so many advantages.

The kindness of the owner also made Firefly Pension even more special.

From check-in to late at night, they were kind enough to provide guidance, and I could always feel their warm heart for the guests.

Thanks to this consideration, I was able to rest more comfortably.

This has become a place I want to show off to my friends, and it's a pension that I look forward to visiting again.

I was so happy to have a good time with my friends at Firefly Pension.

I was able to create new memories with clear skies, a blue swimming pool, and a cool valley.

It's a place I definitely want to come back to next time.

There's no better place to relieve fatigue after hiking.

It would be a perfect day to hike Deogyusan Mountain and heal at Firefly Pension.

Firefly Pension Recommended!

If you are traveling with family or friends, be sure to visit!

Firefly Pension has so many advantages.

Various attractions, beautiful natural scenery, healing, and friendly service!

I'm thinking of coming in the winter next time.

I was so happy to be able to stay comfortably in such a wonderful place after climbing Deogyusan Mountain.

Firefly Pension was a place worth recommending in every way.

Clean rooms, friendly owner, and beautiful natural scenery!

I want to come back here someday, so be sure to visit.

Once you go, you'll be completely hooked!

Initially, I visited without high expectations, but I was pleasantly surprised. Beyond the impressive car and piano exhibitions,

the museum features a deer park and even a robot cafe where robots prepare your coffee.

It seems like the perfect destination for families with children.

Location & Admission

Address: 1610, Jungsanganseo-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

Hours: Daily 09:00 - 18:00

Admission Fees: Adults ₩13,000 / Teenagers ₩12,000 / Children ₩11,000 / Military Personnel, Seniors, Disabled Individuals ₩10,000

First Encounter: Deer Plaza

Upon entering, you're greeted by a deer plaza.

When you purchase your tickets, you'll receive a small amount of deer food.

If you want more, you can buy additional food at the ticket booth.

I finally understood why people say deer eyes are so beautiful.

They were gentle and captivating in person.

There were some cars displayed in the plaza, but a sudden downpour forced us to move to the exhibition hall.

World Car Exhibition Hall

As you enter the museum, you'll find a diverse collection of cars from around the world.

From vintage classic cars with a retro feel to racing cars boasting speed,

there were many models that made you think, ‘This is amazing,’ even if you're not a car enthusiast.

Each vehicle has a detailed explanation next to it,

making it enjoyable for both car aficionados and beginners.

The most memorable was the Korean...

Piano Exhibition Hall

Following the exhibition route, you'll naturally arrive at the piano exhibition hall.

Grand pianos and antique upright pianos

of various eras and designs caught my eye.

I heard there are piano performances at certain times,

but unfortunately, I missed the timing that day.

A Surprising Experience at the Robot Cafe

Near the end of the tour, you'll find the Robot Cafe.

After ordering through the kiosk, you can watch the barista robot

take out an ice cup, add ice, and brew the coffee.

The entire process is fascinating!

The coffee was surprisingly good, comparable to franchise coffee shops,

and it's an experience that children will especially enjoy.

I imagine it will be a fully automated cafe if they add serving robots.

Children's Kart Experience & Souvenir Shop

There's also a children's kart experience area,

making it a must-visit for families.

Finally, the souvenir shop sells small items to commemorate your visit.

Recommended for:

Families with children interested in cars or pianos

Those seeking a unique indoor and outdoor exhibition in Jeju

Those who want to interact with deer and create special memories for their children

Those who want to try a unique experience like a robot cafe

In a nutshell:

The Jeju World Automobile & Piano Museum, where you can enjoy cars, pianos, deer, and a robot cafe all in one place,

is a must-include in your Andeok travel itinerary with children.

I'm Yun Seul-aje, contemplating today's meal and sharing stories of beautiful places.

Today, I want to share the story of 'Changnang Red Cliff,' a place of outstanding scenic beauty among the Red Cliffs of Hwasun, South Jeolla Province.

---

The Hidden Beauty of Red Cliff, Especially the Radiant Changnang Red Cliff

When people think of 'Red Cliff,' many may recall scenes from the Chinese Romance of the Three Kingdoms, but Hwasun in South Jeolla Province also boasts a stunning landscape worthy of the name. The Hwasun Red Cliff is a long stretch of cliffs along Damyang Lake, and Changnang Red Cliff is a renowned spot that showcases the most majestic and beautiful scenery.

Towering rock cliffs rise sharply above the lake, and the gentle waters of Damyang Lake reflect on the cliffs, creating a scene reminiscent of a traditional ink painting. On calm days without a breeze, the cliffs, sky, and trees are perfectly reflected on the lake, creating a mirror-like landscape.

---

The Landscape Reaches Its Peak at Sunset

The most enchanting time to visit Changnang Red Cliff is undoubtedly at sunset. As the setting sun paints the western sky red, the colors of the cliffs also transform into warm shades of vermilion. The blend of light and shadows cast upon the lake creates a scene that evokes an indescribable sense of awe.

At this time, photography enthusiasts flock to the area with their tripods, each capturing Changnang Red Cliff from their unique perspectives. Whether it's a portrait or a landscape shot, every picture becomes a masterpiece.

---

Different Charms in Every Season

Changnang Red Cliff adorns itself with different attire each season.

In spring, the cliffs are gently enveloped in fresh, verdant leaves, and in summer, the lush greenery creates a refreshing landscape. In autumn, the cliffs and lake are tinged red with autumn foliage, and in winter, the snowy landscape resembles an oriental painting.

Especially during the autumn foliage and winter snow seasons, the scenery is so captivating that people travel from afar, causing a surge in the number of tourists.

---

Changnang Red Cliff Hiking Trail

To fully enjoy Changnang Red Cliff, I recommend walking along the trail that follows the lake. The path is gentle and well-maintained, making it accessible to people of all ages. There are viewing points along the trail, offering spots to admire the lake and cliffs at a glance.

As you walk, the scent of water carried by the wind and the sound of birds calm your mind. Time seems to slow down here, allowing you to momentarily set aside the hustle and bustle of everyday life and fully immerse yourself in nature.

---

Popularity as a Photography Hotspot

Changnang Red Cliff is regarded as a 'famous cliff landscape spot in Korea' among photography enthusiasts. Capturing the scene with a wide-angle lens brings out the grandeur of the cliffs, sky, and lake, while using a telephoto lens to capture the details of the cliffs vividly reveals the rock patterns, moss, and even tree roots.

In particular, the 'reflection shot' of the cliffs perfectly mirrored on the lake on a windless day is the signature scene here.

---

Travel Tips

Changnang Red Cliff is accessible by car, but you will need to walk a certain distance after parking. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing. If you plan to visit around sunset, arrive a little early to avoid missing the moment when the golden light bathes the cliffs.

Also, as this is a natural heritage site and tourist destination, it is essential to minimize trash and noise.

---

In Conclusion

Changnang Red Cliff in Hwasun, South Jeolla Province, is not just a tourist spot, but a stage of grand nature created by the lake, cliffs, and sky. It welcomes travelers with different charms in each season, and the moment it reaches its peak in the light of sunset evokes a deeper sense of awe than any words can express.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and feel the comfort and inspiration that nature provides, Changnang Red Cliff in Hwasun, South Jeolla Province, will be the answer.

It's worth taking a stroll around, and the pond was beautiful!

They also offer Hanok stays, and it seemed like quite a few people were staying there.

Ohjukheon is located very close by, and it's also worth visiting once.

Hello!

In my previous post, I shared my solo walking tour in Mokpo and my stay at the Cassette Player guesthouse on the first day of my 2-day trip.

The guesthouse is located within walking distance of Mokpo Station, and it’s a fantastic place for a solo female traveler to stay quietly in a private room.

I value the meaning of the places and spaces I visit on my travels. It helps a lot when I remember those places later.

Next, I think about what I ate.

For example, food that you can only eat in that region or local favorite restaurants!

You can't miss that when you travel!

Today, I'm going to share stories about restaurants worth visiting in Mokpo, places where you can dine alone, and coffee shops recommended by locals.

First Day Dinner: Yeongran Raw Fish Restaurant in Minneo (Croaker) Street

Address: 1-5 Manho-dong, Mokpo-si, Jeollanam-do

Finding menus suitable for solo dining while traveling can be more limited than you might think.

Before leaving for Mokpo, I spent a lot of time thinking about what food I should try.

That's where Naver search comes in, right?

After diligently searching for "Mokpo 맛집(delicious restaurant)," "Mokpo local 맛집(delicious restaurant)," "Mokpo native 맛집(delicious restaurant)," "Mokpo 맛집(delicious restaurant) recommendations," etc., I decided to try Minneo (Croaker).

Did you know there is a Minneo Street in Manho-dong, Mokpo, Jeollanam-do?

Minneo (Croaker) is a specialty of Mokpo, and the locals have a deep sense of pride in it.

The reason I chose Minneo dishes for my first meal was that I wanted to experience a food that represents the region. I was also curious about the taste since I had never eaten it before.

Best of all, it was very close to Mokpo Station (2 minutes by car) and within easy reach of the Cassette Player, where I was staying (walking distance).

And it was a place where you could comfortably dine alone with a 1-person menu.

Yeongran Raw Fish Restaurant boasts a long history and tradition of 30 years and has established itself as a gastronomic mecca representing Mokpo.

Their Minneo (Croaker) is served as aged raw fish ( 숙성회 ) that has been aged for about a day or two. It is characterized by its large, thick slices, soft and savory flavor, and the Minneo (Croaker) soup has a refreshing and rich broth.

You can taste the original umami by dipping the Minneo (Croaker) skin, swim bladder, and fins in salt.

If you order half a plate (1-person menu) at the restaurant, you can enjoy all parts of the fish generously.

It's a 맛집(delicious restaurant) with great value for money.

Minneo (Croaker) 회 (raw fish) is also famous as a summer health food, and it is so popular that people come from all over the country.

Don't forget Mokpo's specialty and be sure to try a Minneo (Croaker) course at least once!

[Yeongran Raw Fish Restaurant Information]

Hours:

Every day 10:00 - 22:00

Parking:

Available/Walked because I was walking

Close to Mokpo Station (2 minutes by car)

Reservations:

Available

Takeout:

Available

Features:

Minneo (Croaker) Half Plate ₩25,000

Solo dining is possible

You can taste various parts such as Minneo (Croaker) skin and swim bladder

Second Day Breakfast: Taedongbanjeom

Address: 223-1 Jukdong, Mokpo-si, Jeollanam-do

The morning in Mokpo has dawned on my 1-night, 2-day solo walking tour.

I was thinking about a restaurant that opens early in the morning and a menu that you can only taste in Mokpo, so I decided to eat the Jungkan Set at Taedongbanjeom.

I wondered if the price had changed since I visited a few years ago, but it's still the same at ₩8,000.

A 맛집(delicious restaurant) with great value for money!

Jungkan is a popular set menu only available at Taedongbanjeom where you can taste three things: Tangsuyuk (sweet and sour pork), Jungkan (thick-sauce Jajangmyeon), and Jjambbong (spicy seafood noodle soup).

Taedongbanjeom's Jungkan noodles were different from regular Chinese restaurant Jajangmyeon or Ganjajangmyeon.

Should I say they are flatter and thinner?

I felt that the texture was good and the black bean sauce was better absorbed.

The Tangsuyuk (sweet and sour pork) was the taste of my childhood that you can taste at old Chinese restaurants, and the Jjambbong (spicy seafood noodle soup) was plain but spicy and clean.

All the menus were a taste that everyone likes.

The portions are large and the price is not burdensome for solo dining, so it is quite attractive to those who come alone.

Taedongbanjeom seems to be a famous restaurant among locals in Mokpo.

There were quite a few older neighborhood people and many people who came to Mokpo for trip.

I did an open run on a weekday.

Before long, there was a waiting line.

We recommend that you go in advance according to the store's business hours.

Taedongbanjeom has a fast turnover rate, but time is precious.

(Waiting in line on a trip is a luxury!)

Thanks to the open run, I was able to enter quickly without waiting and have a comfortable meal.

(When I came out, there were so many people that I came out without thinking)

Can you see the fried egg on top of the Jungkan?

It reminds me of the Chinese restaurant in front of my house when I was a kid.

I felt like I had come to an old 맛집(delicious restaurant) in my memories.

It's an old restaurant, but the tables are clean and the food is served neatly.

[Taedongbanjeom Restaurant Information]

Hours:

11:00-19:00

Regular holiday every other Tuesday

Break time:

14:20-15:40

Parking:

No parking lot

Waiting:

After being introduced on several broadcasting media, there are many customers, so we recommend an open run.

(Weekend waiting is inevitable)

Features:

Jungkan (Chinese restaurant Ganjajangmyeon) is a menu that you can only eat at Taedongbanjeom, so it is recommended as a 1-person meal if you come to Mokpo trip.

Last Meal of the 2-Day Trip: Kim Jeong-rim Seonji (Ox Blood) Hangover Soup

Address: 4-15 Daeuidong 1(il)-ga, Mokpo-si, Jeollanam-do

Kim Jeong-rim Seonji (Ox Blood) Hangover Soup is the last meal on a woman's trip that came without fear.

The food in Mokpo was generally delicious.

I don't enjoy gopchang or ox blood, but I think this place is worth recommending.

Office workers and neighborhood people often come to eat.

I visited because the restaurant was on my trip route and the reviews were not bad, but it was a famous 노포 맛집(old delicious restaurant) that was famous among local natives of Mokpo.

It is a place that does a great job of hearty portion and heavy soup 선지 (ox blood) hangover soup.

There was no waiting line on weekdays, but there were many customers, and meals were served quickly, so the turnover rate was fast.

Since it was recently introduced on a broadcasting medium, there is a waiting time, so avoid busy times or recommend an open run!

If you are hungover from drinking the day before, why not go to Kim Jeong-rim Seonji (Ox Blood) Hangover Soup and soothe your stomach with the rich soup?

Kim Jeong-rim's Hangover Soup serves glossy rice, kkakdugi (diced radish kimchi), seasoned 다대기(spicy sauce), minced green chili peppers, and kimchi as side dishes.

Mix them to your liking.

There is a lot of ox blood and the amount is very generous.

[Kim Jeong-rim Seonji (Ox Blood) Hangover Soup Restaurant Information]

Hours:

10:00-21:00

Regular holiday every Sunday

Break time:

16:00-17:00

Parking:

None

Reservations:

Not possible

Waiting:

There is a waiting line on both weekdays and weekends

Open run recommended

Takeout:

Available

Features:

Please get a number and wait.

Coffee Shop with a View of the Mokpo Sea: Daebandong 201 Cafe

Address: 465-142 Jukgyo-dong, Mokpo-si, Jeollanam-do

My Mokpo trip is coming to an end.

Daebandong 201 is a cafe recommended by the owner of a small store in front of the hostel where I stayed.

It's a 맛집(delicious restaurant) with a view where you can see the Mokpo Bridge, the sparkling sea, and the marine cable car all in one place.

I walked alone, took taxis, and walked around quite a few places worth visiting in Mokpo, and I had a comfortable meal.

I thought it would be nice to have a delicious drink at a coffee shop with a sea view, and a local in Mokpo recommended a place, so I happily visited!

I drank a glass of cool melon juice while looking at the Mokpo sea.

The store was large, so there was no waiting, and I sat in a pretty good seat because it was a weekday.

I was reading a book and looking at photos of the trip, 맛집(delicious restaurant)s, and 숙소 (lodging)s I visited during the last 1 night and 2 days, and I thought that traveling alone wasn't so bad.

It was a clumsy and eventful 1-night, 2-day solo trip, so I'm a little disappointed, but I think I'll have more leeway on my second trip.

It was great to be able to experience and see so much because I was walking.

[Daebandong 201 Information]

Hours:

10:00-22:00

09:30-21:00 (Mon, Tue, Wed)

Open 365 days a year

Parking:

Parking available at Yudal Recreation Area parking lot

Waiting:

It was not available because the store was large

Takeout:

Available

Features:

Group use possible

Pets allowed

The price range is generally high, but it is highly recommended for travelers going to Mokpo for the first time because you can see a variety of menus and sea views!

How was my first Mokpo walking trip for solo female travelers?

Trips, like life, don't seem to go exactly as planned.

Everyone is a first timer.

That's why I'm looking forward to the future, right?

Even if things don't go as planned, new environments and experiences seem to help us grow.

Why do people travel alone?

I think I understand the meaning of travel a little better now.

Don't hesitate, just leave.

It's okay to be alone!

I'll share a post that you might like to see together. I hope you have an exciting and enjoyable day today, like a day of traveling.

Goodbye.

From the vibrant surfing beach and the ocean-view Bada Garden Cafe in Goseong, to Namgyeong Makguksu (buckwheat noodles) and charcoal-grilled BBQ in Sokcho, and ending with Songi Dakgangjeong (sweet and crispy chicken), the weather was perfect, and the course was filled with both sights and delicious food.

Surfing Beach near Cheongganjeong, Yangyang – Where Exotic Vibes Meet Freedom

Unlike other beaches on the East Sea, the beach in front of Cheongganjeong offered a sophisticated atmosphere reminiscent of a resort in a foreign country.

On one side, a yoga class was taking place in a transparent space with an ocean view. On the other, a live rock performance resonated. The sandy beach was wide and clean, and the consistent sound of the waves was as calming as meditation, while surfers carved through the waves, creating a truly picturesque scene.

Cheongganjeong Beach offers an unobstructed view of the East Sea and the entire coastline, naturally evoking the exclamation, “This is the real East Sea!”

Surfing lessons and board rentals are available, and the golden sunset is said to be a popular photo spot. Everywhere you look is so beautiful, you could take a picture anywhere and it would look like a magazine cover.

I especially loved the unique combination of relaxation spaces, something rarely seen on beaches.

The combination of 'fabric + plants'!

It's what makes Cheongganjeong Surfing Beach look even more exotic.

The beach at sunset is always charming, no matter when you see it.

The indie band's vocalist sounded a lot like Yoon Do-hyun, which surprised me!! The sound was GOOD!!

Instead of the typical colorful beach umbrellas commonly found on Haeundae and Sokcho beaches, each spot was decorated with a unique concept.

I prefer watching the water to staring at a fire, so I find myself relaxing and losing track of time when I spend the whole day looking out at the sea.

Namgyeong Makguksu at Daepo Port – A Unique Combination of Perilla Seeds and Gondre (Thistle)

I wondered if makguksu would be a good choice for breakfast, but I was surprised at how easily I enjoyed the noodles!

Located near Daepo Port in Sokcho, about a 2-minute walk from the public parking lot, 'Namgyeong Makguksu' is a local favorite. I arrived before it opened (opens at 10 AM), but there was already a slight wait.

The restaurant had a clean and sophisticated exterior, unlike what I imagined a makguksu place would be like, and the trendy music playing while I ate was quite impressive.

I ordered the two most popular noodle dishes.

Since it was morning, we only ordered noodles, but most families were also ordering suyuk (boiled pork slices).

Perilla Seed Makguksu - ₩12,000

The rich, ground perilla seeds gently coat the noodles, creating a deep, nutty flavor. The combination of the buckwheat noodles' delicate taste and the perilla seeds' nuttiness is perfect.

Gondre Makguksu - ₩12,000

The subtle aroma of gondre blends with the buckwheat noodles, leaving a refreshing and clean aftertaste. The texture of the gondre with each bite offers a unique satisfaction. Younger people will probably prefer the gondre makguksu.

Both were really delicious, and above all, the noodles were delicate and incredibly tasty. It was hard to choose a favorite, but my top pick was the perilla seed makguksu. The nuttiness of the perilla seeds wasn't overpowering, and the flavor was present throughout the entire meal, so I finished every last bite.

I arrived before 10 AM, but the restaurant was already full of customers inside, and there were people waiting outside. Fortunately, the turnover rate was fast, and the interior had more tables than I expected, so I didn't have to wait long to get in.

The young radish kimchi and cold noodle kimchi were also clean and delicious.

The nutty flavor of the perilla seeds is still lingering as I write this~

I might go again before heading back to Seoul.

[Namgyeong Makguksu Main Branch]

Hours: Open 365 days a year

Daily 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Last order at 8:30 PM

Can use the revitalization coupon.

Goseong Bada Garden Cafe – A Feast of Ocean Views and Diverse Breads

Bada Garden is a cafe that truly brings a garden to the ocean. I always make it a point to visit whenever I travel to Sokcho because the ocean view is always amazing, no matter when you go.

The interior features a modern design with floor-to-ceiling windows offering refreshing views of the East Sea. On sunny days, you can see the horizon clearly, making teatime outside truly special.

In the outdoor space, you'll find people napping in the shade of the lush pine trees (mostly fathers, haha), others enjoying coffee while gazing at the sea, and families and their pets having a great time... The blue sky and the sound of the waves make this a healing space for everyone.

Except on rainy or very hot days, I usually prefer to spend my time outside, enjoying the ocean view.

As for the bread, I personally think the croissants are the best, and with a variety of options such as cheese baguettes, salt bread, and cinnamon rolls, there's something to satisfy every bread lover.

The weather was really great today!!

When I came with my husband, it was about to rain...

When I brought my mom around June last year, the weather was great!!

When I brought my mom in July (it was cloudy that day too)

When my son came out on leave, haha.

Sokcho is loved by our family!! And Bada Garden is one of our favorites.^^

Ganggyeong Bulgogi – Disappointingly Closed Due to Sold-Out Ingredients

In the evening, I had planned to go to ‘Ganggyeong Bulgogi,’ but unfortunately, it was closed early due to sold-out ingredients, so I had to turn back.

This place is a bulgogi restaurant popular among locals in Sokcho, known for its sweet sauce and tender beef.

I've added it to my must-visit list for my next trip to Sokcho.

Already sold out even though it was early evening...TT

Lobelia casually growing in the nearby flowerbed~

I searched again and found ‘Charcoal Grill Restaurant Hwaro-e,’ where I ordered charcoal-grilled pork ribs and pork rinds, and was surprised at how delicious they were!

The pork ribs weren't overly seasoned, allowing the charcoal aroma and the natural flavor of the meat to shine through. The pork rinds were chewy and left a savory taste in my mouth for a long time. (It was my first time trying pork rinds.)

The side dishes were also neat, and I ate a lot with lettuce and perilla leaves.

Songi Dakgangjeong – Soft and Mild Snack

On the way back to the accommodation, I stopped by ‘Songi Dakgangjeong,’ a famous sweet and crispy chicken restaurant in Sokcho.

I chose the mild flavor for myself, as I can't handle spicy food, and it had no spiciness at all, making it enjoyable for everyone from children to adults.

The chicken was tender and moist on the inside, and the crispy batter was evenly coated with the sauce.

The sauce was sweet with a subtle savory flavor that kept me reaching for more. Personally, I found Songi Dakgangjeong more delicious than Mansuk Dakgangjeong.

Tip: You can choose between spicy and mild flavors, and it stays soft even when packaged and cooled.

I don't know what it is, but I took a picture because the lush blooms were pretty.

Songi Dakgangjeong_Mild Flavor

Day 1 in Sokcho was filled with flavors and scenery, from the exotic beaches and stylish cafes to local makguksu, charcoal BBQ, and sweet and crispy chicken.

In particular, the free-spirited atmosphere of Cheongganjeong Surfing Beach, the ocean view from Bada Garden, and the savory perilla seed and gondre makguksu are must-experience highlights of a trip to Gangwon Province.

The missed Ganggyeong Bulgogi became a reason for my next trip, and the Songi Dakgangjeong was the perfect late-night snack.

Tomorrow, I'll be following the Sokcho Day 2 course to capture even more of Gangwon's charms.

The combination of the blue sea, white sandy beach, and refreshing breeze was absolutely perfect. ♀️

As a first-time surfer, I desperately needed guidance from experienced instructors.

But upon meeting the friendly staff at Mokusurf, all my worries disappeared!

From customized lessons for beginners to various programs for experienced surfers...

Mokusurf provided a truly systematic and attentive service.

I also appreciated the large private parking lot. I was able to focus on surfing without worrying about parking.

And they even run a guesthouse! It was great to have a place to relax comfortably after surfing.

The clean and cozy interior was a healing space that completely relieved the fatigue of my trip. ✨

The surfboard rental service was also perfect. They even had the sense to recommend the right board for me from a variety of options!

The 4:1 small group lessons meant that I could receive detailed guidance from the instructor. Thanks to this, I was able to learn the basics of surfing properly!

At first, there were moments when I fell, struggled, and wanted to give up…

But thanks to the instructor's encouragement and meticulous guidance, I was able to stand on the waves! 感動

It was the best surfing lesson experience in Yangyang. It became a truly unforgettable memory.

Being able to surf at Jukdo Beach and Ingu Beach, one of the famous surfing spots in Yangyang!

I was able to rent a surfboard in Yangyang and fully enjoy the sea. ️

Thanks to Mokusurf, I fell completely in love with the charm of surfing in Yangyang.

I loved that they had a variety of options available, from introductory surfing lessons to beginner packages.

Thanks to the friendly staff and comfortable atmosphere, even I, as a beginner, could enjoy surfing without any pressure!

My surfing skills improved rapidly thanks to the professional guidance of the instructors!

Mokusurf wasn't just a place that offered surfing lessons.

It was a space where you could have fun with people who love surfing.

Surfing with the beautiful scenery of the beach was truly the best experience. ☀️☀️

All of Mokusurf's facilities and services were full of consideration for the best possible surfing experience.

The clean and well-maintained facilities, as well as the pleasant environment, were perfect.

I definitely want to visit again next time!

If you're planning a surfing trip to Yangyang, I highly recommend Mokusurf!

It's the perfect place with professional instruction, convenient facilities, and friendly staff!

Create unforgettable surfing memories at Yangyang's Jukdo Beach and Ingu Beach!

It will be the best choice for beginners to easily start surfing!

A trip to Sokcho in Gangwon-do often means endless waiting!

If you're looking for a delicious braised fish or skate restaurant in Sokcho, I wholeheartedly recommend Imo-ne Restaurant. Here's my review:

Operating Hours: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Break Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Closed every Wednesday

Dedicated parking available!

Imo-ne Restaurant in Sokcho is a popular spot among both tourists and locals for its braised skate and fish dishes. However, securing a reservation can be incredibly difficult, especially during peak seasons and weekends!

Reservations open at 8:00 AM, but they don't accept reservations for two people; you need to order at least the medium size to reserve. It took me 100 calls to finally get through! But it happened just as I was about to give up. Timing is everything; I recommend calling between 7:55 AM and 8:00 AM!

The restaurant was larger than I expected, but most tables were reserved. Walk-ins were already closed for the day! The menu specifies the number of people per dish size, and if you make a reservation according to your group size, your food arrives almost immediately upon being seated! Since most reviews raved about the braised skate, we ordered that as well.

The side dishes seemed simple, but they were all delicious. The braised skate was visually stunning, and the texture of the skate as it was pulled apart was fantastic! The sauce was less spicy than it looked, and it paired perfectly with rice – I easily ate two bowls!

The large size was plenty for four people, and it was easy to flake the fish onto the rice, making it very easy to eat. If only reservations were easier to get and there was a braised skate place near my house!

But I doubt it would taste the same as Imo-ne Restaurant in Sokcho... Despite the difficulty in getting a reservation, it was worth the hype, and I enjoyed a delicious meal. This was my review of Imo-ne Restaurant!

Despite being planned in just one hour by a group of dedicated procrastinators (affectionately known as "Power Ps"), this itinerary features carefully selected must-visit spots in Daejeon!

Are you ready to explore this 1-night, 2-day itinerary filled with places that are perfect for female travelers, friendship trips, dates, or even family vacations?

01. Kkumdori House

Address: 3, Jungang-ro 203beon-gil, Dong-gu, Daejeon

Kkumdori House is closed every Monday! I visited on a Monday and found it closed, so I had to revisit the next day!

You can reach Kkumdori House by taking Exit 2 at Daejeon Station and walking straight. The operating hours are from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday to Friday.

Kkumdori House is named after "Kkumdori," the mascot of the Daejeon Expo. It features various character goods of Kkumdori and Kkumsuni!

The first floor sells Kkumdori ramen, Kkumdori merchandise (keychains, stickers, reusable items, etc.), and also offers photo zones!

On the second floor, you can experience a Daejeon VR tour inside a Mini Cooper. It only has two seats, so it was a bit difficult for our group of three. There's also a photo zone where I took a picture!

The third floor has a screen zone where you can watch videos, and there are chairs available. Kkumdori Noodle Shop is also located 7 minutes away from Daejeon Station. I recommend visiting and trying it out!

02. Made by

Address: 14, Junggyo-ro 73beon-gil, Jung-gu, Daejeon

I love visiting lifestyle shops when I travel. Made by is a well-known chain, and the store spans from basement level 1 to the 4th floor!

You can find tableware, household goods, and posters.

In today's era of self-promotion and self-expression, you can even create your own custom keychain! I considered making one but decided to pass.

If you come to Made by, you absolutely must create your own notebook! I've seen many places offering DIY keychains and album making, but this is the first time I've seen a place where you can create a notebook exactly as you want it!

To be honest, I often end up not using notebooks that I don't like or that don't fit my style. I picked a basket style design.

I shopped for notebooks and stickers with my colleagues, each creating their own unique designs. It ended up costing me a little over ₩10,000 because it was DIY, which might seem expensive for a notebook! But it's the only notebook of its kind in the world! Buying it significantly increased my satisfaction with the trip, so I recommend checking it out!

03. Lamkid Cafe

Address: 29, Seonhwaseo-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, 1st floor

Isn't the atmosphere of these photos just gorgeous? Lamkid Cafe sells Kkumdori pudding, the mascot of Daejeon!

The cafe's menu isn't very extensive, with only about 20 items. However, they do offer signature drinks and desserts. The prices are generally reasonable for a cafe!

ICE Americano: ₩4,000

Lemonade: ₩5,500

Kkumdori Pudding (Milk/Strawberry): ₩13,000

Even though I visited on a weekday, the cafe was crowded, so I put my name on the waiting list and decided to wait in the basement!

If you leave a receipt review, you get a fan and stickers!

If you don't want to wait, some people sit and eat in the basement, or you can play board games while you wait.

The atmosphere in the basement is quite different from the cafe on the first floor. While there are several perfumes available, there's also a musty, moldy smell. The board games are also a bit worn and tattered, so I don't recommend the basement. The smell might ruin your appetite if you're sensitive to odors. (But I did have fun playing Rummikub!)

After the wait, I received a call and went upstairs to pick up my order. Isn't Kkumdori so cute? They provide caramel sauce, which you can pour over the plain milk-flavored pudding to add a strong sweetness!

04. Sungsimdang

Address: 15, Daejong-ro 480beon-gil, Jung-gu, Daejeon, 1-2 floors

Some people say they go to Daejeon just for Sungsimdang. I wanted to try the Mango Siru, but it was sold out. So, I tried the Saenggyul Siru (Mandarin Orange Siru) for the first time.

Now I understand why everyone raves about Sungsimdang!

The Saenggyul Siru costs ₩43,000 for a size 1 cake, and you can purchase a cake cooler bag for an additional ₩3,500. There is a limit of one Saenggyul Siru per person.

Adding the cooler bag allows you to store it for up to 6 hours!

They also sell other fruit siru cakes, but I decided on the Saenggyul Siru with yogurt cream!

These days, even brand-name cakes with just a bit of cream cost around ₩30,000-40,000, so considering the amount of mandarin oranges that go into Sungsimdang's Saenggyul Siru, it's actually quite reasonable!

The Saenggyul Siru is filled with mandarin oranges! The combination of yogurt cream and mandarin oranges is sweet and tangy. Think of it as a cake you eat with a spoon. It's really sweet but not artificial, and it doesn't get old.

Next time, I want to try the Mango Siru and Strawberry Siru and leave a review!

05. Reuse Vintage Shop

Address: 484, Daejong-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon

I visited Reuse, a vintage clothing store located right next to Sungsimdang at Exit 2 of Jungangno Station. They sell a variety of affordable and well-maintained clothing!

They offer a wide range of clothing, including new items, knits, shirts, dresses, skirts, and outerwear, mostly priced between ₩10,000 and ₩20,000. It's a very cost-effective and clean store!

I bought three items (one short-sleeved shirt, one long-sleeved shirt, and one dress) for ₩26,000 in cash. The long-sleeved shirt you see on the right is also from Reuse, and it was only ₩9,000!

If you look carefully, you can find many good quality items, so I recommend checking it out!

I also visited Vintage King, Boucle Vintage, and Your Vintage, but they weren't really my style, and I didn't find anything I liked. But if you're a vintage enthusiast, you might want to check them out!

06. Boksu Bunsik

Address: 27, Junggyo-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, 1st floor

Boksu Bunsik is located about a 10-minute walk from Jung-gu Office Station. Despite the name "Bunsik" (snack bar), it's famous in Daejeon for its spicy kalguksu (noodle soup) and dubu-duruchigi (tofu and pork stir-fry)! (I visited because a food YouTuber recommended it!)

They offer a variety of dishes. For a group of three, we ordered the following, which cost less than ₩40,000…

Spicy Kalguksu (1 serving): ₩9,000

Squid & Tofu Duruchigi: ₩23,000

DIY Rice Balls (x2): ₩6,000

You'll regret it if you come to Daejeon and don't visit this place!

The red Squid & Tofu Duruchigi was quite spicy and so delicious! People who don't order the spicy kalguksu often add noodles to the duruchigi.

The spicy kalguksu also includes crown daisy. I'm a picky eater, so I only ate the noodles, but the noodles were well-soaked in the broth and very tasty. It's the perfect combination with the rice balls!

This place is so memorable that I want to visit again! I highly recommend it!

I've shared a variety of places, including an exhibition, Sungsimdang, a vintage shop, a cafe, a lifestyle shop, and delicious restaurants! Of course, I visited many places during my 1-night, 2-day trip to Daejeon, but I've carefully selected just six. If you're planning a trip to Daejeon, I recommend visiting these places!

I'll be back with more helpful content in my next post! Have a great day, and if you have any questions, please leave a comment!

This time, I'd like to introduce Jeongdong-Simgok Sea Fan Road, a must-visit place in Jeongdongjin.

If you have more time and a longer vacation, you might want to travel further.

But if you only have a day or two, a trip to the nearby sea is a great option.

While the West Sea is nice, the East Sea offers a deep, clear, and blue feeling that makes you feel like you're truly on vacation.

That's why I often head to the East Sea!

Places to visit in Jeongdongjin:

Sun Cruise Hotel & Beach Resort

I chose Sun Cruise Hotel & Beach Resort for my 1-night, 2-day trip to Jeongdongjin.

Although it's a bit older, it offers good value for money and has well-maintained gardens.

It's a great place to relax for a day.

What's unique about the Jeongdongjin Sun Cruise Hotel is that it's shaped like a ship.

And the ship's bow juts out over the cliff.

It looks even more amazing when viewed from below.

It's great for a 1-night, 2-day stay.

Jeongdong-Simgok Sea Fan Road is just a 1-minute walk away.

You can spend the whole day playing at the hotel,

enjoying the hotel gardens,

and exploring the Sea Fan Road.

While the rooms may show their age a bit,

they are relatively spacious,

and seem to be well-maintained.

Places to visit in Jeongdongjin:

Jeongdong-Simgok Sea Fan Road

Jeongdong-Simgok Sea Fan Road

I actually didn't know about this place.

I went to the Sun Cruise Hotel and stumbled upon this sea promenade right in front of it.

It may look far on the map,

but the Sea Fan Road is quite long,

so the starting point is basically in front of the Sun Cruise Hotel.

The Sun Cruise Hotel is connected to the Beach Cruise Hotel.

If you come over to Beach Cruise and exit, you'll be right in front of

Jeongdong-Simgok Sea Fan Road.

There's a convenience store and a restroom right in front.

Jeongdong-Simgok Sea Fan Road

Admission Fee

The admission fee is ₩5,000 per adult.

I didn't realize how long this promenade was at the time.

I casually went out in Crocs and thought my feet were going to fall off! LOL

Maybe it's because I paid the admission fee,

but I wanted to see it through to the end.

It's a 2-hour round trip! LOL

But the view was really amazing.

The sea was truly emerald-colored.

The waves and the horizon in the distance were

simply stunning.

Jeongdong-Simgok Sea Fan Road

What to Bring

The East Sea view is amazing, and

it's a great place to walk while enjoying the sea.

But it's further than you think,

so it's best to be prepared.

Sunscreen

Sneakers

Sunglasses

Hat

Water

That should be enough.

I had a hard time because I didn't wear sneakers... ㅠㅠ

And the sun was hotter than I thought! LOL

Sea Fan Road Opening Hours

????Check the opening hours of Jeongdong-Simgok Sea Fan Road????

Jeongdongjin 1-Night 2-Day Itinerary

1-Night 2-Day at Sun Cruise Hotel & Beach Cruise Resort

Walk the 2-hour Sea Fan Road course

Dinner: Simgok Port Heonhwa-ro Seafood Center

Sun Cruise Hotel Rooftop Cafe

Cafe: Gallery Bobs - I recommend the Chodang Corn Coffee

In the morning, watch the sunrise over the sea from the ship-shaped hotel on the cliff,

and in the afternoon, walk along the emerald East Sea along the Sea Fan Road. ㅎ

In the evening, end the day listening to the sound of the waves from your room window.

This is the perfect 1-night, 2-day Jeongdongjin course!

Agoda exclusive specials available before peak season ???? Book now

????????????

Other 1-Night 2-Day East Sea Itineraries

Sokcho Cassia Hotel Review

If you were satisfied with your 1-night, 2-day stay at the Sun Cruise Hotel,

here's a 1-night, 2-day review of the Sokcho Cassia Hotel for those who want a more diverse East Sea trip!

???? Go to Sokcho Cassia Hotel Travel Review

I woke up, quickly got ready, and rushed to breakfast.

Similar to yesterday, breakfast was a reservation-based system.

I had seen it in a blog review and was looking forward to the abalone porridge...!!

Abalone porridge for breakfast, the specialty of Ijegyeongju!

Honestly, I'd been eating so much throughout the trip that I didn't feel hungry this morning.

I thought I wouldn't be able to eat much, but my mom and I ate every last bite.

It was a little cumbersome constantly asking for kimchi refills, but the breakfast was really good.

It felt like a nice way to start the day, and it tasted great!

The rich flavor of the abalone porridge...!!

Ijegyeongju really puts a lot of effort into the small details.

Of course, there were some disappointing aspects.

Compared to the concept and price, the maintenance wasn't great.

It's unrealistic to expect the service or cleanliness of a large chain hotel for the price.

Maybe it was because of the season I visited, but when I first arrived at Ijegyeongju, I couldn't find the entrance.

I ended up walking past the pool, which was obviously closed and empty.

It didn't look clean at all...it didn't feel maintained.

The area used to be bustling with student travelers, but now it was very quiet.

It might be different during peak season, but I felt a sense of loneliness and even a slightly eerie vibe in the neighborhood, which was a shame.

This trip made me realize how charming Gyeongju is.

I believe that if tourists from all over the world followed my itinerary, they would have a wonderful and memorable trip.

However, I was saddened that the tourism infrastructure near Bulguksa Temple seemed to have declined.

But taxi drivers told me that Gyeongju is crazy popular in the spring.

If I had come a week or two later, there would have been long waits everywhere and it would have been difficult to get around...!!!

Yes, everyone must know how charming this city is...!!!!!

Anyway, after breakfast, we checked out and searched for a cafe, but most places were closed because it was early morning.

I had hoped they'd be open, but almost none were, so we just walked around as morning exercise!

The cats at a cafe we passed looked so relaxed, which was lovely.

After searching with my mom, we found Naeryusa Coffee!

It's a huge cafe with a well-divided interior.

There's a stream inside, and the view from outside would be amazing on a nice day!

We ordered Einspanner and ice cream with bread on top (I can't remember the name..^^!).

Both the bread and coffee were delicious (even though I was full at the time...!).

There was a big teddy bear, so I took some pictures of my mom...!

Sometimes I think my mom is like a lovely, young girl.

She looks so beautiful smiling brightly in the photos, and I feel good when I take nice pictures of her.

These days, my phone keeps reminding me with the 'Time Travel to Today a Year Ago' notification.

Seeing those past memories makes me happy, and I hope my mom has those little moments of joy too.

After getting coffee at the cafe, we took a taxi to lunch........

I had saved it on Naver Map as a restaurant, but the exterior looked unfamiliar, and I wondered why I had saved it.

But after searching again, I realized it was the real deal...!

The way we got there was hilarious.

We took a taxi from Bulguksa Temple, and I told the driver, 'Please take us to Taejong-ro in Gyeongju! We're going to a restaurant called Ondongnae!'

The driver said,

'Oh?! I'm going there for lunch too, perfect!'

I thought he was joking at first, but he was serious lol.

While we were eating at Ondongnae, the taxi driver parked his car and came in to eat a plate of Korean home-style meal. lol

The owners of Ondongnae said that he is a regular customer who comes almost every day!

To me, they looked like close brothers.

It was nice to see them sharing their daily lives, calling each other 'hyung' (older brother) and 'hyeongsu' (older brother's wife).

My mom and I had hairtail stew (Galchi Jjigae), and I miss that spicy flavor so much.

Even the water I drank there tasted great (the owner was proud of the water!).

The side dishes were arranged neatly, and the main dish, the hairtail stew, was better than any buffet.

It was so delicious, but the mudfish soup (Chueo-tang) that the customer next to us ordered looked delicious too, so my mom said she wants to try that next time.

I could feel the owner's pride while we were eating.

I wish there were more restaurants like this.

Where people can be proud of the food they make and enjoy running their own business beyond just making money!

I could feel it just by looking at the owners.

The owner even taught my mom how to make the sauce for the hairtail stew, but laziness....has made that memory fade..........

Anyway, Ondongnae is a highly recommended restaurant by a local in Gyeongju!

After lunch, we strolled to Hwangridan-gil, bought Choi Young Hwa Bread and a bottle of makgeolli (rice wine), and headed out for our second coffee of the day.

This was also a very famous cafe in Gyeongju.

It took so long for the coffee to come out that I got tired of waiting, so even though the coffee tasted special, it didn't leave a big impression.

Cafe au lait is famous here, but if I go again, I want to try the flanel drip coffee.

The cafe is in Hwangridan-gil, so it's very accessible.

And finally, we walked through Hwangridan-gil one last time.

And that ended our 2-night, 3-day trip to Gyeongju.

Hwangridan-gil, I can see roasted corn snack on the side..?!

I trusted that I had been to Gyeongju with my husband last year, so I didn't have any special plans for this trip.

I thought it would be nice to just go to the places I went to last time?! and it was really great.

Are you planning a mother-daughter trip?

I highly recommend Gyeongju!

The food is perfect.

You will feel like you're getting away from your daily life.

There are many places to visit.

There are plenty of places to take pictures of your mom!

However, it's a good idea to think about how you're going to travel from one spot to another.

Our taxi fares were enormous.

It's more efficient to plan your route carefully or rent a car and drive around!

I enjoyed my trip to Gyeongju so much that I'm already excited about the thought of another domestic trip, whenever that may be.

The End!

The scent of the valley, not the sea,

And the powerful sound of the waterfall.

Yongso Valley refuses the footsteps of people.

There is no path.

We climb the valley barefoot, like turtles.

The magnificent water jets soar like a waterfall.

The dignity of welcoming the first guest.

I want to plunge into the water,

But the depth is deep blue.

You are too far away to get close.

I greet you with a photo.

Gyeongnam Yangsan-si Habuk-myeon Yongso-gil 5. Habuk-myeon Yongyeon-ri 1052-3. Parking under Sinjeon 1 Bridge.

Yongso Waterfall. San 98-3, Yongyeon-ri, Habuk-myeon, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do

★ Today the entrance to the danger zone is blocked ★

Valley Hotspots:

Busan Daecheoncheon Valley, Gimhae Jangcheok Valley, Yangsan Naewonsa Valley, Baenaegol, Ice Valley, Jangyu Daecheong Valley.

Miryang Soejeomgol Valley Hobakso Valley, Cheongdo Simsim Valley Namsan Valley, Eonyang Jakcheonjeong Valley, Hamyang Hwarimdong Valley.

Pohang Haok Valley, Naeyeonsan 12 Waterfalls, Ulju Cheolguso Valley, Naewonam Valley, Yeongdeok Okggye Valley Sanseong Valley.

Sancheong Daewonsa Valley, Yeongcheon Chisan Valley, Cheongsong Jeolgol Valley, Seongju Baekundong Valley, Daegu Dongsan Valley, Sutaegol.

Wanju Wunju Valley, Namwon Simwon Valley Baemsagol Valley, Buan Bongraegugok, Muju Wolhatan Valley, Jinan Wunilam Baniram.

Danyang Darian Tourist Site, Jecheon Songgye Valley Deokdong Valley Neunggangne.

Goesan Gallon Valley Hwayang Gukgok Yongchu Valley, Seosan Yonghyeon Valley.

Hongcheon Yongso Valley Sutasa Valley, Inje Baekdam Valley, Yangyang Deokcheon Valley Beopsuchi Valley, Pyeongchang Heungjeong Valley, Hwacheon Gokun Gugok, Wonju Chilbong Amusement Park.

Sokcho Cheonbuldong Valley. Osaek Jujeongol Heullimgol, Gangneung Sogeumgang Valley, Donghae Mureung Valley, Samcheok Deokpung Valley, Jeongseon Deoksan Gye Valley.

Gapyeong Yongso Valley Yongchu Valley Myeongji Valley Jomurak Valley Eobi Valley Domachi Valley.

Yangpyeong Jungwon Valley Yongmunsan Valley Sanasa Valley.

Namyangju Suraksan Valley, Gwangju Namhansanseong Valley, Anyang Sammaksa Valley, Yangju Songchu Valley.

Pocheon Baekun Valley Cheorwon Anyanggol Sambu. Jeju Yongyeon Valley. Donnaeko Valley.

Cheorwon Sundam Valley 3.6km columnar jointing. 143-3, Sundam-gil, Galmal-eup, Cheorwon-gun

First Love Petals Singing Nature Through Photos

Yongso Waterfall

Turn right past the Yongso Community Center

Entrance to the valley: closed today

Climbing along the valley

Yongso Waterfall

The depth is so great it makes my heart race

Not a place for children to play

First Love Petals Singing Nature Through Photos

Donghae, Gangwon-do, is a neighboring town close to Samcheok, yet it feels different each season.

Baeksojeong Donghae

200th Store

Located in downtown Cheongok-dong, Donghae, Baeksojeong seems to be a popular restaurant with many positive reviews.

We ordered two dishes:

Cold Soba + Pork Cutlet: ₩14,900

Maze Soba + Ebi-Ten (Shrimp Tempura): ₩14,500

Both were excellent.

The cold soba, topped with a variety of fresh vegetables, had a clean and delicious broth. The pork cutlet was tender and the crispy coating was delightful.

The Maze Soba was also a fantastic combination of toppings, vegetables, and a rich egg yolk.

The tender noodles coated in the flavorful sauce, along with the finely minced meat, created an explosion of flavors in every bite. The noodles were wonderfully chewy.

Dipping the shrimp tempura in condensed milk and enjoying the savory cheese rice cake made for a truly satisfying meal.

Second Visit

Iso Gotaek

Curious to see what Iso Gotaek looked like on a cloudy day, I visited again after only 5 days.

The cloudy weather seemed to enhance the clarity of the scenery. The lush greenery visible through the windows was captivating.

I noticed details I hadn't seen before – unique decorations and a sense of tranquil beauty. The place exuded Korean aesthetics. It felt like a museum or a wealthy family's villa.

As more people arrived, the once quiet space became bustling. We enjoyed some delicious coffee and salt bread before heading out.

Haparang Trail Course 34

(In front of Mukho Lighthouse)

Haparang Trail Mukho

I love cloudy days when the line between the sky and the sea blurs.

While I also appreciate blue skies and the ocean, the sea today was truly exceptional.

The high humidity made it a bit sticky, but the stunning scenery more than made up for it. A white lighthouse, blue roofs, and colorful flowers, combined with the calm, lake-like waves created a picturesque view.

Was this really the Mukho I knew? Today, Mukho felt like my own secret hideaway.

Haparang Trail Course 34

The murals painted throughout the area and the sight of eggplants, pumpkins, and peppers thriving filled me with warmth.

Haparang Trail Course 34

Dokkaebi Sky Valley visible in the distance.

Dokkaebi Sky Valley

You can enjoy thrilling rides like the Giant Slide and Sky Cycle – for a fee, of course! We decided to skip them today.

The brightly painted stairs were charming.

Dog on the Way to Mukho Lighthouse

We met a dog along the way! The owner, an older gentleman, told us he was 10 years old.

He said that after our drive, the dog, knowing how cute he is, wanted to be loved by passersby and wouldn't go home for a long time. How did he know it was a long time?

Because he was still there when we were walking the Haparang Trail earlier! In the same spot.

We were worried and opened the window to check on him, and that's when the owner told us the story! He was a very clever dog!

Dokkaebi Gift Shop

Handmade

Received an Anne of Green Gables Notebook as a Gift

Dokkaebi Gift Shop

I had visited Dokkaebi Gift Shop once before, but had to leave quickly. Today, my friend surprised me with a special notebook.

It's a handmade notebook by an artist who adores Anne of Green Gables.

What special things should I write in this notebook?

Thankful memories, happy thoughts, Bible verses.

Looking at this notebook will remind me of my friend.

A moray eel in a fish tank next to the Dokkaebi Gift Shop. It looked scary! Haha.

Trigo, Donghae

Our second cafe visit of the day. Trigo, located in Pyeongchang, Samcheok, and Donghae.

Thanks to the owner's trendy and stylish interior design, the store is always bustling with people.

I believe the owner also runs Brick Bakers in Gyodong, Samcheok. I always admire the interior design – the harmony of wood and plants, yet it's not simple.

Enjoyed a mango shaved ice while chatting with my friend. Deep and meaningful conversations that allowed us to know each other better.

Trigo, Donghae

I truly cherish these moments. I feel happy and joyful.

Trigo in Donghae, with its ocean view, was also wonderful.

Today, I feel like I experienced another side of Donghae and enjoyed a fulfilling day trip.

A day filled with the warmth of human connection.

Thank you for today!

Dive into the Thrilling World of <K-Pop Demon Hunters> in Seoul

<K-Pop Demon Hunters> is a Netflix animated film about 'Huntrix,' a girl group comprised of K-pop stars Lumi, Mira, and Joy, who are also demon hunters who seal away demons with their songs. They fight against 'Saja Boys,' a K-pop boy group that has sold their souls to demons.

The series topped the Netflix movie charts in 41 countries, and its OST track, ‘Golden,’ reached number one on the Billboard Global chart, garnering worldwide popularity. The various locations in Seoul featured in the movie have also attracted global attention.

Naksan Park Fortress Wall

This is where Lumi and Jinwoo, after receiving a memo from the cute tiger character Duffy, confess their pain and connect with each other. The Naksan Park Fortress Wall and the night view of Seoul make their midnight reunion even more romantic.

Address: San 1-20, Samseon-dong 1-ga, Seongbuk-gu

Jamsil Olympic Stadium Main Stadium

Appearing as the Huntrix's concert stage in the early part of the film, the roaring cheers fully capture the energy of an actual K-pop performance. Huntrix's performance of their signature song, ‘How It’s Done,’ is an impressive highlight of the film's introduction. Currently, this location is under remodeling.

Address: 25, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu

N Seoul Tower and Seoul's Night View

In the later part of the story, N Seoul Tower becomes the climax stage where the demons' plans are put into action. A concert and battle occur simultaneously, putting the entire city of Seoul in danger. Against the backdrop of Seoul's dazzling yet peaceful night view, it becomes a crucial place where the two worlds collide. A virtual skyscraper built in the place where Lotte World Tower stands is used as Huntrix's accommodation.

Address: 105, Namsan Gongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu

Subway Samseong Station Billboard

The giant 3D billboard wrapping around the exterior of COEX Artium in Gangnam is also realistically implemented in the film, catching the eye. When Huntrix releases their new song ‘Golden,’ the music video is shown on this screen, and numerous fans in the plaza in front of the station are depicted watching the video. This billboard is an icon of cutting-edge Korean entertainment culture, adding vibrancy to the futuristic Seoul landscape in the work.

Address: 513, Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu

Bukchon Hanok Village

This place appears as the backdrop for a quiet meeting where Huntrix's Lumi and Saja Boys' Jinwoo open up to each other. A scene unfolds where the two talk about their true feelings and sing ‘Free’ together on the roof of a hanok under the night sky, and the backdrop of this peaceful and emotional scene is Bukchon.

Address: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu

Myeongdong Street

Saja Boys gains prominence by performing on the street in Myeongdong, one of the centers of shopping and tourism in Seoul. In a bright and lively atmosphere, an unidentified presence hides among the audience, and the scene where the performance and unusual phenomena occur together is a signal that the story is starting to crack.

Address: Myeongdong 2-ga, Jung-gu

Cheongdam Bridge

Huntrix and Saja Boys engage in a thrilling chase and battle under the double-structured bridge of Cheongdam Bridge. This scene, set on Cheongdam Bridge between Janyang Station and Cheongdam Station, adds tension to the climax through a clash set against the backdrop of Seoul's dazzling night skyline.

Address: Jayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu

Finding Realistic Seoul Landscapes in <Squid Game>

<Squid Game> is a Netflix original series about people who participate in a survival game with a prize of 45.6 billion won. It has achieved unprecedented success, recording the highest number of viewing households in Netflix history and winning six Emmy Awards. By capturing everyday scenes of Seoul, it has imprinted the diverse aspects of Seoul on viewers around the world.

Tapgol Park

Episode 1 of Season 2 features the Ttakji Man offering a 'small gift' to homeless people here, asking them to choose between bread and a lottery ticket. After all the homeless people make their choices, he shows madness by trampling on the remaining bread. However, the actual Tapgol Park is a sacred site of the March 1st Movement and a peaceful resting place for the elderly.

Address: 99, Jong-ro, Jongno-gu

7-Eleven Convenience Store

In Season 1, this is where Sang-woo and Ali take a break when the game is temporarily suspended. The scene where the two share a cup of ramen and Sang-woo gives Ali fare was filmed here. The scenery in front of the convenience store in the middle of Yeouido feels even lonely at night, and the mood strangely overlaps with the participants' feelings of emptiness.

Address: 43, Yeouiseo-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu

Seogang Bridge

Gi-hun appears in a scene in Season 2 where he is taken away in an unidentified limousine. With the black waves of the Han River and the night view of Seoul in the background, the limousine running across Seogang Bridge at night is a symbolic production that takes Gi-hun back to the world of the game. In reality, Seogang Bridge connects Yeouido and Mapo to the north and Yongsan to the south and is considered one of the most scenic bridges on the Han River.

Address: Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu

In front of Daelim Arcade

Euljiro Daelim Arcade is a place crowded with electronic component stores, print shops, and old signs. In Season 2, Gi-hun runs to catch the Ttakji Man he meets again here, but eventually misses him. One person watches the scene from afar before quietly moving again. His pursuit is restarted at this point, and a crack reopens in the middle of Seoul.

Address: Euljiro 4-ga, Jung-gu

Pilun-daero

This is the place where Hwang Jun-ho first appears in the beginning of Season 2. He seems to have returned to his daily life as a police officer, imposing fines on couples who do not wear helmets in this alley. Walking along Pilun-daero and its surrounding alleys, you can see the stacked layers of time in Bukchon and Seochon. The work also conveys the atmosphere of old Seoul in the heart of the city.

Address: Nuhwa-dong, Jongno-gu

Seoul Land

Appears in Season 3 as the place where participant number 246, Park Kyung-seok, worked as a painter. It symbolically shows the scene where participants return to their daily lives after the game.

Address: 3, Makgye-dong, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do

Yangjae Citizen's Forest Station

In Season 1, the platform of the Sinbundang Line Yangjae Citizen's Forest Station appears as the place where Gi-hun plays Ttakji with the Ttakji Man. Unlike the tense scene in the drama, the actual Yangjae Citizen's Forest Station is a clean subway station with a modern design. If you stand here thinking about the work, that unreal scene where an ordinary subway station turns into a game stage in an instant may be revived.

Address: 116, Maeheon-ro, Seocho-gu

+ <Squid Game> in the Seoul Subway

<Squid Game> often features the Seoul subway. Gi-hun first encounters the Ttakji Man on the platform of Yangjae Citizen's Forest Station and enters the gateway to a game that will change his life. Haunted by the memory of that day, he searches the subway stations in Seoul to find the Ttakji Man again. After searching countless stations such as Oksu Station and Hangangjin Station, the place where he finally meets the Ttakji Man again is Jonggak Station. In this way, the Seoul subway appears as an entrance that secretly connects to the world of the game.

North of Mukho Station:

1. Mangsang Beach: A wide beach with expansive sandy shores.

2. Eodal Beach: Featuring beachfront cafes and street food vendors.

3. Mukho Lighthouse

4. Dotjaebigol Sky Deck

5. Mukho Port Waterfront Park: These attractions are clustered together.

*Note: Dotjaebigol Sky Valley requires an entrance fee: Adults ₩3,000, Teenagers/Children ₩2,000. Separate fees apply for individual facilities.

South of Mukho Station:

6. Hapyeong Beach: Featuring a railway photo zone.

*Hapyeong Beach to Hanseom Beach: Approximately 1.7km, about a 25-minute walk.

7. Gamchusa Temple: A small temple across the Yeongdong Line railway.

Gamchusa is a small temple with a sea view near Hanseom Beach.

There is a large parking lot in front of the entrance.

Be aware that there is absolutely no shade...cars parked there in the summer can get quite hot. So, I cracked the windows a bit before leaving the car.

Before arriving, you'll see a large stone guiding you to Gamchusa...

Distance to Mangsang Beach: 11.9km

Distance to Cheongok Cave: 0.7km

Distance to Chuam Sunrise Rock: 9.8km

Distance to Mureung Valley: 13.5km

After passing the large stone...and walking along the deck path, you'll cross a bridge over the Yeongdong Line railway.

The railway where trains pass is right below!

If the timing is right, you might be able to watch the train pass while standing on the wooden deck under the bridge.

Follow the signs to Gamchusa, and climb the stairs...

It's about a 10-minute walk from the parking lot to the seaside where the temple is located.

Something rustled in the bushes near the temple; I wondered what it was...

And then, a glimpse of some animal's rear end flashed by!

Was it a roe deer...?!! Hopefully not some mythical creature?

If you walk a little further down with those bushes on your right, you'll see the ocean~

During peak season, there were guides to help people find their way.

The temple is located near the seaside cliff on the right in the picture!

Legend has it that Princess Seonhwa, the third daughter of King Jinpyeong of Silla, founded the temple. Gamchusa boasts a stunning view next to the rocky cliffs near the sea.

It's a small temple with a great view of the sea... worth visiting if you have plenty of time!

If you're short on time due to visiting other places, it's okay to put it further down on the list.

8. Chuam Candle Rock: Featuring a coastal walking path and suspension bridge.

-In order of location-

Mangsang Beach

Eodal Beach

Mukho Lighthouse, Dotjaebigol Sky Deck, Mukho Port Waterfront Park

(Mukho Station)

Hapyeong Beach

Gamchusa Temple

Chuam Candle Rock

Mangsang ~ Mukho Station: Approximately 6km

Mukho Station ~ Chuam: Approximately 13km

We were trying to figure out where to go for the holiday, and Bao suggested a trip to a nearby area. So, we chose Gapyeong! We literally booked the accommodation and left without any other plans. LOL

Can you believe it took us over two and a half hours to get there because of traffic? Where was everyone going?

Our first meal in Gapyeong was at Cheongpyeong Doljjajang. I was selected through an online event to visit, but the wait was insane! Apparently, it's one of the top 10 Doljjajang places in the country. We waited for over an hour and finally got in. It was delicious, though! If you plan to visit, be sure to use the Tableing app to join the queue remotely.

Before heading to our accommodation, we stopped by Jaraseom Island to digest a little. But there wasn't much to do there. We just took a walk for about an hour and left. The weather was gloomy, so the scenery wasn't very pretty either. Such a shame...

We arrived at our accommodation! I found it while searching for pensions in Gapyeong. Aside from being a bit dated, I loved it! First of all, the interior was simple and clean, which was great!

There's also a valley just 30 seconds away from the pension! The weather wasn't ideal at the time, so we didn't go in. But it would be great for playing in the water during the summer.

This cute dog was guarding the accommodation. It's a large breed, but it's very gentle.

After relaxing at the accommodation for a bit, we got ready for dinner! The highlight of staying at a pension is the barbecue, right? Bao grilled the meat, and I diligently set everything up.

The meat was so delicious! And the wine we bought was also very tasty. This is why we come to pensions!

Bao made snacks for our second round of eating and drinking at the accommodation. We bought so many snacks, but we were so full that we couldn't finish them. We brought them all back. LOL ㅠㅠ I wanted to eat more, but I was too full. It's so sad...

Why is it already the next morning? Time goes by so quickly when you're on a trip.

Originally, we planned to have *dakgalbi* (spicy stir-fried chicken) since we were in Gapyeong! But we were both so full from eating too much the day before that we weren't hungry. So, we went to eat noodles instead. But this place was seriously amazing! I haven't posted about it yet, but I'll upload it soon. Please try it!

After our meal, we visited Golden Tree to satisfy our sugar cravings. I applied for their event without much expectation due to the high competition, but I got selected and happily rushed over there! LOL

Everyone, this place has an amazing view! It's great for relaxing amidst the greenery, and you can take a million Instagram-worthy photos.

We spent two hours at the café and then headed back to Seoul for *chimaek* (chicken and beer)????

Unlike other trips, we didn't go around visiting a lot of places. But it was a healing trip to Gapyeong where we ate delicious food and rested at our accommodation???? Sometimes, trips like this are great!

But I turn into a travel maniac when I'm on vacation jjjjjjj!

I didn't want to waste time so we packed in all the must-see and do things into a short, but sweet trip.

It was a happy trip, also known as a waiting-in-line hell.

I don't think I've ever been this sad as when a formerly hidden gem restaurant I knew got famous.

I brought my friends here years ago. I wanted to share this amazing place with my husband, but it changed quite a lot with a waiting area.

Especially because it's still peak season, we practically did an open run to get to the restaurant, and still waited for 1.5 hours.

Eating it took only 5 minutes.

But I succeeded in feeding my husband!

He says it's delicious. Right?!

The sun was scorching hot that day.

My sweet husband said he'll come to this place by car and told me to wait for him in the shade.

I especially love cute things, like Crayon Shin-chan and Hello Kitty…

When I heard they had both, I went for it without hesitation.

Without any choice, I brought home both Kitty and Shin-chan :)

Actually, this place was the most interesting thing to me while planning the Sokcho trip.

A truck that sells the romance of staring at the sea and reading a book on the beach.

If you are curious, leave a comment and I'll send you the exact address! It's a little far from the beach.

After checking into the hotel, we headed to swim in the sea

We were planning on going to Sokcho Beach, but there were so many people. So we went to the beach next to it: Oeongchi Beach. There were comparatively fewer people, because it isn't officially managed?

But there were still two lifeguards. We tried not to play too dangerously!

We played to our hearts' content, so tired that we went to buy dinner.

The sky in August is so pretty.

We were starving after sharing one squid and crispy rice sundae.

The market was about to close, so we barely managed to find it.

Among them, we tried *Uri Bunsik Tteokbokki* because it was recommended.

They said it's delicious with a boiled egg, but they were sold out.

So we only got tteokbokki as the next best thing!

Someone who likes seaweed chips != Me

You can taste different kinds and order the flavors you want.

So I bought sweet potato chips and seaweed chips, and also one for my parents!

My husband wanted to eat *Hotteok*, so we kept looking for it everywhere, and we were about to give up when we found *Giljjuengi Hotteok*!

There's cheese and regular *Hotteok*. They deep-fry it and it is full of oil!

We didn't have a proper meal, and just got a bunch of snacks...

And honey ice cream while waiting in line, saying that it's hot.

They cut honeycomb right in front of you and put it in.

Showing off what I bought at the market!

I've had *Dakgangjeong* (sweet and spicy Korean fried chicken) from Bukchon before, but this one is spicy and not too sweet.

So it's not too heavy. I usually stop eating if it's too heavy, but I kept eating this one.

The portion size is so big that we ate it for two days!

We could see Sokcho Eye from our hotel room.

Isn't that the Korean flag! I'm so proud~

Day 2

Alarm set for am 6:50, where are we going?

We came to Jeonwon Restaurant, which Sung Si-kyung praised so much.

They start handing out the queue numbers at 7 am, but we were a little late.

"Come back at 1:40 pm?" Yes.

What time did the others arrive?

Amazing...

Waiting happily, getting ready, and finally riding the Sokcho Eye!

It was a bit cloudy, but still romantic. More than anything, the inside of the Ferris wheel was air-conditioned and comfortable.

Looking at the ocean below and talking with my husband,

15 minutes went by so fast!

We still have plenty of time until our restaurant time,,

Let's do the course we planned first.

Huin Dajeong opened a while ago. I wanted to try the tomato shaved ice.

The tomato season was over, so they changed it to peach. But it's okay!

We entered the restaurant after a brutal wait.

They said it's for one person, but the portion size was huge.

We also ordered the peanut shaved ice, and it was also so good.

I know why it's so popular.

In the end, we left half of it behind.

How long have I been waiting for this meal?

It was the first and last proper meal lol.

I posted about it individually, but the taste was so new to me.

Everything was delicious.

We were so full that we went back to Sokcho Central Market for a walk.

I thought Gangwon-do was famous for corn, but peaches are also quite famous.

So pretty.

I heard that Chodang Coffee Mill's main store is in Gangneung?

They told me to try the crispy rice cream coffee, so I picked it up before heading home.

The crispy rice was so good and personally I like the corn coffee better.

My husband liked the crispy rice cream coffee better!

It's raining a lot now and we can't swim in the sea next week.

I'm glad we came to Sokcho for many reasons!

Please look forward to Gangneung next week :)

I'm going to have a great time.

It's a bit hazy, but what I clearly remember is...

I wanted to eat *yukjeon* (pan-fried beef), so I slaved over the stove to make it, and then...

My husband said it was a *little* salty, and I totally lost it. I remember that.

Just eat it and say it's delicious (even if it's not) lol

​

I got my hair permed again, all curly.

My hair used to be down to my waist, feels like a past life now.

Once you go short, can a *bayaba* like me ever go back to long hair?

It's not easy.

​

We went on a family trip to Yeoju with the Diderot crowd, and...

I made pasta with the lilies we brought back, plus some leftover kimchi stew.

Does anyone know how to make only a *small* amount of kimchi stew?

Why does it always turn into a huge pot when I make kimchi stew or kimchi jjigae?

​

Middle-aged couple obsessed with claw machines...

Kitchenja only goes for the Kitties.

Focus on one target!

My husband was the first to get hooked, but now *I'm* the one who's crazy about it lol

​

Working in my study, a quick glance at the sky is a little healing????

But then I look back at my laptop and get a headache.

Still, this half of the year went by without any major incidents.

​

Masu from Japan came to Korea on a business trip.

The 'Crazy Sick Room' Union (JjaByeoni's heart is always in Korea ㅠ)

Sho-chan, who said he had gastroenteritis, insisted on *gukbap* (rice soup).

And then ordered three cakes.

We just can't shake our eating habits.

​

Garosu-gil was empty, but Deux Amis is still going strong.

Why is this so good, though? Was it the salted caramel something?

I don't remember, but I'm ordering it again next time I go.

​

MeloMance concert with Chuni!

Aside from children's concerts, it's been almost 10 years since Chuni's been to a proper adult concert ㅠㅠㅠ

I saw MeloMance a few years ago, maybe at the Seoul Jazz Festival or somewhere, and it's been a while.

They're still amazing...

No, they're even cooler now...

Minsuk~~~~

Even though Minsuk seems to be the heartthrob of the group,

Seeing Jung Dong-hwan's keyboard playing live was such a thrill!

His touch is so light, fun, and powerful.

​

It's a crime not to eat this.

It tastes like my mom making *nurungji* (scorched rice), frying it in oil, and then

Generously coating it with sugar.

(Tastes like becoming an American pig, going up to size 105 panties)

Amazing.

Definitely worthy of a nomination for the 2025 sweet bread award.

​

I got carried away while eating snacks...

Tried to 'detox' from the snacks by shredding cabbage with a mandoline,

And then sliced off the tip of my thumb ^^

Mandolines usually cut in a circular motion, so once you get cut,

It's never easy to stop the bleeding lol

I was watching the blood spray everywhere,

And almost went into hypovolemic shock ㅠㅠ

It took forever to stop the bleeding, and the wound took almost three weeks to heal.

Joseph Joseph mandoline... I've used it for over 5 years,

Why are you suddenly betraying me ㅠㅠㅠㅠ

​

Whenever I see it, the pink sky is so pretty.

That's why I like facing southwest.

​

On a ridiculously hot day in July,

I went to see the Tom Sachs exhibition at DDP with my sister

Since we drove, I didn't realize how hot it was outside.

After parking at DDP, we got heatstroke looking for a cafe

Plus, the first place we went to was listed on the map but closed ^^

We barely found the second place,

And it was delicious but the portions were huge...

We ordered too much without thinking about our stomachs, so we ended up leaving some,

But we ate our fill and went to the exhibition.

​

Works of art made with collages and models related to nearly everything about space exploration.

Modern art is difficult for me, but this exhibition was so much fun.

It felt like the models you see in apartment showrooms,

That's the only way I can describe it, uncultured me...

​

There was a giant video art piece that seemed to depict the inside of a spaceship,

With seats named after celebrities lol

My sister sat in the Queen seat,

And I got Dionysus ^^

It felt like an MZ generation exhibition, and I had some culture for the first time in a while.

​

People from Gyeonggi-do have to get their money's worth when they go to Seoul.

There are quite a few of my favorite cafes gathered in Euljiro 4-ga,

I was going to have a quick flat white and leave early, but it still took over

2 and half hours to get home

It was a weekday?

Why?

Why does it take so long even though my house isn't that far from Seoul?

Ugh, it's hard to go to Seoul.

​

Barely made it home, and since my husband was working late,

I even called my mom over for a *mala xiangguo* party.

Gave my Kitty to my sister~~~~

Use it well.

While walking around after winning that doll, my sister pointed to this cat that she knew.

It was like a local cat, and he kept answering whenever we greeted him.

So funny lol

​

On Sunday, I followed my husband to his soccer game and did some cafe hopping~~

Gotta go to Seoul when I have the chance ^^

Found a cafe I really liked in Nakseongdae after a long time.

Went there two weeks in a row.

Gonna go again this week.

​

Leaving the good times behind, I started my business trip...

But I got to eat delicious *donkatsu* in Daegu.

This half of the year is tough, but what can you do?

Gotta make money...

​

Came back from Daegu to find

A Seong-Jin Cho Ravel LP album????????????

My attempt at ticketting this year was a total failure...

I was at the depths of despair,

But I'm healed by the LP.

Compared to the clean sound of digital music, as if no dust is on it,

LPs have this subtle noise and static,

Which gives it a more vivid, live feeling.

I want to buy the Chopin album, too ㅠㅠ

​

Listening to LPs while munching on apple bread I bought at Dongdaegu Station.

The senior manager insisted that I buy it lol

I bought apple bread and black sesame *soboro*,

But the black sesame one was amazing, and I don't have a picture of it ;;;

I have to buy it again if I go to Daegu.

​

And then, after finishing the half-year field work, where did I go?

To Busan for my in-laws' birthdays~~!!

I went to their house a day early and stayed overnight,

And they grilled *hanwoo* (Korean beef) for lunch lol

We ate *hanwoo*, ate fruit, and then we all went on a drive to Dadaepo,

And then we ate *hoe* (sashimi) for dinner ^^ And then more fruit when we got home lol

I've gained so much weight, but my mother-in-law keeps saying I need to gain more.

I'm just grateful ㅎㅎ

I mentioned in passing that my cholesterol is always low, and the doctor told me to eat a lot of egg yolks,

And the next morning, there were four fried eggs on my plate lol

I'll try to be more affectionate.

​

After staying overnight at my in-laws', we went to Haeundae and stayed at the Park Hyatt.

Why do I love Busan so much?

I've always loved it since before I got married,

I go there so often that people ask if I'm hiding a boyfriend or a child in Busan ^^ lol

I loved Busan so much that I ended up marrying a Busan man.

​

The Park Hyatt, which even the Busan native was visiting for the first time,

Was as good as expected,

But as a Haeundae regular,

The Westin is still number one for me.

But the Park Hyatt's breakfast was delicious.

My husband paid extra and ate steak from 8 AM lol

​

After eating so much breakfast,

I couldn't give up my food obsession: *donkatsu*.

I put my name on the waiting list for Tonshou and went to a cafe first.

I even brought a cooler bag from home to pack up red *tteokbokki* from Haeridan-gil.

Packed up 3 servings of red *tteokbokki* and ordered a mocha something because I needed sugar.

But I was so full that I couldn't even finish half of it because I was worried I wouldn't be able to eat the Tonshou.

​

Tonshou, the number one *donkatsu* in Korea.

I'm a die-hard Western-style *donkatsu* fan, but I can't beat this.

*Donkatsu* with a smoky flavor? How can you resist that?

They have Berkshire K pork loin cutlet, Berkshire K special pork loin, and

Premium also has special and regular pork loin,

But the special seems to be a fattier cut.

I prefer the regular pork loin because it's leaner.

But the smoky flavor is in the Berkshire and Premium, so definitely order one of those ^^

Even then, it sells out in 1-2 minutes on the Catch Table waiting list at 10 AM, so you have to click like crazy.

I love *donkatsu*!!!

I said I wanted to buy that shirt, but I was rejected.

​

The *katsu sando* I couldn't eat at Tonshou because I was too full.

I made it at home lol

Market Kurly's *donkatsu* is just okay, average,

But it needs to be in the freezer as an emergency food.

​

During the off-season, when I'm at home,

I eat sandwiches for lunch at least three times a week.

I always have to have bread, ham, and cheese at home,

Or I feel anxious!

​

Lees Cafe.

For once, I didn't have to wait.

I was debating whether to go to Pangyo or Jeongja,

But I went to the Pangyo branch and there was one seat left at the bar, so I went right in.

Lees Cafe.

It doesn't seem like much, but why is it so delicious?

I also ate garlic shrimp pasta with it,

And it was like a hangover cure even though I didn't drink.

I have to go again with my friends.

​

My mom told me about a store-bought sauce for *mala xiangguo*,

And it actually tastes really authentic.

But you have to use a lot more ingredients than what's written on the package

So it's not too salty.

It was still a little salty for my taste, even though I added more,

But my husband said it was just right lol

The numbing flavor is good, so it's a pass.

It was buy-one-get-one-free, so I have one more left. I'm going to add a ton of vegetables and noodles and

Make it again.

​

Divorce Deliberation Camp, which was popular in the Diderot room.

It makes me want to get angry ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

It's a dopamine-filled show, but watching more than two episodes on YouTube

Makes me stressed ㅋㅋㅋㅋ

​

It feels like I had fun, but July and August are the busiest half of the year, so

It feels like I didn't do much.

I have to read a lot of my favorite books and go out and play more.

I have to have a fulfilling month before the interim audit.

Ideal for Family Outings & Kids' Water Play

Looking for a place to cool off during the summer? Look no further! Mureungdodong Valley Restaurant, located at the foot of Palgong Mountain, offers the perfect combination of refreshing water play and delicious dining.

This time, I visited Daegu's Mureungdodong Valley Restaurant and enjoyed a family gathering and water play with my child.

Location and Transportation

Address: 466 Dongpyeong-ro, Dong-gu, Daegu

Parking: Ample private parking available

Public Transportation:

By bus, take Palgong No. 1 and get off at 369 Garden, then walk 300m.

Accessibility is great whether you drive or take the bus.

Reservation Information

1. Seating Options: You can reserve either outdoor or indoor seating.

2. Reservation Times

Weekends & Holidays: Reservations available from 11:00 AM or 1:30 PM onwards.

Weekdays: Reservations available at any time.

3. Usage Time

During peak season (July & August), table usage is limited to 2 hours and 30 minutes.

4. Party Size

One table is assigned for up to 5 adults or a maximum of 6 people including preschool children. Please keep this in mind when making your reservation.

Rental of Raised Floor Seating (Pyeongsang) & Huts

Pyeongsang and hut rentals are available for groups of 10 or more, and cooking is allowed for those using the pyeongsang.

Valley Environment & What to Bring

The Mureungdodong valley is shallow, about ankle-deep, with knee-deep spots, making it safe and perfect for children to play in.

The sandy bottom prevents slipping, and we saw snails and minnows, allowing us to appreciate nature.

● Pets are allowed (there were guests with dogs).

● What to bring:

If you only plan to eat and dip your feet, you won't need much. However, if you have children, please bring extra clothes and towels.

If you want to play in the valley, a mat and small camping chairs are also a good idea.

While the adults ordered, our child was absorbed in playing in the water! We saw snails and minnows, and the sandy bottom made it safe for the kids. The water was clean too.

Restaurant Seating

Divided into outdoor and indoor seating.

1. Outdoor Seating

The outdoor seating area is divided into charcoal grill and regular burner sections, and each table has a fan.

Baby chairs and aprons are available.

There was also a ping-pong table, which was great for the kids.

There are restrooms and changing rooms, so it's convenient to change clothes.

They also sell ice cream. Pre-pay at the counter in front of the store.

2. Indoor Seating

I sat in the indoor seating area with air conditioning, which was cool even in the hot summer.

There was also a meat aging refrigerator in the indoor seating area.

Menu

The menu includes chicken platters, pork platters, special menus, freshwater eel, meals, and side dishes.

Basic Table Setting

The basic side dishes included seasoned vegetables and a dish with scallops, all presented neatly.

Ordered Menu

Land, Sea, and Air Special (for 4 people, 1.2kg): ₩129,000

Mureungdowon Special (for 3 people, 750g): ₩75,000

3 servings of pork belly

Eel radish leaves soup

Kimchi noodles

Land, Sea, and Air Special (for 4 people, 1.2kg): ₩129,000

The Land, Sea, and Air Special included both meat and seafood.

The special menu with land, sea, and air elements was more filling than it looked.

Mureungdowon Special (for 3 people, 750g): ₩75,000

The Mureungdowon Special was a budget-friendly option that excluded eel and shrimp.

The portions were generous, but my family has big appetites, so we ordered 3 more servings of pork belly to grill.

My mother wanted to try the eel soup, so we finished off our meal with eel soup and kimchi noodles.

Family Outing and Water Fun with Kids

The Mureungdodong Valley has clean water and is not too deep, making it great for children to play in.

My child had fun looking at snails and small fish.

The adults relaxed by dipping their feet in the cool valley water.

Mureungdodong Valley Restaurant in Palgong Mountain is a great place for family gatherings and a day trip with the kids. I highly recommend it!

Suya, back from a sun-soaked adventure, has an exciting story for you!

Anyone here ever visited the Eundaeri Culture Brick Factory?

Didn't it feel like you were embracing all of Yeoncheon?

Today, let's explore the captivating attractions the Eundaeri Culture Brick Factory has to offer, one by one!

Yeoncheon's Breath from the Entrance!

Before entering the exhibition hall, the first thing that catches your eye is the huge chimney!

Even from afar, this chimney is adorned with stunning graffiti.

But it's not just a pretty picture!

It's a piece featuring the water spider, which inhabits Yeoncheon.

The water spider is a globally rare species that can only live in clean water,

making it a symbol of Yeoncheon's pristine nature!

Can't you already feel Yeoncheon's breath from the entrance?

Yeoncheon's Immense Nature Before Your Eyes!

Inside Exhibition Hall 2, a large fabric art piece unfolds.

This artwork is actually inspired by Gyeomjae Jeongseon's Yeon-gang Im-sul Album!

Those of you who have been following the Eundaeri Culture Brick Factory story already knew this, right?

But...

"Gyeomjae Jeongseon? Who's that... and what does he have to do with Yeoncheon?"

That's where Suya comes in to explain!

Gyeomjae Jeongseon is a representative painter of the late Joseon period.

His work, Yeon-gang Im-sul Album, realistically captures the landscapes of the Imjin River and the Yeoncheon area.

In other words, this fabric art is a modern reinterpretation of Gyeomjae Jeongseon's perspective, who recorded Yeoncheon's nature.

A Place to Enjoy Yeoncheon's Tourist Attractions in One Spot!

Next up is the Media Exhibition Hall!

When you enter, five of Yeoncheon's landmarks, reborn through light and video, await you.

• Jain Falls

• Horogoru Fortress

• Imjin River

• Kochia scoparia Park

• Dangposeong Fortress

All iconic locations representing Yeoncheon.

Cool cascading waterfalls, serene historical sites, and endless stretches of nature...

You can experience the immersive feeling of walking through them

without having to visit each one separately.

Crane Road, A Path Guided by Yeoncheon's Special Guests

Leaving the Media Exhibition Hall, you'll find Crane Road!

You might be thinking, 'Huh? Cranes all of a sudden?'

But cranes have a very deep connection with Yeoncheon.

Every winter, Yeoncheon is an important habitat where cranes migrate from Siberia.

With clean water and vast wetlands,

it's a place where endangered cranes can rest assured.

Walking along Crane Road,

rediscover the ecological value of Yeoncheon!

Plenty of Sound and Scent in the Feeling Zone!

If you've captured Yeoncheon with your eyes, now it's time to feel it with your ears and nose!

In the Feeling Zone, you can experience the scenery of the five Yeoncheon tourist attractions

you saw earlier in the Media Exhibition Hall through hearing and smell.

Waterfall sounds, wind sounds, the scent of grass...

The moment your five senses open up, Yeoncheon will seep deeper into your heart.

"We Know Yeoncheon Best!" Regional Artist Exhibition

Finally, the Live Hall is a place to pay attention to.

Here, works created directly by Yeoncheon's regional artists are on display.

The understanding of Yeoncheon you've built up by viewing the previous exhibitions

will resonate much more deeply when you see these works.

And above all,

the fact that these works, which capture Yeoncheon so well,

were born from the hands of artists working in Yeoncheon!

It's a truly meaningful and proud moment.

From the External Chimney to the Interior

The Eundaeri Culture Brick Factory is truly a space filled with Yeoncheon!

After seeing the exhibition,

you'll feel like you've traveled around Yeoncheon.

On the upcoming holiday, at the Eundaeri Culture Brick Factory,

experience the breath of Yeoncheon for yourself!

COME VISIT Eundaeri Culture Brick Factory!

Location: 72-27, Pyeonghwa-ro 940beon-gil, Jeon Gok, Yeoncheon

Exhibition Period: 2025.07.04 - 11.30

Admission: Free

Closed: Every Monday

Remaining Images:

I'm Jeju-앓이, a travel creator who finds time in a busy life to explore and share travel experiences.

August 15th is Liberation Day, commemorating the day in 1945 when Korea regained its sovereignty from Japan.

With the holiday falling near the weekend, many of you might be planning a golden vacation.

While trips focused on food and entertainment are great, visiting historical sites related to Liberation Day can be a meaningful experience.

This post introduces five historical sites in Jeju Island that are related to Liberation Day and worth visiting.

Here are the top 3 Anti-Japanese Movements in Jeju:

✅ Jocheon Manse Movement

✅ Beopjeongsa Anti-Japanese Movement

✅ Haenyeo (Women Divers) Anti-Japanese Movement

Birthplace of the Jeju Anti-Japanese Movement: Jocheon Manse Park & Anti-Japanese Memorial Hall

Jocheon Manse Park is the historical site where the Jocheon Manse Movement, one of the three major anti-Japanese movements in Jeju, took place.

Today, the park features the March 1st Independence Movement Memorial Tower and the Anti-Japanese Memorial Hall, which exhibits historical materials related to the movement.

It's also the end point of Olle Trail Course 18, known for its beautiful scenery, which I've visited a few times.

It's a great place to take a stroll and explore in a peaceful atmosphere.

Location: Jocheon-eup, Jeju City

Approximately: 40 minutes from Jeju Airport

Operating Hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Admission: Free

Parking: Free parking available

Nearby Attractions: Jocheon Port, Hamdeok Beach

A Hidden Historical Site in Hallasan Mountain: Birthplace of the Muo Beopjeongsa Anti-Japanese Movement

Muo Beopjeongsa is a temple located at the foot of Hallasan Mountain in Jeju Island and a historical site where the Beopjeongsa Anti-Japanese Movement took place in 1918.

The monks of Beopjeongsa, along with local residents, prepared and carried out an organized anti-Japanese movement, but unfortunately, it was suppressed by the Japanese colonial government in just two days.

Currently, only traces of the temple remain, as the Japanese colonial government burned down the temple buildings in retaliation for the anti-Japanese movement.

The Muo Beopjeongsa Anti-Japanese Movement Site is also the starting point of the Camellia Trail, Section 4 of the Hallasan Mountain Trail.

In December 2024, the Beopjeongsa Anti-Japanese Movement Exhibition Hall opened, allowing visitors to learn about the spirit of the Muo Beopjeongsa Anti-Japanese Movement.

Nearby Attractions: Seogwipo Natural Recreation Forest, perfect for forest trekking.

Visiting both the Beopjeongsa Anti-Japanese Movement Exhibition Hall and the recreation forest would make a wonderful trip.

Location: Hawon-dong, Seogwipo City

Approximately: 1 hour by car from Jeju Airport

Operating Hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Admission: Free

Parking: Free parking available

Nearby Attractions: Seogwipo Natural Recreation Forest

A Place to Commemorate the Haenyeo (Women Divers) Who Resisted Japanese Exploitation: Jeju Haenyeo Anti-Japanese Movement Memorial Tower & Haenyeo Museum

The Jeju Haenyeo Anti-Japanese Movement was a large-scale anti-Japanese movement that took place in January 1932 in the areas of Gujwa-eup and Seongsan-eup Udo in Jeju City, protesting against the Japanese colonial government's exploitation policies and discrimination. The movement was led by the Haenyeo (women divers) of Jeju.

The Jeju Haenyeo Anti-Japanese Movement is significant because it was led by women.

To commemorate their noble spirit, the Jeju Anti-Japanese Movement Memorial Tower was built on the site of the anti-Japanese movement's assembly point.

Right next to it is the Haenyeo Museum, where you can learn everything about Jeju's Haenyeo culture.

Here, you can also see detailed exhibits about the Jeju Haenyeo Anti-Japanese Movement.

Enjoy a meaningful and pleasant Jeju trip by visiting the memorial tower, the Haenyeo museum and the beautiful Sehwa Beach right next to the memorial.

Location: Gujwa-eup, Jeju City

Operating Hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Admission: Adults ₩1,100 / Children Free

Parking: Free parking available

Nearby Attractions: Sehwa Beach, Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)

I used to not understand people who went on vacation during the sweltering summer, but this year, I finally took a trip myself.

I visited Dangjin to see the lotus flowers that begin to bloom when the humidity rises. From the lotus blossoms filling Hapdeokje Reservoir Park to those at the agricultural theme park, I saw so many that they’re still vivid in my memory.

Daebudo Bangameori Beach

Daebudo Ant Waist Arch Bridge

On another day, I strolled through the pine forest path at Bangameori Beach in Daebudo. From the Ant Waist Arch Bridge, I gazed at the distant Yeongheung Bridge. I even hiked to Gubongdo Observatory, famous for its beautiful sunset, sweating all the way. Midway, I wondered if I was pushing myself too hard, but after sweating it out and sitting at a café looking out at the sea, a wave of happiness washed over me.

Gubongdo Ant Waist Arch Bridge

Embracing the Sunset

I also recall "Embracing the Sunset," a sculpture that embodies the beautiful sunset reflecting on the waves.

Tando Tidal Path to Nueseom Lighthouse Observatory

When I walked to the Nueseom Lighthouse Observatory along the Tando tidal path, I sweated under the pouring sun, but I can't forget the exhilaration I felt as I walked confidently, feeling like the protagonist of a movie scene.

Mungyeong Bongmyeongsan Suspension Bridge Trail

Walking along the Mungyeong Saejae forest trail, the sound of the valley stream alone was enough to heal me. The Bibongsan Suspension Bridge, where I felt like I was walking above cotton candy clouds as I climbed the steep stairs, was also impressive.

Mungyeong Bongmyeongsan Suspension Bridge

I only knew Jincheon for its Nongdari Bridge, but I never imagined the Choronggil Dulleongil trail along the Chopyeong Lake Reservoir would be so beautiful.

Jincheon Nongdari Choronggil Dulleongil Trail Chopyeong Lake

Chopyeong Lake Mireu 309 Suspension Bridge

Chopyeong Lake

Senggeo Jincheon Chopyeong Lake Sky Bridge

This summer, I traveled a lot, felt a lot, and was very happy.

Have you ever wished you could hear detailed stories about tourist attractions during your travels in Korea? Or perhaps you've wanted to take a trip, even a short one, when traveling far isn't an option?

Introducing 'Odii,' your personal tour guide in the palm of your hand, designed to solve these very concerns!

Odii, provided by the Korea Tourism Organization, is a free audio tour service that shares the history and cultural stories of South Korea's top tourist destinations under the slogan "Traveling Through Sound." The name Odii, a combination of 'audio' and 'where' in Korean, offers narratives about a wide variety of locations.

Odii introduces approximately 5,000 tourist spots across the country, providing over 17,000 story contents.

It supports four languages—Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese—to share the stories of South Korea's representative tourist destinations with both domestic and international visitors.

The service is available as both an app (Android, iOS) and a web service, enabling users to access tour information and search for attractions in various environments.

You can create playlists of tourist spot stories and listen to them. The playback screen, centered around the script, allows you to adjust the font size and listen to the stories while reading along.

Odii suggests new travel experiences through stories on various themes.

Key themes include 'Real-Time Popular Stories,' 'Regional Travel,' 'Themed Travel,' 'Elementary School Textbook Travel,' and 'Walking Course Travel.'

Real-Time Popular Stories: Discover popular stories among Odii users and learn about newly spotlighted tourist attractions.

Regional Travel: Select a region, such as Seoul, Busan, or Jeju, to listen to stories about tourist spots in that area.

Themed Travel: Enjoy stories about travel destinations based on various themes like 'K-Culture Travel,' 'Barrier-Free Tourism,' and 'Hidden Alleyway Tours.'

Elementary School Textbook Travel: Introduces travel destinations based on themes from elementary school textbooks, such as history, science, culture, and figures.

Walking Course Travel: Offers themed courses, each lasting about an hour, providing stories about tourist spots along the way.

Using GPS-based location data, Odii introduces and recommends nearby tourist attractions. When it's hard to travel far, use Odii to find nearby places to explore!

Travel in everyday life with Odii

Odii's 'Walking Course Travel' theme provides audio guides to easily accessible attractions for leisurely strolls.

Currently, 'Walking Course Travel' audio guides are available in eight regions nationwide, including Seoul, Incheon, and Daejeon.

In Seoul, the 'Jongno Modern Trail' introduces historical landmarks from the modern era. To commemorate the 80th anniversary of liberation, I walked the Jongno Modern Trail Course 2, themed 'The Path of Independence and Treachery,' with Odii.

Jongno Modern Trail Course 2, 'The Path of Independence and Treachery,' is a course of approximately 4.4 km, covering over 10 locations.

It starts at the Yun Dong-ju Literature Museum and Poet's Hill, passes through Choso Book Cafe and Suseongdong Valley, and reaches Dilkusha, the starting point of Course 3. Each location features an Odii audio guide, allowing you to deeply appreciate the historical significance along with your journey.

When you launch the Odii application and arrive at the starting point, the Yun Dong-ju Literature Museum, an arrival notification screen appears, and the audio guide begins playing.

Located near Changui Gate, the Yun Dong-ju Literature Museum was created using the Cheongun Water Pumping Station and water tank. Inspired by the image of the well in Yun Dong-ju's poem 'Self-Portrait,' the water pumping station was reborn as a literature museum.

While listening to the audio guide, I climbed Poet's Hill, located just above the literature museum, where I learned about its history.

It is said that Poet's Hill is where Yun Dong-ju used to stroll and contemplate while studying in Seoul, writing poems such as 'Foreword' and 'Starry Night.' Also, when erecting the monument engraved with his representative work, 'Foreword,' soil was brought from Yongjeong, North Gando, where the poet's tomb is located.

Listening to the life of Yun Dong-ju and his representative works, I arrived at the next stop, Choso Book Cafe, where an arrival notification and audio guide about the cafe began.

Choso Book Cafe was used as a guard post for the protection of the Blue House for about 50 years after the January 21st Incident. Since 2020, it has been transformed into a space where people can read books and have tea.

The path to Suseongdong Valley was difficult to find due to many forks in the road, but I was able to use Odii's location-based service to check my current location and find my way without getting lost.

Odii, which holds the story of the city

Odii shared the story of the origin of the name 'Suseongdong' and the stories related to Prince Anpyeong and the landscape painter Jeong Seon. In particular, it introduced the Okin Apartment Complex, which had obscured the beautiful scenery of Inwang Mountain due to reckless development, and even the traces left after its demolition. It allowed me to personally explore historical sites that I might have otherwise overlooked and reflect on their meaning.

The next stops were the site of Yun Dong-ju's boarding house and the Park No-soo Art Museum, not far from Suseongdong Valley.

The Hanok house of novelist Kim Song, where Yun Dong-ju stayed while attending Yonhi College, has disappeared and cannot be seen now, but I was able to indirectly imagine that time through the story Odii told.

※ This is currently a private residence, so please observe it from the outside only.

A short walk from the site of Yun Dong-ju's boarding house is the Jongno-gu Park No-soo Art Museum, which opened in 2013. Here, I heard the story of how the museum became an art museum after the artist Park No-soo lived here for over 40 years and donated his house and works, as well as the pro-Japanese acts of Yun Deok-yeong, who built the house, and the story related to Okin-dong.

Odii supported the audio guide with its script, allowing me to check the tourist commentary in more detail.

To go to the House of Yi Sang, you have to pass through Tongin Market. Odii told me the story about Tongin Market and the Sejong the Great Birthplace monument on Jahamun-ro. Sejong Village near Jahamun-ro is named in memory of Sejong the Great being born here.

The House of Yi Sang is based on the birthplace of Yi Sang, a poet and novelist who was active in the 1930s, and displays his writings and materials. I felt sorry for his life, who wrote innovative and radical writings under the name Modern.

Hwanghakjeong Pavilion was built in Gyeonghuigung Palace in 1898 by the order of King Gojong to encourage Gugung (Korean traditional archery). However, after the conclusion of the Eulsa Treaty, Japan moved Hwanghakjeong Pavilion to the vicinity of Sajikdan, where the gods of land and grain were worshiped in the Joseon Dynasty, saying that it would build a monopoly office on the site of Gyeonghuigung Palace.

Jongno Modern Trail Course 2, 'The Path of Independence and Treachery,' ends its journey at Dilkusha, the starting point of Jongno Modern Trail Course 3.

Dilkusha, which means 'happy heart' in Persian, is the home of Albert W. Taylor and his wife Mary L. Taylor, who worked as correspondents for the United Press and covered King Gojong's state funeral, the March 1st Movement, and the Jeam-ri Massacre.

If you are curious about the story behind this place, take a walk along Jongno Modern Trail Course 3 'A Stranger's Ginkgo Tree Road' with Odii!

Special 80th Anniversary of Liberation with Odii!

From August 11th to August 25th, the '80th Anniversary of Liberation Story Play Event' will be held on Odii. Listen to the stories of liberation travel destinations near us and reflect on the meaning of liberation with Odii!

1. Cheongdo: Where Time Stands Still

Cheongdo is a conveniently located destination near Daegu, ideal for a quick trip. Especially, Unmunsa Temple in Cheongdo offers the perfect setting to find peace in a serene atmosphere. Stroll along the lush forest trails, listening to the birdsong and the whispers of the wind, and feel your worries fade away. Also, the Cheongdo Provence Light Festival is even more beautiful when visited at night. The fantastic atmosphere created by the dazzling lights will offer unforgettable memories.

Unmunsa Temple: Peaceful temple, beautiful natural scenery.

Cheongdo Provence: Dazzling light festival, various photo zones.

Cheongdo Wine Tunnel: Unique wine tasting experience, unusual atmosphere.

2. Gunwi: Where Nature and Art Harmonize

Gunwi is a place where you can appreciate various artworks alongside the beautiful nature of Palgong Mountain. In particular, Gunwi Hwabon Station retains the quaint charm of a small rural station, making it a popular spot for taking photos. The old station building, platform, and surrounding scenery create a feeling as if you've traveled back in time. In addition, the Samguk Yusa Theme Park is a great place to visit with children. You can learn about Korean history easily and enjoyably through various exhibits and experience facilities.

Hwabon Station: Beautiful rural station, photo spot.

Samguk Yusa Theme Park: Historical education and experiences, family outing.

Hambam Village Stone Wall Path: Charming stone wall path, serene atmosphere.

3. Goryeong: Where History and Culture Come Alive

Goryeong is a place that holds the history of Daegaya, where you can explore various cultural heritage sites. In particular, the Daegaya History Theme Tourist Site is a place where you can experience the history and culture of Daegaya. In the exhibition hall, you can explore Daegaya's relics and history, and you can have a deeper experience through various experience programs. Also, the Goryeong Jisan-dong Tumuli, presumed to be the royal tombs of Daegaya, boasts a magnificent scale and beautiful scenery.

Daegaya History Theme Tourist Site: Daegaya history and culture experience.

Goryeong Jisan-dong Tumuli: Daegaya royal tombs, beautiful scenery.

Gaesil Village: Traditional Hanok village, serene atmosphere.

4. Seongju: Leisure Amidst Nature

Seongju boasts beautiful natural scenery, making it a great place to relax and heal in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. In particular, Seongju Lake is a great place to take a walk while enjoying the beautiful lake scenery. The scenery of calm waves and blue mountains brings peace of mind to those who see it. In addition, Gaya Mountain is popular with hikers, and the panoramic view from the top blows away the stress that has accumulated.

Seongju Lake: Beautiful lake, walking trail.

Gaya Mountain: Hiking, panoramic view.

Sejongdaewangjataesil: Historical site, prenatal education trip.

5. Chilgok: A Place Full of Diverse Charms

Chilgok is a place with various attractions and activities, making it a great place to have fun with family, lovers, and friends. In particular, the Chilgok Peace Memorial Hall commemorates the Korean War, where you can feel the horrors of war and the importance of peace. Also, Palgongsan Provincial Park boasts beautiful natural scenery and provides various hiking trails and resting areas. Geumhwa Valley is a place where you can enjoy cool water activities and is popular as a summer retreat.

Chilgok Peace Memorial Hall: War memorial, peace education.

Palgongsan Provincial Park: Hiking, natural scenery.

Geumhwa Valley: Water activities, summer retreat.

How about taking a break from your daily life and making precious memories by exploring places to visit near Daegu? We hope your trip will be a healing experience in nature, experience new cultures, and revitalize your life. Get away now!

Danyang, North Chungcheong Province, is known as the home of garlic. A visit to the Danyang Gu-gyeong Market is a must to taste Danyang's specialties made with garlic, from garlic dumplings to garlic fried chicken!

Among the Eight Scenic Wonders of Danyang, Dodam Sambong Peaks is a popular spot for photographers, thanks to the stunning scenery created by the sunset.

Don't miss Ondalsanseong Fortress, which tells the love story of the Fool Ondal and Princess Pyeonggang, and Gosu Cave, where you can feel the mystery of ancient times.

​

01 Seokmun (Stone Gate)

​

If you walk upstream from Dodam Sambong Peaks, you'll see stairs leading to an observatory. Climb up this path for about 300m, and you'll find a rainbow-shaped stone pillar – this is Danyang Seokmun.

Seokmun is a strangely shaped rock formation where two large stone pillars are crossed by another rock, forming a natural gate. Its beauty is so outstanding that it is hard to believe it is the work of nature, and you can see another landscape within the landscape. The cool scenery of the Namhan River fills the rounded Seokmun. Conversely, the scenery of Seokmun viewed from a boat along the open Namhan River is also excellent. Because of this spectacle, Seokmun is called the Second of the Eight Scenic Wonders of Danyang.

To the left of Seokmun is a stone cave, and inside the cave is a jade field said to have been cultivated by a god. Legend has it that an old woman named Mago, who came down from heaven to fetch water, lost her hairpin and dug up the soil with her hands to find it, creating 99 fields of rice paddies. The surrounding scenery was so beautiful that she lived there for the rest of her life, farming the fields, which were called 'Seonin Okdap' because they were farmed by immortals.

​

​

02 Dodam Sambong Peaks

​

Dodam Sambong Peaks is where Jeong Do-jeon, who contributed to the founding of the Joseon Dynasty, spent his childhood. It is said that he was so captivated by the beauty of Dodam Sambong Peaks that he named his pen name Sambong. You can see the scenery of Dodam Sambong Peaks that was loved by Toegye Yi Hwang, Gyeomjae Jeong Seon, and Danwon Kim Hong-do with your own eyes. The Sambong Story Hall, located in the amusement park, exhibits Danyang's attractions as an archive. If you board a Hwangpo sailboat, you can pass through Seokmun and cross over to Dodam Garden on the other side. Dodam Garden is famous for its yellow cosmos plantation. You can fully feel the beauty of nature along with the scenery of Dodam Sambong Peaks.

​

I'm going to share stories about various travel destinations and restaurants I visited while traveling around the country, categorized by region.

Hope you enjoy it!!

I was hoping for more water after the heavy rain in Jeonju, but due to the heatwave, there wasn't as much as I expected. ????

But it was still plenty enough for a fun day!

And it was incredibly cool.????????????????????‍♀️????

A baby sat and played in front of our table. It was so adorable watching them sitting firmly on the rocks! ㅜㅜ

So incredibly cute, really.

And of course, grilling meat is essential for a water activity, right?

I had a great time, but my summer vacation is just getting started!

Experience the ultimate summer escape in Namhae, where August unveils its full splendor.

In August, Namhae is bathed in the most radiant sunlight. The azure sea, verdant mountains, and exotic scenery create a picturesque landscape that captivates the senses. If you're seeking refuge from the heat, yearning for a refreshing sea breeze, and longing to rejuvenate amidst stunning nature, Namhae is the ideal destination. Let us introduce you to the attractions that will make your August in Namhae truly unforgettable.

[1] Namhae German Village & Garden Art Village: Where Romance and History Coexist

German Village: Here, you'll find quaint houses with iconic red roofs and white walls cascading down the hillside like a scene from a storybook. Established by Korean miners and nurses who returned home after working in Germany in the 1960s, the village now features charming shops, cafes, and pensions. The observation deck at the village's peak offers breathtaking views of the Namhae sea, while the Korean German Heritage Park provides a glimpse into the area's past.

Garden Art Village: Located right next to the German Village, the Garden Art Village is home to over 20 beautiful private gardens. The delightful garden ornaments and diverse array of flowers create a fairytale-like atmosphere. August is especially vibrant, with summer blooms like Chinese trumpet vines, hydrangeas, and zinnias in full bloom.

[2] Namhae Skywalk & Seomi Garden: Walking Above the Azure Sea

Namhae Skywalk: This skywalk offers breathtaking views of the Namhae sea from a dizzying height, providing both a thrilling experience and a feast for the eyes. The emerald waters visible through the transparent floor are so refreshing and beautiful that they will make you forget the August heat. It's also a great place to capture memorable photos with the ocean as your backdrop.

Seomi Garden: This unique garden is designed around the concept of a 'Seom' (island) designated as a Ramsar wetland. It features 16 small islands that appear to float on water, each adorned with a different theme. Tranquil ponds, lush forests, and diverse flora create a serene and peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind.

[3] Darangee Village & Treasure Island Camping Ground: Korea's Naples

Darangee Village: This village boasts terraced rice paddies cascading down to the sea, creating an exotic landscape. In August, the paddies are lush with green rice plants, forming a vibrant emerald tapestry. Enjoy a leisurely stroll while admiring this picturesque scene and unwind at the quaint cafes and restaurants scattered throughout the village.

Treasure Island Camping Ground: Situated below Darangee Village, this campsite allows you to enjoy camping with the sea right at your doorstep. Savor a barbecue while watching the stunning sunset, and create unforgettable summer night memories as you count the stars in the night sky.

[4] Sangju Eunmorae Beach & Songjeong Solbaram Beach: Hidden Beach Gems

Sangju Eunmorae Beach: This iconic beach in Namhae features a wide expanse of fine, silvery sand and is surrounded by a lush forest, adding to its scenic beauty. The shallow waters and gentle waves make it particularly popular with families. It's also an ideal place to enjoy various marine leisure activities.

Songjeong Solbaram Beach: Along with Sangju Eunmorae Beach, this is another of Namhae's most renowned beaches. A pine forest surrounds the beach, providing cool shade, and it's a great spot for camping or picnicking. The clear waters and fine sand make for a relaxing beach experience.

[5] Geumsan Boriam Temple: Namhae's Landmark

Boriam Temple: This ancient temple, dating back to the Silla Dynasty, is located near the summit of Geumsan Mountain. It is famous as a place of prayer, housing a statue of the Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva of the sea. The temple offers breathtaking views of the Namhae archipelago. The sunrise amidst the morning mist is particularly spectacular, making it a renowned sunrise spot. Escape the August heat and enjoy the majestic scenery while feeling the cool breeze.

[6] Sheep Farm:

Sheep Farm: You can also find farms in Namhae where you can meet sheep in the green meadows. It is especially recommended for families with children, as you can feed and interact with sheep grazing freely in the vast meadows. The blue sky and green meadows of August come together to create beautiful photos.

[7] Namhae's Must-Try Delicacies in August

Anchovy Ssambap: A local specialty of Namhae, Anchovy Ssambap (anchovy wraps) is a must-try. Wrap the plump, fleshy anchovies with fresh vegetables for a truly satisfying meal.

Braised/Grilled Hairtail: Made with fresh hairtail from Namhae, braised or grilled hairtail is a true rice thief. The tender flesh and spicy-sweet sauce are loved by everyone.

Abalone Porridge/Sashimi: You can't pass by the fresh seafood from the pristine waters of Namhae. Abalone porridge, in particular, is good for restoring energy and is great as a health food in the summer.

✔️ Travel Tips for Namhae in August:

Book your accommodations in advance! August is peak season in Namhae, so it's best to reserve your accommodations and restaurants ahead of time.

Prepare for the sun! Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.

Wear cool clothing and comfortable shoes! There are many great places to walk, so be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

Bring your swim gear! If you plan on visiting a beach, be sure to pack your swimsuit, tubes, and other swimming equipment.

Here are some more images from Namhae:

@글사진

Jevousharu

I visited Four Seasons A Day in Goyang upon a friend's recommendation.

It's quite a drive from home, but the atmosphere is lovely,

and it seemed like a great place for kids to play in the valley.

I was very satisfied because the menu was diverse and parking was easy on a weekday.

Four Seasons A Day

Open daily from 10 AM to 9 PM (Last order at 8 PM)

Free parking for 3 hours

Four Seasons A Day is a cafe with a large garden and European-style decor.

It's famous as a valley cafe in the summer

and a place with a sledding hill in the winter.

We decided to have a meal at the cafe and then head to the valley for some water play!

Parking is free for three hours.

Four Seasons A Day Menu

They offer a variety of brunch options, including salads, pilaf, and pizza.

If you eat at the cafe,

you get a 20% discount on coffee and other drink menu items.

Considering the cost of using the valley,

the food was reasonably priced.

I visited after lunchtime on a weekday,

so the cafe was relaxed, and there were plenty of tables on the valley-side terraces.

Even so, it was still quite crowded for a weekday afternoon!

When I said I needed a baby bandage,

they even provided a bandage and ointment.

I was really grateful for their thoughtfulness :)

After playing in the water, it was nice to play in the garden too.

The path to the valley.

The garden at Four Seasons A Day was well-maintained.

My baby nestled among the flowers.

There were two sandboxes,

so it seems like kids can have fun even when it's crowded on weekends!

Going down the stairs,

you'll find the valley.

It was shallow, which was perfect for 30-month-old babies to play in :)

Summer is for the valley..!

I can come to the valley so comfortably

Our twins' first valley experience was a success, haha.

The water was shallow and not too cold,

so the kids really loved it :)

They were having so much fun, haha.

The water was calm, making it perfect for babies to sit and play in.

After playing like this, it rained heavily the next day ㅠㅠ.

There was a simple area to wash up after playing,

which was great for washing the babies!

The advantage of a valley cafe.

In many ways, it was easy to go to the valley with my baby,

so I want to visit Four Seasons A Day again.

I'm looking forward to winter too.

There are pretty photo spots everywhere,

so I should take lots of pictures next time I go.

With the support of Jecheon City and the Jecheon Tourism Association, I had the opportunity to experience Jecheon's representative tourist routes for two days and one night.

The highlight of this trip was using the Jecheon Tourism Taxi to explore Jecheon's major attractions efficiently and comfortably.

Without the fatigue of driving, I was able to fully appreciate the charm of Jecheon with the guidance of a knowledgeable local driver.

Jecheon Tourism Taxi — Your Comfortable and Fulfilling Travel Partner

The Jecheon Tourism Taxi is more than just a means of transportation. It's a 'mobile guide' accompanied by a local tourism expert.

The driver's local information and explanations add depth to the journey. You can conveniently visit places that are difficult to access by public transport. You can also flexibly adjust the course and time, making your schedule much more relaxed.

Cheongpungho — Jecheon's Signature Scenery

The first destination of this course was Cheongpungho. Boasting beautiful scenery in all four seasons, this place is a symbol of Jecheon travel.

Cheongpungho Cruise

The scenery viewed from the cruise ship as it crossed the lake was more magnificent and serene than any photograph. The fresh air and cool breeze made the start of the journey special.

Cheongpungho Monorail & Cable Car

Ascending to the summit by cable car and monorail, you can witness a spectacular view of Cheongpungho and the surrounding mountains at a glance. This moment alone makes it worth visiting Jecheon.

Bongdamtteul & Songirangge — Lunch

Leaving the impression of Cheongpungho behind, I enjoyed a leisurely stroll while admiring the rural scenery of Jecheon at Bongdamtteul. Then, at Songirangge, I tasted lunch prepared with Jecheon specialties and fresh ingredients. A menu filled with the fragrant aroma of pine mushrooms invigorated the journey.

Susan Slow City Cypress Forest — Gungye Experience & Companion Plant Growing

In the afternoon, I visited the Susan Slow City Cypress Forest and had a healing time walking along the green forest path. In particular, I was able to indirectly experience a historical figure through the 'Gungye Experience,' and in the companion plant growing program, I also enjoyed planting a small pot myself to take home.

Jecheon Pork Belly 'Honey Samgyeopsal' — Dinner

For dinner, I enjoyed it at Go-giro, a popular meat restaurant in downtown Jecheon. Honey Samgyeopsal and Sashimi Samgyeopsal, the representative dishes of Go-giro, had a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The combination of shishito pepper and wasabi sushi opened up a new world of taste.

Brown Dot Hotel Jecheon Hwasan Branch — Comfortable Accommodation

Ending the day's journey, I stayed at the Brown Dot Hotel Jecheon Hwasan Branch. Because it was a new hotel, the rooms and facilities were all neat and clean, and I was able to enjoy a simple breakfast the next morning at the Sunssal Bakery on the first floor. Thanks to this, I was able to start the next day's schedule refreshed.

Sotong Marketing Center's Commitment

This Jecheon Tourism Taxi Cheongpungho tour and various experiences were more fulfilling and comfortable thanks to the meticulous preparation and support of Jecheon City and the Jecheon Tourism Association.

Sotong Marketing Center will continue to work together to promote Jecheon's tourism development and ensure the successful hosting of various local festivals, including the 2025 Jecheon International Oriental Medicine and Natural Products Industry Expo.

We will do our best to widely promote Jecheon's nature, culture, and the stories of its people.

For 2025-2026, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization have curated a new list of the 'Top 100 Tourist Spots in Korea,' revealing must-visit destinations for travelers.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the selection criteria for the Top 100 Tourist Spots, recommended attractions by region, and the top 4 most popular cities in South Korea.

1. What is the 'Top 100 Tourist Spots in Korea'?

The 'Top 100 Tourist Spots in Korea' is a list of 100 representative tourist destinations in South Korea, announced every two years by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization.

Its purpose is to promote the charm of South Korea to domestic and international travelers, and to contribute to balanced regional development and revitalization of the tourism industry.

2. Selection Criteria and Process

The selection of the Top 100 Tourist Spots in Korea is not based on simple popularity votes, but on a fair process involving:

Big Data Analysis + Expert Evaluation + On-site Verification.

​

Big Data Analysis

Analyzing visit demand and interest by comprehensively examining SNS mentions, navigation search/arrival data, and mobile carrier base station visit statistics.

​

Local Government Recommendations

Including tourist destinations recommended by local governments across the country in the candidate pool.

​

Written Evaluation

Tourism experts from academia, the travel industry, media, and writers evaluate factors such as attractiveness, sustainability, and service quality.

​

On-site Evaluation

Visiting actual tourist destinations to inspect facility conditions, accessibility, safety, and amenities.

​

Final Deliberation

The selection committee finalizes the top 100 spots, considering balance by region and theme.

​

Regional Distribution

Distributing selections evenly across the country without focusing on specific regions.

3. Representative Attractions by Region (2025-2026)

| Region | Cultural Tourism Resources | Natural & Ecological Tourism Resources | |---|---|---| | Greater Seoul Area | Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, Nami Island, Seoul Royal Palaces | Hangang (Han River) Park, Bukhansan Mountain | | Gangwon-do | Jeongseon High1 Resort, Samaksan Mountain Cable Car | Taebaek Gumunso Pond, Odaesan Mountain, Sokcho Beach | | Chungcheong-do | Gongju Baekje Historic Areas, Daecheon Beach | Naejangsan National Park, Gyejoksan Hwangtogil (Red Clay Trail) | | Jeolla-do | Jeonju Hanok Village, Damyang Bamboo Forest | Suncheon Bay National Garden, Mudeungsan Mountain | | Gyeongsang-do | Gyeongju Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto, Andong Hahoe Folk Village | Juwangsan National Park, Ulleungdo & Dokdo Islands | | Jeju-do | Jeju Olle Trails, Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak | Hallasan National Park, Hyeopjae & Hamdeok Beaches |

4. Steady Sellers Selected for 7 Consecutive Times

The Five Grand Palaces of Seoul (Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, Gyeonghuigung)

Jeonju Hanok Village

Gyeongju Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress

Hallasan National Park & Jeju Olle Trails

Suncheon Bay National Garden and Wetland

5. Emerging New Popular Travel Destinations (2025-2026)

Hangang Park Ramen Picnic

Incheon Gyodong Island (Filming Location of the Drama 'Squid Game')

Daegu Sayuwon Garden

Gangneung Jeongdong Simgok Badabuchae-gil (Sea Fan Road)

These experiential and healing travel destinations are beloved by both MZ generations and family travelers.

6. Top 4 Most Popular Cities in South Korea

​

1st Place: Seoul

Main Attractions: Myeongdong, Gangnam, Jongno, Dongdaemun Shopping, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong, Namsan Mountain, Hangang Park

Key Features: A city blending modernity and tradition, the center of K-culture, excellent transportation accessibility.

Recommended Seasons: Spring cherry blossoms, Autumn foliage, Winter night views

​

2nd Place: Busan

Main Attractions: Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli Beach, Gamcheon Culture Village, Taejongdae Park, Jagalchi Fish Market

Key Features: Harmony of the sea and a large city, opportunities for marine leisure and gourmet travel.

​

3rd Place: Jeju Island

Main Attractions: Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, Hyeopjae & Hamdeok Beaches, Hallasan Mountain, Jeju Olle Trails

Key Features: Blessed nature, different charms in each season, healing and relaxation.

​

4th Place: Gyeongju

Main Attractions: Bulguksa Temple, Cheomseongdae Observatory, Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, Hwangnidan-gil Street

Key Features: A treasure trove of ancient Korean history and cultural heritage, a famous night view travel destination.

7. Travel Tips

Transportation: Using KTX/SRT high-speed rail, Seoul to Busan takes 2 hours 30 minutes, Seoul to Gyeongju takes 2 hours 10 minutes.

Accommodation: Pre-booking is essential for weekends and peak seasons, with a variety of options including hanoks, pensions, and resorts.

Recommended Seasons: Spring and Autumn are ideal for nationwide travel, Summer is best for beaches and valleys, and Winter is recommended for hot springs and night views.

8. Conclusion

A trip to South Korea in 2025-2026 is a comprehensive gift set that combines tradition and modernity, city and nature, experience and relaxation.

Referencing the Top 100 Tourist Spots in Korea list and the Top 4 Most Popular Cities will help you plan a fulfilling trip even with a short itinerary.

Discover new charms on a domestic trip this year!

This post is about my day trip to Chungju, visiting Songgye Valley and Jungangtap Historical Park.

After a refreshing dip in the valley, I headed to Jungangtap Historical Park.

Jungangtap Historical Park is a cultural complex centered around the seven-story stone pagoda of Tappyeong-ri, National Treasure No. 6 (also known as Jungangtap). It's also North Chungcheong Province's first outdoor sculpture park, and its location along the Namhan River makes it perfect for a scenic lakeside stroll.

The 'Seven-Story Stone Pagoda' is said to be called 'Jungangtap' because it's located in the 'center' of Korea.

Here are some photos from the park:

Jungangtap Historical Park

50 Tappyeong-ri, Jungangtap-myeon, Chungju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do (or 6 Tapjeongan-gil)

The park was created in 1992 to protect the seven-story stone pagoda of Tappyeong-ri (National Treasure No. 6) and improve the surrounding area.

Legend has it that the pagoda was built in the center of Korea during the Unified Silla period, hence the name 'Jungangtap.' A popular story says that during the reign of King Wonseong of Unified Silla, two people started walking simultaneously from the northernmost and southernmost points of the country, and they met at the current location of the pagoda.

This is the only seven-story stone pagoda among Silla pagodas, and it's the largest and tallest of the existing Unified Silla stone pagodas. During its dismantling and restoration in 1917, some old books, two copper mirrors, a wooden lacquered box, and a silver reliquary were discovered in the sixth-story pagoda body, and a bronze box was found in the foundation.

My husband said we had to circumambulate the pagoda at least three times, so we ended up doing 'tapdori' (pagoda circumambulation) around Jungangtap, which wasn't even planned.

Making wishes as we walked!

It's also a filming location for the drama 'Vincenzo'!

I haven't seen that drama though...

I went to see Jungangtap because of its symbolism as being in the 'center' of Korea, and I discovered that there's also an outdoor sculpture park.

Under the theme of 'A Meeting of Cultural Heritage and Lakeside Art,' 26 works by famous Korean sculptors are displayed throughout the large lawn, allowing you to appreciate the art while taking a stroll.

The park is located along the Namhan River, and there's a Rainbow Road where you can walk along the 'Tangeumho' waterway between Chungju Dam and the Adjustment Dam.

This road is famous as a night view spot, selected as one of the Korea Tourism Organization's '100 Must-Visit Nighttime Tourist Spots'!

In particular, the seven-story stone pagoda of Tappyeong-ri is said to be more majestic and elegant at night than during the day, but since I went on a day trip, I unfortunately skipped the nighttime tour.

Now, off to my next destination!

There are several buckwheat noodle restaurants near the park, so I'm heading there for dinner~~

Chicken & Buckwheat Noodles are famous around here!

Heading for Chicken & Buckwheat Noodles~

I was taken to this place by an acquaintance!

It wasn't a particularly famous restaurant.

Since it's called Jungangtap Chicken & Buckwheat Noodles, I wondered, 'Does it have chicken as a topping on the buckwheat noodles?' or 'Is it a set menu of chicken and buckwheat noodles?' But the menu just had chicken and buckwheat noodles separately.

Selling chicken and buckwheat noodles in one restaurant is a novel combination, but it doesn't seem particularly special.

It would have been more special if it were a set menu.

Despite all that, the reason I included a large photo of the chicken is!

The chicken is delicious.

Why? Isn't this a buckwheat noodle restaurant?

The chicken batter is thin and the meat is tender, making it crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Even though it's a buckwheat noodle restaurant, the chicken stole the show.

The buckwheat noodles are just average.

Chicken > Spicy Buckwheat Noodles > Cold Buckwheat Noodles

I ordered buckwheat makgeolli (rice wine), but they brought me Jipyeong makgeolli without saying anything.

It was only after we talked for a while that they said, 'Oh, it's sold out' when I mentioned I ordered buckwheat makgeolli.

They should have told me that and asked me for an alternative, but oh well~

So I ordered soju (Korean distilled spirit).

Well, I didn't drink it...

Valley water play, scenic views, and delicious food with friends.

It was a fun day.

I enjoy these small trips these days.

Other photos from the day:

I heard it's 150m long.

It's also quite high.

The glass floor of the cable car was a little scary.

I had to show off my Guckkasten fan status here too... useless, but I just wanted to... a fan's heart.

My sisters were like, "Ugh~~~"

High. So high~~

It was SO hot, I was sweating like crazy.

Glad we took the short course.

Someone would have passed out if it was the long course.

Wonju Guryongsa Temple

I feel at peace when I go to temples.

Being in the mountains, the air is fresh, and the sounds of birds and water are healing points.

I wrote a wish for my family's health on a small lantern.

Especially for my youngest son, stay healthy~~

Enjoyed a cup of tea while listening to the sound of water.

Came down and filled my hungry stomach.

The interior is clean.

Buckwheat pancake... a disappointing taste.

Deodeok (Codonopsis lanceolata) set meal.

Deodeok is always delicious... a bit expensive though.

Lee Hyo-seok Culture Center

It's well-maintained and nicely decorated.

Lee Hyo-seok's Birthplace

I went on two trips to Gangwon-do within a few days of each other.

It was a trip that healed my mind and spirit a lot, but

It put a strain on my body... and I got sick...

History of two disc surgeries.

I'm always careful, but even taking frequent breaks while driving during trips, driving alone is still too much.

A few days after the trip, excruciating pain that prevented me from straightening my back.

Ah... my back again... a disc issue? ㅠㅠ

I got three injections and recovered about 95% in two weeks.

Thanks to that (?), I couldn't go to the new job I was supposed to start after just one day.

The company understood and suggested they find someone else, but asked me to contact them whenever I got better, saying they thought very highly of me.

Gratefully~~~~^^

I'm trying to live each day gratefully, happily, and rewardingly ~ I'm reading books diligently again these days.

I haven't been able to read the 200-300 books a year I used to read since last year.

I need to read diligently~~

I recently went to Gyeongju for my first trip in August!!

Since it was a trip with strangers, I couldn't take many pictures, but I'll try my best to write about it. ㅜ

So, let's start my Gyeongju travel blog right away! h

???? August 9th (Sat)

I woke up, got ready, and went to Seoul Station!

I arrived earlier than expected, so I grabbed a burger at Burger King. But a burger in the morning is definitely heavy lol

After eating, I got a Starbucks and boarded the train!!

I was in a group seating for four... I'm really shy, so it was almost agonizing;; lol

Somehow, we talked for about two hours and arrived in Gyeongju lol

After arriving, I took a taxi to Hwangridan-gil!!

I joined the others who had arrived earlier... There are 8 of us in total, including me.

Luckily, I had met about three of them before? lol Anyway, we all went to have lunch!

Looks delicious, right..? lol It was just expensive and not that good.......

The dish on the far right was the only decent one... ㅜ

After a mediocre lunch, we went to a cafe, but there wasn't enough seating for 8 people lol

So, we split into two groups of 4 and went to different cafes~

I ordered a blueberry something drink lol We were sitting and talking when it started raining..

We rested until the rain subsided and then went to see Cheomseongdae!!

It was so hot and humid going to see Cheomseongdae lol

And it looked bigger in media, but it was much smaller than I thought?? lol

After seeing it, we rested for a bit in a shelter next to it and decided to go see Seokbinggo.

But everyone was tired, so there were many opinions to go to the accommodation, so we turned back to Hwangridan-gil to pick up our luggage lol

We picked up our luggage, went to the Nonghyup to buy dinner, and went to our accommodation.

After arriving, we showered and drank while eating budae jjigae and nakgopsae h

Singing the "Gegul Gegul Frog" song~~

While drinking, I looked out the window and saw a lot of frogs lol (They were so cute lol)

So, I kept drinking and then I went back to my room in the middle..;;

I must have been sleepy lol Did I sleep for 30 minutes? When I woke up, it was over lol

But I talked with the guys who weren't sleeping because they couldn't sleep and then went to sleep ^^ I was happy because I felt like I got closer to them at this time h

???? August 10th (Sun)

I woke up, showered, got ready, and went to Hwangridan-gil!

We went to a rice bowl & ramen restaurant, but there was a wait, so we took some pictures and went to eat h

Everything was really delicious lol I ate really well lol

After eating, we went to a cafe. We got takeout and went to find the Socar!!!!

I drove lol Oh... I was a little nervous because it was my first time driving in a while.. lol I haven't driven since I was discharged.. But my skills weren't dead lol

I drove to Bulguksa!!!

When I arrived, I couldn't see my group lol I called them and they said they were at Seokguram lol

According to our plan, we were supposed to go to Seokguram and then Bulguksa, but the people in our car didn't know that lol

So, as soon as we parked at Bulguksa, we went back to Seokguram ^^

But the road was ㄹㅈㄷ winding;;; But the person in front kept braking and it was a little frustrating....

We finally arrived and went up to see Seokguram h The weather was so nice and the breeze was cool, so I felt good hhhh

I didn't take a picture of Seokguram...

We looked around while eating ice cream and went to Bulguksa~~

I arrived and looked around Bulguksa lol

I must have been out of it... I didn't take many pictures lol

Was it because it was hot...? lol

While walking around, I saw stone towers? So I built a stone tower next to it and made a wish hh

There weren't many things to see... After looking around, I went to the souvenir shop!!

The Madam bought me a gift lol I bought her a bookmark lol

The road down was really pretty hh

I took some pictures and went to the car quickly because it was too hot lol

I drove to the market!!! I bought Obok Chicken and jokbal, went to the mart to buy alcohol and food, and returned to the accommodation~~

(I also bought and ate a 10-won bread, but it was just... okay... While eating, cream came out from the inside and stained my new clothes ㅠㅠ)

I arrived at the accommodation, showered, ate, drank, and spent my second night!!

We decided to go to the water park the next day, so we decided to go to bed early, but everyone was playing and drinking late lol

So, the second day ended ^^

????️ August 11th (Mon)

As soon as I woke up, I showered, got ready, and headed to Gyeongju World hh

I also got a drink at Starbucks on the way lol

I was excited because I like scary rides lol

I rode this and that, but I don't know the names well lol I rode something that spun around and went up, and I almost died because I was dizzy lol lol But I had fun ^^

After riding the rides, we went to California Beach~

It was my first time going to a swimming pool in 10 years? It was so much fun ㅜㅜㅜ I had a blast lol

I was wondering where the building that comes to mind when I think of Gyeongju was, but I saw it while waiting to ride the water slide lol

So, I took a picture lol If I come again next time, I'll try to look around h

After playing, I ate Mom's Touch and went to the hot spring pool and took a shower and came out... But what is this...? The car battery died;;;;

There wasn't much time left until the train boarding time and car return time;;; I was really dumbfounded lol

(If it was the military, I would have just brought the car next to me and jumped it lol lol lol lol)

I called Socar and the driver came lol I barely arrived at the station on time lol

So, I came up to Seoul and ate and said goodbye with a sad heart!!!~~~

The End!!!!!! I hope you enjoyed it and I'll be leaving now..

Ps. I'm a little sad that there aren't many pictures than I thought ㅜㅜ But it was a very fun trip and I was happy to meet good people ^^ I wished to get along well for a long time with the stone tower wish lol lol lol lol

My destination for this trip was the Gogunsan Islands in Gunsan, Jeollabuk-do. Gogunsan Islands consist of 63 islands off the coast of Gunsan. I was surprised to learn that Gunsan had so many islands through this trip.

What immediately caught my eye were the well-maintained roads and the bridges that stretched out refreshingly. It was perfect for enjoying the beautiful ocean scenery while driving. The roads and bridges were well-built, but I couldn't help but feel that the investment was a bit of a waste since there weren't many cars, even during the summer vacation season.

I think it's one of the best destinations for a 1-night, 2-day drive trip from the Seoul metropolitan area.

2. Sinsido Island 1-Night, 3-Meal Package Trip

For this trip, I booked a package that included a 1-night stay on Sinsido Island, 3 meals, and a cruise. It had become famous after being featured on a TV show. The price was 150,000 won per person, so my expectations were high, but it fell short.

Lunch Menu

Dinner Menu

Breakfast Menu

I understand that it can be challenging to prepare meals for multiple people at once, but the side dishes were dried out because they were set out too early. I expected an abundance of fresh seafood because it's by the sea, but it was disappointing. The basic side dishes, including kimchi, weren't tasty, and it felt like they were just trying to make as much profit as possible by taking in as many teams as possible, which was disappointing.

Accommodation: The room was too small, and the mattress for the Ondol room was thin, slippery, and uncomfortable.

Meals: It was advertised as a 'full-course seafood spread,' but it was far from fresh and abundant.

Honestly, I felt that it would have been much better to book accommodation and meals separately for that price.

3. Cruise Tour in the Rain and Wind

After lunch at the accommodation, I went on a Gogunsan Islands cruise as planned, even though it was raining heavily and windy. They said the boat would depart as scheduled even in this weather. It was packed with people. I got on the boat, shielded myself with an umbrella, and sat on a chair to admire the scenery. The scenery of the islands in the rain was atmospheric and beautiful in its own way. In particular, the sight of small and large islands clustered together was reminiscent of Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. It was cool because of the rain, and I liked that there was no strong sunlight. I was able to feel the charm of a rainy day.

4. Seonyudo and Jangjado Trail Trekking

After eating breakfast on the second day, I headed to Jangjado Island. I decided to revisit the island because I couldn't properly explore it due to the rain and wind the day before. There is a small mountain on Jangjado Island called Daejangbong. A trail was created up to Daejangbong. The mountain was slightly steep, but it was healing to walk along the cool forest path while listening to the sound of the waves. Crabs were crawling around everywhere. It was amazing to see crabs on the mountain, probably because it was adjacent to the sea. The course wasn't very long, so it was enough to finish in about an hour. It was so nice to be able to walk on a mountain path while looking at the sea.

I thought that I should stay at a pension on Jangjado Island next time I visit. There were beautiful pensions lined up in front of Daejangbong, and the ocean view from the accommodation would be amazing.

After coming down from the mountain, I walked the Seonyudo Island trail this time. The cruise captain told me to definitely visit this place. A deck path was built along the sea, and the scenery was so beautiful as if I was walking on the sea. It was a flat area, and the course was short, so it was a bit disappointing. It's about 30 minutes to 1 hour away. There were few tourists, so it was good to walk quietly, and the time spent walking while listening to the sound of the waves was truly healing.

5. Overall Review

Gogunsan Islands in Gunsan was a travel destination worth visiting just for the drive and scenery. I was amazed that Seonyudo and Jangjado, which used to require taking a boat, are now connected by bridges, making it easy to travel by car. The well-maintained roads and bridges, the island scenery enjoyed on a cruise, and the Seonyudo and Jangjado trekking were really great. Although the accommodation and meals were unsatisfactory for the price, if I visit again, I think it would be better to stay at a pension on Jangjado Island and eat at a restaurant in Gunsan or near Seonyudo.

[2025 Vacation Recommendation]

Summer in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do

Your Complete Summer Getaway Guide

Everything from valleys and water sports to

stylish accommodations!

Hello!

I'm Lee Ji-hye, a licensed real estate agent who

frequently visits

locations in person.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Today, I'm excited to share

vacation recommendations many of you

have been waiting for!

Among them, I'll introduce

Gapyeong, just a 1.5-hour trip

from Seoul.

My deepest condolences

to the residents of Gapyeong

who suffered from the recent heavy rain.

Please stay strong. I sincerely hope

for a swift recovery.

With that in mind, I will proceed with caution.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Gapyeong in Gyeonggi-do boasts

valleys, mountains, lakes,

water activities, pensions, and trendy

cafes –

Everything you need

for the perfect summer

vacation, making it one of Korea's top

summer destinations.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

It's especially great for families,

couples, and friends

traveling together.

Car campers, stylish lodging

enthusiasts, and water

lovers will all be satisfied

here.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Today, based on Summer 2025,

I'll carefully curate and introduce

only the most highly

recommended spots in Gapyeong.

A complete guide to summer

getaways in Gapyeong,

from valleys and water sports to

stylish accommodations!

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Three Popular Valleys in Gapyeong:

Focusing on spots with clear water and fewer crowds.

1. Yongchu Valley (Recommended for Couples)

Clear water, shady trees,

shallow water depth.

Plenty of picnic areas, tube

rental places, and acorn jelly

restaurants.

Nearby Yongchu Falls

walking trails are also popular.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

2. Jojongcheon Valley

(Recommended for Families with Children)

Shallow water suitable

for children under

elementary school age.

Close to Gapyeong-eup

with good facilities.

Many campgrounds and

valley pensions nearby.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

3. Myeongji Valley (Recommended

for those who enjoy peaceful

nature)

Located in Buk-myeon, Gapyeong.

A bit far from Seoul, but

very quiet.

Clean water, few stones, and

outstanding natural scenery.

Numerous Instagrammable

photo spots.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Pro Tip: Arrive early in the morning

to secure your spot in the valley!

Visiting on weekdays

rather than weekends is more

peaceful and pleasant.

A complete guide to summer

getaways in Gapyeong,

from valleys and water sports to

stylish accommodations!

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Nami Island & Jara Island

Water Activity Roundup!

1. Nami Island Water Activities

(Popular with Couples & Young Adults)

Water skiing, jet skiing,

banana boat, and wakeboarding

available.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Paddle boats, kayaks,

and water bikes are

also available.

Restaurants, trendy

cafes, and well-maintained

bike paths nearby.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

2. Jara Island Camping Zone +

Water Playground

Jara Island Water

Park opens every summer

(Expected in July 2025).

Children's pool

+ water slide

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Camping zone with tent

rentals and electrical

facilities available.

Shuttle buses operate

from Cheongpyeong Station and

Gapyeong Station, even without a car.

A complete guide to summer

getaways in Gapyeong,

from valleys and water sports to

stylish accommodations!

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Stylish Pensions &

Pool Villas – Perfect for Instagram!

1. Scenic View Stylish

Pension – 'Green Forest

Gapyeong Branch'

Nami Island view,

pool, and barbecue area

are all available.

'Stylish Glamping'

atmosphere. Kid-friendly pensions

also available.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

2. Private Pool Villa –

'Moonlight Garden'

Couple's spa,

private swimming pool, and

movie viewing system.

The Instagrammable cafe

'Madella' is only a 3-minute

walk away.

Reservations are essential at least 3 weeks

in advance during the summer peak season

(July-August)!

A complete guide to summer

getaways in Gapyeong,

from valleys and water sports to

stylish accommodations!

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Recommended Gapyeong Restaurants &

Trendy Cafes

1. Gapyeong Pine Nut Tofu Hot Pot

'Pine Scent Village'

Savory and mild hot pot

using Gapyeong's specialty

'pine nuts'

A traditional Korean restaurant

that satisfies both

the elderly and children.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

2. Trendy Cafe

'The Forest'

Scenic cafe near

Nami Island.

The view of the lawn and forest

beyond the open windows is

artistic!

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Recommended Menu: Iced Watermelon Juice &

Homemade Ade

A complete guide to summer

getaways in Gapyeong,

from valleys and water sports to

stylish accommodations!

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Things to Note for a

Summer Trip to Gapyeong

Traffic is very heavy

on weekends and holidays,

so be sure to leave early.

Be sure to bring bug

spray and non-slip

shoes near valleys.

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Advance reservations for

water activities + life jacket

are essential.

Some stores in areas

far from the city may not

accept credit cards.

To those who suffered

from the recent heavy rain!

Stay strong!

In conclusion (Recommendation

by Lee Ji-hye, Licensed Real Estate Agent)

Gapyeong is the best

summer getaway, close

to Seoul, with clear

water and vibrant nature.

Especially this summer, with

expected heat waves and tropical nights,

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

Gapyeong with its cool

valley water and refreshing forest

paths will be the best healing space.

How about a summer vacation

to Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong

with your children, loved ones, or parents?

Gyeonggi-do Gapyeong: Your Ultimate Summer Escape - Valleys, Water Sports, and Stylish Stays!

I,

Lee Ji-hye, Licensed Real Estate Agent,

will continue to share

great getaway information

based on my on-site

information and vivid experiences.

If you're looking for a peaceful escape into nature without the crowds, I highly recommend it! There are several spots along the valley, and we chose the one closest to our accommodation. It was a 10-minute walk, but we drove since there was a large public parking lot right in front.

The parking lot was spacious, and there were public restrooms a 5-minute walk away, so the basic amenities were satisfactory. There were also restaurants, convenience stores, and rental spaces for platforms nearby, which was very convenient.

We brought our own inflatable tube from home. We asked at a nearby rental place, "Can we pay to inflate our tube?" but they said we could only use their air pump if we rented a platform. (^^;)

In the end, we borrowed a manual pump from the convenience store owner. At first, my brother diligently pumped it by hand, but as he got more frustrated, he started blowing it up with his mouth. What a macho man! The owner was amused and laughed.

Finally, with the tube ready, we jumped into the valley! The water was so clear that we could clearly see the pebbles on the bottom and even small fish. The cool water against my feet sent shivers down my spine, instantly relieving the heat that had been building up all summer.

The water depth was mostly between knee and waist height, making it perfect for children or dogs to play. It might be a little shallow for adults, but it also made it safer to enjoy.

Of course, Shin Janggun's swimming time couldn't be missed! It was so adorable to see his little body cutting through the water, and people watching nearby even cheered him on. Thanks to him, we had even more fun.

The valley was surrounded by lush trees, providing some natural shade, but overall the sun was quite strong. The only sounds were cicadas, the wind, and the flowing water. Unlike the city, it was quiet and peaceful.

We also set up a tent, which made the space much better by blocking the hot sun. We took a short nap inside with Gun and cooled down a little.

The sun was so intense that the rocks without shade felt like hot plates. Even just sitting still, sweat was pouring down. So, here's a list of essential items to bring!

???? Essential Items List ????

☑️ Sunscreen / Sunglasses / Hat / Cooling Wipes
: Protect your skin from sunburns.

☑️ Parasol / Shade Shelter / Small Tent / Cooling Mat / Mat
: The rocks in unshaded areas get too hot to sit on. Shade is essential.

☑️ Ice Water / Cooler Bag / Cooling Mat
: Cool down with ice water, and use a cooler bag to store snacks and drinks.

☑️ Simple Snacks / Ice Packs

☑️ Aqua Shoes / Goggles / Waterproof Pouch / Waterproof Band-Aids

☑️ Wet Wipes / Tissues / Trash Bags

☑️ Dog Supplies

For lunch, we made ramen. The hot broth warmed us up after playing in the water, and the chewy noodles and rich broth, paired with a cold beer, were the perfect combination. It was a simple meal, but it felt much more special and delicious enjoyed in nature. Plus, it had my favorite onions, which made it even better.

Shin Janggun sunbathing. (Actually, the Kitty tube is Shin Janggun's.)

Sitting with my camping chair slightly submerged in the valley water was pure bliss. Dipping my feet in the cool water refreshed my whole body, and cleared my head. The gentle sound of the flowing water calmed my mind, and I could have stayed there for hours, lost in the peaceful moment surrounded by lush greenery.

On one side of the valley, there were stone towers carefully built by people. I added a stone and made a wish. Taking a break from everyday life was better than I thought.

Janggun was quite tired and wanted to go home now.

The dogs ran towards their owner without hesitation. They crossed to the other side in the blink of an eye and started playing happily.

This is from the barbecue at our accommodation in the evening.

The owner gave us corn, saying they had just steamed it. It was so delicious.

Oh, so cute. It hurts my heart.

After a filling meal, we took a walk and saw the stars in the night sky.

The sky was filled with shining stars and it was so beautiful.

Unlike noisy and crowded places, this valley offered a quiet and comfortable space to relax in nature. It was perfect for enjoying a refreshing swim, relaxing with my dog, and ending the day with simple ramen and a cold beer. I enjoyed it so much that I want to bring my parents next time, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.

That's the end of my recommendation post for the relaxing natural beauty spot, 'Unmunsa Valley' in Cheongdo!

I had hesitated when my daughter was in kindergarten, thinking it might be too physically demanding, but now that she's eight, I figured she could handle it, so I boldly went for it!

We decided to stick to the Yangyang area and chose a beach based on online searches and recommendations from acquaintances.

The candidates were:

Naksan Beach

Hyuhyuam Temple

Surfyy Beach

Namae 3-ri Beach

Sol Beach (Private Beach)

We ultimately decided on Namae 3-ri Beach because it's shallow and known for having lots of fish, making it great for young children.

I made a packing checklist in advance and started preparing the evening before the trip.

Since we were leaving early in the morning, I packed everything into the car the night before and went to bed early.

We woke up at 6 AM the next day and departed at 6:30 AM. But the moment we entered the highway... surprise!

The highway was already packed with cars. Wow.

If it's this crowded leaving from Hanam, what time do people leaving from Seoul have to get up?

Luckily, traffic wasn't as bad as expected, perhaps because it was before the kids' summer vacation.

We arrived in Yangyang at 9 AM.

The trip took about 2 hours and 45 minutes, not too bad!

Namae 3-ri Beach

There was plenty of parking, but it was a bit of a walk to the beach, so we used a cart to carry our luggage.

Namae 3-ri allows tents and sun shelters, so we set up our one-touch tent, mat, and parasol.

As soon as we unloaded, we headed straight for the sea.

The temperature was 27 degrees Celsius, so the water temperature was low, and the water was cold for me.

The sea was teeming with small fish.

But those little guys were fast!

No matter how hard we tried to catch them with the net, we couldn't catch a single one.

I wonder if we could have been successful with a lighter, smaller net...?

Ours was too big to swing quickly enough to catch the nimble fish in the water.

In the end, the handle even broke! LOL

Still, the fishing itself was pretty fun.

We planned to have pizza for lunch, but we were too hungry to wait until the opening time of 11 AM, so we ate mulhoe (spicy raw fish soup) at a nearby raw fish restaurant.

The sweet and sour mulhoe was delicious!!

In the afternoon, the beach got crowded, and the water became much cloudier than in the morning.

My daughter started riding the waves with her dad.

Even though the water was shallow, the waves were quite strong.

Riding the waves on a tube was fun! LOL

I relaxed on my newly purchased hammock and enjoyed the beach.

Sand play, instant noodles from the convenience store, a cup of coffee, and back to swimming – and it was already 5 PM.

We packed up the tent and luggage and took a warm shower at the paid shower room, which cost 4,000 won per person.

Namae 3-ri Beach has several public and private shower rooms, so you can easily shower even without accommodation.

For dinner, we ate pizza at 'Pizza Jungbiso,' which we couldn't have for lunch, and then took one last walk on the beach before heading home.

It was a fulfilling day without the burden of accommodation costs.

It was a little disappointing not to have a glass of beer in the evening, but I can have one comfortably at home.

Above all, the best part was that the road home was wide open!

I was always afraid of Sunday evening highway congestion and the stress of the following day, but there was none of that, so I was very satisfied.

I'll probably be going on day trips more often in the future!!

As a big fan of makguksu (buckwheat noodles), I headed straight for Yangyang Memil Ggot Hyanggi (양양메밀꽃향기).

The restaurant had a cozy, countryside vibe. Even though it was a bit past lunchtime, the place was bustling with people, a sure sign of a popular spot.

Without hesitation, we ordered makguksu, perilla oil makguksu, seasoned pollack, and yukjeon (thinly sliced beef pan-fried in egg batter).

The white kimchi and pickled onions were refreshing, and the dongchimi (radish water kimchi) broth was fantastic. The combination of yukjeon and seasoned pollack was truly amazing.

Our youngest is now old enough that we need to order one dish per person. The yukjeon was savory, the seasoned pollack was spicy, sweet, and mild, and the makguksu had a harmonious blend of subtle flavors and seasoning. Highly recommended!

First, we decided to drop off our luggage at our accommodation, Dongshin Guesthouse, which we booked through Airbnb.

It was a very old-fashioned countryside house, located right among the restaurants along the main road. Parking for 3-4 cars is possible in the yard if you're good at it. But there's also a free public parking lot just across the street, and you can park along the shoulder of the road in front of the guesthouse.

It was a small one-room minbak (Korean-style guesthouse), but it had everything we needed. They even provide complimentary cup ramen for each guest!

They also offer special lighting. They ask you to leave the used towels in front of your room every morning, and they generously provide fresh ones.

The bathroom was a bit cramped, but it was affordable and perfectly fine for showering, and the hot water worked great.

For a 2-night, 3-day stay, it was a good value compared to the peak season prices of other accommodations.

Naksan Beach was just across the street, so we unpacked and immediately took the kids to play at the beach.

The weather was a bit cloudy, but it was actually better because the sun wasn't too strong.

I even enjoyed a can of beer. I tried Modelo, a beer I saw for the first time at Emart. I remembered hearing that it was the #1 beer in the US, so I gave it a try. It was okay.

Naksan Beach has breakwaters on both sides, and so many resort buildings are being built nearby. It was a bit noisy, and the water wasn't as clean as I expected, which was a bit disappointing.

After playing in the water, we were all tired and decided to have some Korean BBQ!

Right next to the guesthouse was a Korean BBQ restaurant called Gogi Maeul (고기마을).

The small restaurant was packed with customers.

We placed our order using a QR code. These days, we often encounter this type of ordering system.

Because we were so hungry, we started with chadolbagi (thinly sliced beef brisket), then moved on to beef short rib, and finally seasoned galbi (marinated beef short ribs).

The side dishes were quite delicious. I prefer my chadolbagi a bit thicker than the super-thin style, and this was relatively thick and tender, so even our youngest enjoyed it.

We also had beef short rib, but I was too busy grilling and eating to take any pictures. LOL

The seasoned galbi we ordered last was very sweet, the marinade was well-infused, and there was no unpleasant smell, so it was very tasty. I recommend Gogi Maeul!

After dinner, we took a walk and captured some memories with a "Life Four Cuts" photo booth.

The kids were so excited about taking photos like this after a long time. Each booth had a bill changer and accepted credit cards. There were also various props for decorating the photos, which made it even more fun to take photos in a tourist spot.

In the middle of the night, our youngest had a fever and our oldest had an upset stomach! What a dynamic vacation...

Most of the convenience stores near the beach were closed late at night, but the GS25 Naksan Beach branch was open at 2:30 AM, and fortunately, they sold over-the-counter medicine, so I was able to buy fever reducers.

Even so, the beach is still a must-go in the hot summer!

Parasols at Naksan Beach cost ₩15,000 (transfer possible), and table parasols cost ₩30,000. LOL

Most of all, I cherish

ordinary life.

But most of all, I cherish the ordinary.

And I still do.

Not in big cities like Incheon or Busan, but somewhere like Pohang or Jeju, with a real 'badang' (sea).

But after visiting Busan...

I was so captivated by its beauty and delicious food that I even wanted to live there!

Anticipating our 'Bussan' adventure with friends, let's start Day 2 and 3 of our Busan trip!

Our itinerary included: Ijaemo Pizza - Busan International Market - Yongdusan Park - Tongdosa Temple in Yangsan - Gwangalli Beach - Jagalchi Fish Market - Dadaepo Beach - Suyeong Pork Rice Soup.

After an hour-long wait, we finally got our hands on Ijaemo Pizza!

I kinda want to eat it again~

Then, we started exploring the International Market, which we missed seeing yesterday due to our late arrival.

Since we're in Busan, we had to try 'eomultteok' (fish cake skewers) and 'bibidang' (spicy glass noodles)!

I think it was around 8,000 won for everything? The prices weren't too bad.

The fish cake was definitely thick and delicious.

Slurp!

I'm from Bupyeong too!

Turns out, Busan is an international city! There were so many foreign tourists.

I really appreciated that they didn't overcharge and kept prices reasonable.

My mom had been singing praises about the 'chungmu kimbap' (small seaweed rice rolls).

It's so simple, but why is it so delicious? We even took some to go!

My parents enjoyed it. Eating it while sitting on bathhouse stools is a special treat.

The owner was so generous and kept giving us an extra two or three pieces each time.

Next, we visited an ice flake dessert shop that had been featured on a TV show (internal sense of familiarity).

In a world where milk-based shaved ice is all the rage, it was amazing to see them shaving ice in the old-fashioned way.

My dad especially loved it.

The red bean paste didn't taste artificially sweet, perhaps because they made it themselves. It was much tastier than I expected.

Commemorative shot of finishing our bowls! Ah, so full.

Our next destination was Yongdusan Park. It was a really hot day, but we mustered the courage to climb up.

It had been 10 years since I last visited Yongdusan – I was 20 then.

I saw a cute kitty at Yongdusan Park.

It was taking a nap. Now, with a heavy heart, we're off to Tongdosa Temple in Yangsan.

Tongdosa Temple, one of Korea's five major temples, was peaceful and quiet since we visited in the late afternoon.

A pristine stream flowed in front.

The entrance was beautifully adorned with crape myrtles.

We finished touring the temple and were heading back down.

We stopped on the bridge to admire the stream again.

Originally, we were supposed to return to Incheon… but...

We were disappointed that we hadn't seen or eaten everything we wanted in Busan, so we decided to go back!

LOLOLOLOL

Seriously... I'm starting to feel like a P (a 'planning' type personality).

Back to Busan! Our first stop was Gwangalli Beach.

But… there wasn't a single parking spot!

Even considering it was a Friday evening, this was just too much…

My mom and I got out to take a quick look, but my dad only had a brief glimpse while desperately searching for parking.

With a tinge of disappointment, we zoomed off to Jagalchi!

Busan's nightlife is vibrant.

We couldn't leave without having 'gomjangeo' (hagfish)!

So, we wandered around and settled on a restaurant.

I can't remember where we went last time, but I'll definitely memorize this place!

Side dishes!

The three of us looking tired LOLOLOL

Thanks to the owner's kindness, we were also able to order grilled fish!

So good! It was even better than most dedicated grilled fish restaurants.

My beloved 'gomjangeo'…

It tasted like something my grandma from the countryside would make – a healthy, wholesome flavor that made it even more delicious.

It even tasted like my mom's cooking LOLOL

I wouldn't recommend this place if you're looking for a spicy and intense flavor.

Finished off with fried rice~

The next day...

Today is really the day we're going back.

Today we absolutely have to go home.

We spent our last morning in Busan at Dadaepo Beach.

Enjoying this leisurely time~

Our last lunch in Busan was…

Pork Rice Soup, which we failed at on the first day, attempt #2!

Would it be any good?

It was tasty, but not to the point where I'd want to come back. The kimchi wasn't my style either. But the servers were very friendly.

The boiled pork slices were a little tasty. I think it's because I wasn't that hungry.

Suspension Bridge

Hwangpo Sailboats and Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Silleuksa Temple

Hwangpo Sailboats Visible Even from Silleuksa

Red Spider Lilies and Crape Myrtles

Two People with Bad Luck Shopping for Amulets

The Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) is So Beautiful!

Pottery Complex and Warning Sign in Front of the Parking Lot

​

Andong is a city where you can experience the essence of Korean tradition and beauty.

From serene Seowon (Confucian academies) and traditional houses (Hanok), to delicious food and the stunning night view along the Nakdong River, Andong offers a captivating experience.

Let me introduce you to a short but fulfilling 2-day itinerary.

Day 1: Andong City & Traditional Village Focus

1. Hahoe Village

A representative traditional Korean village designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The abundance of thatched-roof houses and historic residences gives you the feeling of stepping back into the Joseon Dynasty.

Hahoe Village Information

Location: Pungcheon-myeon, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Admission: Adults ₩5,000 / Teenagers ₩2,500 / Children ₩1,500

Hours: Summer (March-October) 09:00-18:00, Winter (November-February) 09:00-17:00

Transportation: Approximately 1km from the parking lot to the village → Shuttle bus service (free)

Key Attractions

Traditional Houses and Historic Residences - A blend of noblemen's houses and thatched-roof houses showcases the village structure of the Joseon Dynasty.

Hahoe Mask Museum - Located near the village. Provides explanations about the Hahoe Byeolsingut Mask Dance along with various mask exhibitions. It's a useful place to understand the origins and meanings of the masks.

Hahoe Byeolsingut Mask Dance - Performances are held on specific days and times (free admission). Be sure to check the performance schedule when visiting the village.

Buyongdae Cliff - A cliffside observation deck overlooking the Nakdong River. Famous as a photo spot where you can see the entire view of Hahoe Village at a glance.

Map: Provided free of charge at the entrance. Shows the locations of major historic residences, the Mask Museum, and performance venues.

Guided Tours: Available with a guide upon prior reservation (fee applies).

Tip: Visiting during the Hahoe Byeolsingut Mask Dance performance time will make it even more enjoyable.

2. Byeongsan Seowon (Approx. 10 minutes by car from Hahoe Village)

A beautiful Seowon built overlooking the Nakdong River.

The scenery with the river and mountains in view is truly breathtaking.

Highly recommended as a great photo spot!

3. Andong Gu Market & Jjimdak Alley

For dinner, you can't miss Andong Jjimdak, which is synonymous with Andong.

A glass of Makgeolli (Korean rice wine) with Jjimdak, well-seasoned and simmered chicken dish, will relieve the fatigue of your trip.

4. Check-in to Accommodation

5. Wolyeonggyo Bridge Night View

Take an evening stroll at Wolyeonggyo Bridge.

The longest wooden bridge in Korea stretching over the Nakdong River, subtle lighting, and the lights reflected on the river are so romantic.

Make sure to bring your camera. It's a famous spot for taking memorable photos!

Day 2 – Eastern Area Seowon Tour: A Day of Culture and Leisure

1. Dosan Seowon

A Seowon dedicated to the great Joseon scholar Toegye Yi Hwang.

Surrounded by lush forests, taking a walk will calm your mind.

Location: 154 Togye-gil, Dosan-myeon, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Admission: Adults ₩2,000 / Teenagers ₩700 / Children ₩500

Hours: 09:00 ~ 18:00 (Until 17:00 in winter, no closing on Mondays)

Parking: Free parking available

Historical Significance

Established in 1574 by disciples and scholars after the death of Toegye Yi Hwang (1501-1570), a representative Neo-Confucian scholar of the mid-Joseon period, based on Dosan Seodang, a private academy where he taught.

It was the center of Confucian education and scholarship during the Joseon Dynasty and greatly influenced the development of Neo-Confucianism in later generations.

Currently, it is designated and preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Seowon, Korean Neo-Confucian Academies, inscribed in 2019).

2. Andong Traditional Culture Contents Museum

A place where you can experience Andong's Confucian culture and various traditional content in an interesting way.

Especially recommended if you are traveling with children!

3. Imcheonggak (Near Andong Station, easy vehicle access)

→ Historic house related to the independence movement, cultural property viewing

A historic house imbued with the spirit of independence activists during the Japanese colonial period.

Kim Gu also visited this place, where you can feel both the pain and pride of our modern history.

4. Lunch with Andong Salted Mackerel Set Menu

For the last meal, try Andong's representative dish, Salted Mackerel!

The salty yet savory taste will make you empty a bowl of rice in no time.

5. Return Home

Travel Tips

Be sure to try Andong Soju, Salted Mackerel, and Jjimdak.

A camera is essential! The traditional houses during the day and the Wolyeonggyo Bridge night view are the highlights.

Conclusion

Andong is not just a tourist destination, but a city that embodies our tradition and spirit.

Although it's a short 2-day trip, it will be a journey that leaves a lasting impression on your heart.

I'm grateful for the freedom to move around, the opportunity to try anything I want – all thanks to the patriotism and sacrifice of so many.

Speaking of patriotism, one of my favorite actors consistently posts the Korean flag. I truly admire a person of substance!

Finally, after almost three years, I'm taking a summer vacation! It's so precious and special that I decided to go to Jeju Island!

The day before leaving, we all got together and enjoyed 60계 쯔란 chicken wings.

So good! If you want to enjoy the cumin flavor even more, sprinkle on the sauce that comes with it. Highly recommended!

Our flight was early, so we left in the morning. I hadn't been to Jeju since my high school field trip, so I was really excited!

Taking this photo is practically a rule, so I took one too! Then, we headed straight to the rental car place and picked up our pre-booked car.

We went to Wangbeotkkot Baekban (King Cherry Blossom Set Meal) restaurant near the airport. As soon as we walked in, the delicious smell was amazing.

The two owners were incredibly kind and friendly – just the best! (I felt so good the whole time I was eating there.)

We ordered the marinated crab and grilled tilefish set meal. While we waited, we had a nice chat with the owners.

Side dishes kept coming and coming! They said they get up early to make them all themselves.

First of all, everything looked delicious. And the side dishes weren't salty at all, but savory and tasty. It felt like eating my grandmother's home cooking!

The soy sauce marinated crab wasn't too salty and was really delicious. If you go to Jeju Island, you should definitely check it out! Even the price is reasonable.

One of my companions finished two bowls of rice...it was that good! Satisfied with our meal, we headed to Starbucks.

Our accommodation was near Seogwipo, so we had to drive for over an hour. I tried a Jeju-only menu item at Starbucks, but it was just okay.

We were so tired on the first day that we decided to go to our accommodation and rest. When we entered the room, there was a strange, musty smell. When I asked about it, they said the smell was coming from the rug.

They offered to change our room, but the new room had the same smell! In the end, we sprayed a ton of air freshener. It was really bad. I just booked it without thinking, but after checking the reviews later, I saw that others had similar experiences.

So, we opened the windows and made a fuss!

Because of the smell issue, we gave up on resting and went to a nearby beach. I searched online and found Oedolgae Rock, so we just went there, but it wasn't a sandy beach! We were both surprised, like "Huh? What?" and then headed to Pyoseon Beach.

The water was shallower than expected, but it was clear and felt good. After dipping our feet in and looking around, we went to Olle Market.

Olle Market was packed with people. We waited in line to get some sliced raw fish to take away and looked around the market. We bought souvenirs and sent some Hallabong oranges home.

As soon as we got back, we washed up and ate! Oh my gosh...it was so delicious! I could eat sliced raw fish for the rest of my life! The boiled octopus was also amazing! We ate well, took a nice walk, and then went to sleep.

I wanted to try Seaweed Kimbap when I came to Jeju Island! I searched a lot and found 'Gujaengiga Kimbap Soge'. This place is really, really good! I really love kimbap, and I can't forget this one.

If someone asked me, "Would you eat that kimbap for every meal?" I'd say yes! It was a kimbap place where the price wasn't a waste.

I also heard that Ojeong Kimbap was famous, and I wanted to try it, but it was closed. I'll have to try it next time. On the way to Songaksan Mountain, the trumpet creepers were so pretty that I took a picture.

Why did my expression look like that in the picture? LOL. I was speechless! I really enjoyed looking at the sea and walked along the Songaksan Mountain trail! It was humid, but I felt accomplished.

I heard that a scene from the Korean drama "Dae Jang Geum" was filmed there, so I took a picture.

After looking around, we decided to go play at Jungmun Saekdal Beach. The waves were amazing! It was so much fun! But they announced that jellyfish were appearing, so we played with the thought of running away immediately. Some people were surfing next to us, and I thought I'd like to try that someday.

We played for about an hour and a half, but it started raining a lot, so we went to wash up. But only cold water came out, so I was freezing! But I washed everything off cleanly.

Even after swimming and showering, my eyeliner didn't come off! I love you, Wakemake Iron Wall Pen Eyeliner! It didn't smudge at all. Even though I touched and wiped around my eyes a lot...it's just the best! I've been using this product for 3 years.

I was hungry, so we went to McDonald's. Originally, ramen after swimming is a must, but because of the rain, we couldn't.

Then we went to Olle Market and ate black pork. It was so delicious! I also tried a glass of Hallasan soju. Wow...I just, well...it was too bitter.

And then I tried Jangin Dumplings, which I'd wanted to try. Wow...the skin was thin and the filling was packed! 12,000 won? Not a waste. You should try it.

We tried to eat at Yeondon on the last day, so we waited in line, but we gave up because of our flight time. Instead, we ate seafood ramen. They said they don't use separate soup packets, but make the seasoning and cook everything from scratch.

There were a lot of seafood and it was delicious! Then we went on a crazy souvenir shop tour and bought pudding at the airport. I ate chocolate and custard, and I'm a chocolate person! It was rich and good.

While I was in Jeju Island, I focused on taking everything in with my eyes and relaxing, so I didn't take many pictures.

But I made unforgettable memories. Next time, I'll have to plan better!

But what I felt while traveling in Jeju Island was that it was like a ghost town. I didn't see people while driving around. There were crowds at really famous restaurants or Olle Market, but there was no one during the day. It felt like I only saw cars. But I still had a fun trip to Jeju! My healing trip is over!

A place with no breathing room, a desolate landscape of buildings.

But as someone who has lived and grown up in Seoul my whole life,

I find that a bit unfair, haha.

Seoul alone has 25 administrative districts (gu).

And, of course, each district has its own unique vibe.

So, as a Seoul native,

I'd like to share a travelogue of my healing trip to Seoul, when I was tired of Seoul.

The story begins when I left work early and went to Apgujeong Hyundai Department Store.

I had taken a half-day off, but I was still working.

Leaving the office, dragging my suitcase, and picking up the moon jar cake I had pre-ordered—all while attending a Google Meet.

To make matters worse, Apgujeong Hyundai's food court was crowded like a marketplace.

I really wanted to escape somewhere.

So, where did someone as busy as me escape to?

Seochon.

My arrival time was slightly off from my partner's, so I decided to head to the accommodation I had booked first.

It wasn't easy getting there with a suitcase and a cake on a rainy, humid day.

But once I arrived,

I finally felt like I could relax,

and my heart felt lighter.

I did do a little work during the break, but…

After my partner arrived, we had lunch.

It was ongsimi makguksu (potato noodle soup) and buckwheat crepes.

With our bellies full,

our Seochon trip began.

My partner and I really love Seochon.

Seochon refers to the neighborhood west of Gyeongbokgung Palace.

It generally encompasses Cheongunhyoja-dong and Sajik-dong, nestled against Mount Inwang.

Perhaps because it's near Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the most historically significant areas in Seoul(?)

It's famous for its concentration of traditional Hanok houses.

It is also a neighborhood where tradition and modernity blend together.

More than anything, it's a place where you can feel the old ways and a sense of leisure in the heart of bustling Seoul.

After lunch, the first place we visited was

Intelligentsia Coffee Seochon.

I've been to the one in Myeongdong before,

but I heard the Seochon branch was in a Hanok style,

so I was curious and decided to go.

My partner smelled the coffee.

Since it's an American coffee brand known for its drip coffee and beans, they offered a scent test.

Even though it's an American coffee chain,

the fact that they built the Seochon branch using a Hanok was

interesting and somehow strange.

Anyway, we ordered a house blend drip coffee and

an Angelino, Intelligentsia's signature drink.

It wasn't bad, but it didn't have the same wow factor as when I had it in Myeongdong (why?).

After that, we wandered around without a destination and stumbled upon a bookstore.

Internal photography was not allowed,

so I can't upload any pictures, but

the owner seemed very passionate about the books.

There were also reviews attached and books selected to fit certain themes,

which made it fun to browse.

After that, we kept walking without a destination.

My partner is great at finding his way around.

I, on the other hand, am a notoriously terrible navigator.

He has the ability to know which way we've come and what new paths lie ahead.

Walking into an area we hadn't been before, we found

Dodo, a pottery studio by a ceramic artist.

Each piece of pottery, made using a potter's wheel,

had its own unique charm.

I really wanted to buy something, but I already have too many ceramics, so I just admired them and left.

Nearby was a place called Eco Coop,

so we went in as if we were drawn by magic.

It had a plastic mill that I hadn't seen in a long time.

It was a place that upcycled plastic lids, etc.,

and it had been years since I last saw one!

Eco Coop Jongno not only had a plastic mill,

but also a store that mainly sold products made with Korean agricultural products and eco-friendly goods.

I think this was 7,000 won.

We bought rice bread here!

The size was small and the ingredients were good,

so we ate it without thinking, but later I realized

it had over 1,000 calories, which was betraying. (Still, it tasted good toasted.)

It was time to go home~

But on the way, we discovered Youngkwang Chicken.

It was a market-style chicken, which is rare these days.

My partner wanted to eat it while watching the Asian Cup Korea vs. China game,

so we bought it.

The price was 20,000 won, but the portion was huge.

It also came with fries and chicken gizzards, which made it a great deal.

I don't really like chicken that much,

so I only ate one drumstick, but it tasted good.

After buying drinks at the supermarket, it was already almost 8 PM.

After showering and feeling refreshed,

we watched the Asian Cup, but unfortunately,

we didn't make it to the semi-finals.

Nevertheless, we were very moved

by the national basketball team's tenacious efforts to win, even by a little,

and by the unique teamwork of One Team Korea.

My partner says he cries whenever he sees player Lee Hyun-joong, haha.

After the first half of the basketball game,

we had a 2-year anniversary celebration during a short break.

My partner asked if we should have dinner at a fancy restaurant,

but for some reason, I didn't want to do that in Seochon.

Our two-year anniversary party ended with

Asian Cup talk, fried chicken, and dalgona cake—

a messy mix of everything.

A day in Seochon, spent not following what others do,

not following a course set by Instagram,

but entirely on our own whims and impulsive preferences.

Since my husband and son won't be able to make it to Dad's memorial next week, we decided to visit my parents' house in advance.

My husband took an afternoon off, and my son had school, so he headed straight to Yeosu after classes.

For the first time, we took the Ulsan-Haman Expressway and crossed the Yi Sun-sin Bridge to Yeosu!

Usually, when we go to Yeosu, we take the route through Suncheon without crossing the Yi Sun-sin Bridge because we're primarily visiting Dad. But this time, we were running late, and we planned to see Dad on our way back to Ulsan, so we took the bridge.

The sunset hour.

Watching the sunset over the sea, dyed purple, filled me with emotion.

Mom had dinner with her grandchildren at my younger sister's house, so we decided to grab dinner as well.

We arrived in Yeosu around 8 PM, and most of the restaurants were closed except for Korean BBQ places and pubs.

I remembered enjoying the pork ribs at Sansu Galbi in Yeoseo-dong, so we considered going there. However, my husband had a company dinner at Matchandeul two days prior, and my son had dinner with his girlfriend at Goindol, so they both had pork recently. While we were pondering, we saw a popular Dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) restaurant near Sansu Galbi and decided to go there instead.

Our first time at a Dakgalbi place in Yeoseo-dong - <Here Dak>!

The crowd gave us high hopes.

Side dishes.

Though not pictured, they also provided lettuce and chili peppers for wraps. There was a self-serve bar for additional side dishes.

We ordered 3 servings of Dakgalbi - medium spice.

You can choose between mild, medium, and spicy. We went with medium.

Large pieces of vegetables and clean, well-prepared chicken.

I can't even remember the last time I went to a Dakgalbi restaurant - it's been ages!

We also ordered fried rice to enjoy after finishing the Dakgalbi.

The next morning.

A McDonald's opened near Mom's house, and I was going to get McMuffins for breakfast. However, Mom insisted we have at least one meal at home and quickly prepared breakfast with what she had in the fridge.

I told Mom the afternoon before that we were coming to Yeosu. She said she wished I had told her earlier because she had a meeting that evening and needed to look after the kids at my sister's house. She apologized for not having time to go to the market.

I explained that we were visiting early since we couldn't make it for the memorial service, just to see her face. She said, "Why put Moon's husband (referring to me) through the trouble of traveling back and forth? Don't bother coming!" But we still visited.

She hurriedly made aged kimchi stew and steamed eggs.

Mom wanted us to stay for lunch, but my son had a soccer game with his friends in the afternoon...--;;

Since it was a holiday weekend, we expected traffic, so we left early after breakfast.

While we were eating breakfast, my sister's family said they'd come by to see us, so we saw my sister and nieces/nephews before leaving.

It was a hot but sunny summer day.

The road to see Dad was filled with lush greenery.

Although not pictured, there was also a crape myrtle grove, making it a great road to fully experience summer.

Dad! Your eldest daughter, eldest son-in-law, and eldest grandson came to visit!

We took the Ulsan-Haman Expressway back as well.

The expressway from Haman to Ulsan via Miryang has so many tunnels!!!

But the lush mountains between the tunnels made it feel like a scenic drive.

Mom packed four kinds of kimchi for us.

Since I only told her the day before that we were coming, she said she couldn't prepare any side dishes. So she packed four kinds of kimchi for us - last year's napa cabbage kimchi, altari (ponytail radish kimchi), Dolsan mustard leaf kimchi, and scallion kimchi.

We've been living without kimchi for almost 2-3 weeks, but thanks to Mom, we're kimchi rich!

Oh, and although not pictured, Mom also packed zucchini & salted shrimp stir-fry and cucumber salad, both made with vegetables she picked from the rooftop garden that morning. She also steamed and froze Dolsan glutinous corn because my son likes cheese corn.

For lunch on the way home, we got hamburgers at Burger King (no picture because we were busy organizing the kimchi).

For dessert, we had coffee with a honey yellow peach, brewed with coffee beans gifted by my sister-in-law, and a Chosun Hotel cheesecake sent by my brother-in-law. It was a delightful coffee time with my husband.

My son, after eating his hamburger, went out to play soccer in 36-degree Celsius weather...--;;

Our dinner.

My younger sister sent me a Baemin gift certificate for my birthday, so we ordered sashimi from Baemin for the first time in a while.

And last week, I went to Kaja Liquor to buy wine and found a Spanish wine that we enjoyed at the Spanish Club. So, I bought it.

Sashimi and white wine - yum yum yum.

We ordered a small portion of sashimi for the two of us, but just as we were about to eat, my son came home, saying he was tired from playing soccer in the heat. He hadn't eaten dinner with his friends, so he joined us.

At the Haeundae Spanish Club, we had the wine for around 60,000 won, but at Kaja Liquor, it was in the low to mid 20,000 won range.

It's a white wine made with the Verdejo grape variety, with a pleasant sweetness and subtle flavor.

Perhaps it wasn't chilled enough, or maybe the food pairing at the Spanish Club was so perfect that it tasted better there. It wasn't as delicious as I remembered from the Spanish Club, but it was still a pleasant wine.

Next time, I should try it with cheese & crackers or fruit!

After the wine, we started talking non-stop again.

My son was still hungry, so he wanted ramen. We made him a pot of chewy ramen to finish off the night!

Ramen for dinner is the best!

Today, Trendtreat introduces a hot domestic travel destination:

Jeonju's "Hanok Village" :)

We'll cover everything from how to get to Jeonju Station from Seoul to

must-visit spots in Hanok Village.

<Table of Contents>

1. Getting to Jeonju: KTX vs. SRT

2. Hanok Village Restaurants & Cafes

3. Things to Do in Hanok Village

1. Getting to Jeonju: KTX vs. SRT

KTX departs from Seoul Station, and SRT departs from Suseo Station.

So, naturally, it's best to choose the station that's closer to your home,

but...

I used the SRT this time.

The reason is that it's cheaper than KTX!

KTX (Seoul - Jeonju Station): ₩34,600 one way

SRT (Suseo - Jeonju Station): ₩29,700 one way

Plus, KTX tickets sell out very early,

so if you plan your trip late, SRT might be your only option!

I recommend booking KTX 3 weeks in advance and SRT 1-2 weeks in advance!

Because most travelers want to depart in the morning,

you should book your tickets well in advance.

The interior of the KTX is much cleaner,

but the SRT doesn't have standing tickets,

which is a plus because it doesn't feel crowded. ㅎㅎ

2. Hanok Village Restaurants & Cafes

Jeonju Hanok Village is a 10-15 minute taxi ride from Jeonju Station.

A big advantage of Jeonju is that all the great restaurants and beautiful cafes are

located within Hanok Village!

While Gyeongju Hanok Village is just one alleyway,

Jeonju is closer to a real 'village,' so it's very large.

I'm going to introduce three restaurants and two cafes

that I personally visited and enjoyed.

Restaurant ①

#Veteran Noodles

Although this place is famous with tourists, taxi drivers also

highly recommend this noodle restaurant.

It's filled with perilla seed powder and seaweed flakes, and

the broth is so rich and delicious with egg 풀어서.. oh my gosh..

Instead of flat noodles like regular kalguksu,

the thick noodles are like chewy noodles, so they go down smoothly.

If it suits your taste, it'll be your favorite kalguksu!

It was the most delicious food I ate in Jeonju.

The soymilk noodles are so-so!

It basically contains salt,

so if you're a sugar person, I recommend asking them to leave it out beforehand.

The dumplings are highly recommended!

The skin is really thin and the savory flavor is amazing.

Restaurant ②

#Gyodong Grilled Bulgogi

If you came with your child or lover,

I recommend this bulgogi restaurant for dinner!

Parking: Hanok Village Public Parking Lot

Crispy bulgogi is the signature dish,

It tastes like thin and sweet tteokgalbi!

The yukhoe bibimbap (beef tartare bibimbap) is more tangy than Jeonju bibimbap,

so it goes well with bulgogi.

Although bulgogi is the main dish, it feels like a side dish,

so I recommend ordering bibimbap rather than just rice!

Restaurant ③

#Jeonju Hyundaiok

As essential as bibimbap,

Jeonju Nambu Market-style bean sprout soup!

A characteristic of the Jeonju style is that it is served with poached egg and seaweed.

Interestingly, unlike the Seoul style,

it doesn't come boiling hot, but moderately warm.

It doesn't have squid toppings, just a lot of

bean sprouts and red sesame seeds.

I like hot soup,

so I felt something was missing,

but my friends who went with me raved about how delicious it was.

The seasoning is bland, but it goes perfectly

with seaweed & squid jeotgal (salted seafood).

Cafes to visit during the day

#Cafe1938

An atmospheric cafe where every item is a work of art ☕️

At first glance, it's clear that the owner is running this cafe as a hobby,

every retro item is a gem.

Items for sale / No photography allowed

I tried all three signature drinks, and

wow.. they're all just delicious.

In particular, I highly recommend the milk tea with a strong black tea flavor!

The Maldon Salt Latte is very salty (positive),

and the 1938 Latte has a tiramisu feel.

Cafes to visit at night

#Irri

Because multiple traditional Korean houses are connected,

it's a very beautiful place, especially at night.

Perfect Hanok backgrounds and lighting for your Instagram shots

It's quite spacious and

there are plenty of seats if you come on a weekday.

There are various types of seats, such as Hanok tatami-style, sofa seats, and group seats,

so it's great for visiting with multiple people!

Drinks are at least ₩8,500..

Taste: Let's just ignore it.

Actually, it's really bad.

But if aesthetics are important, I recommend it.

3. Things to Do in Hanok Village

I'll also introduce a few

things to do in Hanok Village!

[Must-Try Street Food]

#Gilgeoriya

YouTuber Pungja picked Gilgeoriya's baguette burger

as the most delicious food in Jeonju!

It's like a croquette filled with stuffing,

it's subtly spicy, and it's as big as your forearm, so you'll feel full.

[Gacha Shop right in front of Gilgeoriya]

#EurachachaJeonju

This place has many rare items, such as a radio gacha that can even record.

Price caution / Non-refundable after issuing exclusive coins

[Jeonju Hanok Village Museum]

#DonghakRevolutionMemorialHall

Jeonju Hanok Village has many museums, such as hat, liquor, and insect museums & Gyeonggijeon Shrine!

I visited here, but I think it would be good to choose

and visit a place that suits your taste.

Admission is mostly free!

If you come with children, I recommend

trying the paid making & experience service.

[Souvenir shop version of Cafe 1938]

#Cafe1938Mansion

This is a souvenir shop that is a 1-minute walk

from the cafe I introduced earlier.

There are no pictures because all photography is prohibited,

but the props and vintage clothes are so pretty, so I highly recommend it⭐️

+ Tips

Jeonju Choco Pie written as PNB is the original!

I tried other brands, but only PNB's

has a bumpy shape as if it was made directly, not in a factory, and

the basic flavor also contains strawberry jam inside :)

Gyeongju 6,000 won trip course

Befriend Trendtreat and receive hot travel news

I've planned a great driving route for you!

Forget the usual Oido and Daebudo.

Let's go to Ganghwa Island!

Escape the weekday work, shopping mall crowds,

and take a day trip to somewhere peaceful!

​

We went on Liberation Day, so the roads were jammed everywhere,

but surprisingly, the roads to Ganghwa Island were wide open, so we went!

First, we enjoyed lunch at a local Chinese restaurant!

It was my first time trying cold soybean noodle soup (Kongguksu).

Not bad at all! ?

(I'm on team sugar.)

​

Siheung -> Ganghwa Island is probably about an hour away.

We set Jeondeungsa Temple as our destination and headed off.

​

My mom is a famous weather fairy.

It was pouring rain back home while we were eating jjajangmyeon,

but within 10 minutes of leaving, the sun was shining brightly!

​

We paid 3,000 won for parking and walked up to Jeondeungsa Temple.

​

Looking for cute monks on the way to the temple.

I love these walking paths.

Is that valley water coming down from the mountain?

A centuries-old ginkgo tree.

A ginkgo tree that has experienced all the changes in the world.

​

Cute carp and goldfish (?) in a small pond in front of Jukrim Dawon (tea house).

And a pond reflecting the sky.

A tea house at the entrance.

When I went inside, I saw a Blue Ribbon sticker!

It was such a nice place to have mugwort rice cake and a glass of lemonade.

If I go again, I'd like to go in the breezy autumn to have warm tea and

eat mugwort rice cake.

​

A picture of my mom before entering Jeondeungsa Temple.

​

There are several small buildings, and it's nice to look around each one and clear your mind.

A protected tree covered in moss.

It's like a work of art.

​

A tree seen from a high place.

People sheltering from the sun underneath it.

Huisook-ssi praying.

A bell swaying in the breeze.

​

After seeing Jeondeungsa Temple, it was too hot to walk around outside,

so we went to the Incheon Sanghoe Museum.

A place that exhibits old snacks, alcohol, and other items.

The entrance fee is 8,000 won, but it wasn't worth it for me.

What's most amazing is how they collected all of this?

The design of the Bboppona Candy I saw here was so cute.

We quickly looked around and went to Seokmodo Island!

​

A great course for a drive.

​

We stopped by Seokmodo Island for a drive,

and ended the day with a dinner of mulhoe (spicy raw fish soup) and sweet and sour marinated gizzard shad from Seoul Seafood Restaurant.

Happy ending to the day!

Oh, and my mom told me about Osipseju (50-year-old liquor). haha

Does anyone know this?

Mixing Baeksseju (Korean rice wine) and soju half and half

is very good.

Recommended if you like sake-like liquor.

A stylish day trip course:

Ganghwa Island Jeondeungsa Temple -> Incheon Sanghoe -> Seokmodo Island Drive -> Seoul Seafood Restaurant Mulhoe

​

If you go in the fall or winter...

Highly recommend Seokmodo Mineral Hot Springs.

The open-air bath view is amazing.

You can go with your boyfriend, family, everyone.

We departed at 8 AM and arrived at Naksansa Temple after a 2 hour and 20 minute drive.

The parasol rental was 15,000 won. The kids were a little worried because of the jellyfish last year.

But the temperature, waves, and water depth at Yangyang Naksan Beach were all perfect.

Last year, the water felt a bit cold and the waves seemed high, so we left Naksan Beach and went to Lighthouse Beach. But today, we played in the ocean from morning until 4 PM!

Even though Dogun has grown a lot since last year, he's still a little scared of the waves. He preferred playing in the sand, while Ayang didn't want to leave the water.

Yangyang in Gangwon-do is a place our Doa family visits every year. We love it!

Because there was a chance of rain on the second day, we played as much as we could on the first day.

Our accommodation was near downtown Yangyang. This past April, we stayed at a hotel right in front of Naksan Beach, but the price had gone up significantly. So, the Doa family, always looking for good value, chose a pension.

We ordered mul-naengmyeon (cold noodles in water), bibim-naengmyeon (spicy cold noodles), and suyuk (boiled pork slices) from Naksan Jinmyeonok. But for our cold noodle-loving family, it wasn't that impressive. The kids didn't really like the pollock, and the broth was just okay. The owner was kind, though.

We stopped by the Yangyang market and ordered a half-and-half fried chicken from Cheogatjip Fried Chicken and packed a plate of sliced raw fish.

We enjoyed our first night at the accommodation with ramen.

On the second day, there was a forecast of 4mm of rain. Dogun wanted to see the sunrise, so we woke up at 5 AM. But the sky was cloudy, and Dogun showed no signs of waking up. I went to Seorak Sunrise Park alone, but failed to see the sunrise. It started raining heavily, and it felt like it was going to be a rainy day.

There was a small pool in Naecheon, but it was too shallow, so we passed on it. It was outdoors, so it felt a bit unsafe. The Doa family's choice was Ocean Play at Sol Beach! Boss made an excellent decision!

You can only get a discount by booking online the day before. By signing up for membership and agreeing to receive marketing emails, you can get a 50% discount. It was our first time at Ocean Play, and we were more satisfied than with Ocean World.

Being able to enjoy both the ocean and the swimming pool at the same time was perfect for elementary school kids! But the kids only stayed in the swimming pool. I had to drag them to the ocean for pictures.

There was a sense of being in an independent space, which was nice. Swimming in the rain was romantic!

We devoured sotteok-sotteok (sausage and rice cake skewers), udon, churros, and sausages, and gave it our all until the pool closed at 7 PM. We enjoyed the seawater sauna and then headed back to our accommodation.

It was the second day and our last night. We skipped the BBQ since we eat a lot of meat usually. We enjoyed handmade burgers, raw fish, and Chapagetti (instant black bean noodles).

On the last day, we visited Namae Port Observatory. The weather was nice, and it was tempting to go swimming in the ocean, but we resisted!

We had sundubu (soft tofu stew) and cheonggukjang (fermented soybean stew) at a restaurant in front of Hyuhyuam Temple. As the kids get older, I wonder how many more times we'll be able to come to Yangyang every year. I think about this on this beach.

Let's take good care of our health!

We used to stop by the 38th Parallel Rest Area because of the nice ocean view, but it had been turned into a convenience store. Moreover, the unfriendly service made us feel bad. It's a shame how many things change.

We resisted the temptation to play at Gwangjin Beach or a nearby beach and headed home! So much to do to get ready for everyday life!

And so, our 2025 summer vacation came to an end. I'm reminded once again that the time we spend with our children is precious.

That familiar place... Petit France! We visited here with friends for a day trip this past spring.

Wow, it's even more welcoming to see it as we pass by.

I captured the scenery and the trumpet vine and ivy on camera before continuing on our way.

We arrived at a pier where you can enjoy leisure sports, but it was too early, and even the nearby cafes were not yet open.

A little disappointed, we hurried on.

I visited Samaksan Mountain, where I used to hike with friends in my 20s. Now, a cable car had been installed!

I had made a reservation through Naver on the way, but the ticket booth said it was available for use after 2 hours. I was able to use it right away after purchasing the ticket at the kiosk.

Let me introduce the Chuncheon Samaksan Mountain Cable Car, a thrilling experience that takes you across the blue Uiam Lake to the summit of Samaksan Mountain! It's the best place to see Chuncheon's beautiful nature at a glance. Why don't we start a healing trip on the Samaksan Mountain Cable Car right now?

The Samaksan Lake Cable Car, which opened in October 2021, is Korea's longest cable car, connecting Seomyeon in Chuncheon to the summit of Samaksan Mountain across Uiam Lake. With a total length of 3.61km, you can enjoy the scenery of Uiam Lake, downtown Chuncheon, and the magnificent Samaksan Mountain at the same time, making it a new landmark of Chuncheon.

Lower Station (Seomyeon) - Start Boarding!

Location: 854 Baksa-ro, Seomyeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do

There is a large parking lot, which is convenient when traveling by car.

Purchase a ticket at the ticket office and board the cable car. There are general cabins and crystal cabins with transparent floors, so choose according to your preference (additional charges apply for crystal cabins).

Crossing Uiam Lake - Fantastic Scenery!

Once the cable car departs, it glides over the blue Uiam Lake.

Outside the window, the scenery of downtown Chuncheon, Bongui Mountain, and the beautiful Uiam Lake unfolds like a painting. Especially on a good weather day, the scenery reflected in the water is breathtaking.

Upper Station (Samaksan Mountain) - The Charm of the Summit!

Location: Samaksan Mountain, Seomyeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do

When you get off at the upper station, the refreshing scenery in front of you is breathtaking.

Observatory: There are various themed observatories throughout the station, making it a great place to take pictures of your life. Take great pictures with the Chuncheon city and Uiam Lake as the background!

Walking trail: There is a walking trail where you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the fresh air of Samaksan Mountain. If hiking is your goal, you can also climb to the summit of Samaksan Mountain (Yonghwabong Peak) via the hiking trail connected to the station.

I gave up on the walk and enjoyed the view with an iced coffee at Ediya at the observatory.

I told my husband about my memories of hiking in the winter, carefully crawling along the icy paths hidden under the white snow.

Visiting Tips!

Visit on a clear day: You can enjoy a clearer and more beautiful view if you visit on a clear day with no fine dust.

Open Run or Visit on Weekdays: On weekends, there may be a lot of people and the waiting time may be long. If you want a relaxing tour, we recommend visiting in the morning on weekdays.

Combine with nearby tourist attractions: There are various tourist attractions around the Samaksan Mountain Cable Car, such as the Uiam Lake Skywalk, the Chuncheon Animation Museum, and Kim Yu-jeong Station. Plan a Chuncheon trip course with the cable car.

The best way to enjoy Chuncheon's beautiful nature in the most special way is the Samaksan Mountain Cable Car. Discover Chuncheon's new charms with your loved ones and create unforgettable memories!

First, food for the hungry.

I had a light breakfast, so I got hungry quickly and searched for a nearby restaurant.

It was a restaurant floating on the lake, and there were group guests even on weekdays, and it was too hot.

The sky was clear and refreshing like an autumn sky. I finished my trip with a stop at the Chuncheon rest area.

I couldn't capture many photos at night, so I'm trying my best to describe everything in detail!

Gunsan Car Camping Itinerary

Day 1: (Seocheon) > Lee Sung Dang Bakery > Gunsan The Sauna > Travel to Seonyudo Island > Car Camping!

Day 2: Seonyudo Beach > Travel to Munyeodo Island > Munyeo 2-gu Bus Cafe (Lunch)

Gunsan The Sauna

Address: Gunsan-si, Naun 2-gil, 5 / Hours: 05:00 ~ 22:00

When car camping, I usually like to shower at a nearby bathhouse or sauna before heading to the camping spot.

There wasn't a decent place near Seonyudo Island, so we decided to shower and then head over.

Finding a place that's reasonably clean and open late is surprisingly rare...it's like they disappear when you need them! Agree?

After searching diligently, I found Gunsan The Sauna.

Admission is 10,000 won for adults, and I was satisfied with the clean facilities and spaciousness.

There's also a parking lot, although it's not very large!

I finished showering and cleansing at the sauna, so all I had to do at the car camping site was a quick face wash and teeth brushing.

Perfectly ready for bed! bㅋㅋㅋ

While buying bread at Lee Sung Dang Bakery, I cooled off with their famous milkshakes, a perfect refreshment for a hot day, and then headed to Seonyudo Island.

Before going to the island, I bought ice cups, water, and other necessities at a convenience store.

Things on islands are usually more expensive.

Seonyudo Breakwater

Address: Gunsan-si, Okdo-myeon, Seonyudo-ri, 474-1

It's quite dark at night...driving is a bit scary.

There are tons of people fishing on the way to Seonyudo Island.

I recommend Seonyudo Breakwater, a popular car camping spot in Gunsan!

When car camping, the availability of a restroom is super important! Seonyudo has one nearby.

The restroom is close and pretty decent for being an open-style one.

It's only a 1-2 minute walk from the breakwater!

At first, I couldn't find the restroom because it was dark at night.

You can just search for Seonyudo Fishing Village on the GPS. (Gunsan-si, Okdo-myeon, Seonyudo 3-gil, 33-4).

There's parking and the restroom is located there!

The view is better on the breakwater side, but the morning sun can be intense, so parking in the parking lot might be better.

Enjoying Lee Sung Dang bread while watching the trendy K-Pop Demon Hunters~~

K-Pop Demon Hunters is full of cheesy clichés, but the songs are good, so I'm hooked...

Personally, I prefer the red bean bread over the vegetable bread at Lee Sung Dang Bakery.

And the black sesame bread is a must! It's so delicious!

Seonyudo Beach

Address: Gunsan-si, Okdo-myeon, Seonyudo-ri, 115-1 / Open from July 9th to August 17th

Search for "Seonyudo tide chart" on Naver to check the low and high tides!

High tide is around 7 AM, and low tide is around 2 PM, so I had to play in the morning!!, but that didn't happen.

Still, I had fun from 10 AM onwards.

I could see the tide going out in real-time while playing in the water. LOL

The water isn't very deep, so there were more kids than adults.

Perfect for my kid-level swimming skills.

Seonyudo Beach offers free parasol/life jacket rentals.

The showers cost 500 won (coins required, no change machine).

You can rent life jackets for free if needed.

But...we're aiming to be car camping + water play masters, so we already have life jackets, aqua shoes, and goggles. Heh heh.

Parking at Seonyudo Beach can be tricky, so it's best to park in the public parking lot.

You should play quickly in the morning and get out of there around lunchtime.

When we were leaving, cars kept coming in, and it looked like a mess.

Car camping is awesome!

Munyeo 2-gu Village Bus Cafe

Address: Gunsan-si, Okdo-myeon, Munyeodo-ri, San 10-22 / Hours: 09:00 ~ 19:30(20:00)

So, we quickly escaped and arrived at Munyeodo Island!

It seems to be popular because a Mukbang YouTuber visited!

However, the view is insane........

There's a reason why the prices are high.......

There are colorful buses on a very large lot, and you can eat hamburgers here.

You order at the kiosk and pick up your order when your number is called.

It can be quite crowded on weekends, so you need to grab a seat on the bus quickly!

But there wasn't a wait to order.

We ordered two hamburgers, sotteok-sotteok (rice cake and sausage skewers), iced Americanos, cola, butter-grilled squid, and fries.

Of course, I paid for it all!

I ordered the Hamji set, which is for two people.

The price is still a bit expensive, but...

The vibes are crazy awesome~~

The hamburger costs 20,000 won, and the ocean view from inside the bus costs 20,000 won~~ (Makes sense)

I would have been so annoyed if the hamburger was bad, but it had a thick patty, butter-grilled bun, fresh lettuce, tomato, and homemade pickles! (Makes sense 22222)

The hamburger isn't mind-blowingly delicious, but it's pretty substantial.

The butter-grilled squid is delicious, though.

It's addicting.

Since it was low tide, we were able to walk to Jwittong Island, so we decided to take a walk there.

The name of Munyeodo comes from the fact that the island's shape resembles a shaman dancing with a drum and wine cup.

That's the story.

We walked a bit further and checked out Munyeo 2-gu Port.

The weather was great, the ocean was beautiful, and I was happy because I was full~

Munyeo 2-gu Port

I was told they would take nice photos...

It's even more beautiful in person, and it's a shame that the photos don't capture it all!

It was really hot, but it would be great to just chill and stare at the water while watching the sunlight sparkling on the surface of the water!

Munyeodo Island is about a 10-minute drive from Seonyudo Island, so it was nice to visit both.

Seonyudo Beach: Free parasol/life jacket rentals. Showers cost 500 won (coins required, no change machine).

The name of Munyeodo comes from the fact that the island's shape resembles a shaman dancing with a drum and wine cup.

That's right... it's the Unemployed Edition ver. 2025! (Applause, anyone?)

This time, I visited Sejong for the very first time in my life!

I suddenly caught the “travel bug ✨” and hastily made plans, resulting in...

...a **late departure** after 3 PM.

Only an unemployed person could leave that late...

My destination was none other than…

I heard it's incredibly vast?

Supposedly, it's around 240,000 square meters... I have no idea how big that is.

The conclusion? It's simply huge!

Very, very huge!

My stamina decreased proportionally to its size!!! 😂

Looking back at the photos I took, they are a total mess.

They are mostly random shots without focus…

Yes, the conclusion is I don’t have decent photos.

<Photos to be added soon>

"80 Years of Liberation, Hibiscus Blooming Together"

So, I completed a survey and received a rose of Sharon (mugunghwa) seedling as a gift! ◡̈

The National Sejong Arboretum's 'Van Gogh in the Summer Night' 🎨

It just so happened that this special exhibition was on when I visited.

Even the name evokes a sense of emotion ✨

The exhibition runs from July 26th to November 2nd!

It's located in the Mediterranean Greenhouse within the Four Seasons Exhibition Greenhouse in the arboretum!!

It features four of Van Gogh's iconic masterpieces, recreated as gardens.

Sunflowers 🌻

The Starry Night ✨

Café Terrace at Night ☕️

Bedroom in Arles 🛏️

These four themes were beautifully displayed.

Because the plants from the paintings were actually moved into the garden,

it felt like I had stepped right into the artwork.

It felt nice taking an art trip while being unemployed.

Just a heads-up: It's not just real flowers!

There are artificial flowers displayed as well!

So, it's a harmony of real and artificial flowers?

It's worth visiting at least once, especially when there's a special exhibition/event!

I couldn't see everything because I arrived late, so I plan to visit again soon!

Since I'm unemployed, I have plenty of time... I'll enjoy it more leisurely next time 😎

Does anyone know this place ~~~?

It was past 7:30 PM,

and when I looked for a restaurant for dinner...

Most places were either closed or had run out of ingredients,

so there was nowhere to eat 😥

An unemployed person in a hungry situation.

Is this the synergy of hunger × no choices?

After searching for a while, I called Seongsanok and they said,

"Yes, you need to arrive by 8:30 PM. Is that possible?"

Yesyesyesyesyes!

I had to make it no matter what 😂

Korean Beef Tartare Bibimbap Set - 15,000 won

Wow, I wasn't expecting much, but it was incredibly delicious!!

The texture was so good because of the *gungchae* (celtuce) in the bibimbap

The taste was fantastic ~~~~~~~~~👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

I'd go to Sejong again just to eat this!!

Anyway, after looking around, eating, and heading home,

it was eleven o'clock at night.

Memorable moments included fresh Mulhoe (raw fish soup) at Seonchang Restaurant and browsing the quirky shops of Nongeoldam-gil.

It's already been three weeks since our Mukho adventure...

Finally getting around to sharing my review!

I heard Mukho is a trending solo travel destination these days.

We visited with friends on a friendship trip, and I'm excited to share all the details of our accommodation, delicious food, and perfect itinerary.

Boarding the KTX early in the morning for our Mukho trip.

We departed from Cheongnyangni Station at 9:45 AM and arrived in Mukho at 11:52 AM.

The weather was fantastic!

If you sit in seat A, you can enjoy stunning ocean views as you approach Jeongdongjin Station, just before arriving in Mukho.

Korea's East Sea is so beautiful, it rivals the Mediterranean! Absolutely gorgeous ✨

Gazing at the East Sea made the two-hour journey fly by.

Mukho favorites: Mulhoe at Seonchang Restaurant / exploring the souvenir shops on Nongeoldam-gil

Arrived at Mukho Station.

We took a taxi straight to our accommodation for the night, Seonchang Hostel, which is part of a횟집 (Hoe Restaurant).

The taxi ride from Mukho Station cost ₩5,500.

My friend booked this place since we wanted an affordable yet great value accommodation for one night. It was fantastic!

We stayed Sunday-Monday, and the largest room (a studio) was ₩170,000. And the view was incredible!

There are luggage lockers on the first floor (free, of course) where you can store your bags before check-in.

In the restaurant lobby on the first floor, you can freely enjoy ice and water from the dispenser.

We told them, "We're staying here tonight and came for lunch," and they directed us upstairs.

The restaurant was bustling, and they quickly seated us. Mukho Seonchang is a restaurant + accommodation with panoramic ocean views!

For lunch, we wanted something light, so we ordered Mulhoe and halibut sushi without 회 (Sashimi).

The view made it tempting to keep the 소주 (Soju) flowing, but we can't drink as much as we used to due to age ^_^, and we had a full day ahead, so we refrained.

Our lunch spread was impressive.

The girls were craving squid Mulhoe, but it was sold out, so we ordered two servings of live fish Mulhoe and halibut sushi instead.

I want to go back just to eat this again...

My friend insisted we try [Jijangsu Makgeolli] whenever we come to Gangwon-do, so we ordered a bottle.

It was delicious!

The Mulhoe and halibut sushi were both chewy, fresh, and delicious.

The side dishes were also good.

Our order came to ₩49,000 for three people, but later we noticed a sign saying that lodging guests get a ₩10,000 discount for orders over ₩50,000...

We should have ordered another bottle of Makgeolli ㅠ

Feeling full, we went out to enjoy the ocean right in front of us.

Maybe it was because of the heat, but a fish (likely a mackerel) was lying dead on the ocean floor ㅠㅠ

What happened...

After enjoying the ocean view, we walked towards Nongeoldam-gil.

Since it was so hot, we bought ice cream and continued our stroll.

Mukho Nongeoldam-gil is located roughly halfway between Mukho Station and our accommodation, Seonchang Hostel, making it easily walkable.

The problem was the intensely sunny weather...

It was too hot to walk comfortably.

We could see Dotjjaebi-gol Sky Valley on the way.

The story goes that phantom lights appeared near Mukho Port and startled ships, and this area became known as "Dotjjaebi-gol," meaning "goblin valley," because it was believed to be inhabited by goblins.

We passed by charming murals and began our ascent into Mukho's Nongeoldam-gil.

Note that it's a hill.

The weather is so nice… but it's hot…

But if you take your time and enjoy the scenery, it's worth it.

If I didn't have my parasol...

Just as you start thinking, "Wow, the view is amazing," you'll find the Muko Ya Gift Shop.

We followed the arrows.

Arrived at Muko Ya Gift Shop, located at the edge of the hill.

They sell many cute items.

I didn't visit many souvenir shops on this trip, but this was the second cutest place. Both the view and the souvenirs!

The souvenir shop view is so stunning...

Taking a proof shot that we came to Muko Ya ^.^

Adorable otter keyring

If you walk down a bit from Muko Ya Gift Shop, you'll find another unique souvenir shop.

Howl's Moving Castle St..

It's called Deungdaegeujip (Lighthouse House) souvenir shop.

Inside, there were many charming souvenirs, and the owner said he made the small breakwater model himself.

The owner is very quirky but friendly...

He's the type of person who might appear on a show like "What on Earth!"

After walking down, it was too hot, so we had to take a taxi back to the hostel...!

It took maybe two minutes haha.

After checking in and looking around the accommodation, we decided to go swimming at Eodal Beach, where the Eodal Beach food stalls are located.

The next installment will cover the Seonchang Hostel accommodation and our experience at Eodal Beach????????‍♀️

It's one of the longest cable cars in Korea!

Make sure to buy tickets online for a cheaper price; on-site purchases are more expensive.

Climbed up to the observatory and got a panoramic view of Chuncheon city.

It's quite a ride!

The view from Samaksan Mountain was peaceful.

Relaxing and healing in Chuncheon during the holiday.

I diligently went to the dermatologist and then grabbed McDonald's takeout on the way home.

Dongseongro McDonald's was incredibly crowded.

And the McNuggets were sold out!

For dinner, I ordered from Deungchon.

The taste of Deungchon varies greatly from branch to branch, but the one next to my office is the best.

Lately, I've been ordering from Deokgine Saengmakchang about once every ten days.

You all should try it! Delivery makchang can be this delicious.

One day, I went to deliver bread to Kongtteok's house.

Off I went on foot for the delivery!

I envy that Kongtteok lives in a neighborhood that definitely feels like people are living there.

More than anything, I'm so jealous that they have Sounds nearby.

I gave bread and received figs in return.

It rained on the way back, but I kind of enjoyed walking in the rain .

Hong's son-in-law waiting for his mother-in-law.

Making a fig salad with the figs Kongtteok gave me.

With steamed ribs and soy sauce marinated crab given by my mother...

Home-cooked meals are the best.

Bajeek.

I was curious about Bajeek.

The logo is so cute.

Hmm, but honestly, the taste was disappointing.

Pitly is much better.

The next day...

Having a hearty meal from morning on!

A frighteningly large egg-in-hell and an apple sandwich after a long time.

One evening...

Eating a healthy meal with side dishes my mother packed for me.

Mu Hwa Gua (Fig).

On a day when a cool breeze suddenly blew, I walked all the way to Samdeok-dong after a long time.

A cute and cozy space.

It would be a great place for a date in the early stages of a relationship.

The red bean shaved ice is reaaaaally delicious, so everyone should definitely try it!

A bag I bought in preparation for a trip.

Nylon material is the best for carrying around casually.

One day, flower delivery came to the office after a long time.

The reason is that it's our 1000th day together!

The day before, when we walked to Samdeok-dong, I asked, "Do you know what day is tomorrow?"

And he did this adorable thing.

It really gives off an autumn vibe, right?

He custom ordered it with a field flower feel + orange.

The new bath mat and the colorful paprika go well together.

Sweet pumpkin and duck casserole after several months.

Hong doesn't really like root vegetables, so I made it for him for the first time in almost a year.

I put a lot of cheese in it that day.

Godojeong.

The banquet hall owner must have made a lot of money.

I was surprised by the scale.

There are still many plants inside,

And the warm feeling is still there.

I asked the owner how he grew the plants so well.

Meeting Hyebin after a really long time,

Eating makchang and mango shaved ice.

Around the end of August, I always think,

"This year is almost over too."

Time really flies.

This time, we decided to visit the water park.

Since it's run by the government, I didn't have high expectations.

But!!!!!!! We've already decided to go again next week, and every year from now on!

It's seriously amazing. Absolutely wonderful.

We bought our tickets at the ticket booth.

(The ticket prices are very affordable: ₩10,000 for adults and ₩8,000 for children.)

We put on our goggles with a determined look.

The whole family wore rash guards from home because we expected the changing rooms to be subpar... But that was a huge misjudgment!

Clean changing rooms, showers, and restrooms were waiting for us.

Outside food is allowed.

All you need to bring is a picnic mat.

Sihun also put on his goggles and got ready.

I always thought lazy rivers were only found in water parks. I had the impression that government-run places just had regular pools with poor water quality (sorry...).

Can you believe there's a lazy river at this price? Unbelievable!

And it's surprisingly fast!

We floated around and enjoyed the clouds.

The best thing about this place is that they operate for 50 minutes and then have a mandatory 10-minute break. Everyone has to get out, and they reorganize.

Usually, at water parks or swimming pools, the kids don't want to leave the water, which is a struggle, but with this mandatory break, it prevents them from overdoing it.

There are many staff members managing the area.

A view of the rest time.

It was a shame that adults couldn't go on the slides.

The kids were very excited.

It's right next to the Tangeumho Lake.

You can look out at the lake from the swimming pool.

Another great thing is that it closes at 5 PM.

Actually, it ends at 4:50 PM.

Thank you for saving us!

We're eating tornado potatoes after swimming.

We went to a buckwheat noodle restaurant nearby. The black sesame buckwheat noodles were delicious, but the others were just okay...

We decided to visit Jungangtap (Central Pagoda).

Jungangtap is said to be located in the very center of Korea.

It's a national treasure.

It's magnificent.

Excited movements.

Jungangtap = Chungju Tappyeong-ri Seven-Story Stone Pagoda.

We did a little history lesson.

We could go right up to it, so it was a forced hike.

I was dragged up too and briefly stood at the top.

We decided to go down and take a walk by the lake.

The view is absolutely beautiful.

I didn't know Chungju was a city of water!

You can't exit the walking path in the middle, so you have to walk a bit and then turn back.

We're discussing where to visit next time.

The view is so pretty.

The weather helped a lot.

I love you, Chungju!

I took a picture of my beautiful girl.

A loving father-daughter relationship. Sometimes they're sickeningly close.

A running race.

Running swiftly.

Looking at a dead praying mantis.

A sculpture floating in the water; it's a moon rabbit.

There are many pretty things.

The park is very large.

Seoyeon relaxing on a swing before going home.

Let's go home now~

Ah! Another good thing about Tangeumho Water Park!

When we were leaving, I saw that they were draining all the water from the water park.

Wow... they must drain it all, clean it, and then refill it.

So impressive...

I didn't expect much from the water quality at the water park, but it's very well managed.

I'll come again, Chungju~~~

Conversations with the kids at the swimming pool:

#1

During the 10-minute break, they were bored, so we were bickering about whether to watch TV or not.

Seoyeon: "Hogisim Ttakji (Curiosity Patch) and Labrador are okay."

"Hogisim Ttakji tells you what you're curious about, and Labrador tells you what you shouldn't do if you do it."

So we watched Labrador. It's strangely convincing.

#2

While walking around Tangeumho Lake,

Dad: "There are so many places to visit in Chungju~~~"

Seoyeon: "Are we going now?"

Dad: "No, not now..."

Seoyeon: "Then why are you saying that? To make me want to go?"

Dad: ...

Dad is always sorry.

#3

Dad looking at the historical site description again.

Dad: "There are many historical sites in Chungju."

Seoyeon: "History flows~~ (starts singing)"

Seoyeon, who loves to sing, sings a lot and likes to add a melody to her words.

We are Cheongsong Haneularae Farm, offering GAP-certified apples that you can eat whole!

​

On the first day, we explored Seokmodo and Ganghwado. We went to bed early, but the heavy rain kept us up, worried.

Throughout the night, strong winds and rain woke us up several times.

In the early morning, we turned on the TV and saw that Incheon was expecting more torrential rain in the morning.

We quickly agreed to get out of Incheon as soon as possible!

​

Since we were shaken by the heavy rain on the first day, we departed around 6:40 AM towards Dangjin in the south.

​

Our plan for the second day was to visit Jeondeungsa Temple in the morning, have lunch nearby, and then explore Daebudo and Jebudo Islands.

We were planning to have grilled clams or steamed clams around Jebudo...

But...

The weather forecast predicted more torrential rain in the morning, with hourly rainfall of 142mm like the previous day.

Fearing another disaster, we gave up on Jeondeungsa, Daebudo, and Jebudo and decided to head straight to Dangjin.

We were chased by the rain...

Driving along the West Coast Expressway, we came across Haengdamdo Service Area.

Haengdamdo Service Area is a highway rest stop on the West Coast Expressway.

It's located on a small island called Haengdamdo, on the Seohae Grand Bridge.

It is the largest service area on the West Coast Expressway.

And it is said to be the only service area located on an island in Korea.

It boasts various food courts and many kinds of food, as well as convenience stores.

The service area felt like a fashion shopping mall.

​

The service area is indeed large.

On the second floor, there was an outlet store selling safety shoes and tools.

Haengdamdo Service Area...

It's like a service area, but not really.

People passing through the West Coast Expressway always stop at this service area.

After visiting, I understand why.

It felt more like a tourist attraction than a rest stop.

​

Next, we went to Waemok Village, a famous spot in Dangjin where you can see both the sunset and sunrise in one place.

Usually, you can only see the sunset on the west coast.

But Waemok Village is famous for being a place where you can see both the sunrise and sunset from the West Sea due to its unique topography.

​

We booked accommodation near here to see the sunset.

But unfortunately, it was raining, so we weren't sure if we would be able to see it...

There's a wonderful sculpture on the beach.

Since there's no shade, parasols are installed on the beach.

The rental fee for one parasol is 10,000 won, and it's operated by the Waemok Village Development Association.

There were so many parasols that I couldn't count them.

It seems like a lot of people visit.

​

That day, there weren't many people because it was raining a lot.

It seemed like there would be more people the next day.

Because the next day was Liberation Day (August 15th) and a Friday, making it a three-day weekend.

And the rain would stop, and the weather would be clear.

Waemok Village Beach

A famous spot where you can see both the sunrise and sunset.

It seemed like a great travel destination where you can enjoy the beach and see both the sunrise and sunset.

​

Since it's close to our accommodation, we'll definitely be able to see the sunset, right?

Boo hoo hoo...

We didn't see the sunset.

We missed the sunset time while driving around Anmyeondo Island!

​

Next, we're heading over to Anmyeondo Island in Taean!

Go go!~~~

Kkotji Beach

It's the largest beach in Taean and said to be a beautiful place to see the sunset.

When we arrived, it was low tide.

We were worried about our feet sinking into the mudflats and didn't want to go in.

But instead of mud, it was sand.

Walking on it, it was hard sand.

Our feet didn't sink, and our shoes didn't get sandy.

There were holes everywhere on the exposed sand.

Looking closely, small crabs were going in and out, digging through the holes.

I thought children would love it.

My seniors said they wanted to bring their grandchildren next time.

They were so happy about bringing their grandchildren next year.

The two islands in the distance are Halmi (Grandma) and Harabi (Grandpa) Rocks.

​

The pointy island is Grandma Rock.

The round island is Grandpa Rock.

They say you can walk to them during low tide.

You have to get out quickly when the tide comes in!

After coming home and searching for Kkotji Beach, I learned that you can witness the "Miracle of Moses" if you time the tides right, and you can walk to Halmi and Harabi Rocks.

​

Since we couldn't go to Manisan Mountain and Jeondeungsa Temple in Ganghwado due to the rain and came down to Dangjin early, we looked for places to visit on the spot.

That's why we didn't know this information and just saw the beach.

What a pity!

Kkotji Beach

Should we plan another trip next year? Hehe.

​

​

Next, we headed to Anmyeondo Natural Recreation Forest, which is not far from Kkotji Beach.

The road to Anmyeondo Natural Recreation Forest was quiet, and the deep green scenery was refreshing.

It was a place I wanted to walk through.

It felt like a healing forest.

Walking this road made me feel healthy.

​

Arrived at Anmyeondo Natural Recreation Forest!

Anmyeondo Natural Recreation Forest

​

Anmyeondo was originally the southern tip of the Taean Peninsula and was part of the mainland, but it became an island when a waterway was created across it during the reign of King Injo of the Joseon Dynasty. Thanks to this, Anmyeondo's dense pine forest was preserved intact, which is fortunate for us who enjoy the forest today. This place has been famous for its pine groves since the Goryeo Dynasty, and especially during the Joseon Dynasty, it was designated as Hwangjangbongsan, where logging was strictly prohibited except for pine trees used by the royal family. The tall, straight red pines are well preserved and are now used as a recreation forest, providing many people with the various benefits of the forest.

Anmyeondo Natural Recreation Forest, where pine trees form a forest.

I hadn't had much exercise due to traveling long distances by car.

Walking in the fresh air of the pine forest, full of phytoncides, made me feel healthy.

I took deep breaths as I walked.

Lilyturf was planted under the pine trees.

The purple lilyturf flowers were blooming beautifully.

Strolling through the pine forest full of phytoncides and feeling nature made it a great travel destination in Taean.

If we had more time, it would be nice to leisurely explore the arboretum.

​

It rained here in the morning, and the rain clouds moved away in the afternoon.

With the sun shining brightly, it was humid and terribly hot.

Sweat was pouring down.

Walking through the pine forest on the skywalk was cool and helped to cool down the sweat.

Anmyeondo Natural Recreation Forest was healing itself.

Leaving Anmyeondo Natural Recreation Forest behind,

We had to return to our accommodation in Dangjin.

Instead of going back the way we came,

Since we had come this far,

We decided to go through the Boryeong Undersea Tunnel.

Boryeong Undersea Tunnel

It connects Sinhyeok-dong in Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do, and Wonsando Island in Ocheon-myeon.

Construction began in April 2014 and was opened in December 2021.

With a total length of 6,927m, it is the longest undersea tunnel in Korea and the fifth longest undersea tunnel in the world.

​

※There are a total of 4 undersea tunnels in Korea.

The other 3 undersea tunnels are

① Incheon Bukhang Tunnel (5,460m)

② Geoje Undersea Tunnel (3,665m)

③ Tongyeong Undersea Tunnel (483 m)

Boryeong Undersea Tunnel is really long.

It's over 6.9km long.

It's the longest undersea tunnel in Korea!

​

It was an undersea tunnel I had always wanted to visit.

Blue lights and fish and whales on the ceiling throughout the tunnel seemed to indicate that it was an undersea tunnel.

It's better to have blue lights and whale and fish lights in the middle than just a plain tunnel.

​

The longest undersea tunnel in Korea,

Boryeong Undersea Tunnel

My companion wanted to come here, and now he has fulfilled his wish.

On this trip,

We passed through the first and second longest undersea tunnels in Korea.

On the first day of the trip, we passed through the second longest undersea tunnel in Korea, the Incheon Bukhang Tunnel.

​

​

With this,

We have visited all 4 undersea tunnels in Korea.

​

2-day 3-night island tour

Finishing the second day of the trip and heading to our accommodation.

​

​

GAP Certified Apples

Apples you can eat whole

Cheongsong Haneularae Farm

​

Kkotji Beach, Anmyeon-eup, Taean-gun, Chungcheongnam-do

Anmyeondo Natural Recreation Forest: Anmyeondo was originally the southern tip of the Taean Peninsula and was part of the mainland, but it became an island when a waterway was created across it during the reign of King Injo of the Joseon Dynasty. Thanks to this, Anmyeondo's dense pine forest was preserved intact, which is fortunate for us who enjoy the forest today. This place has been famous for its pine groves since the Goryeo Dynasty, and especially during the Joseon Dynasty, it was designated as Hwangjangbongsan, where logging was strictly prohibited except for pine trees used by the royal family. The tall, straight red pines are well preserved and are now used as a recreation forest, providing many people with the various benefits of the forest.

Boryeong Undersea Tunnel: It connects Sinhyeok-dong in Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do, and Wonsando Island in Ocheon-myeon. Construction began in April 2014 and was opened in December 2021. With a total length of 6,927m, it is the longest undersea tunnel in Korea and the fifth longest undersea tunnel in the world. The other 3 undersea tunnels are ① Incheon Bukhang Tunnel (5,460m) ② Geoje Undersea Tunnel (3,665m) ③ Tongyeong Undersea Tunnel (483 m)

Gyeongju Trip Prep with Kids, Step 1:

Apply for a Free Gyeongju Map

You can request a free map on the 'Gyeongju Culture & Tourism' website.

You'll find the 'Request Tourist Map' option at the bottom of the main page. If you don't see it, keep scrolling through the arrows.

Click 'Apply' at the very bottom and enter your information.

They said it would take about 15 days by mail, but I checked the mailbox today, a week later, and the map had arrived!

The map shows the Daereungwon area, the Namsan area, and the Bomun Lake Resort area in Gyeongju.

You can even see Bulguksa Temple marked on it.

The back features larger maps of each area, which will be great for planning routes and getting a general sense of direction. It's an incredibly useful map, especially considering it was free!

There are also brief explanations of the cultural heritage sites.

I imagine when my child wakes up and sees the map tomorrow, they'll be full of questions like, "Mom, what's this?" and "Mom, why does this look like this?" That's how their world expands, so I'll do my best to answer them. 🙂

"This is Bulguksa Temple; it's a temple built during the Silla period," etc. I'll need to study a bit to teach my child about it. It will be a fun way for them to look forward to our upcoming trip!

Gyeongju Trip Prep with Kids, Step 2:

Picture Books about Gyeongju and the Silla Dynasty

I borrowed picture books about Silla and Gyeongju from the library. I don't know how much my four and five-year-old will understand, but when answering my children's questions, I always try to explain things in a way that they can understand, rather than assuming they're too young to grasp it. They often surprisingly connect the stored information later on.

Just like reading a guidebook before traveling abroad helps you appreciate the experience more, reading picture books about Silla and Gyeongju will naturally spark an interest in history (or rather, just people from the past) and make them wonder why things were done differently back then.

Instead of giving them definitive answers, it might be good to say, "Let's find out when we get there!" I hope these conversations will encourage them to ask questions and seek out answers during the trip.

My child keeps asking when the trip is, so I drew a calendar and marked the travel dates. Now they're counting down the days! Preparing in advance like this is making me excited to study Gyeongju, turning it into a fun experience and more than just a field trip from my past. Seeing it with my own eyes will also make it much more memorable.

Preparing for a trip with my child is teaching me that it’s far more important to spark my child's interest before we leave than to cram the itinerary full of activities. I hope the map and books will maximize their curiosity!

The flowing river and tranquil park were simply wonderful!

We thought about taking a boat ride, but decided to skip it due to the cost!

Looking around for nearby attractions, we discovered a Hanok (traditional Korean house) village and a Hanok-style cafe. There was also a garden and even a small deer farm nearby, which surprised us. We had a great time exploring and chatting.

The Hanok village garden was so beautifully decorated that it was a photographer's dream.^^

Our second destination was Incheon Chinatown! At first glance, I wasn't too impressed, but I was wrong! The deeper we ventured into the alleys, the more amazing places we discovered! I have memories of walking around and discovering these awesome spaces. There were many charming spaces and small exhibitions. We even stumbled upon a Japanese-style house built during the colonial period. The area wasn't crowded on the day we visited, which made us feel lucky.

Here's a photo of plants displayed at a cafe in an alley in Incheon Chinatown. They accept local spending coupons.

There's a book called "The Ghost of Daebul Hotel," which I haven't read yet, but I'm not sure if the location in the book is the same place. It makes me want to read the book!

The buildings were charming and small, blending in perfectly with the quiet village atmosphere, making it a truly atmospheric and enjoyable place. We didn't feel tired at all, even after walking a lot.

There was a bookstore in the shopping street, but it was closed, so we just looked around from the outside.

You can't talk about Incheon Chinatown without mentioning Jajangmyeon (black bean noodles). A chef who used to cook at Gonghwachun (a famous Jajangmyeon restaurant at the top of Chinatown) now has his own restaurant at the entrance of Chinatown. As soon as we arrived, we saw a long line of people waiting, so we quickly joined the queue and enjoyed a delicious meal. I ordered the Yuni Jajangmyeon, and the meat sauce was so savory and delicious!

Below are photos of items from souvenir shops in the nearby shopping street. I didn't go inside, but the displays were so pretty that I had to take some pictures!

That's it! This was my day trip to Incheon with a friend in August.

I had mixed feelings about visiting Incheon based on what people said, but it exceeded my expectations!

We walked a lot, which was good exercise, and I even bought Gonggalppang (Chinese sugar pancake), but I didn't take a picture of it. For me, the back alleys of Incheon Chinatown were the highlight of the day. The alleys were so pretty and had a charming, old-fashioned atmosphere, which made the trip even better. Thank you.^^

Dates: August 16th - August 18th

Transportation: KTX (Korea Train eXpress), Subway

We took the KTX, and after about a 3-hour ride, we arrived at Busan Station!

For lunch, we had Milmyeon (밀면, Busan-style wheat noodles).

Small size Milmyeon: ₩5,000 each

After that, we took a 40-minute bus ride to our accommodation to unpack.

This was our accommodation for 2 nights and 3 days. It had two floors and was smaller than I expected, but it was still decent.

Our accommodation was near Gwangalli Beach, so we unpacked and spent about an hour playing on the beach.

For dinner, we went to a Samgyeopsal (pork belly) restaurant.

₩11,500 per serving

We ordered 3 servings and then added one more.

And of course, we had fried rice with the leftover meat.

Then, we watched a drone show that started at 8 PM.

Night view taken at night.

Before returning to our accommodation, we bought pizza.

The pizza I had was ₩6,900.

Back at the accommodation, we watched a horror movie and that was the end of our first day!

On the second day, we woke up early and decided to explore the market.

First, we had Gukbap (rice soup) for breakfast.

Gukbap for breakfast.

We took the subway for about 40 minutes and arrived at Gukje Market.

Then, we went to the Busan Film Experience Museum nearby.

I even got to become a character in a movie...

We went to Bupyeong Kkangtong Market and had some Teppanyaki ice cream. I was in such a hurry to eat it that I didn't take any pictures.

We also visited a place called Memory Treasure Island, which holds memories for our parents' generation. At first, I hesitated about going, but we decided to go anyway. There were more things to see than I expected.

Admission Fee:

Adults: ₩5,000

Middle/High School Students: ₩4,000

36 months ~ Elementary School Students: ₩2,500

After that, we went to a snack bar and had Milmyeon again. Again, no pictures.

We returned to our accommodation to rest, and then went out for grilled shellfish for dinner.

The price was good, and it was delicious!

We returned to the accommodation, showered, rested, watched a movie, and that was the end of the day!!

On the last day, we went to Busan Station and had Jajangmyeon (black bean noodles) for breakfast. We waited at Busan Station, and after about 3 hours, we arrived home!!

I thought I would be tired from going to Busan right after training, but it was fun because it was a trip with my friends, and I wanted to go again next time.

Well, I'll end my Busan travelogue here.

Autumn is here, with clear skies and gentle breezes.

Are you struggling to decide where to travel?

This post introduces 10 amazing autumn destinations in Korea,

offering diverse atmospheres like the sea, city, villages, and gardens,

rather than just mountain-centered foliage spots.

Perfect for a healing trip with family, a romantic getaway with your loved one, or even a solo adventure.

Use this as a reference when planning your trip!

Here are 10 domestic travel destinations you must visit in the fall:

​

1. Gyeongju – Autumn Romance in the Ancient Capital

In autumn, Gyeongju transforms into a landscape of red and gold.

The cosmos flowers around Cheomseongdae Observatory, the autumn foliage at Bulguksa Temple, and the night view of Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond are truly stunning.

Especially, the autumn foliage at Bulguksa Temple, combined with the cultural heritage, offers a special kind of inspiration.

You can experience both tradition and nature in a tranquil atmosphere.

2. Andong Hahoe Village – A Traditional Autumn Stroll

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hahoe Village harmoniously combines traditional Korean houses (Hanok), the Nakdong River, and autumn foliage.

As you walk along the tranquil riverside path with yellow ginkgo leaves falling between the tiled roofs,

you'll feel as if you've traveled back in time to the Joseon Dynasty.

The village scenery, illuminated by the autumn sun, is perfect for taking photos.

3. Namhae German Village – Exotic Autumn Scenery

Located by the sea in Namhae, the German Village offers an exotic feel with its colorful houses built in the German architectural style.

In autumn, it's full of energy with beer festivals and small cultural events.

The scenery of the cool sea and the colorful mountainsides is unique to Namhae.

With the clear autumn sky, you'll feel like you're in a small European city.

4. Jeonju Hanok Village – Where Tiled Roofs Meet Autumn Foliage

Jeonju is a popular travel destination throughout the year, but its charm is doubled in autumn.

The tiled roofs of Jeonju Hanok Village, adorned with autumn foliage, are as beautiful as a painting.

Wearing a Hanbok and walking through the alleys will also be a great memory.

Plus, with abundant food like Bibimbap, Bean Sprout Soup, and Makgeolli (Korean rice wine), it's perfect for a gastronomic tour.

5. Yeosu – The Romance of the Autumn Sea

Yeosu is great to visit anytime, but it's even more romantic in the fall.

Riding the Yeosu Marine Cable Car with a cool sea breeze allows you to see the autumn-tinted sea at a glance.

Walking along the path with cosmos flowers on Odongdo Island, and enjoying the romantic Yeosu night sea…

It's also the best destination for an autumn date.