A Culinary Day Trip Enjoying History and Culture
Enjoy a culinary day trip that combines history and culture!
Iksan, a millennium-old city, is my hometown where I was born and spent a significant amount of time.
Every visit brings a new feeling and view, making it endlessly enjoyable.
Today, I would like to introduce a day trip focused on culinary delights intertwined with history and culture.
Let's embark on a day trip map of Iksan: Baekje Historic Sites & Bread Pilgrimage!
Mireuksaji
Even in the cold winter, it is bustling with visitors.
After the discovery of relics from the Saritap, Mireuksaji has risen to the status of not just a local landmark, but one of the important cultural heritage sites in Korea. Perhaps that's why, even on weekends, there are many visitors.
Having frequented Mireuksaji since childhood, even before the restoration of the stone pagoda, I can say there is a certain indescribable emotion when I visit.
While it's nice to walk around the restored pagoda and its surroundings to soak in the good energy, it can be quite cold. The main focus today is the 'museum' that houses the sarira and relics.
For your reference, the museum is equipped with facilities like a lounge, restrooms, and a café, making it easy to explore. Upon entering, the left side is a regular viewing route, while the right side features special exhibitions, which might be more beneficial for those who visit often.
The Sword Embraced by the Pagoda
Among the items excavated from the Mireuksaji pagoda, a 'hand sword' was found. Unlike the large, elongated weapons we typically think of, these swords were used for daily life, decoration, or to symbolize authority.
Despite being rusty, their beauty and the delicate curves of the decoration can still be appreciated, and an LED display allows visitors to compare them, giving insights into their purpose and ownership.
Even if you're not particularly interested in history, the topic of 'swords' is universally intriguing. I am grateful to see them in person and now move on to the next location.
Flower Garden Ssam Bap
Operating hours: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Are you hungry?
Here is a great value 'ssam bap' restaurant located very close to the Mireuksaji ruins. There is a spacious parking area right in front of the restaurant.
We ordered the representative menu, the 'Ssam Bap Set,' which includes stir-fried pork as the main dish. If you prefer boiled pork, you can call ahead two hours in advance to place an order.
A crowded restaurant is always a sign of good food, right?
My instincts were spot on. Even though we visited a bit late for lunch, there were only two seats left. After we sat down, another group came in, making us realize how close we were to waiting.
The wait wasn't long. The side dishes had a strong home-cooked feel, and there were more wraps than expected, which was a pleasant surprise. Overall, the taste was good, especially the soybean paste that accompanied the fish, which was deliciously nutty and sweet. However, those who prefer a spicier flavor might find it lacking.
There are quite a few types of wraps, and their freshness made them enjoyable on their own. The stir-fried pork had a slightly sweet flavor. The clean arrangement of side dishes highlighted their unique tastes.
The highlight was definitely the soybean paste with the fish, enhancing the experience of the ssam bap. The refreshing fish salad also pairs well, making it a must-try combination.
Seodong Park
Next is Seodong Park. The photo was taken during this year's festival.
Even in the cold winter, people were enjoying walks. If you venture further in, you'll find a deck path. If you want the feeling of gliding over the lake, choose the deck path; otherwise, a stroll through the park is also enjoyable.
Today’s Bakery
Operating hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Famous for delicious bread.
Located in Geumma, 'Today’s Bakery' is always bustling with customers. The charm of the traditional hanok interior is appealing, but above all, the desserts are truly delicious.
The outdoor tables were under construction, but they are now open. However, since it's extremely cold, we decided to go inside.
The interior has expanded significantly. The bread-making area has moved inside, and the display area outside has increased. However, there is always one bread I must have: the 'crepe cake.' The experience of enjoying layer after layer is unforgettable. If you visit, make sure to try it!
You can go up to the second floor, which is divided into the main building and an annex.
Wanggungri Ruins
Finally, we arrive at the Wanggungri ruins. Currently, only the stone pagoda stands in an empty lot, but Iksan has decided to restore the Wanggungri site. This year, the area of the Wanggungri ruins has been expanded, and they plan to complete the restoration by 2038, so a quick visit is worthwhile.
The Wanggungri ruins host events like spring concerts every year, so even if you can't visit now, check the schedule for spring events.
This day trip could be leisurely or tight, but since the locations are close to each other, finding them should be easy.
How about a day trip to Iksan?
Source :https://blog.naver.com/jbgokr/224153028686
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