A Visit to the Namhae Expressway Ham-an Rest Area
경상남도 함안군 군북면 유현리 990-2
함안휴게소 순천방향
By Park Hyun-sook, 14th SNS Reporter
Namhae Expressway Integrated Rest Area
The Ham-an Rest Area on the Namhae Expressway (Busan and Suncheon Direction)
Food and Convenience Facilities
While traveling, a rest area is a must-visit stop. On the way to Ham-an, the 'Ham-an Rest Area with Watermelon Story' is a natural stop along the Namhae Expressway. Located in Gunbuk-myeon, Ham-an-gun, Gyeongnam, this is a bi-directional integrated rest area accessible from both Busan and Suncheon, making it very convenient for travelers.
The Ham-an Rest Area is near the Jangji IC, providing excellent accessibility. Positioned at the 97 km mark from Suncheon, it serves as a perfect resting spot for long-distance drivers. Visitors can escape the fatigue of continuous driving and enjoy ample rest and meals, leading to high satisfaction rates.
Opening Background and Facilities
Opened due to the aging of the former Namgang Rest Area, the Ham-an Rest Area was inaugurated on July 22, 2010, in the Busan direction, and on September 2 of the same year, in the Suncheon direction, taking on its current form.
In terms of facilities, the Ham-an Rest Area is nearly flawless. It features a variety of options including Twosome Place, a robot cafe, and a beatbox, as well as ATMs, gas stations, LPG charging stations, spacious parking lots, clean restrooms, dining areas, and convenience stores—all basic elements expected from a highway rest area.
Notably, the Busan direction has a gas station, along with electric vehicle and hydrogen charging stations, making it very convenient for eco-friendly vehicle users. The charging spaces are also spacious, allowing for easy access without the worry of waiting or congestion.
Operating Hours and Accessibility
The food court operates with relatively generous hours. The Busan direction food court is open from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM, with some stores available from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The convenience store and robot coffee shop operate 24 hours, providing flexibility for visitors.
The Suncheon direction Ham-an Rest Area is also impressive for its late-night dining options. Visitors can easily walk from the Busan direction rest area to the Suncheon direction without inconvenience. The food court operates a late-night dining service, offering warm meals even in the late night or early morning, although cleaning occurs from 1:00 AM to 3:00 AM, temporarily halting operations.
Recognized Service Quality
Recognized for its operations and service quality, the Busan direction Ham-an Rest Area was named the best rest area in the 2017 National Evaluation. It is not just a large rest area but a space that has been recognized for its user satisfaction, instilling trust among visitors.
Food Court Highlights
Food options at the rest area are a highlight. When in doubt about what to choose, referring to the chef's recommended menu can reduce the chances of a bad choice. Various dishes are available, including zucchini anchovy kalguksu from Aramyeonok, Ham-an-style bulgogi bibimbap from the Korean cuisine corner, and skewered fish cake udon from the udon and ramen section, as well as Namsan King Pork Cutlet from the Western cuisine section. The variety caters to families, solo travelers, and long-distance drivers alike.
Smart Use and Safety Facilities
For a smart visit to the Ham-an Rest Area, scanning the QR code at the entrance allows for immediate discounts on orders. A discount of 5,000 won is applied to both the first and repeat orders, totaling 10,000 won, which is especially useful for frequent visitors. Inside the store, easy-to-understand guides for ordering meals are provided, making it accessible for first-time users.
A traffic safety experience center operated by the Korea Expressway Corporation is also available, open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, offering a meaningful space to learn about traffic safety through hands-on experience. It is a space that can be enjoyed simply and beneficially in a short time, so take a look around.
Parking and User Convenience
The rest area also has a dedicated lounge for truck drivers, allowing those who drive long hours to rest comfortably. This thoughtful consideration for all users is commendable.
The Ham-an Rest Area has particularly ample parking space, accommodating a total of 274 vehicles, including 206 small cars and 68 large vehicles, making it relatively spacious even during peak times.
There are also notable accommodations for persons with disabilities, including a storage area for walkers, strollers, crutches, and wheelchairs, allowing for ease of use and comfort.
Local Culture and Watermelon Theme
In one corner of the Ham-an Rest Area, the Ham-an Happiness Market operates, featuring various agricultural products from Ham-an, including dried persimmons and watermelons, as well as jointly branded Arari products, allowing visitors to experience local specialties up close.
There is also a watermelon-themed zone in the outdoor park, ideal for walking with children. Storyboards featuring Korean folktales such as Heungbu-jeon and Byeoljubu-jeon, adapted with a watermelon theme, provide a fun reading experience during a stroll.
Additionally, signs introducing the origin and benefits of Ham-an watermelons naturally inform visitors that Ham-an is the largest watermelon-producing area in Korea. A space where local stories, relaxation, and food come together, the Ham-an Rest Area is a representative resting place on the Namhae Expressway that leaves a lasting impression.
If you happen to pass through Ham-an during your travels, why not stop by the Ham-an Rest Area? Experience relaxation and fun all in one!
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