Exploring Gyeonggi Garden: A Green Oasis in the City
[Reporter Lee Un-jeong]
The newly opened Gyeonggi Garden offers a refreshing escape into nature.
This year, the monsoon started later than usual, leading to unpredictable weather changes throughout the day. On days when it rains, bringing an umbrella can be futile as the sun shines brightly, making planning outings quite tricky.
Staying at home can feel stifling, especially with the heat, so I was eager to venture out. Fortunately, amidst the unpredictable weather, a space has opened up in the Gyeonggi Convergence Town where visitors can enjoy nature comfortably: the Gyeonggi Garden.
As I approached the entrance, the towering Gyeonggi cypress tree, over a century old, caught my eye. This tree was relocated from the old Uijeongbu site in Gwanghwamun and now stands proudly at the entrance, symbolizing the garden's rich history. Additionally, there are symbolic trees from all 31 cities and counties in Gyeonggi Province, showcasing the seasonal changes beautifully.
Walking deeper into the garden, I discovered the 'Peace Pond', designed in the shape of the Korean Peninsula. Although it was still being filled with water during my early morning visit, I enjoyed a peaceful stroll along the 'Water Splash Path', lined with hibiscus flowers, basking in the morning sunlight.
At night, the Water Splash Path transforms into a romantic scene with LED lights illuminating the way. For those who prefer a tranquil morning walk or a serene evening stroll, both options are delightful.
The garden features two main areas connected by a walking path: the garden adjacent to the Gyeonggi Provincial Library and the grassy plaza above the Gyeonggi Convergence Town. This seamless connection allows visitors to take a leisurely stroll and explore the entire area.
Moreover, the garden is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring barrier-free paths for everyone to enjoy a relaxed walk. It is also a climate-responsive park that incorporates various eco-friendly elements such as solar-powered pavements and smart benches.
Moving towards the grassy plaza, the atmosphere shifted to a more open and refreshing space. The expansive lawn provided a much-needed respite from the daily grind.
On one side of the plaza, a small stage has been set up, sparking anticipation for future performances and events. Opposite the stage, a shaded resting area reminiscent of a traditional hanok features benches and swings, perfect for relaxation.
Gyeonggi Garden also includes two playgrounds for children, one designed as a forest playground and the other as a Gyeonggi Garden playground. Some of the play equipment generates energy through solar power, allowing children to experience eco-friendly practices while they play.
Alongside the forest playground, a barefoot walking path has been established. Although not very long, it is just the right size for a brief stroll without shoes, complete with foot washing stations nearby for convenience.
As I walked through the garden, I encountered diverse flora in the wetland biotope, flower gardens, and harmony forest. The sight of barley growing in the middle of the city was particularly fascinating.
The trees and flowers are still young, but the garden has been planted with over 605 trees, 37,000 shrubs, and more than 100,000 flowering plants, creating a lush green space that will soon flourish beautifully.
Adjacent to Gyeonggi Garden, the 'Dodamdeul' local food market offers fresh produce from Gyeonggi Province at affordable prices. Across from it, the 'Gyeonggi, Jang' culture lounge provides a cool indoor experience, open until December.
As summer vacation approaches, consider visiting the Gyeonggi Provincial Library for some reading and enjoying the stunning night views at Gyeonggi Garden. It serves as an open green space for all residents, making it a unique eco-friendly park.
Parking is available at the Gyeonggi Provincial Library or the Gyeonggi Provincial Office. For detailed rates and free usage times, checking the website before visiting is recommended. The garden is conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Gwanggyo Central Station, easily accessible and identifiable along the main road. The Gyeonggi Convergence Town QR code provides a smart navigation service for added convenience.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/gyeonggi_gov/224347749227
No comments yet.
