Exploring Taehwa River Cave Pia: A Historical Experience
Every August, we approach Liberation Day, commemorating the end of Japanese colonial rule. Remembering the saying, "A nation that forgets its history has no future!" there is a place in Ulsan where we can connect with the historical sites from that era.
Recently, I visited Taehwa River Cave Pia, an indoor experience center perfect for families. It offers a chance to engage with the history of the Japanese occupation.
From the free parking area at Taehwa River Cave Pia, it takes about 10 minutes to walk to the ticket booth.
On the way, there are story paths featuring popular children's tales such as The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, the Golden Axe and Silver Axe, and tales of clay pots and turtles, making the walk enjoyable for kids.
There is also a cool artificial waterfall, but unfortunately, it was not operational during my visit due to rain.
At the end of the waterfall, you will find Cave 4, which is free to enter. Inside, there are illuminated fish sculptures, including whales, rays, and turtles, along with a photo zone featuring salmon swimming upstream.
On the way to the ticket booth, a spacious plaza with restrooms and a fountain awaits. After entering through the ticket booth, you can explore up to Cave 3, with this plaza being the exit point.
Descending the stairs leads to the Taehwa River walking trail below. Conversely, you can also access the cave from the walking trail.
In the plaza, you can admire sculptures of golden cranes and golden eggs, which symbolize longevity, happiness, and good fortune, inspired by a local legend about two cranes that brought down a golden statue.
On one side of the plaza, there is a beautiful garden adorned with various flowers and plants.
Ulsan is known for its ecological restoration efforts, and it will host the 2028 Ulsan International Garden Expo centered around Taehwa River National Garden.
Taehwa River Cave Pia operates as a paid facility, and tickets can be purchased at the entrance.
Address: 306 Namsan-ro, Nam-gu, Ulsan
Operating hours: 09:00 - 18:00
Closed on Mondays
Admission: Adults 2,000 won / Youth and Military 1,500 won / Children 1,000 won
The cave maintains a cool temperature inside, making it an excellent summer retreat in the heart of Ulsan.
The first cave, the History Hall, was originally an artificial cave created for military supplies during the Japanese occupation. It tells the story of resource exploitation and forced labor endured by Ulsan residents during that time.
Along the path to Cave 2, there is a beautiful Milky Way tunnel perfect for photos. The adventure in Cave 2 features various animal sculptures, including deer, bears, and bats, providing numerous photo opportunities for children.
In the cave plaza, there are various interactive experiences, including a rubbing and stamping area featuring animals from ancient rock art.
At Taehwa River Cave Pia, you can also see a taxidermied golden bat, a species native to Korea.
As you exit the cave, you can descend the stairs to the Taehwa River walking trail. Crossing the Shilli Bamboo Bridge leads you directly to Taehwa River National Garden.
Visit Taehwa River Cave Pia for a unique educational experience about the history of the Japanese occupation and enjoy the cool cave and golden bats waiting for you.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/ulsan_nuri/224382018229
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