Summer Blooms at the 25th Haso White Lotus Festival
Summer captured in white petals,
Kimje Cheongunsa Haso White Lotus Field
Currently, the area around Cheongunsa in Kimje is adorned with serene landscapes and pristine white lotuses. The lotuses bloom beautifully, showcasing a picturesque scene away from the noise of the city.
On the 11th, the 25th Haso White Lotus Festival took place, and I visited the event. Let me introduce you to the stunning white lotuses that will continue to bloom more vibrantly during this season.
The name 'Haso' is derived from a landform resembling a shrimp carrying eggs. Upon arriving at the Haso White Lotus Field, which spans approximately 20,000 pyeong, I was welcomed by a photo zone. After parking, I headed to the festival site.
The festival was held in the square below Cheongunsa and marked its 25th anniversary. It is said to be the second largest festival in Kimje.
While many residents came to see the lotuses, there were also numerous tourists.
Last week, the rainy season had paused, and it was quite hot. To combat the heat, a large block of ice was set up in front of the event area, providing some relief.
The Haso White Lotus Festival is a community-led cultural festival. The Cheonghaem Community Council collaborated in organizing the event. It was unique to see local residents actively promoting Cheonghaem to the tourists. They showcased local agricultural products and specialties, and the atmosphere was warm as they shared tea. Attendees could also experience making lotus keychains and magnets, with items available for sale.
No festival is complete without a food market. The Cheonghaem Community Council offered delicious pancakes, lotus leaf rice, and boiled pork.
Another entertaining aspect was the village competition of Yutnori, a traditional Korean board game. Representatives from Cheonghaem's villages participated, playing in the traditional manner on a mat, with enthusiastic support from local residents making the event even more lively despite the heat.
Now, let's fully appreciate the beauty of the white lotuses!
Throughout the event area leading to Cheongunsa, clusters of white lotuses were in full bloom. They are expected to continue blooming beautifully until August, so I highly recommend visiting to admire the pristine white lotuses.
As I approached Cheongunsa, I found more white lotuses blooming beautifully. To my surprise, there were also pink lotuses, creating a lovely harmony.
Just a short climb from the lotus clusters leads to Cheongunsa. Although it is a small temple, it has nurtured this lotus field for many years, exuding a unique tranquility. While it may not be as extravagant as the lotuses, it possesses a refined beauty.
From in front of Cheongunsa, the lotus field is designed in a way that allows for continuous appreciation of the lotuses as you descend. The serene temple and the delicate beauty of the lotuses together create a representative summer landscape of Kimje.
Visiting Tip: Since white lotuses bloom in summer, it is recommended to visit early in the morning or around sunset rather than during the hot midday hours. There is little shade at the lotus field during the day, so visiting in the early morning or late afternoon would be ideal.
There is also a well-maintained lotus field near the parking area for Cheongunsa, with decking for viewing. There are photo zones throughout the area, making it a great opportunity to capture memories with the lotuses.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/jbgokr/224362571215
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