Top 6 Picturesque Locations in Suncheon
An uprising eco-city in the South of the Korean peninsula is famous for nothing less but its stunning nature parks and ancient temples. Only 3hour train ride from Seoul, you will soon be surrounded by some of the most unforgettable views in the whole of Korea! See the nature in the form and beauty you haven’t witnessed before, a trip to Suncheon will definitely be one of the top memories from your trip to Korea!
Photo credit: Martrin Puyou (IG: @martinpuyou)
1. Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve
You cannot say you’ve been to Suncheon until you took a picture at the famous Suncheon Bay. Standing as the brightest crown jewel of the city, it offers stunning views of the coastal wetland like none other. Did you know it houses over 200 species of birds, expansive fields of reeds and colonies of seablite? It is a true biologists haven, and it is included in the Ramsar protected wetlands list too. While the views from the plain are stunning, do not threat to go on a small hike up to Yongsan Observatory for the magnificent views of Suncheon Bay spread out across the horizon.
P.S. Stay till the sunset to get some amazing shots!
2. Suncheon Bay Nation Garden
It seems impossible not to mention numbers when we talk about Suncheon Bay National Garden. Occupying over 1.12km2 it has become a home to over 100 species of flowers and 500 species of trees! But it is not only numbers that make this place impressive. The condensed fields of tulips, royal azaleas and canola flowers will keep your eyes glued for hours (especially if you visit in May!).
While you are there, don’t forget to visit the beautiful Suncheon Lake Garden too, as its’ landscape consists of small hills all around the lake, giving the most beautiful reflections in the water. You can also go on a world tour right there and visiting Japan, Thailand, France, England, the Netherlands, China and many more through their traditional gardens!
P.S. Keep in mind that the garden is huge, and you will spend a good few hours exploring all what it has to offer. Thus, we highly recommended picking up a free map from the ticket booth, making it easier to follow the course.
3. Seonamsa Temple
Another place that will take you back in time. Resting in the midst of a lush forest on the Jogyesan Mountain, Seonamsa temple is one of a few temples in Korea, which up until today, breathes the traditional temple culture and really makes one forget the time. Right in front of the temple, you will find another treasure- Seungseongyo hermitage bridge built in 529 by a local monk!
4. Songgwangsa Temple (Stay)
It is easy to be deceived by the size of this temple, once you step in it looks incredibly huge, however, if you opt for a short hike on the Jogyesan mountain, you will be able to see the real size and beauty of the temple. Although visually one of the biggest temples in South Korea, it was actually even bigger before the Korean War! Around 150 monks practice there every year, and the temple has its’ doors open to people from all walks of life looking for Buddhist training or a brief immersion in the Buddhist life.
P.S. If you are up for a bit more exploration, you can easily hike between the two temples!
5. Suncheon Open Film Set
If you are a fan of either Korean history, Korean dramas or both, Suncheon Open Film Set will definitely give you the Goosebumps (and in the good way!) Previously acting as a military base, it now allows its visitors to step back in time, and experience Korea as it was in 1950s-70s! Being the largest film set in South Korea, the Suncheon Open Film Set consists of three astonishing villages, each reflecting a different time period!
If you’ve ever wondered where was the Monsta X ‘All In’ MV, Running Man, or East of Eden filmed then you’ve came to the right place! Of course, these are only a few to mention, as the site has been used for over 700 movies, dramas and TV programs! It is definitely every K-drama fans’ dream destination!
P.S. to enhance the experience even more, try on the school uniforms from the past! It will definitely help you experience the surroundings and will dwell as a great story in your memoirs and photos!
6. Nageupseong Folk Village
Once built to help defend the country against Japanese, the village was then a centre of a county. There are only a few folk villages left from the Joseon dynasty in South Korea, and Nageupseong is the last one left in its prefecture. However, the village is still well preserved as there are over 200 traditional houses remaining, many of which, are occupied by the residents. Another great opportunity to step back in time, creating a great contrast between the sights of Suncheon and the bigger metropolitan cities.
Apart from adoring the unique architecture of Joseon period, you can immerge in numerous activities making it a great day to remember! Check out the Dae Jang Geum film set, pottery and folk art, discover gayageum (traditional instrument) or learn more the traditional prison punishments. There is a lot to do for the whole family, making it a perfect day trip!
Top Tip: To get from Suncheonman Bay Garden to Suncheonman Bay Wetland take the SkyCube! It will cut down the journey time while giving you a chance to see the beautiful gardens from up above too!
Author: Raimonda Kekyte