Suncheon
Live Out Your K-Dreams
Suncheon captivates with its breathtaking landscapes and cultural allure. The city is home to the enchanting Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve, a sprawling sanctuary for migratory birds with mesmerizing trails that promise unforgettable views. Complementing this natural wonder are the city's charming historical sites and bustling markets, offering a vibrant immersion into Korea’s rich heritage and dynamic local life.
Seonamsa Temple
Another journey through time awaits at Seonamsa Temple, nestled in the serene embrace of Jogyesan Mountain's lush forest. This ancient temple, one of Korea’s rare gems that preserves traditional temple culture, invites visitors to lose themselves in its timeless tranquility. Just in front of Seonamsa, marvel at the Seungseongyo Hermitage Bridge, a historic marvel built in 529 by a local monk, adding a touch of historical charm to the serene setting.
Suncheon Open Film Set
For enthusiasts of Korean history and K-dramas, Suncheon Open Film Set is an absolute thrill! Once a military base, this expansive site now whisks you back to Korea's vibrant 1950s-70s, offering an immersive journey through time. As South Korea’s largest film set, it boasts three breathtakingly detailed villages, each capturing a distinct era. It’s the magical backdrop for iconic scenes in Monsta X's All In MV, Running Man, and East of Eden, and has served as the stage for over 700 movies, dramas, and TV shows. For any K-drama aficionado, this is nothing short of a cinematic wonderland!
Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve
As the city's crowning glory, Suncheon Bay offers unparalleled views of its coastal wetlands, a dazzling showcase of nature’s splendor. Home to over 200 bird species, vast reed fields, and vibrant colonies of seablite, this Ramsar-protected wetland is a paradise for biologists and nature lovers alike. For an extra touch of awe, take a short hike to Yongsan Observatory, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic vistas of Suncheon Bay stretching endlessly across the horizon.
Photo Credit: Martin Puyo
Suncheon Bay Nation Garden
Covering over 1.12 km², this botanical wonderland is home to 100+ flower species and 500+ tree varieties, offering a dazzling spectacle of tulips, royal azaleas, and canola flowers, especially in May. Don't miss the stunning Suncheon Lake Garden, where hills reflect magically in the water, and take a world tour through vibrant traditional gardens from Japan, France, and more!
Nageupseong Folk Village
Once a key defense point against Japanese invasions and later a county center, Nageupseong is one of South Korea’s last well-preserved Joseon Dynasty folk villages, boasting over 200 traditional houses still inhabited by locals. This village offers a captivating glimpse into the past, contrasting sharply with the modernity of Sincheon and bustling metropolitan cities. Immerse yourself in the rich history through activities like exploring the Dae Jang Geum film set, engaging in pottery and folk art, discovering the gayageum (traditional instrument), or learning about historical prison punishments.
Songgwangsa Temple (Stay)
Despite its seemingly modest size, this temple reveals its true grandeur once you take a short hike up Jogyesan Mountain. While visually one of South Korea’s largest temples, it was even more expansive before the Korean War. Today, around 150 monks practice here annually, and the temple warmly welcomes visitors seeking Buddhist training or a brief immersion into monastic life.
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