Joanna James
South Korea is a destination of unimaginable wonder, appealing adventures and a distinct culture simply waiting to be discovered by keen globetrotters. Here are 8 areas that you must visit.
As the heart and soul of the nation, the capital of Seoul sure does go to great lengths in providing a welcoming introduction to what South Korea is all about. From vibrant pop culture, brilliant promenades, and contemporary architecture to eye-catching parks; Seoul is where you can shop till you drop as well as eat all the yummy street food your stomach can muster. Consider the sweeping views of the city from atop N Seoul Tower, visit Bukchon Hanok Village for a look at lovely pagodas or get your money’s worth at Myeongdong Shopping Street where cosmetics, fashion and banana pancakes go hand in hand. In fact, should you be looking for a budget-friendly, yet comfortable place to stay, then opt for Travelodge Dongdaemun Seoul which is one of the best hotels in Dongdaemun.
A far cry from Seoul is Jeju Island which is found some 85 km off the coast and comes across as an excellent way to voyage through the natural environs of the country. Walk on white powdery sands that make up Hamdeok Beach, and hike under the shaded patches of Halassang National Park before beelining in the direction of the magnificent Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls for one awe-inspiring time.
Merging towering mountains, and graceful Buddhist temples with the nuances of the local culture is South Korea’s 2nd largest city of Busan which ought to be penned down in your itinerary at the very outset. Once here, you may spend time observing the daily goings on at Jagalchi Fish Market which will surely work up an appetite in you for the seafood spreads that are served at local restaurants. Also, do head to Gwangalli Beach where unobstructed panoramas of Diamond Bridge can be immersed in.
Encounter a treasure trove of historical representations and heritage sites of varying proportions at Gyeongju. Culture buffs and nature lovers will truly appreciate the city’s old-world charm which is well captured within the National Museum which houses an impressive collection of artefacts to pour over. Once done, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bulguksa Temple and the grass-covered burial grounds of Tumuli Park will warrant visiting.
From the imposing structure of Hwaseong Fortress built during the Joseon Dynasty to the riches contained within Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, Suwon affords rewarding escapes to the capital of Gyeonggi Province where the popular pastime of shopping might also be indulged in.
Responsible for producing 40% of the country’s tea, Boseong Green Tea Field is one of the best places to go on nature walks and engage in some photography. May is perhaps, the most favourable month to visit as this is when the colourful Green Tea Festival is held while during winter, the gardens are adorned in light bulbs which in short, make for quite the sight for sore eyes.
As the 2nd tallest mountain in South Korea which rises to an imposing 1,915 meters in the air, Chunwang Peak is an absolute ‘must’ for all those obsessed over mountain climbing. Aside from the thrill of scaling new heights, adventure seekers can also take on the pleasures of the national park which extends across 3 provinces.
Picture the mesmeric scene of cherry blossoms falling on a railway track when at Kyeong-Wha Station which is a notable landmark which draws in locals and foreign nationals alike. Perfect for striking that pose to be used on your next post, the view of trains passing through the cherry blossom tunnel is one of the most captivating scenes in all of South Korea.
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A travel writer who has a pas...
