The stunning nature wonders of Suncheon
Live Out Your K-Dreams 🇰🇷
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!
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!
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, 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!
Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve
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.
Photo Credit: Martin Puyo
Suncheon Bay Nation Garden
Occupying over 1.12 km2 it has become a home to over 100 species of flowers and 500 species of trees making it every biologists haven! 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 visiting Japan, Thailand, France, England, the Netherlands, China and many more through their traditional gardens!
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 Sincheon and the bigger metropolitan cities.
Apart from adoring the unique architecture of Joseon period, you can immerse 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.
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.
