10 Things to Do in Suwon Hwaseong Fortress (Historic Site) Gyeonggi South Korea
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, located in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country's most iconic historic sites. Built in the late 18th century, the fortress has been well-preserved and is home to a variety of attractions, including a museum, a palace, and a number of impressive fortifications. Whether you're a history buff or just looking to explore this unique part of the world, here are 10 things to do in Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
1. Visit the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace: Located within the fortress walls, the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace was built in 1794 and served as a temporary palace for the royal family. The palace features a number of traditional Korean buildings, including a main hall, a library, and an audience hall. Visitors can explore the palace grounds and learn about its history.
2. Explore the Fortress Walls: One of the most impressive features of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress is the fortress walls, which stretch for a total of 5.7 kilometers. The walls feature four gates, four watchtowers, and a number of turrets, all of which are open to the public. Visitors can explore the walls and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area.
3. Visit the Hwaseong Museum: Located within the fortress walls, the Hwaseong Museum offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of the fortress and the people who lived there. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.
4. Take a Guided Tour: For those looking for a more in-depth experience, guided tours of the Hwaseong Fortress are available. The tours provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the history of the fortress and its importance to Korean culture.
5. Visit the Janganmun Gate: The Janganmun Gate is the main entrance to the Hwaseong Fortress and is one of the most impressive features of the site. The gate is made up of two large stone walls and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the gate and take in the views of the surrounding area.
6. Climb the Hwaseong Haenggung Tower: Located at the center of the fortress, the Hwaseong Haenggung Tower is one of the most iconic features of the site. Visitors can climb the tower and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area.
7. Visit the Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival: Every spring, the Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival is held at the fortress. The festival features a variety of traditional Korean activities, including music, dance, and martial arts performances. Visitors can also enjoy food, games, and other activities.
8. Explore the Suwon Hwaseong Folk Village: Located just outside of the fortress walls, the Suwon Hwaseong Folk Village is a great place to explore traditional Korean culture. The village features a number of traditional Korean buildings, including a Confucian school, a traditional market, and a mill. Visitors can explore the village and learn about its history.
9. Visit the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Night Tour: For a unique experience, visitors can take part in the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Night Tour. The tour takes visitors around the fortress walls and provides an opportunity to explore the site after dark.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Suwon is home to a variety of delicious local cuisine. Visitors can enjoy traditional Korean dishes, such as bibimbap and bulgogi, as well as a variety of international dishes.
Whether you're a history buff or just looking to explore a unique part of the world, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress is a great place to visit. From exploring the fortress walls to taking part in the local culture, there are plenty of things to do in Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.