10 Things to Do in Hwaseong Fortress (화성) Suwon, South Korea
Hwaseong Fortress (화성) in Suwon, South Korea, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. Located about 30 kilometers south of Seoul, the fortress was built in the late 18th century by King Jeongjo, the 22nd ruler of the Joseon Dynasty, to honor his father, Prince Sado. The fortress walls stretch for 5.7 kilometers and encompass the city center of Suwon. It is considered one of the best-preserved fortresses in Korea, and is a great place to explore the country’s culture and history. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Hwaseong Fortress.
1. Take a Guided Tour: There are several guided tours available that will take you around the fortress and explain its history and significance. These tours are a great way to learn about the fortress and its importance in Korean history.
2. Visit the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace: The Hwaseong Haenggung Palace was built in 1796 as a temporary palace for King Jeongjo. It is one of the best-preserved palaces in Korea and is a great place to learn about the country’s history and culture.
3. Explore the Hwaseong Fortress Walls: The fortress walls are one of the main attractions at Hwaseong. They are 5.7 kilometers long and are made of stone and brick. The walls are a great place to explore and take in the beauty of the fortress.
4. Visit the Hwaseong Fortress Museum: The Hwaseong Fortress Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the fortress and the Joseon Dynasty. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including artifacts and documents from the era.
5. Visit the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace Garden: The garden at the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the fortress. The garden is filled with plants, trees, and flowers, and is a great place to take a break from exploring the fortress.
6. Take a Hike in the Hwaseong Fortress Park: The Hwaseong Fortress Park is a great place to explore the natural beauty of the area. The park has several trails, and is a great place to get some exercise and take in the scenery.
7. Visit the Janganmun Gate: The Janganmun Gate is the main gate of the fortress. It is a great place to take photos and learn about the history of the fortress.
8. Take a Boat Ride on the Suwoncheon River: The Suwoncheon River runs through the city of Suwon, and is a great place to take a boat ride and explore the area.
9. Check Out the Local Markets: The local markets in Suwon are a great place to explore the local culture and pick up some souvenirs. The markets have a variety of items, from food and drinks to clothes and souvenirs.
10. Visit the Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival: The Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival is held every year in October and is a great place to experience the culture of the area. The festival features traditional music and dance performances, as well as food and activities.
Hwaseong Fortress is an amazing place to explore and learn about the history and culture of South Korea. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or to explore the area, Hwaseong Fortress has something for everyone. So, make sure to add it to your list of places to visit in South Korea.