5 Inspiring Places to Visit in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea

If a Korean tells you that he is from Seoul, it is quite possible that he actually means that he is from Gyeonggi-do, the province that practically surrounds the capital of South Korea on all sides. Many people working in Seoul come to the city from different parts of Gyeonggi. The landscape isn’t just urban sprawl, however—Gyeonggi-do is home to some of the country’s most underrated attractions, including serene green spaces located next to historical landmarks. Many of these places won’t see the crowds of foreign travelers, but they are easily accessible from Seoul and worth a visit for their distinctive architecture, historical significance and impressive scenery. Here are five top destinations for travelers looking to explore the natural landscapes of Gyeonggi Province.

1. Suwon

No visitor to the provincial capital of Suwon should leave without visiting the city’s main attraction, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hwaseong Fortress. Built in the late 18th century, this imposing structure includes extensive walls with gates and towers, and the north-west ramparts host a popular parade of cafes and restaurants – a great place to try a barbecue. galbi (rib meat).

Just a few minutes away by taxi, Yongheung Arboretum is a reminder of the modern side of Suwon. Here you’ll find an intriguingly designed glass building that appears to be tilted at an alarming angle, amidst the greenery of Yongheung Forest Park. Inside are greenhouses that house exotic plant species commonly found abroad, such as bananas and coconut trees. There is also a shop here that sells organic gardening products, ideal for those with green fingers. Outside the building you’ll find plenty of well-maintained forest trails to explore.

Although Suwon is significantly smaller in size than Seoul, it remains a city of great importance to South Korea. Here is the headquarters of the giant Samsung Electronics corporation, known as Samsung Digital City. This massive campus, with 390 acres of office space, is the birthplace of many of Samsung’s most inventive products—a technological history that can be traced through its own Samsung Innovation Museum.

2. Paju

There’s a lot to see in Paju, a city northwest of Seoul that’s easily accessible by highway. Gyeonggi-Chungang Linepart of the Seoul metro network. This area is best known Paju Book Citya modern complex with printing presses, charming cafes and a hotel, and, you guessed it, plenty of bookshops. Meanwhile, the nearby Heynri Art Village is a similar project, although its focus is on art studios and sculptures rather than books.

Visitors should also visit First gardena family-friendly theme park surrounded by landscaped greenery. The best time to visit is at sunset, when the majestic illuminations give the park a magical atmosphere, but it is a beautiful place at any time of the day. Finally, travelers can go to Imjingak Parkwhich is located south of the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), and visit Dora Observatory. Here, using binoculars or even just your vision, you can catch a glimpse of North Korea.

3. Gimpo

Travelers will also be able to get a glimpse of North Korea from Egibong Peace Ecoparkwhich is located on the northern edge of the city of Gimpo and faces the North Korean city of Kaesong across the demilitarized zone. The park has an exhibition hall as well as an observatory where binoculars are on hand to get a closer look at this elusive nation. With a decent camera lens, travelers will be able to see North Korean villagers spending their day on the other side of the Han River. Despite its delicate location, it is a tranquil place, rich in birdsong and floral scents, especially in summer.

4. Yansu-ri

Carefully preserved for many years, the village of Yangsu-ri is located at the confluence of two rivers, which then flow together to form the mighty Hangan, down the center of Seoul. Nowadays, the island in the center of Yangsu-ri is very popular among travelers looking for the most scenic photography opportunities. It’s easy to see why: strolling along the coastal lanes will see you pass rice paddies with shimmering emeralds and look out to the mountains beyond. Luckily, the area is large enough to accommodate visitors seeking scenery while maintaining a leisurely and natural atmosphere. Yangsu-ri, part of Yangpyeong County, is easily accessible by train from Seoul, and for sports enthusiasts there’s even the opportunity to cycle along the network of coastal bike paths that extend from the capital. If you have a free week, these trails lead all the way to Busan, on the other side of the country.

5. Soyosan

For invigorating walking trails and breathtaking scenery, head north from the capital on Seoul Subway Line 1 until you reach Soyosan in the city of Dongducheon (about 90 minutes from the center of Seoul). On arrival, travel along the winding stream bed until you reach the delightful Jajaam Temple. Its most notable feature is the cave-like temple built into the mountain. Although dimly lit inside, it glows with kaleidoscopic colors thanks to altar candles and paper lanterns. There are several levels of hiking trails from Jajam, although even the easiest trails will give your calves a workout. Hiking here is especially beautiful in the fall thanks to the season’s fiery foliage, although the mountain is ultimately a great place to visit year-round.