Things to see and do Gyeonggi-Do 경기도

This sumptuous fortress was built to house the capital within its walls and to offer refuge to the king in case of emergency. It was therefore built under Silla by King Munmu in 672, but its earthen walls were replaced and greatly enlarged from 1612 onwards by Gwanghaegun, in anticipation of a possible Manchu invasion. Thus, in 1624, King Injo gave the order to rebuild this fortress. The monk Byeogam became the commander of the Buddhist armies and helped in the construction with his troops of monks. It was completed in 1626, but work was continued later, from King Sukjong (1674-1720) to King Sunjo (1800-1834). Listed as a World Heritage Site since 2014, this site is very beautiful, especially in spring and autumn, as it is very wooded and fits the relief perfectly. The fortress is very imposing, with its 9.6 km long and 3 to 7 m high stone wall. The main vestiges that can be admired there are the four gates at the four cardinal points, the castle of Suejangdae, located at the top of Mount Iljang as well as the Janggyeongsa temple which served as a refuge for the monks builders.

Cleveradvice . It is recommended that you come here at night to enjoy the magical view of Seoul from the fortress. In addition, restaurants are located in the heart of the fortress, which makes it easy for us to enjoy the place all day long.

In addition to being very long (approximately 2 km), Seopori beach is clean and has white sand. Surrounded by pine forest, it is an ideal place to bathe and relax. A really pleasant stop, and quite easily accessible.

It is said that this temple was built by a queen of Silla (Seondeok) in 635. Close to a juniper tree 6 times a century old, you can explore Seokgulamja, a small Buddhist temple inside a cave. Back outside, we admire the estate's flagship attraction: the 10-metre high bas-relief on which is engraved a representation of the deity of compassion Gwanse-eum. The climb is quite steep and steep but it is worth it because in addition to the cultural aspect, this place offers visitors a magnificent view.

This half-moon shaped gate is the most famous of the gates that belong to Hwaseong Fortress. This is the south door which has the peculiarity of being independent, detached from the rest of the structure. It's quite confusing though fascinating to see that nowadays it is used as a roundabout. This former guard platform has characteristics specific to western castles (battlements and loopholes). Just on its side, you can see a plaque with all the names of those who participated in its construction