A Weekend Trip to Hwaseong, a Vibrant City of 900,000 Residents
A record of a cozy day spent in Hwaseong, where the sea, parks, and old stories coexist.
The Story of Hwaseong, a Vibrant City of 900,000
Hwaseong is a truly fascinating neighborhood. Within an area larger than Seoul, it encompasses the appearance of a high-tech industrial city, quiet historical ruins, and the open West Sea. Even though it is bustling with a population exceeding 900,000, just stepping a little inward reveals hidden, quiet spaces perfect for a stroll. It's the first place that comes to mind when you wonder where to go on the weekend.
A Place Steeped in King Jeongjo's Footsteps
You can feel the deep intentions of King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty right from the name Hwaseong. When he moved his father Crown Prince Sado's tomb here, he established Hyungryunwon (now Yungneung), and King Jeongjo periodically visited this path, filled with longing and filial piety for his father. Not only Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, but various parts of Hwaseong City are deeply imbued with King Jeongjo's will for reform and filial piety, making it wonderful to walk as if on a stroll and recall historical tales.
Hwaseong Attractions Great for Walking Wherever Your Feet Take You
If you're wondering where to go in Hwaseong, we recommend a course that evenly explores both the sea and the forest. From a mystical island where the sea road opens up to Joseon royal tombs, you won't have a dull moment all day long.
It's a mystical island where the sea road parts twice a day. It's great to match the tide times, enter, and walk along the coastal walking trail.
The resting place of King Jeongjo and Crown Prince Sado, featuring lush pine tree paths that calm your mind whenever you visit in any season.
A cable car connecting Jebudo Island and the mainland while crossing over the sea, where you can admire the beautiful sunset of the West Coast.
Korea's largest botanical garden dedicated solely to native Korean wildflowers, perfect for leisurely viewing flowers and trees and relaxing.
A place that served as a trading port with China since the Three Kingdoms period. Standing atop the fortress wall gives you a panoramic view of the West Sea.
Scenery Embraced by the West Sea and Green Forests
Bordering the West Sea, Hwaseong offers scenery full of oceanic scents. Especially around sunset, the red-tinted glow along the West Coast is breathtaking no matter how many times you see it. Urban parks and forest trails are also well-maintained, making them perfect for enjoying a weekend picnic.
The Tastes of the West Sea and the Joy of Colorful Festivals
As a region hugging the sea, Hwaseong lets you taste fresh seafood. In particular, seasonal grilled shellfish and knife-cut noodles (kalguksu) enjoyed around Gungpyeong Port or Jebudo Island completely wash away travel fatigue. Every autumn, events highlighting local characteristics, such as the Sea Festival and Grape Festival, are held around Ujeong-eup, Hwaseong-si, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Hwaseong Restaurants Loved by Locals
An indispensable joy of traveling to Hwaseong is delicious food. We've gathered places that will fill your stomach heartily, from fresh seafood near the sea to local foods loved by residents.
You can taste fresh sliced raw fish (hwed) and shellfish at affordable prices, with the fun of eating while looking at the sea.
A gathering of restaurants selling neat local foods such as Korean set meals (hanjeongsik), barley rice, and knife-cut noodles, great to stop by before or after a walk around the royal tombs.
Lined with everyday restaurants frequented by local residents, such as trendy cafes, samgyeopsal (pork belly), and gukbap (soup with rice).
Reliable Hwaseong Travel Tips to Know
Because Hwaseong has a large area and long intervals between public transportation dispatches, using a car is much easier if you want to comfortably explore every nook and cranny. Especially when visiting Jebudo Island, you must check the tide times in advance to avoid getting stranded. Be sure to check the tide table before you depart!