Suwon in the world: Places to visit for living history experiences Suwon City, the capital of Gyeonggi Province in the Republic of Korea, is...
Suwon in the world: Places to visit for living history experiences
Suwon City, the capital of Gyeonggi Province in the Republic of Korea, is famous for its many historical remains. Of particular note, cultural relics are well preserved here and residents live vibrant lives in harmony with these relics, making it a very attractive city. Today we will introduce a tour course in and around Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, completed in 1796, was designed by the practical scholar Jeong Yak-yong. It is deemed to be one of the most unique structures in the history of Korean fortification architecture, enabling visitors to view the science, architecture, and art of the 18th century through its incorporation of inventions and new materials – such as heavy machinery and pulley systems – as well as methods of fortification that integrated both Eastern and Western techniques.
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 in recognition of its defensive functions and the value of its distinctive architectural characteristics, including its 4 gates.
An icon of Korean traditional history and culture that is recognized as a world-caliber tourist attraction, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress has been included among ‘Korea’s Top Tourist Attractions’, ‘50 Beautiful Places to Visit in Korea’ by CNN, the 2012 ‘Star of Korea Tourism’ that makes Korean tourism shine, and more.
1. How to enjoy Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
When visiting Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, we recommend that you use public transportation rather than driving. It is enjoyable to walk along the fortress roads and alleyways, and also to visit markets of various colors. Since there are numerous attractions and dining opportunities in and around the fortress, it will be a fun and memorable trip.
2. Introduction to Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Course
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ⓒGyeonggi Province |
Suwon Hwaseong Haenggung Palace
Along with Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, the architecture of Suwon Hwaseong Haenggung Palace is considered noteworthy. The palace is located on the west side of the fortress. The name “Haenggung” refers to a palace that has been prepared separately in a rural area as a king’s temporary residence during royal visits, in times of war, for his recreation, or when he visits tombs.
Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, where the king stayed during his visits, is the largest of its kind in Korea. Featuring a total of 576 rooms, it exudes beauty and grandeur.
After the Japanese colonial period, Hwaseong Haenggung Palace was used for various purposes and lost its original appearance. Restoration work began in 1996, the 200th anniversary of the construction of Hwaseong Fortress, and the palace was opened to the public in 2003.
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ⓒGyeonggi Province |
Paldalmun Gate, the southern gate of Hwaseong Fortress, was built in 1794 during the late Joseon Dynasty.
The name of the gate implies roads that are open in all directions.
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ⓒGyeonggi Province |
Janganmun Gate is the northern and main gate of Hwaseong Fortress. The word “Jangan” means the “capital,” a reference to Seoul. Janganmun is the main gate is because it was used by the king to enter Suwon from Hanyang, which is now known as Seoul.
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ⓒGyeonggi Province |
If you climb to the top of Paldalsan Mountain, you can see Hyowon’s Bell. A symbol of the ever-growing Suwon City, the bell is rung for all major events
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ⓒGyeonggi Province |
If you go a little further up from Hyowon's Bell, you will reach Seojangdae, which is located on a ridge of Paldalsan Mountain. This site is beautiful because it provides a panoramic view of Suwon City.
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ⓒGyeonggi Province |
The Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion originally served as a military command post. However, it was built so beautifully that it became the Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion
Recommended Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Travel Course
Paldalmun Gate – Seojangdae, Hyowon’s Bell – Hwaseomun Gate – Janganmun Gate - Hwahongmun Gate, Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion - Suwon Hwaseong Haenggung Palace
Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival
The Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival is a representative traditional culture and tourism festival held annually at Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. The fortress was built as an embodiment of the filial piety of King Jeongjo, the 22nd king of the Joseon Dynasty, and of the grand dream of national prosperity and military power.
In Suwon City, a center of culture and art where the past and present coexist in harmony, we recommend that you fully enjoy the various foods and sights while vividly experiencing the Joseon Dynasty. Additionally, since Suwon is famous for its fried chicken and short ribs, why don’t you come enjoy some chicken and beer?
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Info
Address: 320-2, Yeonghwa-dong, Jangan-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do
Operating hours: 09:00 to 18:00 (year round)
Entrance fee: KRW 1,000 for adults, KRW 700 for military personnel and youths, KRW 500 for children
URL: http://www.swcf.or.kr/english/?p=31
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