What are the Top Tourist Attractions to Visit in Gwangju, South Korea?
For many people, a trip to South Korea usually involves itineraries that include the capital Seoul and, if time permits, a short trip to Busan, Daegu, or Incheon. My point is, a few people know about other great cities in South Korea with a lot to offer. Seoul is a beautiful city, don’t get me wrong. It has plenty of attractions that might take you weeks to see all, but sometimes it is good to break the rut and instead of booking a flight to the capital, head to the Honam region. Here you will find a city called Gwangju, which means “light province.”
Gwangju is usually overlooked and underrated in terms of travel, but don’t be fooled; it offers lots. And that is what we are going to look at today.
Gwangju National Museum
If you are new to the city, learning about the region’s cultural history will do you a lot of good. Gwangju National Museum contains important artifacts, paintings, and calligraphies dating back to the Joseon era.
The museum has been serving visitors since 1978, and its architecture is inspired by the traditional Korean style.
The museum has two floors. The first floor is focused on exhibitions, while the second floor is dedicated to ceramics recovered from a shipwreck from the 14th century.
On the outside, you will find many monuments scattered throughout the compound.
The best part is that it’s a free museum!
Mudeungsan National Park
With the summit standing at 1,187 meters, Mudeungsan National Park offers an excellent opportunity to refresh and enjoy the vistas of the city below. The peak can be reached via various trails that start at the Wonhyo-sa temple, which also happened to have a bell from the 1700s.
The rocky bluffs, including Ipseok-dae and Seoseok-dae, are worth seeing.
Boseong Green Tea Field
Though this tea field is located outside the city, it is worth it that day trip there. The sprawling hills of lavish green tea manors are sights to behold. Besides the beautiful landscape, you will also learn how fresh tea leaves are harvested, processed, and sampled. Enjoy freshly prepared tea while taking in the breathtaking views of the plantations.
If you are still up for more relaxation, take a bus ride to the nearby Yulpo Beach and enjoy the beautiful coastline.
Sajik Park
Since the Three Kingdoms Period, this hill has had significant historical importance to the People of Korea. Surrounded by a century-old forest, if you look around, you can find a stone altar podium to various deities from between the 1st and 7th centuries.
You will also find plenty of modern shrines, including one used for sacrifices during the infamous Korean War.
But the park’s highlight is the observation tower, built in 2014. There are two ways to reach the top of the building – using stairs or an elevator. On top of the tower, you can see the Gwangju skyline.
Gwangju-Kia Champions Field
A baseball game outside the United States and Canada seems unthinkable. But that is until you visit the Gwangju-Kia Champions Field, a home grounds for the Kia Tigers. The stadium can accommodate more than 22,000 people.
Kia Tigers is the Yankees of South Korea, and if you are a baseball fan, you will feel right at home cheering them on. However, note that the baseball season commences in April and ends in November, while games kick off at 5 p.m. and run through 6.30 p.m.
Gwangju National Science Museum
The striking Gwangju National Science Museum is located within the Gwangju High-tech Science Industrial Complex.
Everything here is hi-tech, and you will feel like you have just entered the future. “Light” is the primary motif of this museum.
The World of Light section is dedicated to everything light, including its properties.
Inside, you will also find a playground, an excellent place for kids, an auditorium, and a 3D Theater for experiments and robot dance shows.
Daein Market
Though many thought it would be affected when large shopping stores arrived in the city, Daein Market is still going strong. While it was slightly affected, the empty stalls were transformed into art galleries.
Today, the market spans six districts and includes art studios, gift shops, food stores, and everything you want from a busy open market.
1913 Songjeong Station Market
Another historic market you can browse, 1913 Songjeong Station Market, is located just across Gwangju Songjeong Station. Like the Daein Market, it also experienced some trying moments until it was transformed into a trendy hub a few years ago. This included refurbishing the buildings along the alleys and adding new food stores, cafés, and pop-up stores.
The market is also great for trying out some delicious street food.
Gwangju Lake Eco Park
Located about half an hour from central Gwangju by bus, Lake Eco Park is ideal for unwinding and escaping the busy city life. The inviting grassy knoll is great for lying down and enjoying the cool lake breeze, while the wooden observation deck is perfect for bird-watching.
There are also several trails leading past four-century-old paddles.
Chungjang-ro
Chungjang-ro was the ground zero for the 1980 Gwangju Democratization Movement, but today, it is the city’s prime entertainment and shopping hub.
If you want to know about the current fashion trends, Chungjang-ro is the place to be. The street is mainly pedestrianized and has hosted annual festivals since the 1970s.
Soswaewon
This traditional garden is located just a short distance from Lake Eco Park. It was designed and created in the 16th century to reflect the state of being contented and living in poverty with integrity.
The garden is peaceful and is surrounded by mud and stone walls. Inside the walls, you will find an artificial waterfall, a pond, and two beautiful pavilions.
Dongmyeong-dong Café Street
When you come across this building, you will be instantly enticed by the ostentatious facades of themed pubs, cafés, and restaurants.
Hop into one of the shops and enjoy a hot or cool beverage while enjoying live music.
Asia Cultural Center (ACC)
ACC organizes live music and dance performances, film screenings, modern and contemporary art shows, festivals, and workshops, among many other events and occasions dedicated to the region’s culture.
Gwangju Family Land
This mid-sized theme park is ideal for a family day out. It is located on the edge of the Buk-gu district on 290 acres overlooking a lake.
There are many thrilling rides and attractions, such as carousels, a rollercoaster, a slide pool, and a swinging Viking ship.
Try Korean food
Before leaving Gwangju, set aside at least one afternoon to sample some of the traditional dishes.
You can do this in the following restaurants:
- Minsokchon
- The First Alleyway
- Yeongmi
- Gwangju Kimchi Festival
- Cheongwon Momil
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is Gwangju worth visiting?
Gwangju, South Korea, is worth visiting for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. The city offers a blend of modern and cultural attractions, including Mudeungsan National Park, May 18th National Cemetery, and the Asia Culture Center.
What is famous in Gwangju?
Gwangju, South Korea, is renowned for its historical significance, vibrant arts scene, and natural attractions. Notable points of interest include the May 18th National Cemetery, Mudeungsan Mountain, the Asia Culture Center, and the Gwangju Biennale, a prominent contemporary art exhibition.
What is Gwangju city known for?
Gwangju is known for its rich and diverse cuisine, historical significance, and vibrant arts and culture scene. The city also holds a significant place in Korean history as the birthplace of Korean democracy, with its citizens playing a pivotal role in the country’s democratic movement.
How many hours from Seoul to Gwangju?
The travel time from Seoul to Gwangju by KTX high-speed train is approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes.
Gwangju Travel and Tour Packages
To help you plan your visit to Gwangju, we listed places and things to do for your itinerary. We also listed some of the best Gwangju travel and tour packages, excellent flight deals and accommodation.
Tripadvisor has a list of the best Gwangju vacation packages. You may check out Airbnbs listings in Gwangju for cheap but high-quality accommodation.
Searching for the best Gwangju hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our list of cheap Gwangju hotels and resorts via Agoda, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
Want more updates about new tourist attractions in Gwangju? Follow #TeamOutofTown, on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.
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