Korea National Park

If you're the kind of person who enjoys the great outdoors, you are in for a treat. There are 20 national parks in Korea for you to choose from, including three marine parks. The first designated national park also happens to be the largest, Jirisan National park located in the southwest. Parks are home to a variety of wildlife, and have been kept in remarkably pristine condition. Korea is truly a hiker's paradise, but there are other activities that can be enjoyed besides hiking. For example, you can take part in watersports or visit ancient historic sites. At the Muju Resort, located in the Deogyusan National Park skiing can also be enjoyed. Overnight accommodation can be arranged within the parks, including hotels, camping, temple and farm stays.
Korea has twenty national parks, designated in areas of outstanding beauty along the coast and deep in the mountains. Since Korea is a very mountainous country, it is not surprising that climbing is such a popular sport with Koreans. There are lofty peaks in the vicinity of the most cities where the avid climbers can test their skill.

Korea National Park

Mt. Ch'iaksan (4,226 ft)

Located about 7 miles southeast of wonju, is the site of Kuryongsa Temple which preserve many of the mountain's legends.For years Chiaksan has inspired hikers with its towering mountain sides and magnificent deep valleys. Its was once referred to as "Jeokak," but the name has since changed over time, due in large part to a mythical story. [Read More]

Mt. Jirisan (6,283 ft)

This park was the first national park designated in Korea and also the best known for Hwaomsa Temple which contains many national treasure.
Along with Mt. Geumgansan and Mt. Hallasan, Mt. Jirisan is known to be one of the most sacred mountains in Korea. It was named ‘Jiri’ because it was believed to be a place that turns the innocent into the wise. Mt. Jirisan, located in the south, is one of the five mountain peaks that surround the capital of old Shilla 
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Mt. Juwangsan (3,061 ft)

This  park is good for moderate hiking. Mt. Juwangsan is also called Mt. Seokbyeongsan, Mt. Jubangsan and Mt. Dedunsan. There is a legend that King Juwon of Silla (57 B.C.~A.D. 935) lived on this mountain after turning Silla over to Goryeo.. [Read More]

Mt. Hallasan (6,398 ft)

The highest mountain in Korea. It is an extinct volcano and is particularly famed for its unusual flora and fauna. From its warm climate to the cooler areas, Mt.Hallasan is famous for its vertical ecosystem of plants. Over 1,800 kinds of plants and 4,000 species of animals (3,300 species of insects) are known to exist here, and due to the well-developed climbing course, you can carefully observe the surroundings. . [Read More]

Mt. Gayasan (4,692 ft)
The home of Korea's best known temple Heinsa, which houses more than 80,000 wooden printing blocks of the Tripitaka Koreana. Featuring the highest peak, Sanghwangbong, Mt. Gayasan is composed of many summits each over 1,000m in height. From the Taebaek Mountains, the Gayasan stretches from east to west. In 1972, it was designated as National Park No.9 due to its breathtaking scenery. [Read More] 

Mt. Kyeryongsan (2,772 ft)

This park has many beautiful temples, including Tonghaksa and Kapsa Temple. Gyeryongsan National Park stretches across Daejeon, Gwangju, and Nonsan. This spectacular mountain is 845.1m above sea level and was made a national park in 1968. The origin of the word Gyeryong comes from the fact that the ridgeline looks like a dragon wearing a chicken's crest on its head.. [Read More]

Mt. Naejangsan (2,503 ft)

Mt Naejangsan boasts glorious autumn foliage and the splendid temples of Paegyangsa and Naejangsan. Inside the park, there are famous waterfalls, such as Dodeok Falls and Geumseon Falls, and temples such as Baekyangsa and Naejangsa temples. If you follow the valley left of the ticket booth, you can see the waters of Dodeok Falls, cascading down the cliff. If you go further along the valley you can see the waters Geumseon Falls where even the gods have supposedly bathed.. 
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Mt. Odaesan (5,128 ft)
The home of Wolchongsa Temple with its octagonal pagoda and Sangwonsa Temple. Featuring the 1563m high Birobong Peak, Odaesan spreads southwest with Mt. Sodaesan, Horyeong Peak and Mt. Sogyebangsan. The east side is connected with Sangwang peak and Duro Peak, which are over 1,000m high. The representative temple of Odaesan, Woljeongsa Temple, was named after the bright, full moon that rises above Manwoldae (Mt. Dongdaesan).. [Read More]

Mt. Puk'ansan (2,743 ft)
providing good hiking and rock climbing. Mt. Bukhansan has such smooth curves that the large granite rocks sometimes look as if they would slide down the mountain. The sharp peaks provide contrast to the dozens of valleys and rivers flowing below. 
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Mt. Sobaeksan (4,721 ft)
It is soars up at the begining of Sobaeksanmaek Mountain range. Nearby is Pusoksa Temple, noted for having some of the oldest wooden architecture in Korea. The nationwide Sobaeksan Royal Azalea Festival is held near Danyang-gun in early June every year. . [Read More]

Mt. Songnisan (3,468 ft)

The home of Popchusa Temple where Korea's tallest Buddha statue is found, gilded in bronze. The peak used to be called “Unjangdae” because the summit is always covered with clouds and mist. A legend says that King Sejo supposedly recited a poem on the summit. .[Read More]

Mt. Soraksan (5,604 ft)

This is the most beautiful mountain in Korea. This 354 kms2 park is famous for its granite peaks, lush green valleys, mysterious temples, and glorious waterfalls. Also referred to as Seolsan and Seolbongsan, the mountain was named Seorak because the snow would not melt for a long time keeping the rocks in a permanent state of white. In November 1965, the Seorak Mountain district was designated as a Natural Monument preservation area. .[Read More]

Mt. Togyusan(5,229 ft)

It is famous for its beautiful scenery. Of the many wonderful sites, Mujuguchon-dong, the 25km valley range from Najetong gate to Baekryeonsa Temple, is especially noted as one of the 10 best tourist areas of Korea. [Read More]

Mt. Wolch'ulsan (2,654 ft)
This mount is famous for its craggy, strange rock formations.
Because this place always has water, it is said that a dragon used to live here. Another 500m further down you can see Maaeyeoraejwasang, the sitting Buddha statue, which is designated as National Treasure No. 144..[Read More]

Mt. Woraksan (3,599 ft)
Mt. Woraksan lies close to the wellknown Suanbo Hot springs, Ch'ungju Dam and Tanyang P'algyong ( Tanyang's Eight Scenic Wonders ). The park contains an abundance of wildlife and plants, many of which are extremely rare, so some hiking courses are regulated to prevent forest fires and ensure their protection.. [Read More]

Kyongju National Park 

The ancient capital of the Shilla Kingdom,Pulguksa Temple, Sokkuram Grotto and many other historic sites are located in this area.
Unlike the other parks located in the area, this park is segmented into individual districts. However, admission fee covers entry to the entire park because the districts are segmented for the government administration. Because Gyeongju itself is a historic city with many important historic sites and relics, Gyeongju is divided into 7 districts, and.. [Read More]

Hallyohaesang National Park

This maritim park consists of a stretch of water 93 nautical miles long, running from Hansan-do island, south of Pusan, to Yosu in the west. The park is encompasses some 400 islands and islets. The sea-view of the Namehae section of Hallyeohaesang National Marine Park is particularly breathtaking. .[Read More]

Byeonsanbando National Park

This park is famous for the old temples scattered over its mountainous region. The park is divided into two large sections: the shore area, called Oebyeonsan (Outer Mt. Byeonsan), and an inland area called Naebyeonsan (Inner Mt. Byeonsan). Chaeseokgang River and Byeonsan Beach are the main tourist attractions of Oebyeonsan. [Read More]

T'aean Haean National Park

This maritime park includes many beach areas and picturesque rock formations. The area was designated as a national park in October, 1978, and at present, nearly 250 different species of plants grow within its boundaries.
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Tadohae Haesang National Park
The park is comprised of several beaches and islands. Hongdo island is famous for its camellia forest and unusual rock formations. Dadohae is also where Jang Bo-go, a historical maritime figure, built a maritime kingdom in the Silla period and it served as a maritime trade road in Goryeo times. In addition, in the Joseon era, it was a battlefield where Admiral Yi Sun-shin defeated the Japanese troops.. [Read More] 

History Of Korea

Korean has had a long history dating back to 2,333 B.C. This section follows the History of Korea from the prehistoric age to its current era.

The Prehistoric Age

Archaeological findings have indicated that the first settlements on the Korean Peninsula occurred 700,000 years ago.

Gojoseon (2333 - 108 B.C.)

According to legend, the mythical figure Dan-gun founded Gojoseon, the first Korean Kingdom, in 2333 B.C. Subsequently, several tribes moved from the southern part of Manchuria to the Korean Peninsula.

The Three Kingdoms Period (57 B.C. - A.D. 676)

The Three Kingdoms refers to a period of time (early 4th to mid-7th centuries A.D.) marked by the struggle of three rival kingdoms: Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla over the territory spanning the Korean peninsula and part of Northeastern Asia.

Goguryeo

An ancient state of the Korean peninsula, Goguryeo occupied the largest territory among the Three Kingdoms. Founded in 37 B.C., Goguryeo prospered on a vast area encompassing the northern part of the Korean peninsula and south-central Manchuria. The kingdom expanded its territory in fierce battles against Chinese kingdoms, but fell to an alliance of Silla and Tang forces in 668 A.D.

Silla

One of the ancient states of the Three Kingdoms, Silla originated in the southeastern part of the Korean peninsula. The kingdom lasted for 992 years, from 57 B.C. to 935 A.D. It conquered Baekje and Goguryeo, one after the other, by joining forces with the Tang Empire of China. Following the unification of the Three Kingdoms, the Tang Empire was no longer an ally, but an invader. Hence, Silla joined forces with the people of Goguryeo and Baekje to drive out Tang forces, and founded the first unified state in the history of Korea in the territory south of the Daedonggang River and Wonsanman.

Baekje

One of the three ancient kingdoms, Baekje (18 B.C.- 660 A.D.) was founded by King Onjo, the son of the King of Goguryeo, in the southwestern part of the Korean peninsula. The kingdom witnessed the florescence of the elegant and delicate Baekje culture, which in particular greatly affected Japanese culture. In 660 A.D., Baekje was defeated by the coalition troops of Silla and Tang of China.

The Unified Silla (676-935)

The Unified Silla Kingdom promoted the development of culture and arts, and the popularity of Buddhism reached its peak during this period. The unified Silla Kingdom declined because of contention for supremacy among the noble classes, and was annexed by Goryeo in 935.

Balhae(698-926)

The Balhae Kingdom began to emerge just as the Goguryeo kingdom was on the verge of collapsing. Goguryeo General, Dae Joyeong founded Balhae along with his army of displaced peoples. At one point, Balhae became so powerful that it was able to acquire territories in northern and eastern parts of China. At those times, the Tang Dynasty of China referred to Balhae as 'the strong country by the sea in the east.' The significance of the Balhae Kingdom is greatly inherited from Goguryeo, including the land that it was able to retrieve.

The Goryeo Dynasty (918 - 1392)

The Goryeo Dynasty was established in 918. Buddhism became the state religion during this time and greatly influenced politics and culture. Famous items produced during this time include Goryeo celadon and the Tripitaka Koreana. Jikjisimgyeong, Buddhist scripture printed with the world's first movable metal type developed in Korea during Goryeo Dynasty, is at least 78 years older than the first Gutenberg Bible.
The Goryeo Dynasty's strength decreased gradually in the latter half of the 14th century.

The Joseon Dynasty (1392 - 1910)

The Joseon Dynasty was formed at the end of the 14th century. Confucianism became the state ideology and exerted a massive influence over the whole of society. The Joseon Dynasty produced Hangeul, the Korean alphabet, which was invented in 1443, during the reign of King Sejong. The dynasty's power declined later because of foreign invasions, beginning with the Japanese invasion of 1592.

The Japanese Colonial Period (1910 - 1945)

In 1876, the Joseon Dynasty was forced to adopt an open-door policy regarding Japan. The Japanese annexation of Korea concluded in 1910, and Korean people had to suffer under the Japanese colonial rule until the surrender of Japan in 1945, which ended World War II.

Establishment of the Korean Government (1945-1948)

Korea was liberated from Japanese oppression on August 15, 1945, but it soon faced the tragic division of North and South along the 38th parallel. Both regions were placed under temporary military rule by the U.S. and Soviet armies. In 1948 with the help of the United Nations, South Korea held an election on May 10th and elected Dr. Rhee Syngman president. On August 15th of that same year, an official declaration was made about the birth of the South Korean government. On the other hand, North Korea formed the Provisional Peoples Committee for North Korea, led by Kim Il-sung, in February 1946. On September 9, 1948, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea was officially founded.

The Korean War (1950-1953)

In the early hours of June 25th, 1950, North Korea attempted a forcible unification of North and South Korea by invading South Korea over the 38th parallel. In response, military help from over 16 nations helped defend South Korea against the threat of communism under the leadership of UN General Douglas MacArthur. China and the Soviet Union lent their military might to North Korea. The war continued over the next 3 years until coming to an end on July 27th 1953, with a peace agreement signed at Panmunjeom, located in the DMZ. Not only did the war ravage the peninsula, it also heightened hostile sentiments between the North and South, making reunification a difficult task.

The Aftermath of War (1954-Current)

The Rhee Syngman government focused on an anti-communist approach to government beginning in 1954, but in 1960 the government's power collapsed with the student's anti-government movement, the 4.19 Revolution. In 1963, Park Chung-hee was elected president and ruled with a controversial iron fist for the next 17 years. President Park Chung-hee's 'Saemaeul Undong' (New Community Movement, an effort to modernize Korea that began in 1970) brought about much progress in South Korea, and the systematic approach to economic development also yielded increased exports and positive returns. But with the democratic movement in progress and the citizens becoming wary of such extended rule, Park Chung-hee's life ended in a 1979 assassination. Afterwards in 1980, Chun Doo-hwan came to power and continued to lead the nation with an authoritarian slant as had been the case with former rulers. His rule came to an end in 1987 after massive protests across the country demanded democracy. In 1988 the Roh Tae-woo government started off the year on a good note by successfully hosting the 1988 Seoul Olympics. His government went on to join the UN in 1991. The Kim Young-sam government which began in 1993 implemented a new system in which people were required to use their real names when making financial transactions, a much needed revolution at the time. In 1998, Kim Dae-jung was elected president and threw his efforts into overcoming the IMF financial catastrophe that hit Asia in 1997, and also hosted the 17th FIFA World Cup in 2002. President Kim Dae-jung was also the winner of the 2000 Nobel Peace Prize for his Sunshine Policy regarding North Korea. President Rho Moo-hyun's term began in 2003 aiming, to achieve economic growth, and develop Korea as the hub of Asia with a more democratic style of leadership.

On the other hand, North Korea has been ruled by Kim Jeong-il since the death of Kim Il-Sung in 1994. Faced with dire economic situations, North Korea has begun to implement partial free trade in an effort to remedy the situation.

North and South Korea jointly signed an agreement on July 4th, 1972 concerning the reunification of the two Koreas, and in 2000 Kim Dae-jung and Kim Jeong-il took early steps to explore reunification, improve the economy, and solve the problem of separated families. The family reunification program, started in 1985, and continues to this day. In 1998, South Korean citizens began to be admitted into North Korea to tour the Geumgangsan Diamond Mountains.

Bhutan Kingdom - Welcome To The Land Of Thunder Dragon

The land of the thunder dragon kingdom is a trekkers paradise and an environmentalist's dream. With 72 percent of the country under forest cover, Bhutan's pristine ecology is home to rare and endangered flora and fauna.

This spiritual land is the last bastion of the Vajrayana school of Mahayana Buddhism which provides the essence of a unique identity for the 750,000 people.

Bhutan is a unique blend of the old and new. Here is a country that is slowly opening up to the modern world in a fine balance with its ancient traditions.

Those fortunate enough to visit Bhutan describe it as a unique, deeply spiritual and mystical experience. This kingdom is an adventure like no other.

Facts and Figures

Land area: 38,394 square kilometers

Forest area: 72.5 %

Altitude: between 240 meters and 7541 meters above sea level

Inhabitants: 634,982

Language: official language “Dzongkha”, English widely spoken

Religion: Vajrayana stream of Mahayana Buddhism (Also known as Tantric Buddhism)

Currency: Ngultrum (equal to Indian Rupee)

Capital: Thimphu

National Tree: Cypress

National Bird: Raven

National Flower: Blue Poppy

History Of Bhutan
Archaeological evidence suggests Bhutan was inhabited possibly as early as 2000 BC. Buddhism was probably introduced in the 2nd century although traditionally its introduction is credited to the first visit of Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century. Guru Rinpoche is one of the most important figures in Bhutan's history, regarded as the second Buddha.
[Read more]

Religion
Buddhism is practiced through out the country. All most all the Bhutanese are Buddhist. In the south, most Bhutanese people of Nepali and Indian origin practiced Hinduism. Yeshi Gonpo or Mahakahala is the main protective deity of Bhutan, often appears in the form of Raven.
[Read more]

People
The people of Bhutan can be divided into three main ethnic groups: The “Sharchops”, who live in the east of the country and are believed to be the original inhabitants. The “Ngalongs”, who live mostly in western Bhutan and are the descendants of Tibetan...
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 Destination
All major towns in the 20 districts of Bhutan are accessible by road. Despite high mountains, steep slopes, and the deepest of valleys Bhutan has a relatively well developed.[Read more]

Culture, Tradition, and Festivals
The Buddhist festivals or Tsechus are one of the prime examples of the living culture of Bhutan that many have come to admire and to treasure. The Tsechu is a festival in honour of Guru Rinpoche, the saint who brought Buddhism to Bhutan and the Himalayan world.
[Read more]

Arts And Crafts
Bhutan’s arts and crafts reflect the unique spirit and identity of the Himalayan kingdom.
The art of Zorig Chosum – or the thirteen arts and crafts of Bhutan – remains very much alive today. They include carpentry, blacksmithing, weaving, sculpting and many of the crafts described below. There are two institutes of Zorig Chosum where these traditional arts and crafts are being taught today – one in the capital, Thimphu, and the other in Trashi Yangtse in eastern Bhutan.
[Read more]

National Parks
National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries
Each of Bhutan’s National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries is an essential part of the Bhutan Biological Conservation Complex – a system of national parks, protected areas and forest corridors covering 35 percent of the country. Each of these parks and sanctuaries has its own special character and are homes to endangered animals, birds and plants.
[Read more]

Activities
Of the more than a dozen trekking routes in Bhutan offer a wide range of unforgettable impressions and experiences. Whether you choose a short but beautiful trek like the Druk Path or a challenging but extremely rewarding route like the Snowman, the incomparable views, serene nature, wilderness and unique people will stay in your mind forever. Read more about service offered on treks in Bhutan and find some detailed descriptions of Bhutan’s trekking routes.[Read more]

Korea - Religion

Buddhism

Buddhism first made its way into Korea in the 2nd year (A.D. 372) of the reign of King Sosurim of the Goguryeo Kingdom. After its introduction, Buddhism exerted a powerful influence in the Baekje Kingdom and Silla Kingdom. The Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto, which are designated as World Cultural Heritage sites by UNESCO, are Buddhist creations from the Silla Kingdom that are said to reflect the importance of Buddhism at this time.
Buddhism has exercised a far-reaching influence on Korean culture throughout its long history. Korea's invaluable Buddhist heritage abides in the nation's buildings, sculptures, paintings and handicrafts.

Protestantism And Catholicism

Protestantism came to Korea after the signing of the Korean-American Treaty in 1882. Since Christianity challenged the basic values of Choson society, its believers were subject to persecution in the early years, but as Christians took an increasingly active role in the anti-colonial struggle against the Japanese and churches promoted more educational opportunities, Christianity gained more acceptance. Today Korean churches evangelize abroad, and approximately twenty five percent of the Korean population is Christian. Catholicism first came to Korea as a western academic theory. Korean tributary missions to the imperial court of China took an interest in Jesuit missionary books and brought them back to Korea for further study. In 1784, the first Korean was baptized in Beijing and returned to Korea to set up a house of worship. Despite considerable persecution by the government, numerous people joined the Catholic Church. Presently, over two million people in Korea belong to the Catholic church.

Confucianism

Confucianism was a common philosophy in ancient Korea that brought about profound changes and exerted considerable influence on the Korean people. It has become an indispensable component of the Korean moral system, way of life, and national law. Confucianism, which was the major philosophy of the Choson Dynasty, eventually gave rise to ‘Silhak,’ or ‘practical learning'. Confucianism has deeply permeated the consciousness of Korean people and can be seen today in many forms, including two ceremonies that continue today: ‘Jongmyo Jerye', the royal ancestral service at Jongmyo Shrine, and ‘Seokjeon Daeje', the worship rites at the Seonggyungwan in honor of Confucius, his disciples, and other celebrated Chinese and Korean Confucian scholars.

Shamanism

Various shamanistic practices are deeply ensconced in Korean life. Modern shamanism still remains very similar to folk beliefs from ancient times, as it has remained relatively uninfluenced by Buddhist tradition. It is closely related to the rituals of primitive cults and communal rites for the gods of heaven. Even today, Shamanism in Korea is a practice that seeks to solve human problems through a meeting between humans and the spirits. This fundamental principle can be seen in the various types of shamanistic rites which are still widely practiced today.

Seoul

Seoul is both the capital and the heart of the Republic of Korea, containing about 10.8 million of the nation's 43.7 million people. Seoul is the financial, political, commercial, recreational, educational, and cultural center of Korea, home to major corporations, banks, government offices, leading schools and universities, theaters, and entertainment facilities. There is a rich and satisfying variety of things to see and do, both for the local resident and the visitors.

Seoul was a seat of government in the Paekche Kingdom, more than 1,500 years ago. But the city's real genesis began in 1394, when it became the capital of the Choson Dynasty(1394-1910). Seoul will celebrate its 616th anniversary in 2010. The Choson Dynasty, famed for its culture and accomplishments, is vividly seen in the city today : five of the original gates and parts of the 10-mile city wall have been restorated, and four major Choson Dinasty palaces and a garden with royal ancestral shrines add to the color and charm of modern Seoul

Toksugung Palace

Toksugung Palce is just beside City Hall. This palace complex is dotted with commanding structures. Taehanmun, the main Gate; Chunghwajon, the throne room or audience hall; and Sokchojon, a Renaissance-style building which was the first of its kind in Korea and now houses a cultural institute that offers monthly public audio-visual program. The palace and grounds are open to the public all year round

Kyongbokkung Palace

 The entance to the Kyongbokkung Palace grounds is a gate in its northeast wall. This 40-acre complex was built in 1394, the third year of the Choson Dinasty. Kunjongjon, the largest and most impressive palace building, served as the throne room and audience hall. Kyonghoeru, a spacious two-story pavilion, is situated over a man-made pond just northwest of the throne hall. It served as a place to host feasts for royal ministers and diplomatic delegations. Hyangwonjong, a secluded pavilion nestled in the middle of a lotus pond at the northern end of the palace complex, is where the royal families enjoyed special private occasions.

Kyongbokkung Statue

National Museum

Kwanghwamun Gate, at the end of Sejongno street, was once the original entrance to Kyongbokkung Palace. The main National Museum is just behind the gate. This impressive stone building, built in the 1920s, houses over 100,000 items from ancient times through the Choson Dynasty. It is a place where Korea's 5,000 years of culture can be seen and felt.

National Folklore Museum

This building is also in the complex. It displays items related to daily life in the past.

Changdokkung Palace

East of Kyongbokkung Palace, is a favorite destination for tourists. It is best known for the Secret Garden (Piwon), 78 acres of superbly landscaped gardens with pavilions, ponds, and wooded areas.

Changyonggung Palace

Also adjacent to this palace is another royal structure, Changgyonggung Palace. In its restored palace complex, magnificent gates and elaborately arched bridges from earlier era are well preserved.

Chongmyo ( Wooded Garden )

Chongmyo is heavily wooded garden, which contains the royal ancestral tablets from the Choson Dynasty.
On the first Sunday in May the courtyards and shrine buildings are opened to the public for annual Confucian ceremonial rite, one of the most interesting festivals in Korea

T'apkol Park

T'apkol Park is on Chongno Street. Named after a Choson Dynasty Pagoda in its center, the park is also known as "Pagoda Park". A landmark in the struggle against Japanese colonial rule, it was here at T'apkol Park that the March 1, 1919 Independence Movement, a nationwide nonviolent demonstration against Japanese occupation, was launched. Brass plaques along the eastern wall of the park tell the story of the movement and its suppression by the Japanese.

Chogyesa Temple

Chogyesa Temple, the headquarters of the Chogyejong sect of Korean Buddhism. This is the one of the major temples within the city limits and is famous for the Lantern Festival, a grand ceremony held every year in spring on Buddha's Birthday.

Tongdaemun( East Gate )

Tongdaemun and its market are by far the most interesting and fascinating places along Chongno street. The public market spreads east, west and south of Tongdaemun, which is one of the original gates that pierced the city wall. Market visitors find a variety of bargains in everything from bolts of colorful fabric to clothes and household goods.

Poshingak( Bell Pavilion )

It is a historical bell pavilion, cast in 1468, once tolled the closing of the city gates at dusk and their opening at dawn. The original bell is in the National Museum and the replacement, dedicated in 1985, is rung on New Year's Day and other special occasions. The original has been designated Korean National Treasure No.2.

Namdaemun Market

Namdaemun Market is named after Korea's National Treasure No.1, Namdaemun( South Gate). The market is easy to reach from major hotels and is popular among local residents and tourists alike for its bargains in everything from clothes to flowers and foodstuffs. Its crowded streets are lined with tiny shops selling almost every product imaginable

Seoul Station

Seoul Station, the main railway depot in the city, is to the south of Namdaemun. Most of the trains connect Seoul Station with Korea's other major cities, such as Pusan, Taejon, Kyongju, Taegu, and Kwangju.

Namsan Park

Mt. Namsan is a granite mountain in the heart of the city. At its summit, Seoul Tower provides an unsurpassed panoramic view of the city, along with a sky deck restaurant for a drink or a meal. The mountain is a public park with a national theater, botanical garden, and statues of famous historical figures. The mountain's interior is crisscrossed by three tunnels which connect the city's northern and southern districts.
On the northern slope of mount is Korea House, an excellent examples of traditional architecture. Authentic Korean food is served in dining rooms and banquet halls. There is also a small auditorium hall for performances of traditional Korean music and colorful dance presentations.
On the eastern Slope is located the National Theater. It houses large and small performance halls, and experimental and outdoor stages. The large theater has a capacity of 1,500 seats. All the stage systems, lighting and sound effects are of world-class standard.

It'aewon

It'aewon is probably the most familiar area known to foreigners for shopping bargains and entertainment. It is certainly the are that has contributed most to Seoul's international reputation as a Shopper's Paradise.
The area's main street runs for little more than a mile and is lined with stores, stalls, and discos. During the day It'aewon is bustling with shoppers, while in the evening the place lights up with spirited entertainment.

Han-gang River And Youido Islet

Originally the Han-gang river was the southern limit of Seoul. However, with the city's rapid growth since the mid 20th century, Seoul has expanded southward and eastward across the river, necessitating continuous bridge construction.
Han-gang River has also undergone a sparkling transformation. Over 20 miles of the river bank has been converted into recreation facilities, paths and gardens. Once again the Han-gang River is clean, and tourists can enjoy a leisurely view of Seoul's modern skyline and Mt. Namsan from one of the cruise boats playing between Youido Islet and Chamshil. Water sports are also becoming increasingly popular on the river.
Because of its transformation into a sophisticated government and financial center, the island of Youido is sometimes called "the Manhattan of Seoul". Youido is home to the National Assembly, the Korea Stock Exchange, many large corporation headquarters, and Korea's three broadcasting station; KBS, MBS, and SBS

Seoul Vicinity

Inch'on

One of Korea's most important port, Inch'on, is less than an hour away and is the end of subway system (KNR Line). Ferry services operate from here to the Chinese mainland. On a small knoll overlooking the harbor is Chayu Park, with its statue honoring General MacArthur's famous Inch'on Landing in 1950.

Suwon

Suwon, a walled city dating back to the Choson Dynasty. There are two other popular attractions near Suwon: Korean Folk Village and Yong-in Farmland

Korean Folk Village

Korean Folk Village is a living museum which recreates the lifestyle of several centuries ago. There are traditional potters, weavers, blacksmiths, and other craftsmen. There are 240 traditional houses as well as a small amphitheater for music and folk dances.

Yong-in Farmland is the site of an amusement park. It also offers one of the finest private collections of Korean art in the world at its Hoam Museum.
In addition, there is an open zoo with safari bus ride though a "jungle" that delights youngsters and another attraction at Yongin farmland is the "Global Village", which exhibits various traditional cultural scenes from 21 different countries.

Yongnung

Near by Yoju is Yongnung, the tomb of Sejong, Korea's most celebrated king, famed for the creation of HAN-GUL, the Korean Alphabet.

Kanghwado Island

This island lies to the west of Seoul where the Han-gang River meets the West Sea (Sohae). On the island there is a huge dolmen attesting to one of man's burial methods during Neolithic times, and Ch'amsongdan Altar, where the Korean ancestors paid their tributes to the heavens.

Chondungsa Temple

Chondungsa Temple is another historic tourist site on the island. The temple dates back to the ancient Three Kingdoms Period about 1,600 years ago. The unique style of its architecture and iron bell is rarely seen any more. In addition to the historic sites, local products such as Ginseng and Rush Mats make Kanghwado Island a fascinating destination.

Suburb of Seoul there are several royal tombs scattered about grassy areas ideal for picnicking. There is a tomb site called Tonggurung in the northeastern of Seoul, the largest tombs of which were built in the Choson Dynasty. Some 25 miles to the north lies Kwangnung, where a Choson king and his queen are interred.

Namhansansong Fortress

Around Seoul there are several hiking trails and sections of the old mountain fortresses which once provided defense for the city. Namhansansong Fortress located a top a mountain near the satellite city of Songnam, was the southern fortification. Puk'ansansong Fortress, the northern fortification, encircles the impressive peaks of Mt. Samgaksan. It formed a northern boundary for the ancient city of Seoul.
Further north is P'anmunjom inside the Demilitarized Zone. P'anmunjom was the site of the armistice negotiations which ended the Korean War in 1953, and it has remained the site of ongoing peace dialogues.
Traveling up along T'ongillo (Unification Highway), the tour buses cross Freedom Bridge to reach the truce camp. The visitors are escorted by a military tour guide to Freedom House for view of North Korea. The visitors can also  visit nearby Mt. Odusan Unification Observatory, this facility also provides a good view of North Korea.
To the northeast of Seoul there are recreation areas such as the Ch'ongp'yong Reservoir, with boating and water skiing, and an island resort called Namisom. A bit further north lies Ch'unch'on, another pleasant lake resort area with fishing and other water sports.