An eight-page magazine promoting Korea’s tourism industry and highlights, including health, well-being, sports tourism and cities. Published by Mike Starling and the Korea Tourism Organization in London. For more information see http://thestarlingfiles.wordpress.com
Do's & Don't at Turkish Airlines Mogadishu Office Address.pdf
Korea Be Inspired: Recharge your energy
1. BE INSPIRED
Recharge your energy
This special publication is brought to you by the Korea Tourism Organization
2. 2 INTRODUCING KOREA 3
Find your soul in Seoul
THE CAPITAL CITY
PAGE 4 PAGE 9 PAGES 16-17 PAGES 18-19
Korea’s healthy cuisine Temple stay Sports tourism MICE and green tourism
I
S it possible to find peace, The residences of ‘Buckchon Hanok edge. But it’s not just the Han River that herbal saunas and exfoliations scrubs
Be rewarded with
tranquillity and well-being in a Village’ located between Gyeongbuk- provides peace through water. to extract bad toxins and have one
PUBLISHING INTRODUCTION BY KTO PRESIDENT AND CEO CHARM LEE city? Well, recharging your energy
in Seoul is part of the city’s DNA
gung and Changdeokgung Palaces,
were built for high-ranking officials
Cheonggyecheon Stream, a major
restoration project, came to life in 2005
positively glowing.
Hidden down a quaint side alley,
– and citizens of this dynamic Asian from the Joseon dynasty. having been covered over by tarmac just off the main thoroughfare of
INFORMATION capital, home to 25 per cent of Korea’s
entire population, are living proof that
finding your ‘Yin, Yang’ is an essential
One of the mountains protecting
the city is ‘Bukhansan’ (Mt) and
national park, which plays host to
since the 1950s. The 5.8km-long
stream runs under 22 bridges, nine
fountains and is the most pleasant way
Insadong Street (famous for arts and
crafts galleries, street musicians and
antiques), is ‘Sanchon’ restaurant
PUBLISHER DETAILS part of their everyday life. elite climbers, hikers and regular to stroll past many city icons. – celebrated for its delicate Buddhist
the ʻgenuine charm
This supplement was Few capitals match Seoul’s dynamic walkers searching out the park’s Continue on foot and try out temple cuisine full of fresh vegetables
published in March 2011 by blend of the ancient and the modern. medieval Bukhan fortress. Seoul’s walking tour programmes and mountain greens which provide the
the Korea Tourism Organization Skyscrapers tower over historic The highest peak is 836m – making covering five tour zones that intimately main ingredients.
in conjunction with palaces and temples, whilst Seoul N it accessible to all levels of stamina showcase Korea: And then next door you can find
Tower stands imperious atop Mount – and if that does not encourage hikers ■ ‘Ancient culture’ traces back from ‘The Old Tea Shop’ which serves every
Sports Travel News to the top then a shot of pine-needle prehistoric times through to the ‘three type of tea from Ginseng to ‘Jujube
Namsan and is the first visible landmark
welcoming you to the city. Soju will do the trick. kingdoms’ period date’ tea.
of Korea’
It is from this viewpoint that you Seoul’s divine energy also comes ■ ‘Traditional culture’ focuses on the Both venues encapsulate why
realise Seoul is not only protected from water; the Han River is a symbol main palace of the Joseon dynasty Korea’s cuisine is regarded one of the
by surrounding mountains, but also of the city, running east to west with dating back 600 years healthiest in the world.
bisected by the Han River, the city’s some 23 bridges straddling the ■ ‘Modern culture’ infiltrates recent If the night remains young after a
life-blood flowing through its core. 175m-wide channel. turbulent history through architecture full-day sightseeing, the nocturnal
‘Hanyang’ (the former name of Cruise through the centre of one ■ ‘History-ecology-restoration’ follows vibrancy of Myeongdong,
Seoul) was recommended to the of the world’s largest cities or rent a Cheonggyecheon Stream as it winds its Dongdaemun, Hongdae and Insadong
Joseon Dynasty (founders of the 600 bike and follow the myriad of parks way past eight beautiful city sights will excite and exhaust in equal
3rd Floor year-old capital city) by feng shui and paths that run beside the water’s ■ Finally, the ‘Past-Present- measure. Flashing neon signs with
New Zealand House, experts, thus preserving the ‘divine Coexistence’ zone will elevate you to clubs, bars and an overwhelming
Haymarket, London energy of Seoul’. the viewpoint at Naksan Park and visit variety of museums, theatres, markets
SW1Y 4TE By experiencing some of the private residence of the first and malls will ensure your ‘Yin, Yang’
Korea’s cultural traits it is Korean president is in perfect harmony.
possible to feel this unique Such energetic pursuits need to be So if you are looking to visit a
Tel: +44 (0) 207 3212535
energy for yourself. Echoes balanced by other fundamental Korean city that can recharge your energy
W
london@gokorea.co.uk of the past in the form of characteristics. through a mix of both modern
www.visitkorea.or.kr ITH the designation of 2010-2012 as ‘Visit Korea Year’, I am
delighted to introduce our second bespoke supplement: Korea Be temples, palaces and hanoks You can visit an ‘Oncheon’ (thermal and ancient culture,
Inspired – Recharge your energy. This bespoke publication will (traditional houses) are ideal bath) or ‘jjimjilbang’ which includes a why not book
introduce you to the finding of ‘peace and well-being’, ‘health starting points to understand choice of clay, crystal and mugwort an unforgettable
and fitness’ and your personal ‘balance and harmony’ through ‘Yin, Yang’. and encounter oriental experience in
Korea is a place to come and recharge your energy using nature, philosophy through Korea’s inspiring
tradition and belief in a society that has an ability to reinvent architecture. capital Seoul.
itself constantly. If you are willing to invest time to enjoy and
understand Korean culture you will be rewarded with the ‘genuine
charm of Korea’.
SPORTS TRAVEL NEWS
Using our expertise, knowledge and passion, we welcome
mike@sportstravelnews.info you to discover echoes of the past in the form of temples and
http://sportstravelnewsuk.blogspot.com palaces – and visitors can also experience staying in traditional
residences known as ‘Hanok’ (traditional houses). They are
EDITOR designed and built in accordance with feng-shui principles,
Mike Starling focusing on practical use and beauty. All are ideal starting
points to understand our diverse cities, people and the
country as a whole.
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Another way is to sample Korean cuisine, from humble
Ramy Salameh meals served at Buddhist temples to elegant feasts once
served to dynastic kings and queens. It is one of the
PHOTOGRAPHY world’s healthiest cuisines and the national dish ‘kimchi’ is
All pictures are copyright of the guiding force.
the Korean Tourism Organization Shopping bargains abound, from quality gifts in traditional
unless stated otherwise markets to high-tech gadgets in designer complexes. Such energetic
pursuits can be counter-balanced by Korean cultural pastimes such
as acupuncture, massage and thermal spas. All of which you will
MORE INFORMATION find within the following pages.
For details on travel to Korea, I urge you to read-on and be truly ‘inspired’ by how much
plus where to stay, destinations Korea can recharge your energy.
and cultural activities
see www.visitkorea.or.kr Charm Lee, Korea Tourism Organization president and CEO
3. Korea’s
4 A HEALTHY INDUSTRY: CUISINE A HEALTHY INDUSTRY: SPA 5
healthy
cuisine
T Purity, clarity and calmness – let
HE food culture of a destination is of Korea, assisted by the ‘Gwangju Kimchi Cultural Changdeokgung Palace, the institute sits in
massive importance and gives you a great Festival’ and ‘Kimchi World’, a Korean food traditional surroundings, hiding internal
insight into the life and practices of its experience centre located in Insa-dong courtyards displaying old utensils used in the
Korea’s water features inspire you
people. Be it Kimchi, bulgogi or rice (Jongno-gu, Seoul). preparation of food. Exhibitions related to the
cakes, Korea’s appetising and healthy cuisine Koreans cannot live without Kimchi and even history of the Joseon Dynasty Korean royal
has gained praise and admiration from foodies their first astronaut took a vacuum-packed version cuisine are open to visitors.
across the globe. with her into space. Han Bok-ryeo, president of the Institute of
With a huge and unique range of food on Korean Royal Cuisine, is the successor to Hwang
offer, visitors can enjoy dishes that include DIVERSITY IN A DISH: BIBIMBAP Hae-sung. She has devoted much of her adult life
meat, fish, greens and vegetables. Bibimbap is regarded as one of the most to royal cuisine.
Eaten with chopsticks, all the dishes are served traditional dishes in Korea. So join us on a In 2000 she travelled to Pyeongyang and
at the same time and a typical meal normally journey of discovery and find out about this directed the royal cuisine dinner at the summit
includes rice, soup and side offerings. spectacular dish. talks between the two Koreas.
If you think that bibimbap is just a The Institute of Korean Royal
A
THE NATIONAL DISH: KIMCHI dish of mixed rice, ‘namul’ Cuisines was established by
(seasoned vegetables and Master Hae-Sung Hwang COUNTRY with However, the whole of Korea JJIMJILBANG & SPA and history, it will be a cultural
Kimchi – fermented spicy cabbage conceived in coastline on three sides, can offer beautiful beaches for experience as well!
Korea around the 7th century – is the national herbs) and ‘gochujang’ (red in 1971 when the Joseon With more than 300 spas across
pepper paste) then you are Dynasty Royal Korea has an abundance which to swim, watch the the country Korea is the ideal The top waterfalls to visit:
dish and has been scientifically proven to be of water attractions. sunrise or just soak up the sun. ■ Jikso Falls: Located in
high in nutrition. wrong. Within bibimbap, Cuisines had been location for a relaxing and
locally-obtained bean selected as the No.38 From swimming in seas to On the rocky coastline of uplifting break. Byeonsan Peninsula National
The food has become a global icon unique to soaking in hot springs there is the west you can find the white Marine Park and 30ft high.
sprouts are the main valuable Intangible Jjimjilbang facilities include
ingredient to be added Cultural Asset. an activity to enjoy on any day sands of Daecheon Beach and varied temperature-controlled ■ Cheonjiyeon Falls: Located
to rice. The rice is then The Institute of during the four seasons. Jellabuk-do’s beaches, while in rooms ranging from steaming on Jeju Island and is a
cooked in beef broth. Korean Royal Cuisine In Buddhism, water represents the south on Jeju Island there hot to ice cold. Also on offer are designated natural monument.
Just before the rice is is regarded as the clarity, calmness and purity are 11 beaches to explore. Jeju’s hot springs, karaoke rooms and ■ Gugok Falls: Located near
fully cooked, bean sprouts leading organisation – so why not cleanse your soul climate, turquoise waters and cafés. And if that’s not enough, Bonghwasan Mountain,
are mixed with the rice, then for the teachings of at a spa, river, natural spring or palms make it a favourite for why not stay the night … prices Gangwon-do, and 50m in
the other ingredients such as traditional cuisine culture waterfall? In Korea, water is not honeymooners and outdoor are cheap and the lodgings are height. Gugok Falls freezes
‘mung’ bean curd, raw beef and through its educational activities just seen as the source of life but enthusiasts alike. of a high standard. every winter and is a paradise
nuts are put on top. and publications. a source of entertainment and ● See page 12 for more Korean families, couples and for ice climbers.
In choosing the ingredients the colour is also well-being. information about Jeju Island singles go to a jjimjilbang on a ■ Daeseung Falls: It is located
considered carefully, according to traditional TRADITIONAL KOREAN FOODS ● See pages 10-11 for a mapped regular basis for socialising and in the Mt Seoraksan region and
cosmology: each direction of the compass, the Bap (steamed rice) and juk (porridge); guk (soup); view of Korea’s water features HOT SPRINGS for relaxation. If you are visiting was known as a major recreation
precise location of the diner and what season it jjigae (stew); jjim and jorim (simmered meat When the temperatures drop the country this is an experience site of King Gyeong-Sun, who
happens to be are all indicated by the use of five or fish); namul (vegetables or wild greens); BEACHES in winter Koreans head to the not to be missed. reigned from 927-935.
basic colours, which are blue (and green), red, jeotgal (seafood fermented in salt); gui (broiled/ If you are spending summer in many hot springs available.
yellow, white and black. barbecued dishes); jeon (pan-fried dishes) and Korea you have to head to the With regular snowfall, a trip WATERFALLS WATER PARKS
Blue symbolises the east; yellow is the spot mandu (dumpling). beach. With temperatures rising to a hot spring can provide a Waterfalls are regarded as one If you are travelling in June
where one happens to be standing and also the above 30 degrees C, June, July relaxing and healthy experience. of nature’s most beautiful and need to escape the sun’s
earth; white signifies the west and autumn; and DISHES POPULAR WITH FOREIGN TOURISTS and August are the best times to And a day or evening soaking in creations – and in Korea there burning rays, Korea’s many
black is for north and winter. So people used to Bulgogi: widely known as Korean barbecue, thin swim in the oceans. hot springs will melt away the are many to discover in its water theme parks are regarded
believe that having a bowl of Bibimbap meant one strips of beef marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, With 102 beaches, the winter blues and relieve stress. mountainous landscape. as must-visit destinations.
was absorbing the energy of the universe. garlic, onion and chilli are grilled over charcoal north-east province of For centuries Koreans have A number of Korean Equipped with facilities such
and served with rice and vegetables. Gangwon-do has an amazing enjoyed hot springs all year waterfalls take some walking as wave pools, spas, saunas and
THE INSTITUTE OF ROYAL CUISINE: Dolsot Bibimbap: boiled rice, vegetables and array of coastline features and is round. The modern-day hot to find, but the challenge will be hot springs, you don’t just have
A CULTURAL GEM egg are brought to the table in a hot stone pot and a popular region for both locals springs come with spa and worth it. And with many having to relax, why not get the pulse
Located at the end of the west wall of cooked before your eyes. and international visitors. beauty facilities. folk tales about their formation running by hitting the slides!
4. Korea’s top five
TRADITIONAL &
TRADITIONAL &
MODERN SHOPPING
MODERN SHOPPING
KOREA is one of the most dynamic and colorful countries in the
cultural experiences
KOREA is one of the most dynamic and colorful countries in the
world and if one of your passions is to browse the markets or shops,
world and if one of your passions is to browse the markets or shops,
then this is the place for you.
then this is the place for you.
From designer brands and high-end outlets to traditional Korean
From designer brands and high-end outlets to traditional Korean
markets and products, whatever your tastes, you will be able to leave Korea
markets and products, whatever your tastes, you will be able to leave Korea
with the items you desire.
with the items you desire.
In the short time following the country’s dramatic development, Korea has
During the country’s rapid development, Korea has maintained the delicate
maintained the delicate balance between preserving its impressive history and traditions
balance between preserving its impressive history and traditions and embracing all
and embracing all the conveniences and technology of the modern world.
the conveniences and technology of the modern world.
There’s no better destination to go than Korea for an all-inclusive getaway of shopping,
There’s no better destination to go than Korea for an all-inclusive getaway of shopping,
touring and entertainment.
touring and entertainment.
PLACES TO SHOP
PLACES TO SHOP
Seoul: The capital city is a shopper’s paradise. Areas such as Myeong-dong, Insa-dong and Gangnam
Seoul: The capital city is a shopper’s paradise. Areas such as Myeongdong, Insadong and Gangnam
draw millions of international tourists every year to their renowned shopping centres. Also, a traditional
draw millions of international tourists every year to their renowned shopping centres. Also, traditional
market with more than 600 years of history is located in the heart of the city.
markets with more than 600 years of history are located in the heart of the city.
Busan: As the second largest city in Korea, Busan is famous for both tourist and shopping attractions. It is home
Busan: As the second largest city in Korea, Busan is famous for both tourist and shopping attractions. It is home
to Shinsegae Centum City, the largest department store in the world, and numerous shopping streets offering a wide
to Shinsegae Centum City, the largest department store in the world, and numerous shopping streets offering a wide
selection of merchandise. Busan is also home to the Jagalchi Market, famous for its fresh seafood.
selection of merchandise. Busan is also home to the Jagalchi Market, famous for its fresh seafood.
Jeju Island: The island is often called ‘the Hawaii of Asia’ and is home to a number of tourist attractions and stores featuring
Jeju Island: The island is often called ‘the Hawaii of Asia’ and is home to a number of tourist attractions and stores featuring
unique and local products.
unique and local products.
TEMPLE TAEKWONDO
STAY
TAEKWONDO is the national sport of Korea and more than 50
million participants take part worldwide.
The roots of taekwondo belong to taekkyeon, a traditional martial
EXPERIENCE Korean Buddhist culture art form. In turn, the roots of taekkyeon can be traced as far back as
by booking a stay at one of the many tribal times in Korea.
Buddhist temples. The ultimate goal of taekwondo is to develop the character and personality
With many temples located deep in the of the practitioner through physical, mental and spiritual discipline.
mountains, visitors can enjoy nature and take
mountains visitors can enjoy nature and time Meaning the ‘technique of kicking and punching’, taekwondo is the world’s most
awayaway fromrigours of day-to-day life by by
time from the the rigours of day-to-day life popular martial art.
taking part in spiritual training such as Zen While seen as both a sport and martial art, taekwondo also has two other major areas of
meditation and Buddhist rites. importance: exercise and education.
A temple stay is much more than religion. It is a Taekwondo’s movements require extensive use of the joints and since there is kicking, jabbing
cultural experience that recharges you, handles your and shouting involved, it’s also a great way to relieve stress and get a good workout.
mental stress and teaches you about traditional culture. The objectives of learning taekwondo are to become a more mature human being and build and
Part of the programme of discipline and training include strengthen character.
barugongyang (a Buddhist meal with traditional wooden Taekwondo became a worldwide activity after it was designated as an official Olympic sport in 2000.
bowls) or a tea ceremony – activities that provide more than just If you would like to take part in a one-day taekwondo experience or a full 15-day training programme, then
eating and drinking. why not take a look at options at http://english.visitkorea.or.kr or www.taekwontokorea.com
Other activities that may be featured on a temple stay include: ■ For more information see www.koreataekwondo.org, www.wtf.org and www.tpf.kr
www.kukkiwon.or.kr, www.wtf.org and www.tpf.kr
pre-dawn Buddhist rites; Zen meditation; tea ceremonies; barugongyang; EVENTS CALENDAR
mountain trekking; lotus lantern making; and rubber stamp making. May 1-6, 2011: 2011 WTF World Taekwondo Championships, Gyeongju, Korea; www.wtf.org
■ For more information see http://eng.templestay.com July 14-19, 2011: The 8th Chuncheon Open International Taekwondo Championships; http://koreaopentkd.org
● Turn to page 9 to read more about temple stay a Buddhist temple
about finding yourself in ● Turn to page 16-17 to read about the new Taekwondo Park being constructed in Muju
HANOK STAY ALTERNATIVE
THERAPY
IF you want to feel the natural energy of Korea in an
eco-friendly structure that uses natural building materials then
stay in a traditional Korean house called a ‘Hanok’.
Stay will give you the opportunity to experience traditional
Hanok stay will give you the opportunity to experience traditional TO make your trip to Korea as relaxed as
Korean lifestyle and culture. The traditional houses available for Hanok possible why not indulge in a treatment to
stays are decades to hundreds of years old. refresh both body and soul?
Many have been renovated for the convenience and safety of its guests, but the Relieve stress and aches with a massage,
traditional Korean style and sentiment are still retained. alternative medicines or acupuncture.
Hanok houses vary in size; some are very large with a guest house and a main ■ Many of the major hotels and resorts in Korea now
building, while others are small with only bedrooms and a living room. Room rates also provide luxury spa facilities, and as you make your way
vary widely. Old furniture, paper-pasted windows, and props such as jars jars add to the
like soy soy add to the through the bustling streets of downtown Seoul, you’ll also
traditional ambiance. find countless boutique spas where you can relax. Having a
Some houses offer various programmes to experience Korean culture, including tea relaxing massage is one of the best ways to revitalise your skin and
ceremonies, pottery making, and traditional folk games. games.
Korean folk restore your balance.
Simple meals are usually available at an extra charge. ■ The acupuncture of Korea is highly regarded in terms of its history and
EXPERIENCE HANOK STAY: effectiveness. Manupuncture, or Koryo sooji chim, corresponds points in the
■ Wandang (Tea) Traditional Korean House, Seoul hand to parts of the body. Needles are then applied to these specific points of
+82-2-1330; www.teaguesthouse.com the hand in order to treat or prevent disease.
■ Traditional Korean Houses of Bukchon, Seoul ■ These days the increasing pollution and the stress of modern life are resulting in
+82-2-1330; www.bukchon72.com diseases for which Western medicine often does not offer the most effective treatment.
■ Sarangchae Guesthouse, Gyeongju-si Consequently an increasing number of people are becoming interested in alternative
+82-54-1330; www.kjstay.com medicine and visiting Korea to receive Oriental medicine treatments.
Stay see page 8
● For more information on Hanok stay see page 8 ■ For more information see http://english.visitkorea.or.kr
5. Temple stay
8 ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS 9
Alternative
places to stay
BENIKEA (BEST NIGHT IN KOREA)
Benikea is a chain of hotels
committed to providing the very
A guide to visiting a Buddhist temple
best services at a reasonable rate.
Member properties include the Seoul
Royal Hotel; Hotel Castle in Suwon,
Gyeonggi-do; and the Jeju Royal
Hotel in Yeon-Dong, Jeju Island.
See www.benikea.com
I
F you need to escape modern life GOOD STAY
and cleanse both body and soul, a Good Stay is a reliable and affordable
temple stay will help do just that. accommodation service authorised
Launched in 2002 The Templestay by the Korea Tourism Organization.
Program has proved to be a very International standards were applied
popular attraction for international to select hotels, motels and inns
visitors to Korea and continues to that have demonstrated quality
see an increase in numbers. management and services. A total
It is a unique opportunity for of 195 accommodations have been
visitors to learn about and experience listed under the Good Stay brand.
Korean Buddhist culture first-hand. See www.visitkorea.or.kr
The Templestay Program gives
visitors the chance to experience FARM STAY
Korean Buddhist culture and stay in A farm stay focusses on well-being:
some of most unique buildings in it means exactly what it says –
the country. From a launch portfolio eating and living well. Farm stays
of 33 temples, the number now are just one of the many ways to
enrolled in the programme is relax and get back to nature. See the
more than 70. Nonghyup (National Agricuktural
For those travellers seeking Cooperative Federation) website at
something that little bit extra, a www.nonghyup.com
Hanok: be tempted by tradition
temple stay can help recharge your
body and soul, improve mental HOME STAY
fitness and teach the traditions of Why not stay with a host family
Korean Buddhist culture. during your trip? For travellers
Enjoy spiritual training methods A basic two-day visit includes an assignment and free time wishing to learn the language this
such as Zen meditation and Buddhist overnight stay and can be extended 4.50pm: Dinner, exploring the is the perfect opportunity.
rites. While mentally relaxing, to three or four days. If you are short temple complex and free time See www.homestaykorea.com
pre-dawn Buddhist rites and Zen on time why not book a half-day 6pm-6.30pm: Striking of the Bell
meditation provide a sense of temple life stay? and evening service HOTELS
freedom not found anywhere else. Many temples that participate in 6.30pm-7.30pm: Talk with the With some of the biggest global
A basic temple stay programme The Templestay Program are located Buddhist priest and have tea brands on offer, you won’t be short
7.30pm-10pm: Wash and free time
T
may also include tea ceremonies and in either national or provincial parks. of finding a room. Hotels are
O make a trip to Korea listening to the sound of wind.” barugongyang (a Buddhist meal with The parks all feature preserved 10pm: Bedtime classified into five categories: super
even more culturally Hanok is a traditional Korean traditional wooden bowls). But don’t natural environments. 4am: Wake and get washed deluxe (five-star), deluxe (five-star),
inspiring and memorable house that from its building think these activities are just about Whether you are booking for a 4.30am: Early morning service and first class (four-star), second class
book a stay in a traditional materials to inner layout, reflects food and drink, both are a part of the single person or for a group of more 108 bows (three-star) and third class (two-star).
‘Hanok’ house. the natural beauty and wisdom discipline and training required for than 15 people, there is a temple that 5.50am: Breakfast and free time
Built with science and of the country’s ancestors. living in a temple. can accommodate you. 7am: Traditional monastic martial MOTELS/YEOGWAN (INNS)
philosophy in mind, their Wooden columns, doors and Some temples have also added arts training Motels and yeogwan provide
locations are carefully calculated floors provide a strong structure, walks, mountain treks, lotus lantern Example programme: the schedule Midday: Lunch and return home comfortable sleeping facilities.
in accordance with feng-shui while walls made of a mixture making and rubber stamp making to for weekdays at Yongmunsa Temple Amenities such as air conditioning,
principles, focusing on both of straw and mud offer an their programmes. 2pm: Arrival at the temple, room Temple stay etiquette: Internet access and television are
practical use and beauty. excellent ventilation system. ■ If you meet a monk (called a generally included.
Dating from decades to During winter, the ‘ondol’, or ‘Seunim’ in Korean) put your hands
hundreds of years old, Hanok under-floor heating, keeps the together and bow your head. Also do YOUTH HOSTELS
houses retain traditional Korean house warm while the wooden this same action when you enter or With a total of 52 youth hostels
style and sentiment. floors laid on top of stones leave the service hall. located throughout Korea, the
You can feel the natural attraction of a Hanok stay. hangover symptoms when I mitigate the humid and hot sun ■ When you are inside the service properties are very large and can
energy of Korea in this eco- “When I am in a very old sleep in a Hanok. The best part during a Korean summer. hall, put your hands together and offer facilities comparable to hotels.
friendly structure that uses local, Hanok or a traditional Hanok is the Hanok has a spacious yet Hanok houses also features bow in front of the Buddha. Guests must have a Hostelling
natural building materials such built by masters, I fall asleep cozy open-air living room called a typical Korean yard with a ■ No running inside the temple. International Membership card
as rocks, soil and wood. without even noticing it and Daecheongmaru which is great ‘jangdokdae’ (a platform on ■ No drinking alcohol, smoking or issued by Hostelling International.
Korea Tourism Organization wake up feeling refreshed and to relax in. which traditional Korean pots speaking loudly inside the temple. See www.kyha.or.kr/english
president and CEO Charm Lee, quite happy,” he says. “The world is just so used to store seasonings are
a German-born nationalised “It’s amazing that no matter peaceful and beautiful as I lie placed) and a large seating area ■ For more information on temple ■ For a full range of accommodation
Korean, is passionate about his how much I drink the night down on Daecheongmaru gazing where the family and guests stays see http://eng.templestay.com options see http://english.visitkorea.
adopted home and explains the before, I get up without any at clouds floating in the sky, and can socialise. or www.visitkorea.or.kr or.kr/enu/1031_Accommodations.jsp
6. Korea’s natural &
10 MAP & UNESCO SITES MAP & UNESCO SITES 11
11
cultural highlights
Gangwon-do
2
6 1
9 3
4 13 18
Seoul 2 4
1
6 7 8 5 15
10 12 14
Incheon
16
3 4
17 19 7 5 5
UNESCO WORLD 20 NATIONAL PARKS 9
2
20
WITH 20 national parks, Korea is the ideal destination if you love the great
9
HERITAGE SITES
outdoors. Jirisan National Park is the largest and first designated national
park. Hiking is one of the most popular activities, while skiing, camping 6 10
and ancient historic sites are also on offer. See http://english.knps.or.kr 10
(as numbered in yellow on the map)
8 Gyeongju
1
(as numbered in green on the map) Daejeon
1 Bukhansan National Park 11 Deogyusan National Park
■ Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon, the Depositories 2 Seoraksan National Park 12 Gyeongju National Park 11
for the Tripitaka Koreana Woodblocks 3 Odaesan National Park 13 Gayasan National Park 1
4 Chiaksan National Park 14 Byeonsanban-do National Park 13 10 7 12
2 5 Sobaeksan National Park 15 Naejangsan National Park
6 Taean-haean National Park 16 Jirisan National Park 3
■ Jongmyo Shrine 7 Woraksan National Park 17 Wolchulsan National Park 14
8 Gyeryongsan National Park 18 Hallyeohaesang National Park Gwangju &
3 9 Songnisan National Park 19 Dadohaehaesang National Park
Jeollanam-do 15
■ Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple 10 Juwangsan National Park 20 Hallasan National Park 6 16
4
■ Changdeokgung Palace Complex WATER FEATURES
Spas, saunas, hot springs and water parks to visit
5
■ Hwaseong Fortress (as numbered in blue on the map)
6 Ulsan
1 Anyang Water Land; www.anyangwaterland.com 18
6 2 Asan Spavis; www.spavis.co.kr 17
■ Gochang, Hwasun and Ganghwa Dolmen Sites 3 Danyang Aquaworld; www.daemyungresort.com
4 Deokgu Oncheon Spa World; www.duckku.co.kr
Busan
7 5 Deokgu Spa; http://english.visitkorea.or.kr
6 Gold Spa (Hwanggeumoncheon); www.knwater.net
■ Gyeongju Historic Areas 7 Happy Day; http://english.visitkorea.or.kr
8
8 Jayuro Aqualand; www.jayuroaqualand.com
9 Paradise Spa Dogo (Boyang Hot Spring); www.paradisespa.co.kr
19 Daegu
Picture courtesy of
■ Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes 10 Sealala Spa & Water Park; www.sealala.com
11 Seorak Waterpia; www.seorakwaterpia.com http://mapsof.net
9 12 Seoul Leisure Sports Club; http://english.visitkorea.or.kr
13 Spa Greenland; www.spagreenland.co.kr
■ Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty 14 Spa Lei (Seoul); www.spalei.co.kr
10 15 Spa Plus; www.mirandahotel.com/spaplus
16 Termeden Spa Incheon; www.termeden.com 20
■ Historical Villages of Hahoe and Yangdong 17 The Silloam Sauna; www.silloamsauna.com 8
18 Vivaldi Park; www.daemyungresort.com
See http://english.visitkorea.or.kr for more information 19 Yongsan Dragon Hill Spa (Seoul); www.dragonhillspa.co.kr
20 Yecheon Hot Spring; http://en.ycg.kr
Jeju-do Island
7. 12 JEJU ISLAND 2 GREAT OUTDOORS 13
THEwww.visitkorea.or.kr
Korea’s slice of paradise
W
HEN you are searching for a natural wonder to the coast some 200,000-300,000 years ago. It’s
to help revitalise your body and soul, the around five metres in width and 7.4km in length.
amazing beauty of Korea’s Jeju Island will Visitors can enjoy the stalactites, lava pillars, lava
provide you with the most spectacular backdrop. shelves and swirling walls along its length.
Jeju’s geographic location places it within easy If you would like to coincide your trip to Jeju
reach of the Korean mainland, Japan and China. with an event, one of the biggest to watch out for
And with its favourable climate, diverse and is the Jeju Cherry Blossoms Festival. For nature
attractive natural beauty, Jeju is a destination with lovers the petals of Jeju’s cherry blossoms are an
offerings and experiences that few locations, if any, amazing sight to behold and can be seen in full bloom
in the region can provide. during the festival period in early April.
There is so much to see and do on Jeju. The Having hosted the Jeju International Ironman
volcanic topography of the island and Lava Tubes that rises to 1,950m in the centre of the island, has a Korea, the island has also become the perfect training
became Korea’s first natural site to be inscribed on crater at its top. Hallasan is home to more than 1,800 destination for athletes of all levels and disciplines.
UNESCO’s World Heritage listing back in June 2007, species of plants, nearly half of the 4,000 species Jeju is an island that opens up a different world
in recognition of their uniqueness. found in the whole of Korea. during each season. With unparalleled beauty, Jeju
Up among the clouds
Jeju Island’s Biosphere Reserve is also And there are several walking trails from around Island is just waiting to be explored.
recognised under UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere two to five hours in duration where hikers can enjoy See http://english.jeju.go.kr
Programme. The biosphere is located in the centre of the amazing views down to the coast.
the island, comprising of its core area Mt Hallasan, Jeju’s lava landscape blends odd-shaped rocks and JEJU OLLE WALKING TRAIL
two stream corridors and three islets, with a diversity caves, ponds, volcanic humps and craters with diverse Since opening in September 2007, the Jeju Olle
of ecosystems. and rare flora and fauna species. walking trail consists of 21 routes covering 339km.
Why not spend the day exploring the impressive Keep your eyes peeled for “Harubang” – a lava Walkers can experience the nature of the island
Geomunoreum Lava Tube System; cycling around Udo stone statue with big eyes and a big nose that are when exploring the Jeju coast.
Island; or stopping to watch the famous ‘Haenyeo’ dotted all over the island. It is said that if you
women (pictured above, right) dive to the ocean floor touch a Harubang’s nose and make a wish soon it KOREA’S PREMIER DESTINATION
without any breathing equipment to gather sea food? will come true. While Jeju is Korea’s premier destination, the island
Water lovers can enjoy swimming, paddling or Sunrise Peak (Seongsan Ilchulbong) is a dramatic is also home to the Jungmun Resort – the biggest
The top three mountains for hiking
surfing at one of the many beaches on the island. volcanic crater which rises majestically from the tourist complex in the country.
If you’re interested in exploring nature, then you ocean. Visitors climb to the peak to enjoy the Located on the seashore of Jungmun area in
have a wide variety of places from which to choose: spectacular sunrise view from the top of a huge Seogwipo, its facilities include Pacific Land; Yeomiji
scuba diving along coral reefs; traversing the plains bowl-shaped crater set against a background of Arboretum; fishing village for tourists; Seonimgyo
on horseback; or paragliding through the clouds – crystal clear seas. Bridge; Cheonjeyeon waterfall and Jungmun Beach.
the list is endless. See the lava wonders of Manganggul Cave, the To make your island visit ultra relaxing take some
Offering spectacular natural wonders, Jeju also largest lava tube in Asia. It is an immense natural time out at the Guerlain Spa (www.guerlainspa.com)
K
features amazing sights such as waterfalls and great conduit formed by the lava which flowed through in The Shilla Hotel; Hue & Me Aromatheraphy at OREA has some of the best terrain for hiking peak at 836m) and Mangyeondae. History buffs will
hiking trails on Mt Hallasan, Korea’s highest peak. The Lotte hotel (www.lottehoteljeju.com) or the in Asia – with 37 mountains in the Seoul region want to check out Bukhan Mountain Fortress, a medieval
Mt Hallasan, the extinct volcano Aqua View Spa (http://jeju.regency.hyatt.com) alone. While Koreans visit a jjimjilbang (unique fortification that protected the royal capital in the Goryeo
at the Hyatt Regency Jeju. spa) to relax in the evenings, on the weekends and Joseon eras. Several Buddhist temples are located
■ See http://english.visitkorea.or.kr thousands will be tying up their boot laces and tackling here, including Hwagyesa Temple.
one of the 1,700 trails across the nation.
In a country that is dominated by mountains, Korea JIRISAN NATIONAL PARK
provides great activities such as running, rock climbing Jirisan is regarded to be one of the most sacred and
and cycling – but it is walking and hiking that attracts spiritual mountains in Korea – and was named ‘Jiri’
the big numbers. because it was believed to be a place that turns the
If you are an enthusiast or a travel agent seeking a new innocent into the wise.
niche product to sell, hiking tours in Korea can provide Located in the south of the country, Jirisan was
success and enjoyment for both markets. when the mountains present the first foliage in Korea. Korea’s first national park and is also the biggest.
In this feature we pick out the top three mountains for To best enjoy the foliage the following hiking trails are Hikers can explore 20 summits and many valleys
hiking: Seoraksan; Bukhansan and Jirisan. recommended: the Sinheungsa Temple area, the containing amazing scenery, temples, animals and plant
Cheonbuldong Valley area, and the Jujeongol area trail life. The range’s highest point at 1,915m is
SEORAKSAN NATIONAL PARK that begins at the Osaek Mineral Waters. Cheonwangbong Peak.
On the east coast in the Sokcho, Inje and Yangyang Mt Jirisan is also revered in the Korean culture for
regions of Gangwon-do are the spectacular Seoraksan BUKHANSAN NATIONAL PARK being an area where herbal medicine is still very popular
Mountains. Daecheongbong – Seoraksan’s highest peak This dramatic collection of rocky peaks in northern Seoul and where the Buddhist culture prospered.
– stands at 1,708m and offers the best hiking in the has been declared a national park. As the seasons change so does the weather on
range. There are a variety of trails to be explored. In addition to being a popular hiking place, it’s also Mt Jirisan. Hikers can enjoy the mountain’s terrain with
While many tourists visit throughout the four seasons home to the granite face of Insubong Peak, one of the rain and snow in both the summer and winter.
to witness the beauty of its mountain cliffs, rocks, valleys, most popular rock-climbing locations in Korea. ■ More information on hiking routes can be found at
and waterfall, Seoraksan is at its most popular in autumn Other major peaks include Baegundae (the highest http://english.knps.or.kr