Taehwa River Bamboo Forest Ulsan

• The Taehwa River is a prominent landmark that adds a unique charm to Ulsan. Flowing from east to west, the river spans a length of 48 km and connects two mountains – Gijisan Mountain and Baeksunsan Mountain, stretching all the way to Ulsan Bay.
• A remarkable feature of the river is the Sipridaebatgyo bridge; a tribute to Ulsan’s unique symbols – the white heron and the whale. The bridge stands as a representation of the symbols of Ulsan. Ulsan city holds the distinction of being the only urban area in Korea that attracts a huge migration of white herons each summer (estimated to be around 6000). The city’s other emblem, the whale (also known as haewuri) symbolizes both the sun and sea, embodying the vibrancy of Ulsan city.
• Located between the Taekwa and Samho bridges is the 4 km long Taehwagang Simnidaebat – a bamboo field which was initially developed during the Japanese colonial period. This bamboo field was conceived as a means to curb the frequent flooding.

Overview of Ulsan

Situated in the southeastern part of Korea, Ulsan is a metropolitan city surrounded by the cities of Gyeongju and Busan. As the seventh-largest city in the country, Ulsan has garnered a reputation as South Korea’s industrial powerhouse. While the city is not conventionally known for its tourism, it does boast several points of interest that shouldn’t be missed. These include the Oegosan Onggi village, Yeongnam Alps, and a picturesque coastline.

Best Season To Visit The Taehwa River Bamboo Forest

Spring is a magical time in Korea, and the Taehwa River is no exception. During this season, over 60 million flowers such as poppies, golden coreopsis and cornflowers burst into full bloom, transforming the area into a vibrant floral wonderland. This massive flower park along the Taehwa River is, in fact, the largest riverside flowering plant area on the Korean peninsula.

Autumn, on the other hand, paints a different yet equally beautiful picture. The temperature mellowing and the landscape is bathed in a palette of rich, warm hues, making it a favourite among locales and tourists alike.

The river’s side is also the location of several facilities that encourage physical activity and leisure. ‘Typical Korean’ exercise facilities, scenic walking trails, and grass fields ideal for picnics or relaxation can be found here. A line of food trucks offering local and international cuisine makes this a favourite spot for Ulsan citizens for a weekend break or an after-work cool down.

Directions To Ulsan

Located between Busan and Gyeongju in southeastern South Korea, Ulsan is easily accessible by express bus from both cities. These buses, running every 15-20 minutes, offers a quick 30-50 minutes journey that would cost no more than 4000 won.

Alternatively, those traveling from Seoul can take the KTX towards Busan. All KTX trains to Busan make a convenient stop in Ulsan. Depending on the train, travel time can range from 2 to 2.5 hours. Tickets, which can be purchased online or directly at the ticket office in the KTX station, cost around 55,000 won for a seat and 45,000 won for standing.

For budget travellers, the express bus option from Gangnam or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal is recommended. The ride takes about 4 hours 20 minutes with a brief stop halfway, and the ticket price is around 28,000 won.

Additional Tips

• It’s best to arrange your trip to the Taehwa River Bamboo Forest just before sunset. The radiance of the setting sun lends a magical aura to the entire scene.
• To enhance your experience, consider combining your visit to the Taehwa River Bamboo Forest with a trip to Ulsan’s biggest pottery village.

Best Accommodation in Ulsan

• Hotel 109 – Located in the center of Ulsan with views along the river side. All rooms are fitted with a bath and a private bathroom, making it a comfortable option if you’re planning to visit the Bamboo forest.

• Ulsan Ramnant Guest House – This budget-friendly guesthouse offers a choice of private rooms or a bed in a dormitory. The guesthouse is nestled downtown, just a short walk from the river side.