Established in 1640, Yeongyang Traditional Hanok Doodle Village has a rich history. It was a refuge for Lee Sim-yeong during the 2nd Manchu invasion in Korea. After the invasion, his descendants further developed the village, preserving many cultural heritages including ancient houses. The village is also famous for the memorial stone for Madam Jang’s cookbook, the first cookbook authored by a woman in East Asia. The village has been classified as a cultural village since 1994.

Comfortable and Cozy Stay

Our arrival at the village was around 9 PM on a Saturday. It was bitterly cold outside (4°C), so we directly headed to our Hanok room. I must admit, spending the night at a Traditional Hanok was a unique experience. The charm of ancient traditions seamlessly blended with modern amenities like an attached bathroom, floor heating, and a TV. Other parts of the village also offer WiFi access, although it’s not available in the rooms.

Timehood Feast: Traditional Korean Breakfast

Next day, we started our morning with a traditional Korean breakfast- a satisfying spread of seaweed soup, rice, mackerel, and other side dishes. The restaurant owner personified the essence of a warm Korean mother, making the meal more homely and touching.

Learn to Make Rice Cakes

Post breakfast, we got our hands on cooking rice cakes! It’s a delightful way the village is trying to preserve the legacy and recipes of Madame Jang. The village houses a large kitchen where at least 40 people can comfortably learn cooking. The rice cakes here stand out from the regular Korean ones found in the traditional markets. They are uniquely made by steaming rice flour and finished off with pine nuts.

A Traditional Lunch Feast à la Madame Jang

The weekend getaway concluded with a delightful traditional lunch, prepared just the way Madame Jang herself used to. It was a feast for the senses, meticulously prepared, sumptuous, and wholesome!

The Yeongyang Traditional Hanok Doodle Village offers much more than just relaxation. You can enrich your stay by going for a stroll or a bike trip to marvel at the natural sceneries. It’s also a perfect place for artists and writers to spend some quiet time sketching or writing.

To reach this tranquil paradise, you can catch an express bus from Dong Seoul bus terminal to Yeongyang, a trip of approximately 4.5 hours that would cost around 20,000 Won. Alternatively, you could take an express bus from Andong, which should take you about an hour. From Yeongyang bus terminal, hop on a direct bus (감천-주남초교입구) leading to the Yeongyang Traditional Hanok Doodle Village. Alight at the bus stop 진막골 (Jin Maggol) and it’s just a 10-minute walk to the village entrance.

Return to your busy work routine or city life rejuvenated after spending a refreshing break at the Yeongyang Traditional Hanok Doodle Village.

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• 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.

The Korean Government graciously gifted the land upon which the mosque was set to be assembled, proving instrumental in making it a reality. In addition, the construction project of this pioneering institution was generously funded by a multitude of Islamic nations across the globe. After two years of careful deliberation and meticulous construction, the Seoul Central Masjid was officially inaugurated in the year 1976.

The mosque holds a special place in South Korea due to its profound importance in furthering the understanding and respect for Islamic culture and traditions among its citizens. The Seoul Central Masjid has served as a place of worship for Muslims, and as an educational center where people of all backgrounds can learn about Islam.

Key Features:

• Historic Significance: The Seoul Central Masjid, being the first mosque in Korea, played a major role in marking the presence of Islamic culture in the country. The mosque’s construction indicated burgeoning levels of multiculturalism within Korea.

• International Support: The project of constructing the first mosque received financial aid from numerous Islamic countries, demonstrating international cooperation and shared interest in promoting Islamic culture and religion.

• Educational Role: Beyond serving as a place of worship, the mosque has evolved to become an essential institution for teaching and learning about Islam, fostering a sense of unity among various cultures residing in Korea.

The Seoul Central Masjid continues to act as an essential symbol of Islamic history and culture within South Korea and serves as a beacon of religious tolerance and multicultural acceptance.

Overview of Islam in South Korea

Islam, though considered a minority religion in South Korea, has a strong historical and cultural presence that has grown significantly over the years. According to the Korea Muslim Federation, the estimated number of Muslims in South Korea stands at approximately 100,000. This figure is seen as steadily increasing with the continuous interaction with the Middle Eastern countries and the rise in the number of Muslim migrants and tourists venturing into the country.

South Korea’s government has been making exceptional efforts to make the country more welcoming and accommodating for Muslims, particularly making strides towards a more Muslim-friendly atmosphere. Such measures include:

• Increasing the number of Halal-certified restaurants: South Korea has expanded its efforts to set up Halal-certified restaurants to cater to the dietary restrictions of their Muslim residents and visitors. The government is actively promoting these certifications to ensure an enriching gastronomic experience for the Muslims.

• Creating Muslim-friendly accommodations: The government is also focusing on creating accommodations that meet the specific religious and cultural needs of the Muslim community. This includes amenities like prayer rooms and other facilities.

• Building prayer rooms: There has been significant investment in the construction and enhancement of prayer rooms across the country. These spaces are designed to offer a peaceful and respective environment for Muslim prayers.

The Itaewon area is the primary location of the Muslim community. It has become a vibrant and multicultural “Muslim hub,” particularly popular for its diverse array of foreign food marts and halal restaurants. This area serves as a testament to South Korea’s commitment to accommodating its Muslim population and visitors and fostering a multicultural society.

Visiting the Seoul Central Mosque

The Seoul Central Mosque, an important cultural landmark in South Korea, is a haven for both Muslim residents and international tourists curious about Korea’s Islamic community. The mosque is a symbol of religious tolerance and diversity in this part of the world. Mainly, this sacred establishment offers two distinct prayer rooms – a spacious men’s section and a slightly small area reserved for women. The mosque’s regulations are firm on maintaining appropriate attire for all visitors, an essential protocol that ensures respect to the Islamic beliefs and customs.

Women in particular, are required to ensure that they are fully covered upon entering the mosque. Long skirts and shawls, customary wear while visiting mosques, can be borrowed beforehand from a stand near the mosque’s entrance. During Friday prayer times, known as Jumu’ah, there is a restriction for non-Muslim individuals to enter the premises of the mosque from midday up until the afternoon. However, sightseeing and exploration of the outer mosque vicinity during these hours are fully allowed.

The Seoul Central Mosque has been serving as a fundamental centre of worship and religious learning since its inception. It not only facilitates the practice of Islamic faith regularly but also opens its doors to visitors interested to learn about its architectural style, religious practices, and South Korea’s Islamic history. Even though non-Muslim tourists might not have access to the mosque during the primary prayer time in Seoul, they still can appreciate its architectural beauty from outside, engaging in a rich cultural experience.

This beautiful mosque stands as a blend of traditional and modern Islamic architecture and an important part of South Korea’s cultural landscape. A visit to the Seoul Central Mosque indeed offers a curious mix of solace, intrigue, and enlightening experience to all its visitors.

Visiting Details:
– Location: 732-21 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
– Dress Code: Modest, full-covering clothing; head cover for women
– Timings: Open to tourists outside prayer times (especially Friday Jumu’ah prayers)
– Entrance Fee: Free

Planning Your Visit?

Seoul Central Mosque, a symbol of the vibrant Islamic culture in Seoul, is easily accessible from the Itaewon station. A brisk seven-minute walk up the hill takes you straight to the mosque from the station. On your walk, you will pass by the lively main road filled with an eclectic mix of foreign markets, shops, and eateries. So whether you’re craving Indian cuisine, searching for Halal food, or yearning for Turkish delights, you’re in luck! These diverse cultural offerings make your trip to the mosque not just a spiritual journey, but also a culinary adventure.

Address: The mosque is located at 732-21, Hannam 2-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul-si 서울특별시 용산구 우사단로10길 39 (한남동). It’s undoubtedly one of the physical structures that encapsulate the essence of multiculturalism in Seoul.

The Seoul Central Mosque, with its traditional Islamic architecture, stands majestically over Itaewon, providing spiritual solace for the Muslim community and acting as a window into Islamic culture for non-Muslims. Over time, it has become a meaningful landmark bridging cultural differences and promoting harmony and understanding amongst diverse groups in the city.

Planning Tips:

• Accessibility: Public transport, especially the subway, provides comfortable and quick access to the Itaewon area.
• Best Time to Visit: While the mosque is open for prayers throughout the week, Fridays are particularly vibrant due to the special afternoon prayer (Jummah). But, to fully enjoy the mosque and the surrounding area, weekdays are less crowded.

• Nearby Attractions: The vibrant neighbourhood around the mosque also offers other attractions like the Itaewon shopping district, various international restaurants, and the War Memorial of Korea. So, consider reserving a full day for your visit.

  No matter your faith, a visit to the Seoul Central Mosque offers a unique and captivating glimpse into the Islamic lifestyle and practices in the heart of multicultural and bustling Seoul.

Explore Halal Food Options in Seoul

In the metropolitan heart of South Korea, Seoul offers a rich array of Halal food options. From traditional Korean cuisine to mouth-watering Indian and Middle Eastern fare, Seoul’s cosmopolitan hub brings diverse cultures and cuisines together.

Especially in the region of Itaewon, an international district famous for its global vibe, you can discover numerous Halal restaurants. These eateries not only offer a rich culinary experience, but also provide religious comfort to Muslims living in or visiting Seoul. Each of these restaurants is certified by the Korea Muslim Federation, ensuring that they adhere strictly to Halal standards and practices.

An important point to note is that not all restaurants labeled ‘Halal’ are officially certified. To make sure that foods meet Halal requirements, look out for establishments endorsed by recognized certification bodies like the Korea Muslim Federation.

To guide you in selecting the best eateries, consider visiting this link. Here, you will find a curated list of top-rated, recommended Halal restaurants across Seoul!

The list is versatile, offering a range of culinary delights suitable for different preferences and budgets. It not only includes high-end restaurants but also affordable eateries offering sumptuous street food. Whether it’s spicy lamb skewers, aromatic biriyani, or rich Korean stews, you can find a stunning array of dishes to enjoy.

To keep up with the dynamic food scene in Seoul, it’s essential to remember that new restaurants are continually opening, and the food landscape is ever-evolving. Thus, although the provided link is an excellent starting point, don’t be afraid to venture out and explore—the city is full of culinary surprises!

In conclusion, Seoul’s vibrant, multicultural footprints extend to its food culture—embracing the rich tapestry of global cuisines, including Halal food. Whether you’re a devout Muslim who needs Halal food, a foodie keen on exploring different culinary cultures, or just someone looking for exciting new food experiences, Seoul has a lot to offer.

Recommended Discoveries for You

For all the tea and coffee enthusiasts out there, step into the Modern Coffee Shop in Itaewon. It’s a must-visit destination that combines an impressive minimalist design with the craft of an award-winning barista, providing you with the perfect environment to serve and stimulate your caffeine cravings in style.

Some key highlights of the Modern Coffee Shop in Itaewon include:

• The unique stylistic ambiance characterized by the minimalist design.
• An award-winning barista who creates coffee miracles, guaranteeing a superb cup every time.
• The location in the vibrant Itaewon district famous for its diverse culture and energetic nightlife.

Whether you’re exploring the popular shopping districts, hiking up Namsan Park’s trailing paths, or immersing in Korea’s technological marvels, it’s important to have the right travel gadgets at your disposal. One such thing would be a reliable power adapter for your various electronics. Visit Adapters For Your Korea Trip to find information on the best power adapters suited for your trip to Korea and have an uninterrupted digital experience.

Now, the question to you, our reader: Have you been to the Seoul Central Mosque or any other mosque in South Korea? Your experiences and insights could be valuable to other readers. Please share your encounters and thoughts in the comment section below. It would be indeed exciting to learn about your spiritual and cultural foray in South Korea.

Your insights today could potentially shape someone’s trip tomorrow.

Well, I have found that one coffee shop, Percent 14-3 or 퍼센트 14-3 in downtown Daegu! The cutest coffee shop I have been too so far! It’s kinda that kind of coffee shop you want to keep to yourself, but after giving a long thought I finally decided to share it with the world. I’m a travel blogger after all with a goal to inspire people to visit more hidden places in Korea!

The shop is rather big and has different sections, which are all decorated in different styles. The owner told me it took her one year of planning her interior, before the grand opening. A lot of items she brought back from auctions in Europe; a mix of western with Korean style gives this cafe an eclectic cozy feeling.

The coffee shop is located just next to Gamyeong Park, a typical cozy Korean park and the Daegu Modern History Museum.
14-3 Daean-dong, Jung-gu, Daegu

The drinks are reasonably priced and super delicious! Try the Chocolate Vienna, which is coffee with a layer of cream topped off with chocolate powder! Yummy!

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN THIS AREA

• Modern Brunch or Traditional Lunch in Daegu
• Daegu and its churches

–    GUIDE TO THINGS TO DO IN DAEGU     –

Have any questions? Or have you been to this coffee shop? Let me know in the comment section!

Yangnam Coast Gyeongju(경주 양남) is becoming a more and more popular destination as a weekend getaway or just for an evening walk for both Koreans and foreigners.

There is a well maintained walking trail along the coastline that is approximately 1.7 km long and can be done at a slow pace in an hour.

This Yangnam town, is part of Gyeongju, and is most famous for its Jusangjeolli Cliffs (주상절리), a type of rock formations that can only be found on the Korean Peninsula. These cannot be compared to the Jusangjeolli Cliffs of Jeju but are still worth visiting.

On the trail you will see a couple of coffee shops, like Café Bene or Angel In Us, or the occasional non franchise coffee shop which will give you a great view of the circular rock cliffs.

Try to come during weekdays as the walking trail will almost be completely deserted which is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the calmness of the sea. In weekend the whole area changes and turns into a touristic hotspot especially among Koreans.

As part of the walking trail there are a couple of mural paintings and art sculptures, including a giant heart shaped lock.

You can take the bus from Gyeongju Bus Terminal. The bus number is 150 towards Yangnam, which runs every hour, and get off at Eupcheon Bus Stop. It will take approximately 1 hour to get there. The bus fare should cost you 1700 won per person.

You can also take a one day bus trip that will bring you to all the hot spots in Gyeongju. Tickets can be booked online on Trazy.

Address: Donghaean-ro, Yangnam-myeon, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Looking for accommodation when visiting Yangnam coast Gyeongju?

Nomad house
https://goo.gl/XocnLu
Gyeongju Guesthouse
https://goo.gl/J3aykk
Hwarang Guesthouse
https://goo.gl/LqsLmk

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Things To Know When Planning A Trip To Gyeongju

• What To Pack For Gyeongju – Be sure to pack the right things when coming to Gyeongju by using this Korea packing list.
• Travel Adapters – Bring the right travel adapter when coming to Gyeongju, so all your electrical devices stay charged. Find out more about travel converters here.
• Korea Itineraries – Prepare the best Korea itinerary, so you won’t miss out during your time in Gyeongju and the rest of South Korea.
• Gyeonju Hop-on Hop-off – Purchase tickets to the Gyeongju city bus that brings you to all the best places of the city. Check more info here.
• Transportation Card – Going to the Gyeongju Teddy Bear Museum by bus, the make sure to purchase a T Money bus card. Buy card here.
• Foreigner Discounts – Save money during your trip in Korea by purchasing entrance tickets and activities online in advance. The best websites to check out are Trazy or Klook.
• How To Get To Gyeongju – Going from Seoul, Busan, Daegu or other cities is very easy by KTX or express bus. Check more info on getting to Gyeongju here.
• 4G Internet – Stay connected while in Korea. 4G WiFi egg can be rented at the airport upon arrival. Check more info here.

What To Expect In The Teddy Bear Museum

In the teddy museum you will follow the adventures of a professor Teddy Bear Monty and his family an their quest through history. As the professor created a time machine, but evil bandits are chasing him to steal his invention. The teddy bears travel to the dinosaur era, the legend under the sea, the Silla Dynasty and many more. Many famous Ocean legends are displayed on the Exploration of the Ocean Floor. Our favourite legend is the story of the Mermaid that fell in love at first sight with a human prince.

After visiting the dinosaurs and the Ocean legends it’s time to take the time machine to the Silla Era.  Here we see miniatures of Gyeongju’s most famous historic sites. Namely Seokguram Grotto, Cheomseongdae Observatory, Anapji Pond and Bulguksa Temple, which are some of the best places to visit in Gyeongju.

The museum has many old, beautiful teddy bears. The name teddy bear comes from the American President Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt. The story goes that the president went on a bear shooting trip, but after a long day, hadn’t managed to shoot a single bear.  Out of pity one of the staff members caught a baby bear cub and attached it to a tree. But the President refused, he couldn’t shoot the baby bear.

The museum owns one of the oldest and most expensive teddy bears in the world. The Black Jack, a German bear made in 1912, sold for 37 million won. The other exciting parts of the museum are the 3D animated video and the bear art gallery. Where famous statues and paintings have bear faces.

How To Get To The Gyeongju Teddy Bear Museum

Gyeongju’s teddy bear museum is located next to Bomun Lake.  There is a big free parking next to the museum.  Your visit will last for approximately 1,5h and is suitable for Adults and young children. You can take bus 10 from Gyeongju express terminal and get off at the Dream Center bus stop, it takes around 25 minutes from downtown and costs 1700 won per person.

Teddy Bear Museum Info

Prices: Adults 10,000 won / Teenagers 7,000 won / Children 6,000 won

Opening Times: Daily 10:00-19:00

Address: 280-34, Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Other Teddy Museums In Korea

There are quite a few museums in Korea, the most popular ones in Jeju and Seoul, but you can find some smaller ones in Seorak, Gyeongju, Gunsan, etc. The official website can be found here.

RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS IN GYEONGJU

• Nomad house
• Gyeongju Guesthouse
• Hwarang Guesthouse

OTHER THINGS TO VISIT IN GYEONGJU

• Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival
• Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto
• Golgulsa Sunmund Temple

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Have you been to this museum or any other Teddy Bear Museum in Korea? Do you have any questions? Let me know in the comment section below!

Ulsan is a city located in the southeastern part of South Korea, known for its industrial significance and scenic beauty. It is the seventh-largest metropolitan area in the country, with a population of over 1.1 million people. Ulsan is home to the world’s largest automobile assembly plant owned by Hyundai Motors, as well as the world’s largest shipyard owned by Hyundai Heavy Industries. The city is also renowned for its natural beauty, with stunning beaches and national parks, such as the Jangsaengpo Whale Museum and Taehwa River Grand Park, attracting both locals and tourists. Ulsan is a significant economic hub of South Korea, and its dynamic industries and natural attractions make it an exciting destination for visitors from all over the world.

Quick Facts About The Onggi Pottery Village

Ulsan Onggi Pottery Village is a historic site located in the city of Ulsan, South Korea, that has been producing traditional Korean pottery for over 500 years. The village is home to a vibrant community of artisans who use traditional techniques to create beautiful and functional pottery items such as jars, bowls, and pots, which are essential for Korean cuisine. Onggi pottery is made using locally sourced clay, which is carefully crafted by skilled potters using a unique firing technique that has been passed down through generations. The village attracts visitors from all over the world who come to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Korea and experience the unique beauty of Onggi pottery.

• The Onngi Pot Village in Ulsan is still the largest producer of the traditional Korean earthenware in Korea!
• In the village is an Onggi Academy which runs all sorts of activity programs and cultivates professional artisans.
• There is an over 2 meters high onggi pottery sculpture which was recognized in 2011 by the Guinness Book of World Records.

Korean onggi pots are traditional earthenware vessels that have been used for centuries in Korea for storing and fermenting food. These pots are typically made from coarse clay that is unglazed and porous, allowing air and moisture to circulate through them. Onggi pots are known for their durability and ability to regulate temperature, which makes them ideal for fermenting foods such as kimchi, soy sauce, and doenjang. The unique properties of the clay also impart a distinctive flavor to the fermented foods. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in onggi pots as people seek out more natural and sustainable methods of food preservation. As a result, artisanal potters are making onggi pots using traditional techniques and materials, ensuring that this important cultural tradition is preserved for future generations.

Visit the Korean Onggi Pot Village

The Oegosan Onggi Pottery Village was established by potters and artisans from all over the Korean peninsula to make onggi and to preserve this traditional craft. The village is ‘not surprisingly’ the largest producer of traditional onggi in Korea. Come to Oegosan Onggi Pottery Village and explore the culture of onggi! In the village you will find a museum which tells the history of the onggi, an outdoor area which displays lots of onggi, and activity areas.

Hands On Activities

You can sign up for different experiences around the village, from kimchi making to making a clay plate.

In the kimchi making experience we all received an Onggi pot, salted cabbage and a pot of different kind of vegetable. It only took us 20 minutes to make the kimchi as everything was prepared for us, but the experience was fun and we’re really happy with our two new onggi!

Next we sampled some kiln baked potatoes with kiln dried salt. Absolutely delicious. We Belgians love potatoes! You can compare it to the way Koreans love their rice. So imagine how happy I was to finally try proper baked potatoes.

As this is the place to be for finding Onggi, you will also find some great onggi masters. The master could make 4 different kind of cups in less than 5 minutes! After showing of his skills it was our turn to bring out the artist in us! Making our own cups and plates.

Groups need to be minimum 30 people to join the activities and bookings need to be made in advance. Check more info here.

Visit The Onggi Village

If you are planning a trip to Ulsan and want to explore the Onggi Pottery Village, there are several ways to get there, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular methods of transportation to help you plan your trip to this unique and beautiful destination.

1. SEOUL TO ULSAN BY TRAIN

From Seoul KTX Station you can take the KTX train to Ulsan KTX station. The train should take around 2 hours and cost 46 000 won. Tickets and timetables can be found here.

2. SEOUL TO ULSAN BY BUS

Take the bus from Dong Seoul Terminal or the Express Bus Terminal in Gangnam to Ulsan Bus Terminal. The bus ride takes minimum 4h30 and costs approximately 22 000 won. Check tickets and time tables here.

3. DAEGU OR BUSAN TO ULSAN

From Daegu or Busan you can easily take the express bus, which takes 1 hour and costs around 5000 won. Check tickets and time tables here.

Take bus 507 or 715 from the Ulsan Express or Intercity Bus Terminal and get off at Oegosan Village. The ride will take around 1 hour.

Other Information

Entry fee: free (the official website says 30 000 won, but this is for the activities, not just visiting.)
Opening Hours Onggi Museum: 09:00 – 18:00
Opening Hours Onggi Academy: 09:00 – 18:00
More info: onggi.ulju.ulsan.kr

Onggi Pottery For Sale

If you can’t visit this village but still want to buy an Onggi then you can contact the individual Korean pottery masters or buy similar pots of Amazon.

Hangari Ceramics Korean Onggi Pot 

This onggi is hand made in Korea and provided by the official Korea Community Food Cooperative.

• It is a natural glazed clay pot, made out of pure ocher.
• Natural fermentation can be done in this pot, such as for kimchi, kochujang, doenjang and more.
• The price of this pot is quite high, as it’s hand made!

** We have the same pot at home and use it for all our kimchi. The pot has the perfect size and the taste of our kimchi is totally amazing. **

Check prizes and info here!

Frequently Asked Questions

Have any questions on onggi’s? Looking for more recommendations on where to buy them? What to visit the village? Let me know in the comment section below.

Gyeongju is a historic city located in the southeastern part of South Korea. Known as the “museum without walls”, it is filled with numerous cultural treasures and artifacts from the ancient Silla Kingdom, which ruled over the Korean peninsula for nearly 1,000 years. The city is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Gyeongju Historic Areas, Bulguksa Temple, and Seokguram Grotto. Visitors to Gyeongju can explore the city’s rich history through its many temples, pagodas, royal tombs, and museums. In addition to its cultural attractions, Gyeongju is also surrounded by natural beauty, with the Namsan mountain range offering hiking opportunities and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Quick Facts About Gyeongju National Park

Gyeongju National Park is a stunning natural reserve located in the city of Gyeongju in South Korea. The park covers an area of over 135 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Asiatic black bear and the flying squirrel. The park is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, with over 200 historic sites scattered throughout the area, including temples, tombs, and ruins of ancient kingdoms. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, which includes mountains, valleys, and streams. Gyeongju National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, history, and culture.

• The park was first designer as a national park in 1968 and it is Korea’s only historical national park.
• The Gyeongju National Park contains 7 different mountains: Gumisan, Danseoksan, Hwarang, Seo-ak, Sogeumgang, Namsan, Tohamsan and Daebon. These sections are not connected to each other. The different parts of the national park are connected with public buses.
• Namsan Mountain has the most remains dating back to the Silla Dynasty. Remain that can be found in the park are pagodas, Buddha statues and rock carvings, temples and much more.

Things To Know When Planning A Trip To Gyeongju

• What To Pack For Gyeongju – Gyeongju is much warmer that the more northern regions of the country but as it located close to the sea, it does have cold winds.  Check what to pack for Gyeongju here.
• Travel Adapters – The outlets used in South Korea are the same ones as mainland Europe. Be sure to pack the right adapter, when coming to Gyeongju. Find out more about travel adapters here.
• Korea Itineraries – Make the most you trip by preparing the best travel itinerary for your needs. Check the best Korea itinerary here.
• Gyeonju Hop-on Hop-off – The daily Gyeongju tour bus brings you to all the best touristic destinations including the national park of Gyeongju. Check more info here.
• Transportation Card – If you are planning on traveling using public transport, then the T Money transport card is the way to go. This transport card can be used on all city buses. Buy card here.
• Foreigner Discounts – There are quite a few different tours available in Gyeongju specially tailored to foreign travelers. The best websites to use are Trazy or Klook.
• How To Get To Gyeongju – Getting to Gyeongju from major cities in Korea like Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Pohang or Ulsan is easy by bus or KTX. More info on getting to Gyeongju here.
• 4G Internet – The easiest way to stay connected while in Korea is by purchasing a 4G WiFi egg. These have to be ordered online and can be picked up at the airport upon arrival. Check more info here.

Korean hiking culture is deeply ingrained in the country’s social fabric and has been for centuries. Known locally as “san-shin,” hiking in Korea is not only seen as a way to stay fit but also as a way to connect with nature and spiritualism. Korea’s mountainous terrain and diverse natural landscapes have made hiking an extremely popular activity, with many trails and routes catering to hikers of all levels. Hiking is also a social activity in Korea, with many groups of friends, families, and coworkers embarking on group hikes together. Along with the stunning natural scenery, hikers can enjoy various amenities along the way, including rest areas, tea houses, and even traditional Korean temples. Overall, Korean hiking culture is a unique and enriching experience that combines nature, physical activity, and community.

Hiking To Namsan Mountain Gyeongju

It is easy to spend a couple of week in Gyeongju and enjoy all the city has to offer. Visiting the Gyeongju National Park is a must when in Gyeongju more than 3 days.

Namsan Mountain in Gyeongju is known not only for its scenic beauty but also for its cultural importance. It is believed that Park Hyeokgeose Geoseogan (박혁거세 거서간), which is the founder of the Silla Dynasty, was born at the foot of Mount Namsan.

Namsan mountain is home to over 100 temples, 80 stone Buddha statues and 60 stone pagodas. The mountain is often referred to as an open-air museum. The national park has loads of hiking trails starting from each side of the mountain. The hikes in this mountains are some of the best of Asia!

1. Seven Buddha Hermitage

One of the most popular and beautiful routs is the hike to the Chilbuam Hermitage or the Seven Buddha Hermitage which is located on the top of Bonghwa Valley. Along the way, you’ll see many Buddha statues, pagodas and eventually come end at a small temple and a stunning Buddha carving.

Korean Buddhist people hike this mountain and pray for their family in front of the seven Buddha statues. If you’re lucky the a monk will be in the small temple and you can have traditional Korean tea with him. His English is not very good, but he is extremely friendly.

The walking trails are well maintained and signs are places all along the path. Which makes it very easy to navigate without getting lost!

2. How To Get To Namsan Mountain

The Seven Buddha Hermitage hike starts and stops at the same point, which is perfect when coming by car or bus. The car park and bus stop are located in the same location, a 15 minute walk away from the hiking trail.

Address car park: 경상북도 경주시 칠불암길 6 (남산동)
How to get here: Take bus 11 from Gyeongju bus terminal or Gyeongju train station towards Bulguksa temple. Get off at Tong-Iljeon Memorial. The bus ride should take 30 minutes and cost 1700 won. To return to Gyeongju, just take the same bus in the opposite direction.

From the parking follow the signs to the entrance of the park, this will be around a 15 minute walk.

Other Information

There are tours running on Namsan Mountain during the weekends. The tours are only in Korean. Book here.

At the entrance you might have to write down your name and phone number. This is as a security measure in case of forest fires.

Water fountains, rest areas and public toilets can be found along the way.

Pack some snacks and drinks as there are no convenience stores or shops along the way to the top of the mountain. Only at the parking, some restaurants are located.

Other Things To Do In Gyeongju

• Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto
• The Tumuli Park and Cheomseondae Observatory
• Martial Arts in Gulgulsa Temple

Frequently Asked Questions

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Have you been to Namsan Mountain in Gyeongju? Or are you planning to go to the Gyeongju National Park? Do you have any questions regarding your hike? Please let me know in the comment section below.