Suwon’s Must-Visit Spots: Experience the Best of Nature and Culture This Lunar New Year

[Herald Economy (Suwon) = Park Jeong-kyu] The eagerly anticipated Lunar New Year holiday kicks off this weekend. This year’s forecast promises balmy temperatures around 10°C (50°F) throughout the break, making it the perfect time to enjoy some outdoor activities. Here are some ways to soak up tradition, have fun, connect with nature, and unwind in Suwon during the festivities.

Step Back in Time with Joseon Dynasty Royalty at Hwaseong Haenggung!

If you’re in Suwon for the Lunar New Year, Hwaseong Haenggung is a must-see attraction. Visitors can explore the elegant historical palace and might even have the unique opportunity to encounter a King Jeongjo impersonator.

Hwaseong Haenggung, known for its serene holiday atmosphere, is hosting a special event this year called “Haenggung Time Slip.” Actors dressed as historical figures and modern characters will participate in “Character Greetings,” appearing at specific times and locations for photo ops with visitors.

From February 14 to 22 (excluding February 19-20), between 11:30 AM and 4:30 PM, you might spot King Jeongjo, Queen Hyegyeong, K-pop stars, and animal characters roaming the palace grounds. These skilled reenactors will interact with guests, creating unforgettable holiday memories. Suwon City plans to evaluate the event’s popularity and potentially expand it in the future.

Both Hwaseong Fortress and Hwaseong Haenggung will remain open throughout the holiday, from 9 AM to 6 PM. On Lunar New Year’s Day, admission to Hwaseong Haenggung will be free for everyone. However, the tourist information center and traditional archery range will be closed on the holiday, and operating hours may vary for other attractions, so it’s best to check before visiting.

During the weekend, visitors can also explore nearby cultural facilities. The Suwon Traditional Culture Center is hosting a permanent exhibition called “A Royal Banquet at Bongsudang,” while the open cultural space Huso features a themed exhibition titled “Stories of Daily Life in the Fortress.” Both offer a fascinating glimpse into historical culinary practices and daily life.

Nature’s Four-Color Palette: Mountains, Meadows, Fortresses, and Lakes

Spending the holiday immersed in Suwon’s natural beauty with friends and family can be a rejuvenating experience. The city’s historically rich landscapes, from mountains and meadows to fortresses and lakes, welcome all visitors during this special time.

For hiking enthusiasts, Gwanggyo Mountain at Suwon’s northern edge offers ten diverse trails close to the city center. Choose your starting point from locations like Gyeonggi University, Munamgol, Gyeongdongwon, Sanggwanggyo bus terminal, Cheongnyeonam, Gyeonggi-do Health and Environment Research Institute, or the Firefly Restroom. The path from Gyeonggi University to Hyungjebong is particularly notable, featuring one of Korea’s top 100 pine forests. It’s the perfect spot to breathe in that crisp pine scent while getting some holiday exercise.

For a more laid-back nature experience, check out Gyeonggi Creative Campus. This cultural complex, housed in renovated buildings from Seoul National University’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, beautifully blends history with nature. Its well-maintained outdoor forest is ideal for peaceful strolls.

Walking the walls of Hwaseong Fortress offers a unique blend of UNESCO World Heritage site appreciation and old town charm. Start at the southern gate, Paldalmun, and take a loop in either direction. You’ll discover picturesque spots at every turn, including Changryongmun, Dongjangdae, Buksu Gate, Janganmun, Hwaseomun, and Seojangdae.

For a taste of modern Suwon, head to Gwanggyo Lake Park in the new town area. It’s perfect for a day out with loved ones, offering a mix of tranquil lakeside views and urban energy. Explore the array of restaurants, cafes, and shops, or compare the vibes of bustling Woncheon Lake with the more serene Sindae Lake.

Catch a Sneak Peek of Spring at Suwon Arboretum

Suwon’s two arboretums offer an urban oasis of greenery and will be open throughout the holiday. Just note that ticket sales end at 5 PM, and they’ll be closed on February 19.

At Ilwol Arboretum, near Sungkyunkwan University Station, you can get a head start on spring with the “Now, We Are Spring” exhibition, showcasing vibrant geraniums. Even the free-to-enter visitor center has geraniums on display. Don’t miss the “Extreme Garden, Continuing Life” photo exhibit, featuring desert plants from Suwon’s sister city, Phoenix, Arizona – a rare chance to see these resilient, exotic beauties.

Ilwol Arboretum boasts various hour-long walking paths perfect for a leisurely stroll. The adjacent Ilwol Park offers a pure nature experience, with its reservoir creating a stunning winter landscape.

Near Yeongtong Station, Yeongheung Arboretum is celebrating the Year of the Horse with a special exhibit. Artist Lee Jeong-yoon’s works and red-hued plants convey messages of hope and healing, symbolizing strength and vitality. Kids will love hunting for hidden horse representations throughout the greenhouse. Don’t forget to try the “Create Your Own Dalahorse” activity, where you can hang a horse-shaped mobile with your New Year’s wishes.

Yeongheung Arboretum’s diverse walking paths cater to all interests. Choose from the manicured themed garden course, the seasonal exhibition forest, or the ecological forest trail for plant enthusiasts. Nearby residents might want to visit multiple times to fully appreciate the changing plant displays.

Spark Joy with Cultural Experiences, Art, and Exhibitions

At Suwon Museum, take a nostalgic journey through the city’s past with “Meeting Suwon in the 1960s.” This exhibit features a detailed model of the Nammun Market from over 60 years ago, complete with ambient sounds and period-appropriate lighting. It’s a hit with all ages – older visitors relive memories while younger ones get a fun history lesson. Don’t miss the photo ops at the recreated Nammun Central Theater (complete with vintage movie posters), music cafe, and shops selling traditional clothing and electronics. Bonus: admission is free on the holiday!

For a more modern art experience, check out the “Dream Light” media art fusion exhibition at Suwon Media Center. On February 14-15, immerse yourself in a world of laser art, media installations, and spatial sound design. The show explores King Jeongjo’s vision for Suwon through cutting-edge technology. Highlights include “The Origin of Light” (reflecting Suwon’s history), “Blooming Hwaseong” (an interactive floral display), and “Dream Procession” (a dynamic retelling of King Jeongjo’s royal parade).

Families with kids should head to the 111CM cultural complex for their winter break exhibition, “The Taste of Humor: Seohyun’s Picture Book.” See original works by Seohyun, whose book “The Tiger’s Rice Cake Shop” just won the prestigious 2024 Bologna Ragazzi Award. The exhibit includes a behind-the-scenes look at picture book creation that’s sure to captivate young imaginations.

A Suwon City spokesperson enthused, “We’re pulling out all the stops to ensure both locals and visitors have an amazing holiday, making the most of Suwon’s attractions and natural beauty.”