
Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Suwon, Korea, South
1. Hwaseong Fortress Bell of Victory
This massive bell was cast in 1815 to celebrate a victory against the Qing Dynasty. It is one of the largest bells in Asia.
- Historical Significance: Celebrates a significant victory in Korean history
- Impressive Size: One of the largest bells in Asia
- Acoustic Spectacle: Ringing the bell creates a unique sound spectacle
2. Suwon Paldalmun Gate
This is one of the eight gates of Hwaseong Fortress. It's unique because it's the only gate with a two-story watchtower.
- Architectural Uniqueness: Two-story watchtower
- Historical Connection: Part of the Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Photography Opportunity: Ideal location for stunning architecture photography
3. Suwon Hwaseong Haenggung Palace
This temporary palace was built by King Jeongjo to mourn his mother. It's unique because it was designed to be dismantled and moved.
- Architectural Innovation: Designed for dismantling and moving
- Historical Importance: Significant to the life of King Jeongjo
- Cultural Experience: Offers insight into royal life during the Joseon Dynasty
4. Suwon Astronomy Center
This observatory offers public telescope viewing on clear nights. It's unique because it's the only one in Suwon.
- Astronomical Opportunity: Public telescope viewing
- Educational Experience: Offers educational programs about astronomy
- Night-time Attraction: Ideal for stargazing and learning about the cosmos
5. Suwon Underground Shopping Arcade
This shopping arcade is unique because it's built underground, offering a cool respite from the summer heat.
- Temperature Control: Offers a cool respite during hot summers
- Shopping Experience: Wide variety of shops and restaurants
- Historical Connection: Built during the Japanese colonial era
6. Suwon Dino Park
This park features lifelike dinosaur statues and a museum. It's unique because it's the only dinosaur-themed park in Korea.
- Educational Value: Offers educational programs about dinosaurs
- Fun for Kids: Ideal for children interested in dinosaurs
- Unique Attraction: Only dinosaur-themed park in Korea
7. Paldal Mountain
This mountain offers hiking trails with panoramic views of Suwon. It's unique because it's the only place where you can see a cityscape from a mountain.
- Panoramic View: Offers a panoramic view of Suwon
- Physical Activity: Provides a good workout through hiking
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by natural beauty and flora
8. Suwon Traditional Market
This market offers traditional Korean goods. It's unique because it retains its traditional architecture.
- Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into traditional Korean life
- Shopping Opportunity: Wide variety of traditional Korean goods
- Architectural Preservation: Retains traditional architecture
9. Suwon Museum of Art and Culture
This museum showcases Korean art and culture. It's unique because it focuses on contemporary artists.
- Cultural Insight: Offers insight into contemporary Korean art
- Art Appreciation: Ideal for art enthusiasts
- Unique Exhibits: Focuses on contemporary Korean artists
10. Suwon Hanji Workshop
This workshop teaches the art of making traditional Korean paper. It's unique because it allows visitors to participate in the process.
- Cultural Experience: Offers hands-on experience in traditional Korean craft
- Artistic Skill Development: Learn the art of making hanji, traditional Korean paper
- Souvenir Making: Can make a souvenir to take home
11. Suwon Silk Mill Museum
This museum tells the story of silk production in Korea. It's unique because it allows visitors to experience the process firsthand.
- Historical Understanding: Offers insight into the history of silk production in Korea
- Hands-on Experience: Allows visitors to experience silk production firsthand
- Cultural Preservation: Promotes the preservation of traditional Korean crafts
12. Suwon Mungyeongsa Temple
This temple is unique because it's built into a hillside. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city.
- Peaceful Retreat: Offers a peaceful escape from the city
- Historical Significance: Built during the Goryeo Dynasty
- Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into Korean Buddhism
13. Suwon Gamcheon Culture Village
This village is built on the side of a hill and offers colorful houses and art installations. It's unique because it was built to prevent erosion.
- Artistic Environment: Offers a vibrant, artistic environment
- Historical Adaptation: Built to prevent erosion
- Photography Opportunity: Ideal for stunning photography opportunities
14. Suwon Cherry Blossom Festival
This festival celebrates the blooming of cherry blossoms in Suwon. It's unique because it offers a beautiful spectacle of pink flowers.
- Natural Beauty: Offers a stunning display of cherry blossoms
- Cultural Experience: Celebrates a traditional Korean spring event
- Photography Opportunity: Ideal for photography enthusiasts
15. Suwon Bukhansan National Park
This national park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the Bukhansan Mountains. It's unique because it's located within city limits.
- Natural Beauty: Offers a chance to escape into nature
- Urban and Natural Combination: Located within city limits, yet offers a natural escape
- Physical Activity: Provides opportunities for hiking and exploration