[One Day Walk] A Walk Around Hwaseong Fortress... Suwon Palsaekgil Fortress Trail

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Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Myunghwan] Today's walking course is the Hwaseong Fortress Trail in Suwon City, Gyeonggi Province. Since becoming a special city last year, Suwon is home to the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a landmark of the region.

Built during the reign of King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty as one of the four fortresses of Hansung, Suwon Hwaseong was constructed when King Jeongjo relocated the tomb of Crown Prince Sado. It was designed like a planned city, excelling in both military defense and commercial functions. In 1997, UNESCO recognized its historical value by designating Suwon Hwaseong as a World Cultural Heritage site. Suwon City established the Suwon Pal-saek-gil, a route that passes through places where visitors can experience history, culture, and nature. Among these, the Hwaseong Fortress Trail is a course that literally follows the fortress walls. It starts at the northern gate, Janganmun, and follows the fortress walls clockwise in a loop.

The walking course begins at Janganmun. As the northern gate and one of the four main gates of Suwon Hwaseong, Janganmun is grand enough to be larger than Seoul’s Sungnyemun. It also serves as the main gate of Suwon Hwaseong. Typically, the main gate of fortresses built during the Joseon era was located in the south, but since the king coming from Hanyang (Seoul) entered Suwon Hwaseong through the northern gate, the north gate took on the role of the main gate.

Walking east along the fortress walls, you will reach Changnyongmun, the eastern gate. Changnyongmun is notable for the nameplate on the left side of the gate. The inscription, carved into the granite wall, remains clearly visible. This contrasts with the nameplates on other gates of Suwon Hwaseong, which are difficult to discern.

Passing Changnyongmun, you will encounter traditional markets near Suwon Hwaseong. Near Paldalmun, there are nine traditional markets collectively called Nammun Market. Along the Hwaseong Fortress Trail, the Paldalmun Market, Yeongdong Market, Motgol Market, and Minari Square Market are connected. Paldalmun Market, which shares history with Suwon Hwaseong, is also known as the ‘Market Made by the King.’ King Jeongjo opened the market near Paldalmun to attract merchants from across the country, drawing many traders to the area. Today, it has developed into the largest traditional market in Suwon.

Next is Paldalmun, the southern gate of Suwon Hwaseong. Designated as Treasure No. 402, Paldalmun means ‘a gate with roads open in all directions.’ The area around Paldalmun is Suwon’s representative old town, serving as the city’s center along with the surrounding traditional markets.

Finally, there is Hwaseomun, the western gate of Suwon Hwaseong. Near Hwaseomun is Hwaseo Park, which features walking trails ideal for strolling. Inside the park is a field of silver grass, creating a spectacular view in autumn.