Uijeongbu: A Journey Through Nature, Culture, and History... A Complete Guide to Local Attractions
Hoeryongsa Temple, Steeped in Legends of the Joseon Dynasty's Founding, Stands Out
The 'Joseon Dynasty National Royal Portrait Replica Exhibition' Is a Must-See
Jungnangcheon Waterside Rest Area and Barefoot Youth Path Entice Urbanites
Uijeongbu Sopunggil Offers Ever-Changing Scenery Throughout the Four Seasons
Uijeongbu City in Gyeonggi Province has introduced a variety of local attractions for October, where residents can enjoy nature, culture, and history all at once. These destinations, located close to the city center, are drawing attention from citizens eager to experience the essence of autumn.
◆ The Tranquil Charm of Autumn Temples: Hoeryongsa Temple and Mangwolsa Temple
If you want to experience meditation and traditional culture while soaking in the autumn atmosphere, Hoeryongsa Temple and Mangwolsa Temple are the perfect choices. Hoeryongsa Temple, a prominent temple in Uijeongbu, is steeped in legends related to the founding of the Joseon Dynasty. It is notable for its historical significance and scenic mountain trails adorned with autumn foliage. Mangwolsa Temple is the oldest temple in Uijeongbu and preserves numerous cultural assets designated by Gyeonggi Province, making it an ideal place for quiet contemplation and hiking. The paths leading to both temples offer different landscapes each season, and in autumn, they attract a particularly large number of hikers.
Uijeongbu Culture Station Eum Joseon Dynasty National Royal Portrait Replica Exhibition. Provided by Uijeongbu City
◆ A Special Exhibition of Royal Portraits: ‘Uijeongbu Culture Station Eum’
A special exhibition that brings visitors close to the kings of Joseon is currently being held in Uijeongbu. The Uijeongbu Cultural Foundation is hosting the ‘Joseon Dynasty National Royal Portrait Replica Exhibition - Painting Taejo: The Beginning of Joseon, The Birth of Royal Portraits’ at the Eum Gallery inside Uijeongbu Culture Station Eum until October 8. The exhibition remains open during the Chuseok holiday. Royal portraits (Eojin) are works of art and political symbols that represent the authority and legitimacy of Joseon kings. This exhibition features high-resolution replicas of the portraits of prominent kings such as Taejo Yi Seonggye, King Sejong, King Yeongjo, King Jeongjo, and King Cheoljong, created through a process of historical research and restoration. By vividly presenting visual heritage that the general public rarely encounters, the exhibition is gaining attention as an experiential content that fuses history, art, and digital technology.
◆ Nature-Filled Jungnangcheon Walking Trails: Waterside Rest Area and Barefoot Path
The Waterside Rest Area and Barefoot Youth Path along Jungnangcheon are representative walking trails where visitors can experience nature within the city. The Waterside Rest Area features photo zones, relaxation spaces, and a stage for citizen performances, allowing for leisurely walks and cultural experiences. The connecting Barefoot Youth Path is a hands-on walking trail where people can walk barefoot to find peace of mind and body. Especially in October, when the leaves turn color, these spaces become healing destinations for families to experience the changing seasons together.
◆ The Joy of Leisurely Strolls: Uijeongbu Sopunggil
‘Uijeongbu Sopunggil’ is a signature forest trail spanning nine sections and 78.1 kilometers, named after poet Cheon Sangbyeong’s poem ‘Return to Heaven.’ With various routes following Jungnangcheon and Buyongcheon or leading through the forests of Hongbok Mountain and Buyong Mountain, citizens can choose courses that suit their preferences and fitness levels. The trail offers changing scenery throughout the four seasons and has become a popular walking route for residents seeking daily relaxation.
◆ Deep Forest Paths in the City: Jail Forest Bathing Center
The Jail Forest Bathing Center is Uijeongbu’s first forest recreation facility, located in a greenbelt zone, offering a healing space for forest bathing within the city. With lush forest trails, pine groves, picnic areas, wooden platforms, and activity spaces, it is an ideal destination for families. The center was created with resident participation, adding meaning as a forest cultivated by citizens themselves. In autumn, visitors can enjoy both forest experiences and leisurely walks.
◆ Urban Retreats Bathed in Autumn Light: Jikdong and Chudong Neighborhood Parks
In October, when the cool autumn breeze blows, Jikdong and Chudong Neighborhood Parks are popular urban retreats for citizens. Jikdong Neighborhood Park features various areas such as Cantavilla Garden and Picnic Garden, all adorned with autumn foliage, making it a favorite for family outings. The newly developed entrance plaza, connected to Hoeryongcheon, provides an even more pleasant walking environment. Chudong Neighborhood Park, the largest park in Uijeongbu, is currently being transformed into the ‘Chudong Forest Garden,’ drawing attention as a space that enhances the city’s ecological value.
◆ A Serene Traditional Garden: Songsan Temple Site Neighborhood Park
Songsan Temple Site Neighborhood Park is a historical and cultural site where the ancestral tablets of six loyal subjects from the late Goryeo period are enshrined. It was designated as a Gyeonggi Province monument in 1977. The park features a Korean-style traditional garden with a pond, crepe myrtle garden, water features, and walking trails, offering a tranquil atmosphere. There is also a traditional yard with swings and other experiences, allowing families to enjoy traditional culture up close. This year, a new green parking lot has been created for visitor convenience, and the ‘Songsan Temple Site Yoga Under the Stars’ program, held every Tuesday evening (except during the Chuseok holiday) until October 28, is receiving a great response.
◆ The Highlight of Autumn Hiking: Suraksan Dojeongbong
Suraksan Mountain, with its granite ridges and unique rock formations, is a renowned mountain in the metropolitan area. Among its peaks, Dojeongbong is a popular course offering panoramic views of Uijeongbu City. As autumn deepens and the weather cools, it is an excellent destination for hiking, with the expansive view from the summit providing a chance for city dwellers to recharge. Hikers are advised to prepare proper gear and choose their course according to weather conditions for a safe experience.
◆ Savoring the Taste and Spirit of Chuseok: Uijeongbu Jeil Market
The best place to experience the spirit of Chuseok is Uijeongbu Jeil Market. As the largest market in northern Gyeonggi Province, it is filled with ritual goods, fresh produce, a variety of foods, and daily necessities, making it ideal for holiday shopping. Strolling through the bustling market, buying fruits and side dishes, and tasting street food, visitors can feel the vibrant atmosphere and warm hospitality of a traditional market. It is a special destination that adds a festive touch to family outings in October.
Mayor Kim Donggeun stated, "I hope that Uijeongbu’s attractions, where nature and culture are accessible close to the city, will offer citizens a relaxing and meaningful time during this holiday and throughout October. Going forward, we will continue to discover unique spaces and content exclusive to Uijeongbu, striving to develop the city into a cultural destination enjoyed by both residents and tourists."
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