Seoul to Suwon and Sareung Royal Tombs: Private day trip

Traditionally renowned as the 'City of Filial Piety,' Suwon continues to showcase its historical charm, attracting day trippers from Seoul with its well-preserved city walls and other captivating sites. One of Suwon's standout attractions is the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress, initially erected in 1796 by King Jeong-jo. Explore its restored splendor, strolling through the vast parade square where families often fly kites and ride bicycles. For those seeking a unique dining experience, the Tasting Museum awaits in a century-old Hanok building, serving delectable fusion cuisine, pasta, wines, and more. Signature dishes such as Porcini Risotto, Eggplant Ragu, and Tomahawk Steak tantalize taste buds. Near the scenic Suwoncheon Stream stands the Hwahongmun Gate, an architectural marvel with its distinctive seven arched watergates, strategically designed to regulate the water flow. Adjacent to the gate, the picturesque Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion entices visitors, providing breathtaking views of Suwon's surroundings. A stroll to the Yeongyeon Pond area offers a different perspective of the pavilion's beauty. Whether exploring ancient fortresses or indulging in fusion delicacies, Suwon promises an enriching experience for all who venture within its charming streets.

The Sareung Royal Tombs, scattered across 18 locations of the Korean Peninsula, serve as a tribute to the ancestors of the House of Yi, recalling the royal authority of the dynasty. The tombs are divided into three distinct areas. The first is around Jeongjagak, a meeting point between the living and the deceased. Beyond lies the area between the earthly and the sacred, where the spirits of the kings and queens meet their earthly worshippers. Finally, the sacred ground of the grave mounds is the resting place of the royal ancestors. These tombs were carefully placed in spots of outstanding natural beauty, with hills protecting their backs while they face south towards water and mountain ridges in the distance. The entire collection of Joseon Dynasty Tombs in Gyeonggi-do province is best visited between Spring and Fall when the natural beauty of the surroundings is at its peak. Opening hours and admission fees vary and can be found on this site: https://english.cha.go.kr/html/HtmlPage.do?pg=/royal/RoyalTombs_infomation_10.jsp&mn=EN_02_04