Gyeonggi-do, South Korea | Hwaseong Fortress, Dongtan Lake Park, Popular K-Drama Filming Locations Day Tour
🏯 First, visit the famous UNESCO World Heritage site, Hwaseong Fortress.
☕️ Then, head to Suwon Haengnidan-gil, which is filled with unique cafes and shops.
📸 Follow the filming locations of the K-Drama 'Lovely Runner' and visit the Mong Ted cafe photo spot.
🎵 Enjoy the musical fountain show at the spacious Dongtan Lake Park (May-October).
💖 Experience an immersive fantasy adventure at the Discovery Naturescape exhibition.
Package options
Product Info
- Hwaseong Haenggung Palace (화성행궁)
Hwaseong Haenggung Palace was a temporary palace where King Jeongjo stayed during his visits to Hyeollyungwon Tomb. It is grander and more magnificent than any other haenggung (temporary palace) and served various purposes, earning it the nickname 'the secondary palace of Gyeongbokgung'. The palace offers many experiential programs, most notably the Hwaseong traditional archery experience and ringing the bell at the Hyowon Bell Pavilion on top of Paldalsan Mountain. Visitors can gain a more vivid understanding of Korean culture through these traditional activities. Additionally, activities such as trying on costumes from 'Dae Jang Geum', writing wishes on the wishing tree, and stamp tours are also highly recommended.
- Suwon Haengnidan-gil Street (수원 행리단길)
Suwon Haengnidan-gil is home to a collection of unique cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. There are many stores selling handcrafted artisan goods and designer items, making it a must-visit! The Hwaseong Haenggung area is a designated development restriction zone, preserving many old houses and traditional Hanok buildings. Through the renovation of these historic structures, a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops with unique tastes have emerged, turning it into a representative street for young people.
- Mong Ted Cafe (Cafe expenses not included) (몽테드 카페) (커피 미포함)
Mong Ted Cafe is the most popular photo spot in Suwon and the actual filming location for Im Sol's house in the K-drama 'Lovely Runner'. The cafe is located on 'Haengnidan-gil' in Suwon's Haenggung-dong, so fans should not miss the chance to visit and take photos.
- Dongtan Lake Park (동탄호수공원)
Dongtan Lake Park is an artificial lake park created by diverting the Songbangcheon Stream. Located in the heart of a residential area, it features expansive lawns and picnic areas along the lakeside, serving as a healthy urban space. It also offers walking trails, sports facilities, and water play areas for various activities. A musical fountain show is held from May to October every year.
- Immersive Exhibition: Discovery Naturescape (네이처스케이프 플러스)
At the Discovery Naturescape immersive exhibition, visitors can explore breathtaking natural landscapes—deserts, forests, glaciers, canyons, waterfalls, and volcanoes—all brought to life through a globally trending immersive experience. You can even enter a VR world to embark on an immersive fantasy adventure! The exhibition features various themed zones with over 20 different adventure experiences, including waterfall rock climbing, free-fall, UV tunnels, and ice mazes.
Meeting point - Exit 8 of Hongik University Station
Meeting Point - Euljiro 1-ga Station, Exit 8, Lotte Hotel Seoul
Itinerary
Purchase Notice
[Instructions for collection]
· Please arrive at the meeting location 10 minutes early to wait. If the meeting time has passed, we will not wait or refund for late or absent customers.
· We will contact the customer or make any changes via Whatsapp/Line/Wechat or email, please make sure the personal information is filled in correctly.
· If you use Line/Wechat, please be sure to enable friend invitations and receive messages from strangers, and make sure your ID is filled in correctly. If you are unable to contact smoothly due to the above circumstances, which affects the itinerary of the day, we will not be responsible for any responsibility and will not refund you.
[Charge Notice]
· The tour price includes tips for local drivers and guides, tickets, lunch and round-trip transportation expenses.
· The basic number of people per group is 4. If the number of people per group is less than the basic number and you want to set off as a private group, relevant additional fees will be incurred.
· Children over 3 years old are charged the adult price, and children under 36 months are free of charge. (Free children will not be provided with meals, car seats, admission tickets and other experiences.)
[Travel Information]
· Generally, the itinerary will not be affected on rainy days. If you are unable to depart due to a natural disaster, you can change the departure date for free or receive a full refund.
· The schedule is adjusted according to local conditions. If there is a temporary safety inspection or closure of the attraction, the company does not need to bear responsibility or refund.
· Does not include travel insurance. The company does not assume any responsibility for physical damage or casualties caused by accidents or unpredictable factors due to force majeure. We strongly recommend customers to purchase appropriate insurance in advance.
Reminders
A minimum of 4 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 7 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Meals are not included for children under the age of 3
Admission tickets will not be included for travelers under the age of 3 and are required to be purchased on-site
⚠️Personal travel insurance is not included in any of our travel itineraries. Outdoor activities involve specific risks and hazards. Guests must assess their own health and capabilities. The company is not liable for any bodily injury or damage caused by accidents or unforeseen circumstances.
FAQs
1. What is Hwaseong Palace famous for as a World Cultural Heritage site?
Hwaseong Palace is renowned as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, famed for its historical significance as a temporary palace (Haenggung) used by King Jeongjo during the Joseon Dynasty. It was built to protect Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and serve as a residence during royal visits. Its architectural design showcases advanced military and civilian planning, symbolizing King Jeongjo's filial piety and vision for a new, powerful city.
2. What are the unique architectural and historical aspects of Hwaseong Palace?
Hwaseong Palace features a unique blend of palace and fortress architecture, designed for both royal residence and defense. Key aspects include its scale as the largest Haenggung in Korea, its strategic location, and detailed reconstructions based on historical records. It served as a political center for King Jeongjo's reforms and demonstrates the sophisticated construction techniques of its era, integrating residential halls, a royal ancestral shrine, and a military training ground.
3. How can visitors travel to Hwaseong Palace from Seoul?
To reach Hwaseong Palace from Seoul, visitors can take the Seoul subway Line 1 to Suwon Station. From Suwon Station, it's a short bus ride (numerous local buses stop near the palace, such as 11, 13, or 36) or a taxi ride. The total travel time typically ranges from 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic and connections, making it a convenient day trip.
4. What is the correct Korean terminology for Hwaseong Palace?
The official name in Korean is "화성행궁" (Hwaseong Haenggung). "Haenggung" refers to a temporary palace where the king stayed during journeys or emergencies. This term specifically distinguishes it from the main palaces in Seoul, highlighting its unique role as a royal residence outside the capital, within the protective walls of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
5. What activities can be enjoyed at Dongtan Lake Park, especially regarding its musical fountain show?
Dongtan Lake Park offers a relaxing environment with scenic walking paths, a large open space for leisure, and stunning lake views. A highlight is the impressive musical fountain show, which combines water jets, lights, and music for a spectacular display. This show typically runs from May to October, providing a delightful evening entertainment option for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
6. What is the Mong Ted Cafe and its connection to popular Korean drama filming locations?
The Mong Ted Cafe is a charming spot that gained popularity as a filming location for the highly-rated Korean drama "Running with Seon-jae on my Back." Visitors can enjoy a unique cafe experience, take photos, and immerse themselves in the atmosphere reminiscent of scenes from the show. It's an ideal stop for K-drama fans to check in and capture memorable moments from their favorite series.
7. What unique immersive experiences can be found at the Discovery Naturescape exhibition?
The Discovery Naturescape immersive exhibition offers a fantasy adventure through advanced media art and interactive installations. Visitors can explore digital landscapes that blend nature with imaginative storytelling, creating a sensory-rich experience. It's designed to transport guests into a world of wonder, perfect for those seeking a unique and engaging artistic journey that stimulates imagination and provides photo opportunities.
8. What types of unique cafes and shops can be found at Suwon Hangryuldan-ro?
Suwon Hangryuldan-ro is a vibrant street known for its eclectic mix of unique cafes and charming shops. Visitors can explore a variety of specialty coffee shops, artistic boutiques selling handmade goods, and eateries offering both traditional and modern Korean treats. It's a great area for leisurely strolls, discovering local craftsmanship, and enjoying distinct culinary experiences within a lively atmosphere.
