Suwon Hwaseong: A majestic fortress blending ancient and modern times with royal splendor

As you step onto Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the first thing you'll notice is the close-up of the creaky yet powerful ancient fortress. It silently speaks of the glorious history of the Joseon Dynasty, a nation of war-torn warriors and artillery prowess, transporting you back to a time of war and steel, where you can experience the fortress's indestructible strength. Suwon Hwaseong Fortress is a captivating site that seamlessly blends the ancient imperial palace with the modern metropolis. A stroll through its grounds feels like a journey through time. From atop the fortress, you'll not only marvel at the magnificent walls and imposing turrets, but also experience the unique blend of ancient and modern charm. The Hwaseong Fortress within the fortress features exquisitely recreated replicas of the grandeur and splendor of Joseon-era royal banquets. The meticulously detailed scenes, imagining the sounds of court music and the sight of elegant ladies, offer a profound glimpse into the splendor of the royal family of yesteryear. Climbing the outer fortress is a must-see experience. The solid brick walls and majestic turrets convey the weight and grandeur of history. Here, you can also experience an exciting activity firsthand—archery. Drawing the bow myself, feeling the tension of the bowstring, and watching the arrow whistle out and pierce the bull's eye—the authentic awe-inspiring experience made me deeply appreciate the power and precision of ancient cold weapons. This is more than just an experience; it's a connection to history. Suwon Hwaseong Fortress is not only a testament to history but also a stunning vantage point from which to gaze upon the modern city. From the fortress walls, you can overlook not only the quaint rooftops of the Haenggung Palace but also the modern skyline in the distance. It's a truly worthwhile experience to experience this unique blend of leisure, preparedness, and traditional Korean culture. Whether you're a history buff or a traveler seeking a unique experience, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress promises to leave you with lasting and unforgettable memories. Transportation • From Seoul: • Subway: Take Line 1 to Suwon Station for the most convenient and economical transportation. • Train: Take the KTX, ITX-Shinchon, or Mugunghwa trains to Suwon Station for faster access. • From Suwon Station to Hwaseong Fortress: • Bus: Take bus numbers 11, 13, 35, or 400-1 from the bus stop opposite Suwon Station. Get off at Paldalmun (팔달문) to reach the south gate of Hwaseong Fortress. • Taxi: The ride takes about 10-15 minutes and is suitable for groups or families. Recommended Cafes The Haenggung-dong area of ​​Suwon is famous for its unique cafes, many of which offer views of the fortress. 1. Haenggung Mansion (행궁맨션): This cafe, which blends modern and retro styles, is known for its unique decor and delicious desserts, making it a popular social media spot. 2. Jeongjiyoung Coffee Roasters (정지영커피로스터즈): This renowned coffee shop boasts a wonderful atmosphere and a home-roasted coffee shop. The rooftop seating is especially recommended for enjoying the high-quality coffee while gazing at the stunning views of Seojangdae, the Hwaseong Fortress. 3. Cafe One More (원모어): This cafe boasts large floor-to-ceiling windows, offering stunning views of the city walls and greenery, creating a relaxing atmosphere. Local Food Recommendations 1. Suwon King Galbi (수원왕갈비): This is Suwon's most iconic delicacy! Known for its oversized, juicy, and seasoned beef short ribs, you absolutely can't miss the opportunity to try the authentic "Suwon King Galbi" when you visit Suwon. Well-known restaurants include Yeonpok Galbi (연포갈비) and Gapojeong Galbi (가보정갈비). 2. Fried Chicken (통닭): Near Suwon Nammun Market, there's a fried chicken street. Fried chicken here is fried in traditional large iron woks, resulting in crispy skin and tender meat, a nostalgic flavor. Jinmi Fried Chicken (진미통닭) is a popular spot. 3. Dumplings (만두): Near Paldalmun Market, there are many long-established dumpling shops that have been in business for decades, serving delicious dumplings with thin wrappers and generous fillings. These dumplings are a great way to experience local flavor. #Suwon #Hwaseong Haenggung (Inner City) #Suwonseong (Outer City) #Royal Haenggung #Royal Banquet #Fortress Strong Artillery #Battle Bow Shooting #Local Food Recommendations