Suwon is a metropolitan city in South Korea also known as “The City of Filial Piety.” It is a suburb in Seoul and the capital of Gyeonggi-do. Suwon has humble beginnings, growing from a small settlement to a major industrial and cultural hub. For instance, it is the global research and development hub for the multinational conglomerate, Samsung. However, it is the only city in South Korea that has retained its historic city walls, making it the perfect place for those who want to go back in time. There’s a multitude of things to do while holidaying in Suwon. If you’re stopping by, check out this list of the best things to do in Suwon, South Korea
1. Enjoy the views at Gwanggyo Lake Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Gwanggyo Lake Park is a great spot for running, offering gorgeous scenery. Planning to visit with a loved one? You can take a leisurely walk by the lake or visit any of the nearby cafes. A rock-climbing facility is also available at the park for those looking for a more thrilling adventure. If you want to relax, there are comfortable benches on the premises where you can admire the stunning city lights at night.
Gwanggyo Lake Park
Address: 57 Gwanggyohosu-ro, Ha-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Website: Gwanggyo Lake Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
2. Visit the shops on Na Hye Seok Street
Culture enthusiasts can surely enjoy a walk down Na Hye Seok Street. It offers plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy local delicacies. If you want to enjoy a little retail therapy while you are here, you can explore some of the clothing shops within the lively area. Want to catch a local performance or musical? If so, you might want to consider visiting Gyeonggi Arts Center.
Na Hye Seok Street
Address: 1119 Ingye-dong, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
3. Admire the creative works at Jidong Mural Village
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Jidong Mural Village is definitely a must-see attraction when you are in Suwon. Featuring a variety of traditional murals, Jidong Mural Village is a wonderful place to visit, especially for the creatives. Here, you will find a lot of charming street art, such as creative flower and animal paintings and paper airplane-themed murals. You can admire the colorful displays as you walk through the structures in the area.
Jidong Mural Village
Address: 271-156 Ji-dong, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Website: Jidong Mural Village
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
4. Discover the unique exhibits at Haewoojae Poop Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Featuring a unique toilet-shaped exterior, this museum is a great destination for tourists who are traveling with their kids. Here, you can learn all about the history and science behind toilets. You will also discover strange stories while you are here, offering a one-of-a-kind experience. Group tours are available but note that you will have to reserve two months before your intended date. For your convenience, there is free parking on the premises.
Haewoojae Poop Museum
Address: 9 Jangan-ro 458beon-gil, Imok-dong, Jangan-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Website: Haewoojae Poop Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
5. Enjoy wall climbing at Gwanggyo Lake Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
A great place for those who want to squeeze in a quick run or just want to take in stunning views, Gwanggyo Lake Park receives millions of visitors annually. With plenty of charming cafes within the area, you can enjoy fresh coffee while you walk around the spacious park. There is a wall-climbing facility in the center of the park, which is perfect for outdoorsy travelers seeking exciting activities. At night, you can relax on one of the benches to admire the gorgeous city lights.
Gwanggyo Lake Park
Address: 57 Gwanggyohosu-ro, Ha-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Website: Gwanggyo Lake Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Take a hike at Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and immerse in traditional Korea culture (from USD 79.0)
The Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, one of Korea’s must-see sites, has become an icon of traditional Korean culture. This UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site was erected in 1796 by King Jeongjo to honour his father and to pioneer a city with its own economic power. The fortress is just a 30-minute train ride from Seoul. Here, you can find a wide variety of performances and events held at the fortress daily such as the Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival. If you fancy an educational visit, be sure to check out the guided tours and admire the unique Korean architecture of the 18th century. Get a deep dive into the scientific, architectural, and artistic aspects of Korea back in the days. The fortress wall spans 5.52 km (3.43 mi), so strap on comfortable walking shoes and you are good to go.
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
Address: 320-2 Yeonghwa-dong, Jangan-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (Mar - Oct); 9am - 5pm (Nov - Feb)
From Seoul: Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and Folk Village Tour
Duration: 4.0 to 8.0 hour
7. Take in breathtaking views at Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Need a break from your hike at the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress? Take a break at the lovely Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion. Situated in the northeast area of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, catch your breath atop a hill east of Hwahongmun Gate and admire beautiful views of the surrounding scenery. Officially called Dongbukgangnu Pavilion, this beautiful place was built in 1794. The pavilion is dubbed as one of the most original architectures in Hwaseong for its unique design that offers a different look depending on the angle at which it is viewed. As it is famously known to be the spot where King Jeongjo would rest on his way to Hwaseong Fortress, make your memories last and get your cameras ready at the pavilion.
Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion
Address: 44-6 Suwoncheon-ro 392beon-gil, Maehyang-dong, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
8. Visit Suwon Hwaseong Museum and travel back in time
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the fortress at Suwon Hwaseong Museum. Travel back in time through the wide collection of items and exhibitions housed by the museum that will teach you all about the origins and evolution of the fortress, a designated UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. It includes a demonstration of the entire process of construction and the people involved in the project. There are also depictions from the first day of the establishment of the fortress. The entrance fee to the museum differs for teenagers and adults. For children aged 12 and below and senior citizens aged 65 and above, the entrance fee is free of charge.
Suwon Hwaseong Museum
Address: 21 Changnyong-daero, Maehyang-dong, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Website: Suwon Hwaseong Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (closed first Mon of the month)
Price: Per person: Adults: 2,000 KRW (1.7 USD) / Teenagers: 1,000 KRW (0.9 USD) / For Groups (20 and above): Adults: 1,000 KRW (0.9 USD) / Teenagers: 500 KRW (0.4 USD)
9. Catch a game at Suwon World Cup Stadium
Suwon World Cup Stadium, or Big Bird Stadium, can be found about 30 kilometres (18 miles) south from Seoul. The roof of the Suwon World Cup Stadium resembles the wings of a bird whereas the seats are inspired by the city’s Hwaseong Fortress. You can get to the stadium via metro or taxi. Take line one in the centre of Seoul and alight at Hwaseo Station. Alternatively, continue to Suwon Station and take a bus from there. If you decide to take the taxi, the duration of your journey will take 15 to 20 minutes. Take your visit to the next level by going to the museum for an insightful history lesson on Korean football that includes a memorial for the 2002 World Cup. Kickstart your Korean football knowledge here.
Suwon World Cup Stadium
Address: 310 Woldeukeom-ro, Uman 1(il)-dong, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Website: Suwon World Cup Stadium
10. Explore Changryongmun and indulge in picturesque views
While in the incredible labyrinth of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, be sure to visit one of the fortress’ major gates, Changryongmun. This location is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. Take a lovely stroll around the gate that has been preserved and kept safe for years. Built in 1795, this breath-taking structure is situated near the “Flying Suwon,” a sightseeing balloon that flies 150 metres (492 feet) over the city. There’s so much to explore here, so make sure you’re wearing your best walking shoes.
Changryongmun
Address: 697 Gyeongsu-daero, Ji-dong, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
11. Take a peaceful stroll along Paldalmun Gate
Paldalmun Gate, or as others call it, Nammun, is situated in the southern part of Hwaseong. Around it are busy shops where people love to visit as well. The construction of this gate started in 1794 when King Jeongjo was in power. To commemorate the people who helped build the structure, you can find a plaque of their names here. Walk along the crescent-shaped wall known as an ongseong. The secondary wall at the gate serves as protection to the main wall which was often attacked by enemies. The passageway is even strategically built to be wide enough for the king’s vehicles and horses to pass through. After a peaceful walk around Paldalmun Gate where you can take in breath-taking views, dive into the hustle and bustle of the shops which are just a stone’s throw away.
Paldalmun Gate
Address: 780 Jeongjo-ro, Paldallo 2(i)-ga, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
12. Indulge in performance arts at Gyeonggi Arts Center
Gyeonggi Arts Center is the place to be for art enthusiasts. It offers a wide variety of shows, performances, and art exhibitions. It also promotes the amalgamation of performance arts and education and regularly holds classes for students. If Gyeonggi Arts Center is one of the stops on your list, be sure to check the performances available ahead of time so you can maximise your experience.
Gyeonggi Arts Center
Address: 20, Hyowon-ro 307beon-gil, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
Website: Gyeonggi Arts Center
13. Get physical at the Manseok Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Put on your best pair of walking shoes and explore Manseok Park, home to a man-made reservoir surrounded by a 1,200-metre (3,937 feet) track used for walking, running, skating, and cycling. On the east side of the park, you can find a stage where various events and celebrations are held every year. On the south side of the park is Suwon Arts Center. Manseok Park a paradise for sports enthusiasts as it has an abundance of facilities, including around12 tennis courts, a soccer field, and a skatepark.
Manseok Park
Address: 434 Songjuk-dong, Jangan-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
14. Get a glimpse of the royal family's life at Hwaseong Haenggung Palace
The term “Haenggung” refers to a temporary palace where the king and royal family retreated during a war. Hwaseong Haenggung Palace sits on the slope of a hill within the walls of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress. Here, you will develop an authentic idea of the life experienced by the king and the royal family when the shelters were used during times of war. The fortress holds fascinating history and you will get to hear stories of how King Jeongjo stayed here to visit his father’s tomb and what happened during the 60th birthday of King Jeongjo’s mother, Hyegyeong. Immerse yourself in traditional cultural performances and activities held by the palace.
Hwaseong Haenggung Palace
Address: 11 Haenggung-ro, Namchang-dong, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
15. Learn about electronics at Samsung Innovation Museum
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Ever wondered about the beginnings of the giant tech company, Samsung? Enter the wondrous world of technology and innovation at Samsung Innovation Museum. Learn about the history and success of Samsung Electronics. Explore the museum’s three sections, two of which focus on history and one that showcases present and possible innovations. There are exhibits featuring original inventions dating back to Thomas Edison’s light bulb and Samuel Morse’s telegraph. If you are planning a weekday visit, be sure to get a reservation for a tour of the museum in advance. Check this place out and step into the world of gizmos and gadgets.
Samsung Innovation Museum
Address: 129 Samseong-ro, Maetan-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Website: Samsung Innovation Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
Suwon, the solution to a simpler Seoul
A contrast to Seoul’s vibrant city scene, Suwon is relatively quieter and comprised of historical sites with a few splashes of innovation. It is an excellent choice for those wanting the South Korean city life experience without the hustle and bustle of it all. With a lot to do, start planning your visit to Suwon now.
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