The Late Fall/Winter Collection

Places to Go, Things to Do in the Gwangju-Jeonnam Area

By Neha Bisht

Are you anxious about the chilling weather and looking for fun activities to take part in? This article covers possible late fall and winter activities that you may enjoy in Gwangju and the surrounding Jeonnam province (Jeollanam-do). The province covers a large area of South Korea, with a multitude of beautiful mountains, cities, and historical places that can be explored during the country’s colder months. Compiled here is a wide-ranging list of options to consider

Traditional Korean Teahouses

Korean teahouses in Gwangju, offer a unique and serene experience that combines traditional Korean culture with a cosy atmosphere. The teahouses feature traditional Korean architecture, including wooden beams, sliding doors, and floor seating (ondol). Often adorned with plants and calming decor, these spaces are designed to create a peaceful environment. You can enjoy a range of teas, including Gwangju’s Chunseol green tea, barley tea, black tea, and herbal infusions (ssanghwa-cha) made from local ingredients. Many places offer traditional Korean snacks, such as rice cakes (tteok) or sweets to complement the tea. Some teahouses host tea ceremonies where you can learn about the art of tea preparation and the significance of tea in Korean culture.

Teahouses are popular spots for locals to gather, making them a great place to relax and enjoy conversation. They provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, perfect for reading or contemplation. The popular teahouses in Gwangju are Hawonjae Tearoom (티룸하원재), Tea(edit) (티 에디트), Choi Seung Hyo’s House (최승효 가옥), and Traditional Teahouse Punggyeong (전통찻집 풍경). Visiting a teahouse in Gwangju allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, taste exquisite teas, and enjoy a moment of tranquility amidst the winter chill.

Hiking Experience

Hiking during autumn and winter in Gwangju-Jeonnam is a fantastic way to experience the region’s beautiful landscapes and enjoy the crisp fresh air. The popular hiking destinations are mostly National Parks like Mudeung-san, Wolchul-san, Dadohae-haesang, Jiri-san, and Naejang-san. The other popular small hiking trails are DamyangBamboo Forest, Baegun-san, and Suncheon Bay. Mudeung-san National Park is one of Gwangju’s most famous hiking destinations, featuring stunning mountain scenery, unique rock formations, and diverse flora and fauna. Several trails of varying difficulty, with the main trails leading to the peak, offer panoramic views. In winter, the trails can be less crowded, providing a peaceful experience.

Jiri-san National Park is a stunning destination for hiking enthusiasts during autumn and winter. It’s known for its rugged mountains, rich biodiversity, and scenic beauty. It includes three trails: Cheonwang-bong, Sancheong, and Mungyeong-saejae. The park transforms into a vibrant canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a popular time for hikers. Peak foliage typically occurs in late October or early November. Naejangsan National Park is a popular destination for its stunning natural beauty, especially during its showcase of autumn foliage. The park’s maple trees turn brilliant shades of red and orange, typically peaking in late October or early November. It offers Naejang-san Peak and Seonun Temple trails to explore nature with cultural sites.

Winter hiking in Jeollanam-do provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature in a tranquil setting. Whether seeking challenging trails or leisurely walks, the region’s mountains offer a wonderful backdrop for outdoor adventures during the colder months. General hiking tips: Use winter gear such as warm and waterproof clothing, and insulated boots, use crampons for icy trails, carry water and snacks, start early, and respect nature.

Visiting Local Temples

Gwangju and Jeollanam-do are home to several beautiful and historically significant temples that reflect the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. You can explore historic sites like Mudeung-san Jeungsim Temple (증심사) in Gwangju, Daeheung Temple (대흥사), Hwaeom Temple (화엄사), Baegyang Temple (백양사), Unju Temple (운주사), Naejang Temple (내장사), and Cheoneun Temple (천은사) in Gurye.

Jeungsim Temple is located at the foot of Mudeung Mountain. It is known for its stunning natural surroundings, beautiful temple architecture, and serene walking paths. It’s a great place for hiking and meditation. Daeheung Temple is situated in Haenam County surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for nature walks and meditation. This temple offers stunning views and cultural experiences, including traditional tea ceremonies and meditation practices. Most of the Korean temples are set in picturesque locations, making them a popular spot for both tourists and locals seeking peace and reflection.

Indoor Markets

Gwangju is known for its vibrant indoor markets, which offer a fantastic experience for both locals and visitors. Yangdong Market: A bustling market that features a wide range of products, from fresh food to clothing and household items. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere; you can find everything from seasonal produce to local delicacies. The food stalls here are a must-try! Geumnam Street Market: It is located near the city center; this market combines shopping and dining, offering a variety of goods and street food. The market is particularly lively in the evenings and is a great spot for enjoying local street food, including the winter specialities hotteok (sweet pancakes) and eomuk (fish cakes). 1913 Songjeong Station Market: A traditional market that offers a variety of local produce, meats, seafood, and household goods. A great place to experience local culture, sample street food, and shop for fresh ingredients. Look out for traditional snacks like tteok (rice cakes) and kimchi. While some places may accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash for easier transactions. Don’t hesitate to try samples or small dishes from various stalls to discover new flavors. In some markets, haggling can be acceptable, especially when buying multiple items. Take your time to wander through the stalls to fully experience the vibrant atmosphere and find unique products.

Jjimjilbang

Relax in a Korean-style bathhouse or a spa, enjoying heated saunas and therapeutic treatments to escape the cold. A jjimjilbang (찜질방) typically contain a variety of saunas and steam rooms, each with different temperatures and themes, such as clay, salt, or jade. These saunas promote detoxification and relaxation. There are usually gender-segregated bathing areas with hot, warm, and cold baths. Bathing is done nude, so it’s essential to be comfortable with that aspect. After bathing, you can relax in common areas with heated floors, lounge areas, and sometimes even sleeping quarters. These areas are great for napping or socializing. Many jjimjilbang offer additional services like massages, body scrubs (seshin), and skincare treatments. Most jjimjilbang have snack bars or cafes serving traditional Korean snacks like bingsu (shaved ice dessert), gyeranjjim (steamed eggs), and sikhye (sweet rice drink). Many jjimjilbang operate 24/7, making them convenient for travelers and locals alike. You can spend a few hours or even the whole night there.

Other Activities

Attend winter performances, including traditional music and dance, often held at the Asia Culture Centre (ACC) and theaters around the city. Look for seasonal festivals, such as the Gwangju Christmas Festival or local New Year celebrations, featuring decorative lights, riveting performances, and tasty food. Visit local rinks or temporary outdoor ice-skating rinks that pop up during the winter months. Visit the 5.18 Memorial Park and take a peaceful walk through the park, which often has winter displays and events. Check out the Gwangju Biennale or local galleries for winter exhibitions showcasing contemporary art. Capture the winter scenery, especially with the beautiful landscapes and snowy mountains surrounding the city. Take part in culinary experiences such as cooking classes focused on winter Korean dishes, hot soups or tteok (rice cake) and kimchi-making. Engage in community service or volunteer at local shelters or food banks, which often need extra help during the winter months.

As you see, there are a multitude of activities available in the immediate area for you to delve into during the lower-temperature months. You can start planning your out-of-the-house now.