The Joys of Spring: A Day at Suncheon Bay National Garden

Written and photographed by Katy Ryan

Coming from America’s “deep south,” spring was a season that was quickly glossed over. It seemed that as soon as winter was over, summer’s sweltering heat would interrupt spring as soon as it began. The mixture of warm air with cool breezes took some getting used to, but soon I learned that spring in Jeollanam-do was something to be enjoyed outside, where its true beauty can be seen. Recently, my boyfriend took me on a surprise trip to Suncheon, and I am ashamed to say that I had never been there. Upon arrival, we walked to the flower garden from the bus terminal. The walk, though long, seemed short because of the beauty of the city. I was enthralled by the beautiful river that twisted through the city. It was peppered with numerous cherry blossoms and the view was breathtaking. The river lead right to the edge of the Suncheon Bay National Garden.

There are two main points of entry: the East Gate and the West Gate. If you are driving to the park, the parking lot is located nearest the West Gate. I entered through the East Gate, and it was busy! Families and tourists were rife, but the attendants processed payments quickly. The first feature you see is a giant mound named Bonghwa Hill that tourists can ascend and descend, and amazingly, the two paths do not intersect. The view of the river is absolutely gorgeous, and from the top, you can get a good view of the surrounding area, though most of the garden is hidden by foliage. The park is so vast that it would be hard to visit it all in one afternoon; it is an all-day affair, in my opinion. I recommend packing a picnic lunch and enjoying the beauty around you.

The next sites I visited were the Maze Garden and the Rose Garden. The Rose Garden had blooming roses ascending up a cone-like structure. Tourists could walk up a small staircase and have their picture taken at the top of the cone. The maze, which is more for children, was fun, and in the center was a small deck where you could look out on a tulip garden. The tulips were well manicured and cared for. Throughout the trails were speakers from which music was played. Next, we stopped by at the French Garden and Chinese Garden. In the Chinese Garden, daffodils were in bloom. The theme of this garden reflected the respect that the creator had for Chinese foliage. There were beautiful lotus blossoms and reflecting ponds.

Next, we visited a memorial called Hope Hill, which is dedicated to people who have sacrificed for Suncheon. The circular walls surrounded a flame that, I assume, was constantly lit. The walls were made of tiles that were actually small, framed drawings by children. Dream Bridge was created in the same way as Hope Hill. It is a footbridge that connects the east and west sides of the park and is approximately 175 meters long. According to the website, nearly 140,000 children submitted art to be featured on the bridge. On the other side of the bridge, we boarded a Sky Cube car (priced at 15,000 per adult). It was somewhat like a cable car, but it was on a long track that connected the main garden with the wetland portion of the park. Since it was still a little too early for most flowers to bloom or most animals to be out, we were not able to see it in its full glory, but we plan to return in May to experience the park more in depth. Even though we did not experience everything the first time, I feel that Suncheon Bay National Garden is a place that I want to visit again and again. There are numerous sections that I have not seen, and I recommend seeing them before the heat of August arrives!

The prices are very affordable, and if you have small children, discount tickets are offered. Currently, the prices are 12,000 won for adults and 5,000 won for children. There are many bonus attractions that cost extra, like the Ferris wheel, the Sky Cube, and numerous small coffee shops. The zoo, which I was not aware of but am excited to visit, seems to have no fee. So, enjoy your spring and visit the Suncheon Bay National Garden if you have not already. You will not regret it!

The Author
Katy Ryan is from Tennessee in the U.S. She majored in criminology and sociology. She currently is a hagwon teacher who lives in Mokpo.