SOUTH KOREA: Family-friendly 8 Days Hassle-Free Itinerary (DAY 3)

  • Garden of the Morning Calm
  • Nami Island
  • Petit France

A Day of Nature, Culture, and Culinary Delights in South Korea

TeamGonzaga kicked off the day with an exciting Nami Island/ Garden of the Morning Calm/ Petite France Tour booked via Klook. Our itinerary included visits to the Garden of the Morning Calm, Nami Island, and Petite France, with transportation, entrance fees, and lunch all taken care of.

Filled with anticipation, we rose early and strut out our OOTDs, eager to begin our day’s journey. Our tour guide welcomed us aboard the comfortable 9 seater van, and as we made our way to the first destination, SA Tours surprised us with complimentary bread and water, ensuring we stayed refreshed throughout the day. SA Tours also provided us an authentic Korean dakgalbi (stir-fried chicken) feast over lunch that left our taste buds dancing with delight.

Garden of the Morning Calm.

For our first stop, we went to the very beautiful Garden of the Morning Calm, also known as “Chung-Ang Arboretum,” is a picturesque botanical garden located in Gapyeong, South Korea. It covers an area of approximately 30,000 square meters. It is famous for its stunning collection of flowers. It features over 5,000 species of plants, including various types of Korean wildflowers, roses, hydrangeas, magnolias, and many more.

Fun Facts about Garden of the Morning Calm…
  1. 1. One of the highlights of the garden is the Moonlight Garden, which is designed to be enjoyed at night. It features illuminated pathways, vibrant lighting displays, and a magical ambiance, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.

2. The Garden of the Morning Calm serves as a venue for various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. These events include the Spring Garden Festival, the Festival of Chrysanthemums, and the Lighting Festival during the winter season.

3. The garden has been a popular filming location for Korean dramas and movies due to its picturesque landscapes. It has been featured in several well-known productions, attracting fans from all over the world.

4. In addition to its natural beauty, the Garden of the Morning Calm also offers workshops and classes on gardening, flower arrangement, and traditional Korean crafts. Visitors can participate in these activities to learn more about horticulture and Korean culture.

5. The garden’s name, “Morning Calm,” is derived from the term “Joseon,” which was the name of the last Korean dynasty. It represents the peaceful and serene atmosphere that the garden aims to provide to visitors.

6. The Garden of the Morning Calm is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience the changing beauty of each season. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of spring flowers or the tranquil snowy landscapes in winter, the garden offers a delightful experience throughout the year.

7. The garden is divided into several themed sections, each with its own unique charm. These sections include the Morning Garden, Hometown House Garden, Bonsai Garden, Moonlight Garden, and the Garden of Eden.

Although it was winter and the flowers weren’t in full bloom, the garden’s serene atmosphere still mesmerized us. The fresh air, the tranquility, and the untouched beauty of the landscape created a sense of peace within us. Even without the vibrant colors of spring, we found solace in the quietude of nature. The barren branches of the trees painted a picturesque scene against the sky, reminding us of the beauty that can be found in every season. We explored the pathways, and we saw the famous Millenium Juniper, it is a notable and iconic juniper tree located in the Gardens of the Morning Calm. It is one of the most popular attractions within the garden and is considered the oldest tree in the garden almost 1000 years old.

Nami Island

Next, we set off for Nami Island, a place renowned for its natural splendor and cultural significance. It is situated in the middle of the Han River near Chuncheon, which is about 63 kilometers away from Seoul, the capital city of South Korea. It is easily accessible by ferry or zip line.

We stepped off the ferry onto the island, we were immediately captivated by the breathtaking beauty that surrounded us. The famous line of sequoia trees, known as the Tree Lane, stood tall and majestic, creating a magical atmosphere. We strolled along the paths, occasionally stopping to take photos or sit on a bench, savoring the tranquility of the surroundings. Nami Island also offered various activities, such as cycling and zip-lining, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Fun Facts about Nami Island…

Nami Island is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with picturesque landscapes consisting of forests, gardens, and tree-lined paths. It is especially popular during the spring and autumn seasons when the island is covered in cherry blossoms or colorful foliage.

3. Winter Sonata: Nami Island gained international recognition after it was featured in the popular Korean drama series called “Winter Sonata.” Fans of the drama visit the island to retrace the footsteps of the characters and experience the romantic atmosphere portrayed in the show.

4. No Vehicles Allowed: To preserve the tranquility and natural environment of the island, vehicles are not allowed on Nami Island. Visitors can explore the island on foot, by bicycle, or by taking the convenient electric-powered “UNICEF Train.”

5. Artistic Culture: Nami Island is known for its artistic culture. Visitors can enjoy various art installations, sculptures, and exhibitions scattered throughout the island. It also hosts a variety of cultural events, including music concerts, performances, and outdoor exhibitions.

6. Food: Nami Island offers a wide range of dining options. Visitors can enjoy Korean cuisine at one of the island’s restaurants or try unique local delicacies such as dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) or makguksu (buckwheat noodles).

7. Zip Line Experience: In addition to the ferry ride, visitors can also reach Nami Island by taking an exhilarating zip line ride. The zip line offers a thrilling aerial view of the island and the surrounding landscape, providing a unique and memorable experience.

8. Wildlife: Nami Island is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species. The island is designated as a bird sanctuary, making it a haven for birdwatchers. You may spot different bird species, such as mallards, mandarin ducks, and egrets, while exploring the island.

9. Cycling Trails: Nami Island has well-maintained cycling trails that allow visitors to explore the island at their own pace. Bicycle rentals are available, making it a popular activity for families and friends.

10. Environmental Conservation: Nami Island is committed to environmental conservation and sustainability. It has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives, such as using renewable energy sources, promoting recycling, and preserving the natural habitat of the island’s flora and fauna.

Petite France

After immersing ourselves in nature, we headed back to our van for a short ride to Petite France, a charming French-style village nestled amidst the Korean countryside. Situated in the countryside near Gapyeong, Petite France is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. It is nestled among hills and close to the Cheongpyeong Lake, making it a picturesque destination for nature enthusiasts.

The vibrant colors of the houses, the cobblestone streets, and the whimsical atmosphere transported us to a different world. We explored the village, visiting the museum and the garden.

Fun Facts about Petite France…

1. French Inspiration: Petite France is designed to resemble a French village, specifically reflecting the architecture from the 19th century. It features colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming French-style houses.

2. The Little Prince: The village is named after the famous novella “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. It serves as a tribute to the author and his work, with various statues, exhibits, and references to the beloved story.

3. Cultural Hub: Petite France serves as a cultural center that celebrates French art, literature, and music. Visitors can enjoy performances of traditional French music, puppet shows, and marionette performances.

4. Romantic Atmosphere: The village is known for its romantic ambiance, making it a popular destination for couples and those seeking a romantic getaway. The scenic surroundings, beautiful gardens, and riverside views contribute to the enchanting atmosphere.

5. Filming Location: Petite France has been used as a filming location for several Korean dramas and variety shows. It gained additional popularity after appearing in the hit drama “My Love from the Star,” attracting fans from all over the world.

6. Artistic Exhibitions: The village hosts various art exhibitions, showcasing works from both Korean and international artists. Visitors can explore galleries and experience different forms of artistic expression.

7. Themed Gardens: Petite France features themed gardens such as the Rose Garden, Herb Garden, and French Traditional Garden. These gardens offer a relaxing and picturesque environment, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying nature.

8. Hands-on Activities: Visitors can participate in hands-on activities such as making traditional French crafts, trying on vintage French costumes, and creating their own marionettes.

9. French Cuisine: Petite France offers a range of dining options where visitors can savor delicious French cuisine. From bakeries serving fresh pastries to French-inspired cafes and restaurants, there are plenty of culinary delights to enjoy.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Myeongdong, where we concluded our day with an authentic Korean barbecue dinner. The tantalizing aroma of grilled meat wafted through the air as we entered the bustling restaurant. We gathered around the table, excitedly anticipating the feast that awaited us. The sizzling meat, accompanied by an array of banchan (side dishes) and lettuce wraps, created a symphony of flavors that danced on our palates. We laughed, shared stories, and indulged in the rich and savory essence of Korean cuisine. It was a culinary experience that truly embodied the spirit of South Korea. With our tummyies full and tired legs we head off back to our AirBnb to rest and prepare for our next adventure.

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