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There are great many things to do in South Korea, and so are in Gimje.
Gimje, the charming city situated in the heart of South Korea, is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
From quaint traditional villages to magnificent temples and scenic hiking trails, this city has something for everyone.
So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an adventure of lifetime in the culturally rich and vibrant city of Gimje.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Gimje:
1. Seonunsa Temple
Seonunsa Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Gimje, South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the picturesque temple grounds and marvel at the beautiful architecture and intricate artwork.
There are a number of buildings, statues, and monuments to discover, including the main prayer hall, pagodas, and a large bell pavilion.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions at Seonunsa Temple is the serene Yonghwasa Valley, which is located nearby. This stunning natural area features crystal-clear water, lush greenery, and towering cliffs.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking and climbing involved.
2. Gimje Horizon Festival
What to see or do: Enjoy traditional Korean music and dance performances, try local delicacies, participate in Korean traditional games and activities, watch the grand parade, and experience the rice harvest culture.
Don’t miss: The traditional music concert, fireworks show, and the World Food Festival featuring both traditional Korean and international cuisine.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, visit during the weekdays. Wear comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of walking involved, especially during the grand parade.
Bring cash as most vendors don’t accept credit cards.
3. Miraenan
Miraenan is a beautiful park in Gimje, South Korea, famous for its cherry blossom and bamboo forest.
What to see or do: Walk through the park’s picturesque bamboo forest and enjoy the sight of over 8,000 cherry trees in full bloom. Take a leisurely stroll along the paths and indulge in the beauty of nature.
Don’t miss: The park comes alive with light shows at night during the cherry blossom season, making for a truly magical experience. Make sure to catch the light shows and witness the beauty of Miraenan under a starry night sky.
Insider travel tips: Try visiting on a weekday or earlier in the cherry blossom season as the park can be quite crowded during peak season.
Also, consider bringing a picnic mat and some snacks to have a leisurely picnic among the cherry blossoms.
4. Gwisinsa Temple
Gwisinsa Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Gimje, South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple’s beautiful architecture, including the towering pagoda and intricate carvings. Visitors can also participate in traditional Buddhist practices, such as meditation and prayer.
Don’t miss: Be sure to explore the temple’s stunning garden, filled with colorful flowers and serene ponds.
Insider travel tips: Remember to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering any temple buildings. The temple can be quite busy during peak tourist season, so consider visiting during off-peak times to avoid crowds.
Additionally, consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth cultural experience.
5. Gimbap Cheonguk
A popular restaurant chain in South Korea that specializes in Gimbap, a Korean dish made from cooked rice and various other ingredients rolled in seaweed.
What to see or do: Enjoy freshly made Gimbap with various fillings such as tuna, kimchi, bulgogi, and more. The restaurant also offers other dishes like bibimbap and noodles.
Don’t miss: The iconic Gimbap rolls, which are made with high-quality ingredients and famous throughout Korea.
Insider travel tips: If you’re not sure what to order, go for the classic tuna and vegetable Gimbap roll. It’s delicious and always a safe choice.
The restaurant can get crowded, so try to visit during off-peak hours to avoid waiting in line.
6. Ganwoljae
Traditional Korean guesthouse in the countryside of Gimje.
What to see or do: Experience a peaceful and authentic Korean rural lifestyle while staying in Ganwoljae. Enjoy various activities such as hiking, farming, and fishing.
You can experience traditional Korean clothing, food, and tea ceremony.
Don’t miss: The beautiful scenery surrounding the guesthouse and the serene atmosphere. Take part in cultural events such as the nearby Gimje Horizon Festival or participate in traditional ceramic art classes.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to make reservations a few weeks in advance, especially during peak holiday seasons. Ganwoljae provides transportation service from Gimje Bus Terminal.
Be prepared for a comfortable but rustic experience with limited amenities. Learn a few basic Korean phrases to enhance your interactions with the locals.
7. Gimje Ginkgo Tree Road
A scenic road lined with over 2,000 ginkgo trees that turn golden yellow in autumn.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the road to enjoy the stunning autumn foliage. There are also various street vendors selling local food and souvenirs.
Don’t miss: The annual Gimje Ginkgo Festival, which takes place in late October and early November and features traditional performances, cultural exhibitions, and various food stalls.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is during the autumn months, ideally in mid to late November when the leaves are at their brightest.
Parking can be difficult during peak season, so it’s best to use public transportation or arrive early in the morning.
8. Maesongjeong Pavilion
Maesongjeong Pavilion is a historical site located in Gimje, Jeollabuk-do province of South Korea.
What to see or do: The pavilion was originally built in the early 7th century and later reconstructed in 1636, during the Joseon Dynasty. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Geumgang River.
Visitors can also explore the nearby Maesongjeong Park, which is known for its scenic walking trails and picnic areas.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the Maesongjeong Pavilion at night when it is beautifully illuminated.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
9. Gimje Horseradish Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of horseradish in Gimje, South Korea.
What to see or do: Learn about the history and cultivation of horseradish through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. Take a tour of the horseradish fields and learn how to harvest and process the plant.
Sample various horseradish dishes and products, including horseradish-infused ice cream.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to make your own horseradish sauce and take it home as a souvenir. Be sure to try the horseradish-infused makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the Horseradish Festival in May for a lively celebration of horseradish culture. The museum offers English tours, but it’s best to call ahead to schedule one.
Don’t forget to bring a jacket as the museum and fields can be chilly, even in the summer.
10. Buyeo National Museum
Buyeo National Museum is a cultural institution located in Buyeo, South Korea that showcases the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Baekje kingdom.
What to see or do: The museum houses over 1,000 artifacts and relics from the Baekje period, including pottery, metalwork, and stone statues. Visitors can explore ancient Korean history through various exhibits and displays, with explanations available in English and Korean.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the Gilt-bronze Incense Burner of Baekje, a national treasure of Korea that dates back to the 6th century.
This ornate incense burner is adorned with intricate carvings of mythical creatures and is considered one of the finest examples of Baekje art.
Insider travel tips: Buyeo National Museum is located in a beautiful park with walking paths and beautiful garden spaces. Take some time to explore the surrounding landscape and soak up the serene atmosphere.
The museum also offers various educational programs and events, so be sure to check their schedule if you’re interested in a more immersive experience.
11. Geumsansa Temple
Geumsansa Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Gimje, South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple complex, which includes over 20 halls, pagodas, and shrines, all adorned with intricate wood carvings and colorful paintings.
Take a stroll through the peaceful gardens and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Daeungjeon Hall, the temple’s main worship hall, where you can see a giant Buddha statue surrounded by smaller statues of bodhisattvas.
And don’t miss the Three-story Stone Pagoda, which dates back to the Silla period (7th-10th century).
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds and get a peaceful experience, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
12. Gochang Dolmen Museum
Gochang Dolmen Museum is an archaeological museum located in Gochang-gun, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea. It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the dolmens, a type of megalithic structure dating back to the Neolithic period.
What to see or do: The museum features a permanent exhibition that displays various types of dolmens, tools, ornaments, pottery, and other artifacts from the prehistoric era.
Visitors can learn about the archaeological excavation process and the history and significance of dolmens in the region. The outdoor exhibition offers an opportunity to see the dolmen clusters in their original settings.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the largest dolmen in Korea, measuring over 5 meters long and weighing approximately 300 tons.
It is a stunning example of the prehistoric engineering capabilities.
Insider travel tips: – Consider visiting during the Gochang Dolmen Festival held annually in early May, featuring traditional performances, music, and food.
13. Geumnamro Four-story Pagoda
Geumnamro Four-story Pagoda is a historical marvel located in Gimje, South Korea. It’s a stone pagoda built during the Unified Silla period, approximately 1,300 years ago.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship of the pagoda, which stands at 9.4 meters tall and is adorned with intricate carvings and designs.
Take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of this gorgeous structure.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit during the annual Gimje Horizon Festival in October, where visitors can see the pagoda illuminated at night, creating a majestic sight.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved to reach the pagoda.
14. Naejangsan National Park
A stunning national park located in Gimje, South Korea.
What to see or do: Enjoy hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the park, which is home to various plant and animal species. Visit the famous Naejangsa temple, adorned with vibrant autumn leaves in the fall.
Take a cable car ride to the peak of the mountain to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking colors of the fall foliage that make Naejangsan National Park a popular destination during autumn. Also, make sure to visit Baekyangsa Temple and Geumseon Valley.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing for hiking. The park can get crowded during peak seasons, so plan ahead and arrive early or consider visiting during weekdays.
Try the local delicacy, Gamja-tang (pork bone soup), at one of the many restaurants near the park entrance.