Goseong Manhwabangcho Hydrangea Festival (고성 만화방초 수국축제)

Date: 06/20 - 07/19
Time: 09:00~18:00
Location: Goseong Manhwabangcho
Host: Manhwabangcho
Organizer: Manhwabangcho
Admission: Adult 5000 KRW / Children 3000 KRW
Website/More Info.: https://www.instagram.com/p/DLmlvmQhwdA/?img_index=5

Programs: 
Hydrangea Garden Walk: Stroll through colorful hydrangea-filled paths and enjoy the vibrant summer scenery.
Photo Zones: Take memorable photos at beautifully decorated hydrangea-themed photo spots.
Nature Experience Programs: Participate in hands-on activities that connect visitors with nature and local culture.
Local Food & Market Booths: Enjoy regional specialties and browse local products offered by vendors.
Busking Performances: Enjoy live music and performances by talented local artists in a beautiful garden setting. 
Evening Garden Views: Experience the charm of the garden in the soft light of the evening during special festival hours.

Highlights: #goseonghydrangeafestival #manhwabangcho #hydrangeafestival #goseongtravel #koreatravel #visitkorea #hydrangeaseason #flowerfestival #gardenescape #naturelovers

Gangju Sunflower Festival (강주해바라기축제)

Date: 06/18 - 07/02
Time: all day
Location: Gangju Village, Beopsu-myeon, Haman-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea 
Host: Gangju Village
Organizer: Gangju Sunflower Festival Committee 
Admission: 3000 KRW
Website/More Info.: 
Website - https://www.haman.go.kr/03119/03156/03162.web
Haman official instagram - https://www.instagram.com/haman_official_?igsh=MW4xeWxvNzU4cXE0Mw== 

Programs: 
Environment Campaign: Join eco-friendly activities and awareness programs that promote 
Sunflower Field Viewing: Walk through vast sunflower fields and enjoy breathtaking summer scenery.
Photo Zones: Capture memorable photos at themed installations and sunflower displays.

Highlights: #gangjusunflowerfestival #sunflowerfestival #haman #hamantravel #koreatravel #summerinkorea #sunflowerseason #flowerfestival #photospot 

Haman Nakhwa Festival with Myk FESTA (함안낙화페스티벌 with Myk FESTA)

Date: 07/03 - 07/04
Time: 16:00~
Location: Mujinjeong Area, Haman 
Host: Haman
Organizer: Haman
**Admission:**10,000~30,000 KRW (varies by section), reservation required through Yes24
Website/More info.: 
Website - https://www.haman.go.kr/02212/02213/02219.web
Haman official instagram - https://www.instagram.com/haman_official_?igsh=MW4xeWxvNzU4cXE0Mw== 

Programs: 

Special Performances: Enjoy a variety of live performances, including traditional music, dance, and cultural entertainment throughout the festival.
Traditional Culture Experience Booths: Participate in hands-on activities that introduce visitors to Korean traditional culture, crafts, and customs.
Goehyang Village Stamp Tour: Explore different spots around Goehyang Village, collect stamps at designated locations, and receive special souvenirs or rewards upon completion.

Highlights: #hamannakhwafestival #nakhwafestival #haman #hamantravel#koreatravel #traditionalfestival #traditionalculture #culturalexperience #stamptour #goehyangvillage #nightfestival #summerfestival #heritagefestival #firefestival #koreanculture #nightscape #traditionalfireworks 

Goseong Sweet Corn Festival (경남고성옥수수 쫀달고 축제)

Date: 07/04 - 07/05
Time: 10:00~18:00
Location: Dangdong Coastal Road Area, Georyu-myeon, Goseong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do 
Host: Goseong Corn Festival Promotion Committee 
Organizer: Jjondalgo Love Association 
Admission: free
Website/More Info.: https://festa.gyeongnam.go.kr/board/list.do?boardNo=14&siteCd=078&menuCode=004_004002000000

Programs:
Fresh Sweet Corn Market: Purchase freshly harvested sweet and chewy waxy corn directly from local farmers.
Corn Husking Experience: Enjoy a hands-on activity where visitors can peel and prepare fresh corn.
Cultural Performances: Watch live music, dance performances, and various cultural entertainment programs.
Hydrangea Trail Walk: Stroll along beautiful hydrangea-lined paths and enjoy the vibrant summer scenery.

Highlights: #goseongcornfestival #goseongsweetcornfestival #jjondalgo #sweetcorn #koreatravel #foodfestival #localfood #freshcorn #cornhusking #culturalperformance #hydrangeatrail #hydrangeaseason #naturelovers #gyeongsangnamdo 

Gyeongsan Cafe Festival (경산카페축제)

Date: 06/27 - 07/01
Time: 16:00~22:00
Location: Namcheon Stream Riverside Area, Gyeongsan 
Host: Gyeongsan Culture & Tourism Foundation 
Organizer: Gyeongsan Culture & Tourism Foundation 
Admission: Free (Beverage fee not included)
Website/More Info.: 
More info - https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/contents/contentsView.do?vcontsId=227972
Official instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cafe_in_gyeongsan?igsh=MTVkemp5eHo0amRidw== 

Programs:
Retro LP Cafe: Listen to classic records and request songs.
Children's Art Contest: A creative drawing competition for children.
Barista Competition: Watch skilled baristas compete and demonstrate their coffee-making expertise. 
Gyeongsan Space Cafe OX Quiz: Participate in an interactive quiz and test your knowledge for a chance to win prizes. 
Cafe Stamp Tour: Visit participating cafes, collect stamps, and enjoy special rewards. 
Cafe Discounts: Enjoy 10% off coffee and desserts at participating cafes.

Highlights: #gyeongsanspacecafe #spacecafefestival #gyeongsan #gyeongsantravel #visitkorea #koreatravel #nightcafe #riversidecafe #livebusking #baristacompetition #stamptour #cafeculture #gyeongsangbukdo 
Check out the festival locations at Google Map & Naver Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Vixq3w1h6q2KUJe7
More Information about Gyeongsangdo’s festival: 
Gyeongsangnamdo: https://festa.gyeongnam.go.kr/index.do?menuCode=001_020001000000&siteCd=001 
Gyeongsangbukdo: 
https://www.gtc.co.kr/page/10078/10099.tc 

Image Resource: 함안군청, 트립젠드, 티스토리

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway from Seoul this June, I highly recommend spending a day (or even a weekend) in Gongju. It’s one of those cities that combines beautiful nature, history, and charming local neighborhoods without feeling overcrowded.

Here’s a route I recently put together for a June trip (please recommend me some spots if you know any other destinations!):

Yugu Colorful Hydrangea Garden Festival (유구색동수국정원 꽃축제)

June is hydrangea season, and this is probably the best time of year to visit Gongju. This year, it is held on 6/26 - 6/28, and I am looking forward to visit there.
It is known to be especially pretty in the morning and late afternoon when the sunlight is softer. If you’re into photography, this spot is worth the trip.

More info here:
https://www.instagram.com/gongju_yugusaekdong/ 

Gongju Metasequoia Road (공주 메타세콰이어길)

After the hydrangeas, I would like to head over to the Metasequoia Road. The tall trees form a stunning green tunnel that’s perfect for a leisurely walk. The shade makes it comfortable even on warmer June days, and it’s a great place to slow down and enjoy some fresh air.

Jemincheon Stream (제민천)

This is one of my favorite spots in Gongju.
Jemincheon has a relaxed atmosphere with small cafés, local restaurants, and quiet walking paths along the water. It feels much less touristy than many famous Korean destinations.

Gongsanseong Fortress (공산성)

Gongsangseong is the most famous tourist destination in Gongju so you should definitely visit there.

The fortress walls stretch across the hills overlooking the city, offering some fantastic views of the Geum River and the surrounding landscape. Walking along the walls around sunset is especially beautiful.
It’s also one of the most important historical sites from the Baekje Kingdom period.

Tomb of King Muryeong & the Royal Tombs of Songsan-ri (공주 무령왕릉)

If you’re interested in Korean history, this UNESCO-listed site is worth a visit.
The tombs provide fascinating insight into the Baekje Kingdom, and the museum exhibits help explain why Gongju was once one of Korea’s most important capitals.

Geumgang Riverside Walk (공주 금강)

I would like to end the day with a walk along the Geum River.
The riverside paths are peaceful, and the sunset views are surprisingly beautiful. It’s a nice way to unwind after exploring the city.

Gongju often gets overlooked compared to places like Gyeongju or Jeonju, but honestly, June might be the perfect time to visit. 

Find the places at google map down below!
https://maps.app.goo.gl/YdyfaGa3mURN59K4A?g_st=i

You can find more places at Gongju City Hall website
https://www.gongju.go.kr

Have you visited Gongju before? Any hidden gems I should add to my next trip?

(Image resource: 공주시청, 여행을 말하다)

June is the best month to travel and enjoy summer. I will recommend some of the places in Chungbuk to visit during the Summer holiday.

Seokjongsa Temple Stay (석종사 템플스테이)

Temple stay is where you can stay in traditional Korean temples and experience its culture. You can expect mountain views, early morning temple bells, meditation, and a chance to disconnect from your phone to feel nature and be relaxed.

Hwalok Cave (활옥동굴)

This is one of the most unique attractions in Chungbuk. You can ride the underground boat on a crystal clear water inside the cave. 

Songnisan Forest Experience Recreation Village (속리산 숲체험휴양마을)

June is peak forest season. Especially for Songnisan area in Chungbuk, the air is cool which makes a perfect weather for forest walks, cabin stays, and nighttime stargazing.

Banyasa Temple (반야사)

Banyasa temple is much quieter than the famous ones in Chungbuk. It’s especially beautiful in June because the surrounding mountains turn green and the landscape is very astonishing.

Maengdong Healing Forest (맹동 치유의 숲)

If you just want to visit the forest instead of temples, Maengdong healing forest will be a perfect choice to do forest healing. 

Cheongpung Lake (청풍호)

Cheongpung Lake is one of the most underrated scenic spots in Korea. The water is very clear and the surrounding mountains and forests make a unique view that cannot be seen in Seoul. You can also take a lake cruise, drive along the lakeside roads, and watch the sunset over the water.

Hope you get to visit these places soon!

Chungbuk destinations at google map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/fZxSqbuK45yEfWUd8?g_st=i 

Image Resources: https://phoko.visitkorea.or.kr/main/index.kto / 중앙일보

Most people only think of government buildings when they hear “Sejong,” but the food scene here is honestly pretty underrated. There are a lot of hidden local spots that deserve more attention.
So here’s a small list of restaurants and cafes in Sejong that are actually worth trying. They are not just trendy Instagram places, but spots with genuinely good food and atmosphere. If you’re ever visiting Sejong or just curious about the city, hopefully this helps :)
See all the lists at Google map! (with Naver Map link)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/MbrnQGxPSMx83EJR9

Korean Food

📍Jinseong Minjokchon (Soup / Traditional dishes) - Cheongyeonro, Sejong

Experience Korean traditional dishes with Korean spicy soup called ‘Gamjatang’ 

📍Jangwon Gapkalguksu (Noodle / Traditional dishes) - Heomanseok 1ro, Sejong

Handmade noodles served in a rich, comforting broth

📍Songha Hanjeongsik (Rice / Traditional dishes) - Shinanri, Sejong

Korean nutritious meal with traditional and seasonal dishes

📍Yongamgol (Meat / Traditional dishes) - Dosingobokro, Sejong

Restaurant to try Korean sauce grilled barbeque, ‘Galbi’

📍Neungso Bibim Noodles (Noodle / Traditional dishes) - Sejongro, Sejong

Local noodle restaurant with affordable price and good taste

📍Bugangok (Soup / Traditional dishes) - Bugangwaecheonro, Sejong

Soup with Korean traditional sausage called Sundae. This is where you can try the real local soup of Korea.

Western Food

📍 Trattoria Il Phenomenon (Pasta/ Italian) - beopwon 2ro, Sejong One of Sejong’s best Italian restaurants, known for pasta and its atmosphere.

📍Gnocchi on Thursday (Gnocchi / Italian) - Naseongbuk 1ro, Sejong

Italian cuisine restaurant which owns blue ribbon certificate

📍Hit Your Tongue (Lamb / Italian) - Saeromro, Sejong

Main dishes of grilled lamb and Italian menus

📍 Fastars (Pasta / Italian) - Dalbitro, Sejong

Various Italian dishes including pasta, pizza, and gnocchi.

📍Tablelay (Seafood / Italian) - Dajeongjungangro, Sejong

Italian dishes mainly focusing on seafood menus such as shrimp and vongole.

📍La Sejong (Meat / French) - Naseongro, Sejong

French restaurant of duck breast and beef wellington, styled with Sejong’s tradition

Other Recommendations

📍Wangcheon Padak (Chicken) - Jochiwon 8ro, Sejong

Fried chicken with green onions and soy sauce

📍Lounge 46 (Bar) - Naseongbuk 1ro, Sejong

Cocktail bar with signature platter and great quality dishes

Cafes

📍By Hand Coffee - Jeoljaero, Sejong

Cafe in Sejong famous for its smooth hand drip coffee specialties that can be tried in Sejong

📍 Leehan Bakery - Maeumro, Sejong

Bakery cafe popular to Sejong’s locals famous for egg tarts and delicious bread.

📍Newold Coffee - Hannuridaero, Sejong

Cafe that features special filter coffee made with coffee beans from all around the world

📍Mr. Bean Coffee Roasters

Cafe with warm atmosphere and famous for ice flakes in Summer

Sejong may be Korea’s newest city, but its food scene already feels surprisingly established.

What was your favorite place to eat in Sejong?

You can check out more recommendation at this website.

세종시 서부내륙 미식여행 

I recently visited Wanju (near Jeonju) and wanted to share a few local spots I personally tried. It’s not as touristy as Jeonju, which actually made the food experience feel more authentic and relaxed. In Seoul, there are many franchise restaurants with  incentive tastes, but sometimes I just miss the mild taste of ingredients. I believe Wanju is the best traveling destination to experience those home made dishes with healthy ingredients.

화심순두부 (Hwasim Sundubu)
One place I went to was Hwasim Sundubu, which has apparently been run by the same family for three generations.

I ordered their sundubu jjigae and the tofu tonkatsu, and the tofu tonkatsu was honestly something I hadn’t seen before. It’s made with tofu wrapped in a thin layer of pork, then breaded and fried, soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. It felt lighter than regular tonkatsu but still really satisfying.

The sundubu jjigae was also really good. It had seafood in it, so the soup was rich and slightly spicy, and it just felt like a very comforting meal overall.

송광피순대 (Songgwang Pisundae)
Another place I visited was Songgwang Pisundae.

The restaurant was surprisingly spacious, so it didn’t feel cramped at all. I tried the sundae gukbap and pisundae, and I think this would be a really good place for someone trying sundae for the first time. The flavor was pretty mild and not too overwhelming.

The gukbap was warm and filling, and the pisundae had a richer taste compared to regular sundae. If you go with friends, I feel like their hot pot or shared dishes would be a good option too.

삼례국수 (Samnye Noodle House)
I also stopped by Samnye Noodle House while I was in the area.

I ordered janchi guksu, and even though it’s a really simple dish, it was surprisingly satisfying. The broth was light but flavorful, and it just felt like something you could eat any day without getting tired of it.

If you want something a bit stronger in flavor, I think the bibim guksu would also be a good choice.

What is also special about this place is that the chef of this restaurant is one of the famous chefs from North Korea, who came to South Korea during the 6.25 War. Therefore, even though noodles are quite a familiar meal to see in Korea, this restaurant is a meaningful place to try.

Image Resources: Naver Blog 김미드, 완주군청, 윤스