http://discoveringkorea.com/wp-content/themes/press

12 Nov 2008, Posted by Matt in Festivals & Holidays, Gyeongsang, Historic Korea, Nature, 7 Comments

Andong’s Gorgeous Hahoe Village


20081112_house
Traditional-style homes like this one are preserved in Hahoe Maeul (하회마을), an historic clan village near the city of Andong in North Gyeongsang Province.

(A version of this text aired on KBS World Radio on November 1, 2008.)

As the Nakdong River winds its way through North Gyeongsang Province, nestled in one of its curves is a picturesque place called Hahoemaeul (하회마을), or Hahoe Village (pronounced: ha-hwae). Designated “Important Folklore Material No. 122” by the Korean government, Hahoe is where members of the Pungsan Ryu family have lived for many generations.

“Hahoe” means winding river, and the scenic combination of the river and Taebaek mountains mean the village is located in an auspicious location. Some say Hahoe is like a lotus floating on the water.

(more…)

Continue Reading...

25 Oct 2008, Posted by Matt in Buddhist Temples, Festivals & Holidays, Gangwon, Gyeongsang, Hotels & Resorts, Jeolla, Nature, Seoul, 8 Comments

Where to See Autumn 2008 Color



A snapshot from Bukhan Mountain, just north of Seoul. The bright yellow leaves are from an old Gingko Tree.

(A version of this text aired on KBS World Radio on October 25, 2008.)

The French existentialist and philosopher Albert Camus once said, “Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” That famous line reminds me why this is my favorite time of the year, and Korea is a great place to see autumn in all its colorful glory. Korea’s climate has four distinct seasons, and fall is when the mild climate and limited rainfall make traveling especially comfortable.

The Korean word for autumn leaves is danpoong (단풍), … and come to think of it, it’s funny that English doesn’t have its own word, at least to my knowledge. Maybe the leaves here are just more spectacular?

(more…)

Blog Widget by LinkWithin

Continue Reading...

Videos, Slideshows and Podcasts by Cincopa Wordpress Plugin