If you're craving a moment of calm during your South Korea trip, there’s a place just outside Seoul that feels like stepping into a living painting — Hwadam Forest. Tucked away in the mountains of Gyeonggi Province, this peaceful eco-park is the perfect day trip for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone in need of a deep breath.
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๐ What is Hwadam Forest?
Hwadam Forest (ํ๋ด์ฒ) is a beautifully designed ecological garden located in Gwangju, Gyeonggi-do, about an hour and a half from central Seoul. The name Hwadam (ํ๋ด) means "harmonious conversation," and that’s exactly what the forest offers — a quiet dialogue between humans and nature.
Developed by LG Group as part of an environmental restoration project, Hwadam Forest now boasts over 4,000 plant species, with carefully curated walking trails, waterfalls, bonsai gardens, and forested hills. It’s not just a park — it’s an immersive nature experience.
๐ How to Get There
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By Public Transportation:
From Seoul, take the subway to Gonjiam Station (๊ฒฝ๊ธฐ๊ด์ฃผ์ญ or ๊ณค์ง์์ญ), then catch the shuttle bus or a short taxi ride to the forest. -
By Car:
It takes about 1–1.5 hours from Seoul depending on traffic. There's a large parking area at the entrance.
๐ซ Note: Reservations may be required during peak seasons like autumn. Check the official website before you go!
๐ธ What to See & Do
๐ Seasonal Beauty
One of Hwadam Forest’s biggest draws is its stunning seasonal transformation:
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Spring: Cherry blossoms and fresh greens
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Summer: Dense, cool forest perfect for shade
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Autumn: A masterpiece of red, orange, and gold foliage
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Winter: Snow-covered trees (though the park may close in deep winter)
๐ฟ Forest Trails
The trails are mostly boardwalk-style and easy to walk, even for beginners. There are elevators and monorail cars to help with steeper areas, making the forest accessible to all.
๐ Water Features
A series of small waterfalls, ponds, and streams wind through the forest, creating a soothing soundtrack as you walk.
๐ฒ Themed Gardens
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Bonsai Garden
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Moss Garden
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Azalea Hill
Each area is thoughtfully designed and clearly marked in both Korean and English.
☕ Cafรฉ & Facilities
There are a few cozy cafรฉs and resting areas within the forest where you can enjoy drinks and snacks while surrounded by nature. Clean restrooms, shaded benches, and viewing decks are also available throughout the park.
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๐️ Tickets & Hours
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Entrance Fee: Around ₩10,000 for adults (discounts for children/seniors)
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Opening Hours: Typically 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed in winter and rainy days)
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Website: [Search for “Hwadam Forest Official Site” for reservation info]
๐ Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November for autumn foliage, or late April for spring blooms.
๐ฟ Final Thoughts
Unlike the busy tourist hotspots of Seoul, Hwadam Forest offers something rare: peace. It’s a place to slow down, reconnect with the earth, and enjoy the quiet magic of nature. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with a camera in hand, Hwadam Forest will leave you refreshed and inspired.
