A Historical Gem and UNESCO World Heritage Site
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, located about 30 kilometers south of Seoul, is a breathtaking historical site built during the late 18th century under King Jeongjo’s reign. It was constructed to honor his father, Prince Sado, and to serve as a new administrative and military hub. Spanning over 5.5 kilometers, the fortress is a blend of impressive military architecture and historical significance, earning its UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1997.
How to Get to Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Using Public Transportation
From Seoul to Suwon Station
By Subway
• Take Seoul Metro Line 1 (dark blue line) heading toward Suwon Station.
• Travel time: ~1 hour from central Seoul.
• Fare: Approximately 1,800 KRW
By Bus
After arriving at Suwon Station, exit through the main gate to find the bus terminal. Board the following local buses:
• Bus 11, 13, 36, or 39 heading toward Paldalmun Gate or Hwaseong Fortress.
• Travel time: ~10-15 minutes.
• Fare: Around 1,300 KRW
Tips for Public Transport Users
• Download a navigation app like Naver Map or KakaoMap for real-time bus and train schedules.
• Consider purchasing a Korean Tour Card or T-money Card for seamless travel on public transport.
• Check for any seasonal shuttle bus services connecting Suwon Station directly to the fortress during festivals or peak tourist seasons.
For more information on public transport routes and schedules, visit the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Official Website (English)
Attractions at Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
1. Haenggung Palace: Nestled within the fortress, this was a royal retreat and a temporary palace for King Jeongjo.
2. Rampart Walk: A scenic 5.5-kilometer walk along the walls offers panoramic views of Suwon.
3. Hwaseong Trolley: A fun ride modeled after a 19th-century royal vehicle.
4. Archery Experience: Visitors can try traditional Korean archery on-site.
Outdoor Activities
• Night View Tour: The fortress lights up beautifully in the evening, creating a romantic and serene atmosphere.
• Seasonal Festivals: The Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival held every autumn offers performances, traditional crafts, and cultural experiences.
• Nature Walks: The surrounding area includes scenic walking trails, perfect for enjoying Korea’s seasonal beauty.
Famous Filming Location
Suwon Hwaseong has been featured in numerous Korean dramas and films, including the hit series Dae Jang Geum (Jewel in the Palace). The fortress’s picturesque setting and historical ambiance make it a popular spot for filmmakers and photographers alike.
Must-Try: Suwon Galbi
Suwon is renowned for its authentic Korean BBQ ribs, known as Suwon Wang Galbi (King-sized Ribs). Among the many restaurants offering this local delicacy, Suwon Galbi has maintained its reputation as one of the most authentic and traditional.
Recommended Restaurant
• Suwon Galbi Restaurant (수원갈비)
Address: 299, Paldal-ro, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
(경기도 수원시 팔달구 팔달로 299)
Getting There
• From Suwon Station, take a short taxi ride or walk (~10-15 minutes).
Useful Resources
• Official Website (English): Suwon Hwaseong Fortress .
• Government YouTube Video: Explore Suwon Hwaseong on the official YouTube channel here
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Admission Fees
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress offers affordable entrance fees and several options for visitors:
1. General Admission (Suwon Hwaseong Fortress only):
• Adults: 1,000 KRW
• Teenagers: 700 KRW
• Children: 500 KRW
• Groups (20 or more): Adults 700 KRW, Teenagers 500 KRW, Children 300 KRW
2. Integrated Ticket (includes Hwaseong Fortress, Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, Suwon Museum, and Suwon Hwaseong Museum):
• Adults: 3,500 KRW
• Teenagers: 2,000 KRW
• Children: 800 KRW
• Groups: Adults 2,000 KRW, Teenagers 1,200 KRW, Children 600 KRW
• Note: The integrated ticket is unavailable on the first Monday of each month when museums are closed.
3. Special Offers:
• Admission is free for visitors wearing hanbok, including casual styles.
Additional activities like Korean traditional archery, the Hwaseong Fortress trolley, and the Bell of Hyowon ringing experience are available at separate costs ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 KRW
For further details on operating hours and seasonal schedules, visit Suwon Hwaseong’s official website.
Tips for Visitors
• Best Times to Visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) for pleasant weather and vibrant scenery.
• Language Assistance: Guided tours in English are available for deeper insights into the history and architecture.( Extra cost will be occured)
Suwon-style galbi (grilled ribs) is available throughout Korea, but enjoying it at the original restaurants in Suwon is a unique experience. Here, you not only savor the flavors but also the history that comes with it, making it a meaningful destination for food enthusiasts. For travelers like me who are passionate about food, Suwon is worth visiting just for its famous galbi.
Additionally, if you time your trip well, you might catch the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress night tour, a magical experience with illuminated historical architecture. Check the official website to confirm the schedule in advance.
If you missed the chance to explore Korea’s royal palaces like Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung while wearing a hanbok, Suwon Hwaseong offers another opportunity to try this cultural experience. Walking the fortress grounds in traditional attire can add an unforgettable layer to your visit.