North Korea Observatory: Ganghwa Island Private Tour

— What Can You Expect —

Discover Ganghwa Island, South Korea's fourth-largest island, known for its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Inhabited since prehistoric times, it has been a key player in Korean history, strategically important for both defense and trade.

Today, Ganghwa Island is a sought-after tourist spot with diverse attractions, such as historic sites, natural landmarks, and picturesque beaches. Visit prominent places including the Ganghwa Peace Observatory, Gangwhado Dolmen Site, Ganghwa Anglican Church, and Jeondeungsa Temple

Experience the best of Ganghwa Island and book with Over The Planet!

• Ganghwa Peace Observatory

It was established in2008 as a symbol of peace and a place to learn about the historical significance of the area. The observatory overlooks the Northern Limit Line, the maritime border between South Korea and North Korea, and is a popular tourist destination.Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area and learn about the history of the Korean War as well as the current state of relations between the two Koreas.

• Ganghwa Hwamunseok Cultural Center

It is said that Ganghwa Hwamunseok developed into a handicraft industry during the Goryeo Dynasty.During the Goryeo Dynasty, Ganghwa served as the capital of Goryeo for 39 years. Wanggol mat,which was the best product among the mats at the time, was produced for the royal family and bureaucrats who moved to Ganghwa, and this historical event became the biggest background for Ganghwa Hwamunseok to have been handed down to this day. Wanggol is largely divided into roots, leaves, stems, ears, and flowers, and stems are used as materials for Hwamunseok.

• Dolmen Site

In the Korean Peninsula, also known as the Dolmen Kingdom, there are three areas where clusters of dolmens are located. These areas are Ganghwado in Incheon, Hwasun-gun in Jeollanam-do, and Gochang-gun in Jeollabuk-do. Dolmens in these three regions were registered as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 2000, meaning that they were recognized as important historic sites that tell us about the prehistoric culture in East Asia.

• Anglican Church

When you look up the hill from Yongheunggung Park, you will see a unique Hanok building. This is Ganghwa Anglican Church (Catholic church), a hanok building with a unique two-story structure.The Anglican Church came into existence in thisarea in 1900 during the Korean Empire period,and it was constructed by British Bishop Charles John Corfe. Bishop Corfe wanted to build a church in a more friendly form for the Joseon people on Ganghwado Island and brought the master uilder and the carpenters who were responsible for building Gyeongbokgung Palace.

• Gwangseongbo Fortress

Gwangseongbo Fortress is an important fortress that protects the Ganghwa Strait. It is a long castle built along the strait by mixing stones and soil after Goryeo moved to Ganghwado Island to fight against the Mongolian invasion. It was the fiercest battleground during the Sinmi battle in 1871. On April 23, the U.S. Marine Corps landed in Chojjin Fortress to attack Gwangseongbo. In this battle, the Joseon army fought with inferior weapons, and all but a few seriously wounded soldiers died. We can see the tombs of the unknown soldiers who died in the war at that time and the monument to General Eo Jae-yeon.

• Joyang Bangjik (textile)

Joyang Bangjik, the first textile factory in Ganghwa established with domestic capital in 1993, was reduced to a deserted house after the decline of tempered textiles over the years. The building, which had collapsed horribly, was reborn as a huge cafe. The collapsed wall became a fine art museum and movie theater,the long workstation was turned into a coffee table; and the space where machines and people left was filled with antiques found in China and Europe.

• Jeondeungsa Temple

It has been a historicallysignificant place from the time of ancient Joseon,until the present day. So naturally, the atmosphere is quite different than other places as you make your way up to the temple. After you get out of your car and start to make your way up the mountain, you'll notice that it's totally encircled by a fortress. This is the Samnang Fortress, which was designed to help protect the land from foreign invaders.

• Dongmak Beach

is known for its clear blue waters and white sand, and is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. In addition to its natural beauty,Dongmak Beach is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and purchase souvenirs. The beach is easily accessible by car or public transportation, and is a great place to spend a day relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of Ganghwa Island.

— Itinerary Overview —

• 9:00 am: Pick up from Hotel
  - Ganghwa Peace Observatory
  - Ganghwa Hwamunseok Culture Center
  - Ganghwa-do Dolmen Sites
  - Goryeo-gung Palace Site
  - Ganghwa Anglican Church
  - Yongheung-gung Palace
  - Joyang Bangjik (textile)
  - Gwangseongbo Fortless
  - Jeondeungsa Temple
  - Dongmak Beach
• 8:00 pm: Arrive at hotel