Best spots to usher in the New Year

입력2009.12.29. 오전 6:05
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With the New Year just within grasp, it is always a time to look back and reflect on everything that has transpired over the past 12 months.

It is a time to think back to all choices and decisions that might not have been the wisest and vow to learn from those mistakes.

In Korea, one of the most popular things people do for consolation is to head to the nearest southern or eastern coast and watch the sunrise on New Year`s Day to pledge for better things and to set their New Year resolutions.

But, be prepared to brave the traffic and wave of people that will no doubt crowd the hottest spots like Jeongdongjin - a tiny port city in Gangneung, Gangwon Province.

So if you`re on the look out for lesser known spots to avoid weaving in and out of a human traffic jam, here are a few suggestions.

Uljin, North Gyeongsang Province

Towards the south of the beaches of Uljin, the Weolsongjeong Pavillion offers a bit of green and nature.

To get there, you have to trek through a dense forest to reach the beach, where you will see the two-story arbor.

The east side of the pavilion affords excellent views of the sea and the sunrise, where travelers can stopover to make a wish. The pavilion was reportedly frequented by artists of the Silla Dynasty.

Other recommended stops in Uljin include the ports of Hupo and Jukbyeon, where visitors can enjoy king crabs.

For some R&R, spa services are also available in the hot springs of Deokgu and Baekam.

For children, you might want to herd them to the nearby museum for fresh-water fish and the Seongryu cave.

For information, call Uljin county office at (054) 789-6903.

Samcheok, Gangwon Province

Samcheok boasts one of the country`s best sunrise views. Drive through the 4 kilometer Saecheonnyeon road along the east coast and make sure to stop by the "tower of wish" located next to the Saecheonnyeon road.

It is a popular spot for couples and families to jot down their New Year`s resolutions on the rocks that make up the tower.

Also in Samcheok is the Yonmun rock nestled inside the Jukseoru tower, which is said to be overseen by the spirit of King Munmu of the Silla Dynasty.

Haesindang temple in Sinnam village is also a famous praying quarter for couples wishing to have children.

Other travel destinations in Samcheok include Jangho Port, Hwanseon cave which according to local folklore dates back some 500 million years.

A tour along Daegeum cave should wrap things up nice and tidy.

And what good is a trip without some good food.

A good dish to have during the trip is Samcheok`s famous moray soup. For information on Samcheok, contact the city`s tourism division: (033) 570-3545-3846.

Samcheok Sunrise Festival:

Location: Samcheok "Tower of Wish"

Events: Live music, traditional folk music performance, fireworks show

Contact: 033-570-3541

Goheung, South Jeolla Province

Namyeol beach in Goheung, South Jeolla Province, offers a breathtaking view of the archipelago of the southern sea. The beach is covered in smooth white sand that provides the ultimate romantic spot to watch the sunrise.

After watching the sunrise, a visit to Mount Palyeong, and the thousand-year-old temple of Neunggasa is recommended. The town is also home to Naro Space Center, where Korea`s first satellite was launched. For information, contact Guncheong country office (061) 830-5305.

Namyeol Sunrise Festival

Location: Namyeol Beach

Events: Fireworks show, Bonfire lighting (tteokguk (rice cake soup) and beverages to be provided for visitors free of charge)

Conact: 061-830-5114

Anyang, Gyeonggi Province

If you live in Seoul and can`t be bothered to travel a significant distance, closer then, is Anyang City.

Just 4 kilometers from Anyang`s downtown is the Catholic holy place of Mount Suri, where the grave of Saint Choi Gyeong-hwan (1805-1839), father of Korea`s second priest Choi Yang-up, is located. The house of Choi is preserved and is also used as a church.

The area is quiet and surrounded by mountains, making it a good spot to take a walk and meditate.

Other destinations in the region include the Dolsuk Museum of Ceramic Wares, and the Anyang Art Park where the works of renowned Korean and foreign artists are on display.

Hiking up Mount Gwanak also gives spectacular views of the city.

For more information, call the Catholic Holy Place (031) 449-2842, or Anyang City Hall (031) 892-2064.

(kws@heraldm.com)

By Song Woong-ki

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