Likely to Revisit

Happiness in the Forest

Damyang

I knew there would be forests in Damyang, but I was surprised to find that they were so diverse.
At this time of the year, seeing green makes me so happy and delighted as the color heralds the arrival of spring.

📝Text by. Jae-hyeon Park, novelist  /  📷Photos by. Ji-hyeon Hwang

Juknokwon

Probably One

Somehow, I feel like pouring my heart out here. Perhaps it's because of the bamboo trees that rise tall and strong. The wind blows through the bamboo trees that are packed densely in the forest and lands gently upon my face, telling me to take my time. It can probably compare to absolute peace if such a thing exists. You may wonder how these thin, tall trees can stand so tall and straight. In fact, bamboos grow their roots sideways and the roots are densely intertwined. In other words, the roots that grow horizontally underground keep the trees aboveground standing up. The trees do not exist individually but as one big organism. The green leaves that pack the forest flutter silently and gently as they guide you through the forest. As I walk through the forest, I think to myself: I wish this path would never end.

Juknokwon offers various things to enjoy, including the Art Center, Jedasil (tea-making room), foot bath area, and hanok café. At the Art Center, you can view the bamboo forest in media art shown on the dome-shaped screen.

Gwanbangjerim Forest

A Gift from Water

A forest by a stream of water gives us a new kind of unique joy. Gwanbangje refers to the banks made along Gwanbangcheon Stream during the Joseon period to prevent flooding. Gwanbangjerim Forest is a man-made forest designed to protect the banks. Filled densely with trees that are over 300 years old, the forest has elegant air flowing through. It is designated as a Natural Monument for good reason. With various kinds of trees planted together, I wonder how the scenery would change from season to season. Like fashion models who look gorgeous in whatever they wear, the tall trees would probably look so noble and elegant throughout the changing seasons. You can look at the stream as you walk and then stop for a while at a spot like a white heron. You can look at the reflection of the sky in the water and view the forest from the stepping stones lying in the middle of the stream. Whatever you do or however you enjoy the stream and the forest, it will surely be a special memory for you.

@emotional_photo_

It is also a great idea to go for a walk with your pet dog on the decked path along the stream or ride a bike along Yeongsan River.

Metasequoia Land

People and Trees

Metasequoia Land is the best-known tree-lined road in the country. As you walk on the road, you will soon find out why. Metasequoia trees that look like imposing soldiers are lined along both sides. They are even taller than the trees in Gwanbangjerim. Overwhelmed by the beautiful trees, you may pause a few times along the way. When the trees grow thick with leaves, the road will become even more pleasant to walk on. The road is so long that you can’t see where it ends. Every photo you take on the road turns out great. The simple combination of people and trees creates a profound sense of aesthetic beauty. It's probably because they have existed together since time immemorial. I guess being around trees is one of the most ideal settings for us to get rest.

There is a fine clay path in Metasequoia Land. If you take off your shoes and walk on the path, you can feel the silky clay and the energy of the soil.

Yongmaru-gil Path

The joy of walking into a landscape

I feel refreshed to be back here as I'm treated to a breathtaking view of Damyangho Lake. A relatively low mountain, Chuweolsan Mountain provides a lovely background for the lake; thus creating a gorgeous landscape together. The wooden bridge that lies across the lake has ups and downs, making trekking on the path even more fun. The spring breeze blowing from the lake gives a gentle push on my back, leading to the wooden decked path and then the clay path. The landscape that keeps changing as you walk on pleases your eyes. I guess this is why people walk on this path. I promise myself that I'll come back here whenever I forget the joy of walking. The sense of relaxation and the pleasant walk along the path will surely be an unforgettable memory for me.

Yongmaru-gil Path stretches from Section 1 that starts past the wooden bridge at the entrance to Section 3. The path offers the best landscape when cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

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