Exploring Hwagae Garden on Gyodongdo Island

Gyodongdo Island has historically served as a critical strategic position for maritime and capital defence, from the Three Kingdoms period right up until the Korean War. Owing to its restricted access, the island was used as a secluded place of exile for royalty and aristocrats during the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties. Even today, visitors crossing over must scan a QR code at the security checkpoint directly in front of Gyodongdaegyo Bridge to receive a temporary entry permit. This distinct sense of security and isolation adds a unique charm to the journey towards Hwagae Garden, Incheon's very first official local garden.

Situated on Hwagaesan, the highest peak on Gyodongdo Island, Hwagae Garden was created to share the breathtaking panoramic vistas of both northern and southern landscapes. The mountain itself derives its name from its peak, which resembles a cauldron lid. Today, the garden blooms with an impressive array of trees, shrubs, and floral blooms, offering visitors an immersive retreat into nature and regional heritage.

【Ticket】Incheon Airport to/from Seoul City | Deluxe Bus Ticket

Book today before 18:00

HKD 68 Start

Book now

The Five Thematic Zones of Hwagae Garden

Hwagae Garden is thoughtfully divided into five distinct thematic zones, each reflecting the rich history and natural landscape of Gyodongdo Island:

* Water Garden: Highlights the serene vegetation and aquatic life surrounding the island's natural reservoirs.

* History and Culture Garden: Showcases historical narratives, including the exile site of King Yeonsangun, the 10th monarch of the Joseon Dynasty.

* Memory Garden: Dedicated to those displaced by the Korean War, creating a thoughtful space for reflection.

* Peace Garden: Symbolises hope for the future, looking across the border towards home territory located just 5 km away.

* Healing Garden: Filled with lush trees and therapeutic plants designed to soothe mind and body away from urban stress.

【1-Day Tour Routes】Departure from Seoul | January 2027 Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival Day Tour | Ice Fishing + Strawberry Picking Experience / Indoor Ice Sculpture Plaza

Available 2027-01-09

HKD 307 Start

Book now

Cauldron Lid Stamp Tour and Garden Activities

Throughout the grounds, visitors will encounter several cauldron lid sculptures designed to mirror the shape of Hwagaesan. A interactive Cauldron Lid Tour allows visitors to explore the garden while hunting for eight hidden QR codes attached to these sculptures. Scanning six or more via the designated smartphone application entitles participants to a souvenir at the main ticket booth.

In addition to the interactive trail, visitors can enjoy barefoot acupressure walking paths or spend quiet moments relaxing in designated zoning areas designed for complete mental rest.

Monorail and Hwagaesan Skywalk Observatory

For a convenient and scenic journey up the mountain, a bright yellow monorail transports visitors directly towards the summit observatory. The monorail ascends and descends smoothly along the natural contours of Hwagaesan, delivering an exciting experience akin to an amusement park ride. Because boarding capacity and departure times are fixed, checking schedule details upon arrival is advised. The boarding building itself houses a variety of entertainment facilities, restaurants, a cafe, and a rooftop viewing deck to keep guests entertained while waiting.

At the summit stands the Hwagaesan Skywalk Observatory, architecturally styled after the black-faced spoonbill, a symbolic bird of Ganghwa. Featuring transparent tempered glass flooring, the skywalk offers a thrilling view straight down while revealing sweeping vistas across the Yeonbaek Plains in Hwanghae-do Province.

Inside the observatory complex, indoor relaxation spaces and a bakery cafe provide ideal spots to unwind with a cup of coffee while enjoying panoramic sea and forest views.

Practical Tips

* Address: 6-62 Gyodongdong-ro 471beon-gil, Gyodong-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon

* Contact: 032-932-2336~7

* Operating Hours: Open daily from 08:00 to 20:00 (Last admission at 19:00)

* Admission Fees:

* Adults: 5,000 KRW

* Youth, Seniors, and Ganghwa-gun Residents: 3,000 KRW

* Children aged 6 and under: Free

* Official Website: https://hwagaejungwon.ganghwa.go.kr

* Entry Requirement: Visitors entering Gyodongdo must register via QR code at the checkpoint before crossing Gyodongdaegyo Bridge to obtain a temporary visitor pass.

Source

Original article published by Incheon Tour: https://itour.incheon.go.kr/thmtour/thmtour/detail.do?pgListMode=S&cotId=ITA23091910000833026