Welcome to Nowon-gu, a district located in the northeastern part of Seoul, South Korea. Nowon-gu is surrounded by Guri City to the east, Dobong-gu and Gangbuk-gu to the west, Uijeongbu City in Gyeonggi Province to the north, and Seongbuk-gu and Jungnang-gu to the south. With an area of 35.44 square kilometers and a population of 574,583 as of 2015, Nowon-gu offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Why visit Nowon-gu:
- Natural beauty: Nowon-gu is home to the beautiful Puleun-dongsan (also known as Eastern Castle), a vast nature park spanning approximately 170,000 square meters. It features an international shooting range and a public shooting range, as well as a large outdoor swimming pool. The parks lush greenery and dense trees make it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
- Historical sites: Nowon-gu is also known for its historical sites such as Taereung and Gangneung, located at the foothills of Bulamsan Mountain. Taereung is the tomb of Queen Munjeong, the wife of King Jungjong during the Joseon Dynasty, while Gangneung is the tomb of King Myeongjong, their son, and Queen Insun. These two tombs are in close proximity to each other and are collectively referred to as Taegangneung.
- Cultural attractions: Nowon-gu is home to the Samgunbucheongheondang, a cultural heritage site, and the Army Museum in the Korea Military Academy. The Army Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts as it showcases a wide range of military artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can explore and learn about the foundation of the Korean Army and its training of cadets.
- Recreational spots: Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the numerous hiking trails and historical remains in the scenic mountains of Suraksan and Bulamsan. Nowon-gu also offers leisure parks such as Sanggye, Gamal, Onsu, Suraksan Danggogae, and Madul Park, which provide opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Plan your Visit:
- Best Time to Visit: Nowon-gu can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
- Transportation: Nowon-gu is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take the subway to Nowon Station (Line 4) or Chang-dong Station (Line 4), which provide convenient access to various attractions within the district.
- Language: The official language spoken in Nowon-gu is Korean. While English is not widely spoken, many tourist attractions have English signage and staff members who can provide basic assistance.
- Currency: The currency used in South Korea is the Korean Won (KRW). It is recommended to carry local currency for convenience, although credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments.
- Safety: Nowon-gu is generally a safe district to visit, with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Nowon-gu is a hidden gem in Seoul, offering a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Whether youre seeking outdoor adventures, historical exploration, or a peaceful retreat, Nowon-gu has something to offer every traveler.
