Looking for the perfect day trip from Seoul to escape the city’s business? I got you covered! Located just a little over an hour outside of Seoul is one of Korea’s most impressive arboretums: The Garden of Morning Calm. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photo fanatic, or just in need of some peace, the Garden of Morning Calm is a must-visit!
This guide is packed with everything you need to know for a hassle-free first visit. So, let’s embark on this journey together!
What is the Garden of Morning Calm?
The Garden of Morning Calm (Korean: 아침고요수목원) is located in Gapyeong, South Korea. It is, in my opinion, one of the most breathtaking arboretums in the country. It was first opened in 1996 by horticultural professor Han Sang-Kyung and is spanning 300,000 m². It’s home to 5,000 plant species, some rare and endangered, and attracts 600,000 (!) visitors annually.
The “Garden of Morning Calm” draws its inspiration from Korea’s nickname, “the Country of the Morning Calm,” and its distinct design pays homage to Korean aesthetics with a focus on imbalance and harmony.
Address: 432 Sumogwon-ro, Sang-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do
Opening hours: Open every day from 11 am to 9 pm and until 11pm on Saturdays
Fees: 10,000 won for adults, 7,500 won for teens, and 6,500 won for children
Offical website: https://www.morningcalm.co.kr
Best Time to Visit
There is no one best time to visit the Garden of Morning Calm. Each season paints the garden in a new light. Spring blossoms with azaleas and cherry blossoms, summer is lush and green, fall features a fiery array of colors, and winter covers the landscape in a beautiful layer of snow. While the garden is beautiful year-round, many prefer the vibrant colors of spring or the golden hues of autumn.
Throughout the year, the garden also holds special seasonal festivals. The exact date of the festivals might vary, so I recommend checking the official website before your visit.
- Winter: Lighting Festival (January – March)
- Spring: Spring Festa (April – May)
- Summer: Hydrangea Festival (July)
- Autumn: Maple Festival (October – November)
How to Get To The Garden of Morning Calm
The Garden of Morning Calm is located in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do, and is about an hour’s drive from Seoul, which makes it a perfect day trip destination. Even though the park is reachable through public transportation, it is located in a secluded area which can make it tricky to access, especially for first-time travelers.
The most common way is taking the subway/train from Seoul to Cheongpyeong Station on the Gyeongchun Line. From there, you have a couple of options: A 20-minute taxi ride (approximately 18,000 – 20,000 won) or a local bus (approximately 25 min. ride) to the garden. The local buses operate in a 30-80-minute interval, so be sure to plan your journey ahead of time if you want to take the bus from Cheongpyeong Station. The bus stop is located right in front of the Garden of Morning Calm and is called “Arboretum/Bus Terminal” in English.
Alternatively, you can also book a guided tour through websites like Trazy or GetYourGuide, etc.
Essential Tips for First-Timers
If you’re visiting the Garden of Morning Calm for the first time, here are a few tips:
- Entry Fees and Opening Hours: Before your visit, check the official website for up-to-date information on entry fees and opening hours.
- Suggested Duration of Visit: Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the garden’s offerings.
- What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes, and depending on the season, pack sunscreen, water, or a light jacket. While the garden has a few snack and beverage stands, you might want to bring a small picnic to enjoy in designated areas. Also, don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery!
- Visitor Etiquette: Respect the natural environment by staying on designated paths and disposing of trash properly. Quiet enjoyment is encouraged to maintain a tranquil atmosphere for all visitors.
Top Attractions and Activities
Spanning 300,000 m², the Garden of Morning Calm has a LOT to offer! Currently, the Garden of Morning Calm consists of 22 areas with different themes. Here are some of my personal highlights:
- The Cloud Bridge: This wooden bridge is located right at the entrance of the garden and spans across the river that flows through the arboretum.
- Korean Garden: In the Korean Garden section you can find one of the garden’s most photographed motives: A tranquil pond with a traditional-style pavilion, surrounded by lush greenery. A perfect spot for a zen moment or a selfie!
- Sunken Garden: This one’s a bit of a hidden gem, but my personal favorite. It has a secret garden vibe, with flowers and trees arranged in a way that feels both wild and intimate.
- The Millennium Juniper Tree: If you’re visiting the Garden of Morning Calm, the Millennium Juniper Tree is a must-see. This ancient tree has been around for a thousand years! It has seen centuries unfold and is still standing tall, making it a living testament to endurance and time.
- The Morning Plaza: This is the heart of the garden, where paths converge. It’s great for soaking in the atmosphere and maybe even catching some events or festivals.
- Alpine Rock Garden: Want a view from the top? This elevated path gives you a panoramic view of the whole garden. On a clear day, the view is unbeatable.
Now that you’re equipped with all the information you need, why not start planning your visit? Share your experiences, questions, or tips in the comments below. Happy travels, and may your journey be as serene as the garden itself!
