A Day Trip to Hwaseong Jeongnam-myeon: Hearty Soups, Lakes, and Quiet Walks

A Peaceful Escape Along Seja-ro Road

Tucked away in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi-do Province, the area surrounding Seja-ro road in Jeongnam-myeon offers a quiet break from the surrounding urban bustle. Though easily accessible from the Seoul Metropolitan Area, it retains a natural countryside charm that draws weekend drivers looking for an easy day trip.

The region has long been known for its clear water and gentle rolling hills. Its main thoroughfare, Seja-ro, carries a touch of local history linked to King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty and his famous filial devotion to his father, Crown Prince Sado ("seja" means crown prince). Today, historic village roots coexist alongside a nearby university campus, creating a warm and grounded atmosphere.

Local Eats: From Nourishing Soups to Evening Drafts

The food scene along Seja-ro revolves around cozy, time-tested local spots. For a warming bowl of soup, Hankook Sundaeguk Somori Gukbap serves hearty staples like sundaeguk, a rich blood sausage soup, and somori gukbap, a deeply boiled beef head meat soup, alongside fresh banchan (Korean side dishes).

If you want something traditional and revitalizing, Sangol Ot-dak specializes in ot-dak, a chicken soup simmered for hours with lacquer tree wood to produce a fragrant broth and tender meat. For home-style countryside cooking, Ttukbangjib serves comforting local dishes in a relaxed setting.

For a lighter, western option near the university, House Call bakes fresh pizza enjoyed by students and visitors alike. To wrap up the afternoon drive, stop by Beer Hunt in the evening for a cold draft beer and simple pub snacks.

Lakeside Strolls and Forest Trails

After a meal, the area offers plenty of peaceful spots to stretch your legs. Botong Reservoir and the nearby Apbangjukji pond feature calm, open water views perfect for an unhurried walk along the shore.

Those looking for an easy hike or fresh forest air can head up Bongjibongsan, a low-elevation mountain with gentle paths suitable for all skill levels. Tucked-away valleys like Jjokgol and Dwimyeonwigol provide cool, shady retreats where you can sit by small streams and listen to the forest sounds.