Hwaseong Fortress

This weekend we went to Suwon - The capital of our province, Gyeonngi-Do. It is home to Hwaseong Fortress (one of the top tourist sites in Korea). It was built in the late 1700's by King Jeongjo to honour his father. He was preparing to move there from Seoul to create a new, more strategically centred capital for Korea but unfortunately died first.

Who's that looking through the turret wall??

It's Shawna!!!!!

I hope I'll be able to get a picture with one of these guys.

Shhhhhhh! It's a secret entrance to the Fortress.

This is somewhere near halfway in our 3 hour walk.

The fortress wraps around the entire downtown area of Suwon. The city works in and around this magnificent fortress.

A river runs through it . . .


One of the more beautiful sights in Suwon. A relaxing pond in the midst of this mammoth fortress. A nice spot for a little break and some refreshing Milkis Soda Pop.

Checking if its loaded - this is just the thing I need to keep my students in-line at school.

Here's a hard earned view of Hwaseong Hanggung (Palace) from atop the mountain we climbed.


We were able to ring this giant bell once we reached the summit of the mountain. JONG - JONG - JONG!!

1st toll - to show gratitude and respect to your parents

2nd toll - to wish for your family's health and harmony
3rd toll - to wish for the realization of your dreams

This beautiful Buddha was HUGE!! I think it was solid 24 Karat gold . . . but Shawna says no.

Smile and say "Kimchi"!!!

See you inside the palace ---------------