Overview
Hwaseong Fortress was built in the 1790s by King Jeongjo of the Joseon dynasty. Its walls, gates and towers, about 5.7 km long, combine Korean and Western military ideas and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors walk the walls, see the restored temporary palace of Hwaseong Haenggung and watch martial arts and guard displays on some days.
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn are best; a fortress cultural festival is held in autumn. Summers are hot and humid.
Highlights
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1
Fortress wall walk
A circuit of about 5.7 km with gates and watchtowers.
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2
Paldalmun and Janganmun
The fortress's grand south and north gates.
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3
Hwaseong Haenggung
The restored royal palace inside the walls.
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4
Banghwasuryujeong
A pavilion overlooking a pond.
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5
Archery
Traditional archery experience near the Yeonmudae command post.
Getting there
Seoul Metro line 1 or trains from Seoul Station reach Suwon in about 30 minutes to 1 hour; buses run from the station to the fortress.
Practical tips
- Opening & tickets
- Opening times, ticket rules and transport timetables change, so check official information before you go.
- Time needed
- A full day or half a day.
Official information: Suwon tourism (official website). Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.
Map
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