Ganghwa-eup

Introducing Ganghwa-eup

The main town, Ganghwa-eup, is not particularly scenic, but is just 2km beyond the northern bridge and makes a good base for visiting the island’s attractions. The tourist information centre (930 3515; www.ganghwa.incheon.kr; 9am-6pm Mar-Oct, 9am-5pm Nov-Feb) in the bus terminal has helpful English-speaking staff.

A palace surrounded by an 18km fortress wall was built in 1231 and 2km of walls and three major gates have been renovated. The fortress was destroyed in 1866 by French troops, who invaded Korea in response to the execution of nine French Catholic mission­aries. The French army burnt many priceless books and took 300 back to France where they still remain, though recently the French government has been less opposed to returning this part of Korean heritage.

The market near the bus terminal sells locally grown ginseng and hwamunseok which are large reed mats with floral designs that are beautiful but very expensive. Woven baskets are cheaper, easier to transport and have similar designs.

Springtime brings the Dolmen Cultural Festival (celebrating this unique ancient burial ground with festivities that include a dolmen construction re-enactment) and the Ganghwado Azalea Festival, both held in October.

Gourmands will want to try the grilled eel and the (in season) Large Eyed Herring sashimi, both of which are island specialities.

There are yeogwan scattered around the town centre.

The accommodation nearest the bus terminal, Hyatt Motel (; 933 0710; r W35, 000, Sat & Sun W50, 000; ), has large, comfortable rooms, dark hallways and a friendly owner. Internet rooms cost W5000 more. Turn left outside the bus terminal and it’s a five-minute walk along the main road.

Namsan Youth Hostel (; 934 7777; dm/f W12, 000/40, 000) offers cheap beds for solo travellers but is a 20-minute, 2km walk southwest of the bus terminal, so you might want to take a taxi.

Ganghwa Bus Station restaurants (934-1239; meals W2000-6000; 10am-9pm), in the bus terminal on the second floor, offer various Korean meals. There’s a coffee shop as well (open 8.30am to 8pm).

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009