FD Time travel to Gwanghwa Island
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port
Incheon (Seoul), South Korea
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activityLevel
Moderate Activity
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excursionType
Information Not Currently Available
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$300
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 7½ Hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals not included
Start your tour by visiting Ganghwa Peace Observatory after approx. 90-mins. ride from the ship. Ganghwa Peace Observatory was constructed in the northern area of the Civilian Restricted Zone. Entry to this area was strictly prohibited for the public until 2008. Since its public opening on September 5, 2008, it has been providing accessibility to visitors for them to get an in-depth look on the unique cultural ecosystem of North Korea that may not be experienced in other areas.
After lunch, continue to visit Yongheunggung Palace which was built in the tradition of dwelling houses, so the palace buildings give off a simple and plain atmosphere. King Cheoljong (r. 1849-1863) used to live at the palace before his ascension to throne. The Chief of Ganghwa County enlarged the original residence and named it Yongheunggung (meaning "Palace of the Rising Dragon") in the 4th year of King Cheoljong’s reign.
Then, have a look to Ganghwa Anglican Church, Joseon's first Hanok-style Catholic Church. Ganghwa Anglican Church was consecrated by Charles Jone Corfe, the first bishop of the Anglican Church of Korea and opened in 1900. The building is a true masterpiece created based on the deep understanding of Korean culture; careful planning and design; and the master carpenter’s expertise and skills. The Anglican Church boasts harmony between Korean and western cultures.
Goryeogung Palace Site is the site of the royal palace where the people of the Goryeo dynasty (918-1392) resisted the Mongolian invasion for 39 years. In the 19th year of his reign, King Gojong moved the capital to Ganghwa on account of its natural and strategic advantages. During the Byeongjahoran (Chinese invasion of Korea) in 1637, the palace was lost by force to the Qing dynasty of China. Later, Joseon Dynasty palace building and Ganghwa Yusubu (Ganghwa governor’s office) buildings existed in the Goryeo palace site but were destroyed by the French army during the Byeonginyangyo (French Campaign against Korea). Nowadays, the only structures that remain are the Dongheon main office (built in 1638) and Ibangcheong administration office (built in 1654). The palace and its subsidiary buildings were restored in 1977. It has historical lessons of the spirit of independence and overcoming national crisis.