Suwon,
Suwon is a vibrant city located in South Korea, known for its rich history and cultural significance. It is home to Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which offers insight into Korea's architectural achievements. The city boasts a dynamic blend of traditional and modern elements, with bustling markets, trendy cafes, and historic landmarks coexisting harmoniously.
Suwon is also famous for its annual events, such as the Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival, which celebrate the city's heritage and creativity.
- "์๋ ํ์ธ์ (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
- "๊ณ ๋ง์ต๋๋ค (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
- "์ค๋กํฉ๋๋ค (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
- "์ฃ์กํฉ๋๋ค (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
- "์ผ๋ง์์? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?
Prices in Suwon
- ๐ Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- ๐ฝ๏ธ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- โ Coffee: $2 - $5
- ๐ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- ๐ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- ๐๏ธโโ๏ธ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites such as Hwaseong Fortress and traditional Korean architecture.
- Vibrant local markets and delicious Korean cuisine, offering a variety of dining experiences.
- Good transportation infrastructure, including access to Seoul via subway and bus, making commuting convenient.
- Strong educational institutions and universities, making it an attractive place for students.
- Pleasant parks and recreational areas, including the scenic Suwoncheon Stream and top-notch leisure facilities.
Bad
- Higher living costs compared to other smaller cities in South Korea, especially in housing.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly for commuters traveling to Seoul.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger cities like Seoul.
- Hot and humid summers, which may be uncomfortable for some residents.
- Language barrier for non-Korean speakers, as English is not widely spoken among the older population.
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Suwon Castle
morning
:Start your day with a visit to Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the fortress walls, taking in the beautiful views of the city.
afternoon
:Visit the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace located within the fortress. Explore its historical architecture and beautiful gardens for a serene afternoon.
evening
:Dine at a local Korean restaurant and try some traditional dishes like Suwonโs famous galbi. After dinner, enjoy a walk around the fortress to see it illuminated at night.
Cultural Insights
morning
:Visit the Korean Folk Village to experience traditional Korean culture and architecture. Take part in various cultural performances and craft workshops.
afternoon
:Have lunch at the village and taste local delicacies. Continue exploring the village and enjoy traditional games and activities.
evening
:Return to Suwon and explore the vibrant market scene. Sample street food and shop for unique local crafts.
Attractions in Suwon
Visit one of these nice places.
Is it safe in Suwon
Best Activities in Suwon
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Suwon.
Suwon's Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bibimbap
A delicious mix of rice, vegetables, egg, and spicy gochujang sauce, usually served in a hot stone bowl. Try it at Sik Gaeak, a popular restaurant in Suwon.
Must-Try!
Galbi
Grilled marinated beef short ribs that are tender and savory. Visit Daepohang Galbi Town for an authentic experience.
Suwon Galbi
This local specialty features marinated beef ribs grilled over charcoal. Check out Myeongjae Galbi for a memorable Suwon Galbi dish.
Things To Do in Suwon
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hwaseong Fortress
Explore the ancient fortress with its impressive architectural features and scenic surroundings.
Suwon Hwaseong Museum
Visit the museum to learn about the history and culture of the Suwon area.
Hiking at Gwanggyo Lake Park
Enjoy hiking trails and beautiful scenery around the picturesque Gwanggyo Lake.
Suwon Olympic Park
Engage in various outdoor activities including cycling, picnicking, and strolling in the park.
Weather in Suwon
How To Behave in Suwon
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Elders
In Suwon, it is important to show respect for elders through gestures such as bowing and using formal language.
Removing Shoes
When entering a Korean home or certain traditional establishments, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
Etiquette in Dining
When dining in Suwon, it is polite to wait for the eldest or most senior person to begin eating before starting your meal.
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
Tipping is generally not expected in Suwon, Korea, South. In restaurants, hotels, and other service establishments, the bill usually includes a service charge, so tipping is not necessary. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small token of appreciation will be appreciated.
Payment
In Suwon, Korea, South, cash is widely used for small transactions, but credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments and tourist areas. Contactless payment methods and mobile payment apps are also gaining popularity. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses and street vendors.
Nightlife in Suwon
Best Time to Visit Suwon
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Best time to visit Suwon, Korea, South is in spring (April and May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the weather is mild.
Summer
Expect hot and humid weather in summer (June to August) with occasional rain showers. However, this is also when festivals and events take place in Suwon.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) is another good time to visit Suwon, Korea, South, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage as the leaves change color.
Winter
Winter (December to February) can be cold, but it's a great time to experience traditional Korean winter activities and see the city covered in snow.
Accomodations in Suwon
Find the best place to stay when visiting Suwon.