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The luxuriant Juknogwon bamboo forest stands tall in Hyanggyo-ri, Damyang-eup, Damyang-gun in South Jeolla Province.
/ Korea Times Photos by Shim Hyun-chul |
 By Shim Hyun-chul
Staff Reporter
Walk through the bamboo forest, and feel the breeze sweep away worries of the heart. The path that meanders through the bamboo trees is too breathtaking to enjoy alone. How inspiring would it be to share the experience with a loved one?
Damyang, South Jeolla Province is not only rich in cultural heritages but in the beauty of its nature. Perhaps it is only natural that culture thrives amid such a scenic backdrop.
Bamboo park Jungnogwon sprawls about 170,000 square meters. There are eight paths with thematic titles such as ``Good Luck Path'' and ``Friends Forever.'' Visitors can immerse themselves in the forest, slowly breathing in the fresh air.
The paths spread out from Jungnogwon Observatory. From the observatory, visitors can get a full view of Damyang Stream and Damyang Gwanbangjerim, a forest full of 300-year-old trees. Also visible is an avenue lined with metasequoia trees, which ranks among the top 100 most beautiful roads or avenues in Korea. Lights are installed for nocturnal tours.
Jungnokcha leaves grow amid the bamboos, and visitor can taste the aromatic bamboo-perfumed tea. A cup of fragrant tea completes the meditative experience of taking in the sounds of bamboo leaves bristling in the breeze and the warmth of the sunray shafts penetrating the forest.
Blow away stress and worries by walking miles on end at Jungnogwon, becoming intoxicated by the scent of bamboos. For more information, visit www.damyang.go.kr/new/english (English) or call (061) 380-3154.
shim@koreatimes.co.kr
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