(Erin Henderson)
Editor’s note: Erin Henderson is a professional freelance photographer and writer whose work has been featured in a variety of publications. She is also a mother of two and a Marine Corps spouse living in Stuttgart, Germany. You can find more of her work at erinhendersonmedia.com or follow her travels on Instagram @erinhendrsn.
Semiwon Garden is a beautiful botanical garden along the Hangang River, about 90 minutes north of Pyeongtaek. The 180,000-square-meter park is known for its stunning lotus flowers that bloom from late June into early August, with the peak viewing time in the first two weeks of July. This park is fantastic for those smaller family members who love to run free in large open spaces.
The best time to enjoy the garden and escape the heat is to arrive right when they open at 9 a.m. and then around 5 p.m.. Expect to spend an hour to two hours walking around enjoying the life-size blooms and other plant varieties. Ensure your camera is charged and ready; there are endless photo opportunities! In addition to the stunning gardens, there is a museum, exhibition center, learning experience center and cafe on site.
Address: 93, Yangsu-ro, Yangpyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, 경기도 양평군 양서면 양수로 93
Admission: 5,000 won for adults, 3,000 won for kids 5-18, children five and under free.
Hours: 9-18:00
(Erin Henderson)