Travel
Gyeongnam’s seven beautiful private gardens among Korea’s top 30
haps Magazine Korea
October 29, 2024
(Gyeongnam province)
Seven private gardens in Gyeongnam province have been recognized as some of Korea’s 30 most beautiful private gardens.
Selected by the Korea Forest Service, these Gyeongnam gardens emerged from a nationwide competition, evaluated by expert panels and online votes from over 13,000 citizens.
With 39 registered private gardens attracting 800,000 visitors annually, Gyeongnam’s scenic landscapes are now firmly established as regional tourist attractions.
The Korea Forest Service sought to promote the beauty of private gardens across the nation.
In July, it invited applications from 17 cities and provinces and selected 30 finalists this month from an initial shortlist of 45, based on thorough on-site assessments.
This year’s winners are celebrated across five thematic categories: “Gardens with Beautiful Landscapes,” “Gardens for Rest,” “Traditional and Artistic Gardens,” “Gardens for Enjoyment” with festivals and educational programs, and “Unique Gardens” with exotic plants like tropical species and bonsai.
In Gyeongnam, Mulbitsori Garden in Suwol-ri, Tongyeong-si, earned the title of “Garden with a Good View” for its scenic coastal location.
Seomi Garden in Namhae-gun and Casabella Garden in Gimhae-si, each offering lush landscapes and tranquility, were recognized as “Gardens for Rest.”
The Grace Garden in Goseong-gun, with its blend of hydrangeas, metasequoia trees, and an old stone church, won acclaim as a “Traditional and Artistic Garden.”
Hamyang Garden in Hamyang-gun, set along a wine valley at the foot of Jirisan Mountain, and Haesolchan Garden in Tongyeong-si, which provides immersive experiences amidst camellias and sea views were both recognized as “Gardens to Enjoy.”
Lastly, Dongbaek Coffee Botanical Garden in Tongyeong-si, home to tropical plants such as coffee trees and bananas, was recognized as a “Differentiated Garden.”
Private gardens, cultivated by companies, organizations, and individuals, are a growing part of Gyeongnam’s tourism, offering visitors unique natural experiences and cultural enrichment.