As October deepens, the gardens of Haenam in South Jeolla Province welcome visitors with a variety of autumn colors. From gardens nestled among mountains and lakes to secret gardens revitalizing ancient terraced rice fields, and from botanical gardens blending nature and art to arboretums awash in purple autumn blooms, each location offers a unique autumn landscape.
A visit to Haenam's gardens is more than just admiring flowers; it is a journey through landscapes shaped by nature over many years. In October, various events such as concerts, garden festivals, and experiential activities provide opportunities for families, couples, and friends to enjoy the autumn atmosphere together.
◇ A Picture-Perfect Scene with Heuksaksan Mountain and a Lake…Moon Garden
Located on Oryugol-gil in the Gyeokgok-myeon area of Haenam County, Moon Garden is a garden cultivated over several years from a barren field and orchard. Spanning approximately 10,000 square meters, it features over 300 species of trees and flowers, showcasing different seasonal views.
The garden's greatest charm lies in its ability to draw the surrounding natural beauty into its design, known as 'borrowed scenery.' The nearby Oryuje Reservoir and the distant Heuksaksan Mountain create a picturesque landscape reminiscent of a painting.
The reservoir attracts migratory birds, and the colors of Heuksaksan change with the weather, seamlessly connecting the artificially created garden with nature. Visitors can stroll along the walking paths or relax in designated rest areas while enjoying the scenery.
As night falls, the garden lights create a different ambiance. Registered as the 18th private garden in South Jeolla Province and the first in Haenam, Moon Garden hosts autumn concerts every Saturday at 2 PM throughout October.
Location: 64 Oryugol-gil, Gyeokgok-myeon, Haenam County
◇ Reviving Terraced Rice Fields into a Secret Garden…Biwon
Biwon, located at the foot of Duryunsan Mountain in Samsan-myeon, is a garden designed to preserve the natural terrain. Since 2017, the garden owner has traveled across the country to collect and plant trees, filling the 16,529 square meter space with flowers and trees.
Its unique layout utilizes the terraced rice fields on the hillside. As visitors walk along the winding paths, they encounter different themed gardens.
Highlights include the Hanul Garden with 100-year-old azaleas, the Hydrangea-Camellia Garden, and the Starlight Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the Haenam fields.
Biwon won the grand prize at the 2024 Jeollanam-do Beautiful Garden Contest and is registered as the 28th private garden in South Jeolla Province and the second in Haenam.
On the 17th, the Haenam Cultural Tourism Foundation will host 'Haemong Picnic,' offering a program for relaxation within the garden.
Location: 171 Gajae-gil, Samsan-myeon, Haenam County
◇ Nature and Art Spread Across 160,000 Pyeong…Sanij Garden
Sanij Garden, located in the Solasido Business City of Haenam, is a large garden covering approximately 160,000 pyeong and is the first private botanical garden in South Jeolla Province.
The garden features over 500 species of plants and art installations, allowing visitors to experience both nature and art.
Six themed areas, including the Welcome Garden reminiscent of the sea, the Nori Garden reflecting children's imaginations, the Sky Pavilion with a giant human-shaped sculpture, and the Fairy Tale Garden themed around The Little Prince, each tell their own story.
In addition to the arboretum and walking paths, the garden includes an art museum, café, and eco-friendly play facilities, making it a great destination for families to enjoy various activities.
The '2026 Sanij Garden Festival' will take place from the 17th to the 18th. The first day will feature sweet potato harvesting experiences, a children's drawing contest, and the completion ceremony of the ESG Garden School.
On the 18th, a marathon will be held around Sanij Garden and Solasido Bridge, and on the 31st, the Haenam Cultural Tourism Foundation's 'Haemong Picnic' is scheduled.
Location: 664 Guseong-ri, Sanim-myeon, Haenam County
◇ Waves of Purple Flowering Plants in Autumn…Forest Arboretum
Located in Bongdong Village, Hyunsan-myeon, the 4est (Forest) Arboretum spans approximately 60,000 pyeong and is home to over 1,400 species of plants.
Registered as Haenam's first private arboretum in 2019, it features small gardens that blend humanities and nature. The gardens reflect philosophical ideals from both Eastern and Western traditions, creating spaces for plant appreciation, contemplation, and relaxation.
In October, the clusters of flowering plants turn a vibrant purple, showcasing the beauty of the autumn garden. Pink muhly grass, pampas grass, and other plants create a diverse autumn landscape.
The flower fields along the forest paths and various photo spots provide unique attractions for autumn travelers.
The arboretum also serves conservation and educational purposes. It is designated as a management institution for forest biological resources by the Korea Forest Service and as a conservation institution for rare and endemic plants by the National Arboretum.
On the 24th, the Haenam Cultural Tourism Foundation will host 'Haemong Picnic,' offering a chance to relax amidst the autumn flowers and forest.
Location: Hyunsan-myeon, Bongdong Village, Haenam County
Throughout October, various concerts, picnics, and experiential events will be held at each garden, expanding the options for autumn garden travel in Haenam. Each garden features different plant species, layouts, and surrounding natural environments, allowing visitors to choose destinations based on their preferences. However, it is advisable to check the blooming status of flowers and event schedules in advance, as they may vary due to weather conditions.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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