Discovering our own heritage in Namdo | Travel Course | K-Travel Mate

Designated as National Historic Site No. 68 in 1963, the Gangjin Goryeo Celadon Kiln Site was a place where pottery and celadon were collectively produced for over 500 years from the 9th to the 14th century, with about 180 kiln sites distributed across 9 villages. It was a place of collective celadon production during the Goryeo period, including Gangjin and Buan, but most of the approximately 400 ancient kiln sites discovered nationwide are found in Gangjin. Among them, Sadang-ri produced celadon at the peak of its manufacturing technology, and over 80% of the celadon designated as national treasures or treasures in Korea were produced here. The techniques' genius and artistic value have been recognized worldwide, and some pieces are housed in the Louvre Museum in France. Additionally, Gangjin's conditions for clay, fuel, transportation, and climate were more suitable than other regions, nurturing Korea's celadon culture. In the 'Celadon Village' area of Gangjin, the Goryeo Celadon Museum, Goryeo Celadon Digital Museum, and Korean Minhwa Museum provide various audiovisual experiences, and the Celadon Village Auto Camping Site is located nearby.

Yeongrang Kim Yunsik was born here on January 16, 1903, as the eldest son among five children of Kim Jongho. He was called Chaejun in his childhood but changed his name to Yunsik, and Yeongrang is his pen name, which he mainly used in literary activities. Until his death on September 29, 1950, Yeongrang released about 80 beautiful poems, of which around 60 were written during the time he lived here, refusing name changes and shrine worship before liberation. After Yeongrang moved to Seoul in 1948, the birthplace changed hands several times, but Gangjin-gun purchased and has managed it since 1985. The main house, partially altered, was restored to its original form in 1992, and the gatehouse, which had been demolished, was rebuilt in 1993 based on the family's verification. The birthplace preserves the well, camellia trees, jangdokdae (earthenware jars stand), persimmon trees, and is planted with many peonies that served as poetic subjects.

Jujaksan (475m above sea level), located in Sinjeon-myeon, Gangjin-gun, Jeollanam-do, is a popular sightseeing spot loved for its unique and beautiful natural scenery despite being a relatively low mountain. At the summit, there is a sharp and majestic rocky peak, and the ridgeline is smooth and gentle like a horse's back, offering a distinctive experience for hikers. From Jujaksan, visitors can enjoy a wide-open view of the Dadohae (Sea of Many Islands), and it is especially known as a famous sunrise spot. The sun rising between the islands of Dadohae offers an unforgettable spectacle. Opened on July 1, 2007, Jujaksan Natural Recreation Forest allows visitors to fully experience the nature of Jujaksan. It covers a large area of 1,686,694㎡ and offers various recreational facilities and ecological experience programs. Along with modern facilities such as forest houses, campgrounds, and walking trails, the forest preserves its natural ecological environment, making it an ideal rest area for families and nature lovers. Walking along the recreation forest trails, visitors can enjoy the fragrance of the forest blended with diverse trees and wildflowers, and the dark green meadows surrounding the rocky peak add visual pleasure. Additionally, this place serves as a base to experience both the culture and nature of the Gangjin area, suitable not only for hikers but also for those seeking leisurely relaxation. Visiting in combination with nearby tourist spots such as Gangjin Bay and Dasan Chodang will make the trip even more diverse.