Immersed in the Nature of Chungnam | Travel Course | Staypick

In front of the Daeho Barrage on the northern tip of the Taean Peninsula, there are several ports. Samgilpo Port is the largest among them, attracting many tourists from the surrounding areas and the metropolitan region. Though it cannot be compared to the taste of sashimi prepared immediately after fishing on the boat or rocky shore, the taste of sashimi made from freshly caught fish is a unique delight that can only be experienced at West Sea harbors. This place is especially known for black seabream, which prefers the brackish water area where seawater and freshwater meet, and gobies are also frequently seen. Along the road connected to the harbor coast, various sashimi restaurants are located where you can enjoy the scenery while dining. Meanwhile, the Daeho Barrage is known as a paradise for winter migratory birds, and countless migratory birds gather here in winter, creating a spectacular view. Additionally, this place is the start and end point of the Seosan Aramegil Samgilnaru-gil (hiking trail and cherry blossom path), making it a good spot for linked tourism. Across the Daeho Barrage are Dobido Port and, in the adjacent sea, the West Sea Nanji Island.

This temple, nestled at the foot of Dobisan Mountain on the west coast, was founded in 677 AD (the 17th year of King Munmu of Silla) by the monk Uisang and has a history of nearly 1,500 years. Later, it was rebuilt by the monk Muhak and was designated as a cultural asset of Chungcheongnam-do in 1984. The site includes Geungnakjeon Hall, monks' quarters, Singeomdang Hall, and Anyangru Pavilion. The main Buddha statue is Amitabha Buddha, accompanied by eight other statues including Avalokiteshvara, Mahasthamaprapta, and Ksitigarbha. The temple's scenic surroundings attract many tourists. Additionally, a templestay program allowing visitors to experience temple life firsthand is operated here. Dobisan Mountain, where the temple is situated, has a summit altitude of 352.8 meters. Though not very high, it stands alone on the west coast, providing expansive views, especially magnificent views of the West Sea sunset. The temple is also a waypoint on the Seosan Aramegil Dobimaru Trail, making combined tours convenient. Nearby attractions include Ganwol Lake, Cheonsuman Bay (a migratory bird habitat), and Seosan Birdland.

Located in Seosan, Original Buseok Naengmyeon is a cold noodle specialty restaurant known for its broth made with a unique secret recipe, said to use ginger in the broth. Although the ginger scent might be expected to be strong, the flavor is surprisingly charming, attracting many repeat customers. It is a traditional restaurant that has been passed down for three generations. The distinction from other similar local naengmyeon restaurants lies in the 'Manheoyu' sign, meaning they only serve two types: cold noodles and bibim naengmyeon. The interior consists of seated tables with many seats, allowing a fast turnover. It is a recommended naengmyeon restaurant for those seeking a clean and unique taste.

Cheonsuman is an inlet terrain located between the Chungnam mainland and Anmyeondo in the West Sea. It is home to a world-renowned migratory bird refuge where beautiful migratory birds can be observed. In 1984, a sea dike was constructed as part of a land reclamation project around Cheonsuman, creating artificial freshwater lakes Ganwolho and Bunamho and large-scale farmland (6,400 ha) in what was once tidal flats. This area serves as a major migratory route for birds traveling between Siberia or Manchuria and Southeast Asia. The influence of the West Sea results in an average winter temperature about 1℃ higher than inland areas at similar latitudes. Additionally, the large farmland growing rice provides leftover grains after harvest, which serve as excellent food for winter migratory birds, making this area well suited as a bird refuge. Nearly 200 species of migratory birds can be observed here in one place. In winter, ducks and geese visit, with more than 90% of the world's population of whooper swans gathering here. Endangered species such as the oriental stork, yellow-billed spoonbill, swan goose, and red-crowned cranes are also found in Cheonsuman. The sight of these birds flying in flocks is truly spectacular. Birds mostly move to feed at dawn or dusk, so these times are best for observation. To continue observing and preserving these precious and beautiful birds, visitors are advised to avoid approaching too closely to protect their sensitive vision and hearing, use binoculars or other observation equipment, and avoid wearing red, yellow, or white clothing as well as loud noises. Observing without leaving one’s vehicle is also a good method. Nearby are Changnipogu and Dangampo ports.

Ganwolam is a small hermitage located in Ganwoldo-ri, Buseok-myeon, said to have been founded by Muhak Dae-sa in the early Joseon Dynasty and renovated by Song Mangong Dae-sa. Unlike other hermitages, it mysteriously connects to the land during low tide and becomes an island at high tide, making it feel like the hermitage is floating on the water. The serene natural scenery and the spirit of the ancestors attract many visitors. Additionally, the Oyster Worship Festival praying for a bountiful oyster harvest is held annually on the full moon of the first lunar month at the Jeongnyeok Monument for Eoriguljeot in Ganwoldo-ri during high tide. In this event, pure women who have not committed any wrongdoing dress in white robes and dance from the village entrance to the oyster monument, where they offer sacrifices and pray for an abundant oyster harvest. The oysters gathered are then offered for tasting to tourists.

Anmyeondo Natural Recreation Forest is the only pure pine forest in South Korea, with a naturally dense population of Anmyeon pines about 100 years old spread over 430 hectares. Since the Goryeo Dynasty, these pines were mainly used for making palanquins and boats, but as deforestation worsened, the royal family managed them specially. Since 1965, it has been managed by Chungcheongnam-do. Currently, the forest is located on a pine hill that appears after passing through the wide fields of Bangpo Village, beyond Anmyeon-eup. The refreshing pine scent from the tall straight pines clears the mind upon entering. Inside the paved path stands an impressive building, the Forest Administration Office combined with a Forest Exhibition Hall. The exhibition hall clearly displays the timber production process, uses of wood, and the utility of forests for easy understanding. Following the path to the right of the hall and crossing a small hill, you will find the Forest Houses. There are 19 Forest Houses arranged in a row along the mountainside, and a forest recreation pavilion with 4 rooms, equipped with gas stoves, cooking utensils, and shower facilities.