Hwaseong Fortress

I lived in Suwon my first year teaching in Korea and never visited the famous Hwaseong Fortress. Correction: I thought I did, but was later told that I only climbed the surrounding walls, but not the fortress itself.

Hwaseong Fortress was built by King Jeongjo during the Chosun dynasty for his father, Prince Sado. It is located in the heart of Suwon and is very foreigner friendly. Its surrounding walls make it a great place to hike and the fortress has shows and activities for the tourists daily. At the fortress, you can see the different weapons and styles of combat.

Weapon Show

trying to steal the warrior's sword

If you want to practice your archery skills, you can hop on the Dragon Trolley to the other side of the wall for 1200won. Archery only costs about 2000won for ten arrows and any age can participate.

Dragon Trolley

As you read above, King Jeongjo built the fortress for his father. What Wikipedia doesn't tell you is that his father was mentally retarded. Because Prince Sado refused to commit suicide as his father had commanded, he was locked in a rice chest until he starved to death.

Feeling Prince Sado's pain

All in all, it is a cheap and fun way to spend an afternoon. Once you're finished, you can get some steals at the local markets or ball out at the shops around Suwon station.