When most people plan a trip to South Korea, they think of Seoul, Busan, and maybe Jeju island. Koreans themselves love to vacation in Gangwon-do, where they can hike and enjoy nature with their families. Few tourists venture into Paju, which has much to offer travellers looking to see the countryside and experience another side to Korea.
Paju is relatively unknown outside of South Korea. Many people who reside there commute to Ilsan or Seoul to work, and find it cheaper and quieter then these two cities. Known for its stellar dubu (tofu) and top quality insam (ginseng), Paju has 6 festivals (including the Gaeseong Ginseng Festival in October) celebrating everything from traditional arts and crafts to kite flying. The Three Royal Tombs and the Hwangpo sailboat attract tourists, and kids love to visit Honeyland (honey-land.co.kr) where they can go on rides and enjoy the mountains surrounding them.
Two other remarkable attractions in this region are Paju Book City (pajubookcity.org) and Heyri Art Village (heyri.net). Heyri has over 300 artists who are in residence in the village, and has cafes, art galleries, workrooms, gardens, and theatres where they perform for visitors. Children will love walking around this little village, and adults will want want to catch a performance by the orchestra or singers. Paju Book City is devoted to the publishing world, and they aim 'to provide a space that, simply makes good books.' The architecture is edgy and unique, which is why it is considered an 'amalgamation of publishing and architecture'.
Another must see is the Yongmiri Seokbulipsang (Stone Standing Buddha) which is located near the Yongam Temple on Jangji mountain. The Jaun Auditorium will appeal to scholars interested in learning about Korean history and Confucianism. The auditorium was constructed by scholars and devoted to the teachings of Yi Yulgok of the Jocheon dynasty.
Bogwansa Buddhist Temple near Paju City in the Republic of Korea
If you are considering coming to Paju, stay at the M Hotel in Geumchon. The rooms are spacious and family friendly, and the train station is close by, as are taxis and bus stops. It is certainly a place that deserves to be visited because of its attractions, culture, and kind citizens who love to meet new people and talk about their love of Korea.
For more information and to watch movies on Paju, visi:
Elizabeth Kelsey is the Family Travel in Asia and Europe Editor for Wandering Educators. You can read more of her work at http://www.sattvicfamily.net/