▲ Shinseong-ri Reed Beds.

Seocheon is home to two of the country's major tourist spots: the 198,000 square-meter Shinseong-ri reed beds and the Geumgang River Estuary Dike, a habitat for migratory birds.

The reed beds located in Shinseong-ri, Hansan-myeon, one of the four largest reed beds in Korea, is among the seven most beautiful Korean reed sceneries named by Korea Tourism Organization. Shinseong-ri reed beds have earned nationwide popularity as the filming site of JSA (Joint Security Area), the movie. It is continuously used as a place for shooting dramas and movies.

Its beauty peaks in November, when the reed flowers blossom. The golden waves of the tall reeds swaying to the wind are enchanting. Stepping in the reeds, it feels like you are in Wonderland; all you see is reeds everywhere.

It is just as beautiful in summer. The soothing sound of the wind stroking the green reeds takes away summer heat. Sunshine reflecting on the river sparkling through the dancing reeds is another eye-catching treat. The famous tourist attraction is well equipped with wooden decks, bridges, sitting areas and walking trails.

Migratory birds observation tours along the Geumgang River, musical concerts, kite-flying events and many other activities are offered in late autumn, the peak season. In winter, you can see swans and mallards swimming in flocks through the reed beds.

About a 15-minute ride away from here is the Geumgang River Estuary Dike (916 Jangsan-ro, Maseon-myeon). It is a wintering site for migratory birds from Siberia, Mongolia, China and other regions in Northeast Asia. One can see a variety of migratory birds such as spectacled teals, mallards, mergansers, swans and spot-billed ducks. Especially, the flight of spectacled teals at sunset is awe-inspiring.

About a half-hour drive away from here is Port Hongwon with a big seafood market. Another tourist spot in the area is Hansanmosi Museum, where one can see the A to Zs of the Hansan Ramie Fabric, one of Secheon's specialty products. It exhibits historic books on the fabric, looms, weaving tools and ramie fabric products. Also, Simulations are shown on the entire production process from plantation to weaving.
 

Shinseong-ri online at
(www.tour.seocheon.go.kr) or by telephone (+82-41-950-4015).