Discovering the Landmarks of Siheung, Where Lotus Cultivation Began

Siheung, bordering the sea, has many fascinating places to explore. Gwangokji, in particular, is where lotus cultivation in Korea began, and its beauty peaks in midsummer when the white lotuses bloom in full. Getgol, a tidal creek reaching all the way to the sea off Incheon, is the former site of the Sorae Salt Fields, home to a variety of tidal-flat creatures such as fiddler crabs, shore crabs, and glasswort — a great place to explore with children. Don't miss the grilled shellfish at Oido, either.

Along the way

1. 1

   Gwangokji Pond

   관곡지

   Gang Hui-maeng (1424-1483), a renowned statesman and agronomist of the early Joseon Dynasty, brought back lotus seeds from Jeondangji Pond in Nanjing while serving as deputy envoy to Ming China in the 9th year of King Sejo's reign. He began growing lotuses in what is now Hajung-dong, and cultivation gradually spread from there. This pond has been maintained for generations by the family of Gwon Man-hyeong (a censor of the Office of the Inspector-General), the son-in-law of Gang Hui-maeng, and, in connection with the pond's old place name, is called 'Gwangokji.' MoreLess

   

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2. 2
   Siheung Getgol Ecological Park

   시흥 갯골생태공원

   Siheung Getgol Ecological Park is a beautiful park where visitors can experience Gyeonggi Province's only inland tidal flat and the atmosphere of an old salt field. Here you can observe halophytic plants such as glasswort, sea blite, and marsh samphire, as well as creatures like red-clawed fiddler crabs and shore crabs. Part of the old salt field has been restored so visitors can learn about the sun-dried sea salt production process, and the park offers free sun-dried salt to visitors. In addition, the Tidal Coast Learning Classroom within the park offers free ecological education programs for groups. MoreLess

   

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3. 3
   Okgu Park

   옥구공원

   Okgudo Island (玉鉤島) has gone by several names over the years, including Seokdo, Seokchuldo, Seogeuljudo, and Seokokgwido, all reflecting the abundance of rocks in the area. The greatest appeal of Okgudo Urban Nature Park is the panoramic view from the summit, taking in the waters off Incheon, the Sihwa Tidal Barrage, and Daebudo Island in a single sweep. MoreLess

   

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4. 4

   Oido Island

   오이도

   Blessed with natural resources and a green environment, and rich in historical artifacts dating back to prehistoric times, Siheung has great potential to become the only eco-city in the greater Seoul area. Oido, located on Siheung's western coast, has shell mounds scattered across the entire island, and its rich marine ecology has made it a beloved destination for residents of the capital region. MoreLess

   

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