Famed throughout South Korea for its bamboo forests, Damyang sprawls along the Yeongsan River in the mountainous province of South Jeolla. It’s home to a bamboo museum and bamboo theme park and offers a chance to explore the charismatic rural village of Samjicheon.

Things to do

Stroll through the bamboo forest garden of Juknokwon, nestled behind the Damyang Hyanggyo Confucian school along the slopes of Seonginsan Mountain. Follow one of the walking trails past tranquil waterfalls and a traditional pavilion, then stop in at the eco-exhibition centre to learn about the cultivation of bamboo.

Want to see the largest bamboo forest in South Korea? Visit the Daenamugol Bamboo Park, where you can sample tea made from wild bamboo tea trees. It encompasses towering bamboo trees at the base of Gojisan Mountain, as well as a playground made out of grass.

Admire the traditional hanok houses in the charming rural village of Samjicheon, designated one of South Korea’s “Slow Cities”. Gain insight into Korea’s past while exploring one of the Heritage-listed Go hanok houses. Afterwards, sample the local delicacies, including hangwa sweets and Changpyeong taffies.

The best place to learn about the unique properties of bamboo and its applications is the Korean Bamboo Museum, which also promotes bamboo handicrafts from the Damyang region. Learn about the global distribution of bamboo and its ecology, then admire bamboo arts and products dating back to the Joseon dynasty.

Getting there

Damyang is a 40-minute train ride north of Gwangju and around 1.5 hours from Gwangju Airport. Buses travel throughout Damyang and connect to most of the area’s attractions.