Semiwon: Discover the Garden of Water and Flowers in Yangpyeong County

Nestled in the serene town of Yangpyeong County, Gyeonggi Province, Semiwon is a beautiful ecological park designed around the theme of wate...

Nestled in the serene town of Yangpyeong County, Gyeonggi Province, Semiwon is a beautiful ecological park designed around the theme of water and flowers, particularly the lotus. The park’s name, "Semiwon" (洗美園), comes from an old saying: "Looking at water cleanses the heart, and seeing flowers makes the heart beautiful." Every aspect of this park has been carefully crafted to offer visitors a space to experience harmony with nature and find inner peace.

Let’s dive deeper into the wonders of Semiwon.

History and Background of Semiwon
Semiwon was developed with the support of Gyeonggi Province as a natural purification park, covering a vast area of 180,000 square meters. Its primary purpose is to naturally purify the water of the Han River using aquatic plants. As the river water flows through six large ponds in the park, impurities like heavy metals and suspended solids are filtered out before the water continues on to the Paldang Dam. Not only does Semiwon serve this vital environmental function, but it has also become a renowned traditional garden where visitors can cleanse both their minds and spirits.

Must-See Attractions at Semiwon
Semiwon offers plenty of sights centered around its theme of lotus flowers. A highlight of any visit is the Victoria Pond, where you can witness the world’s largest lotus, the Victoria Water Lily. If you visit during the summer, you'll see these massive blossoms perched on equally enormous lily pads, creating a breathtaking view perfect for photography.

Another popular spot is Baedari Bridge, a recreated version of the historical floating bridges used during the Joseon Dynasty. It connects Semiwon to Dumulmeori, offering visitors a unique experience of walking seemingly atop the water. Additionally, the Tropical Water Lily Garden is filled with a variety of water lilies in colors like blue, pink, and purple, making it an ideal location for a scenic walk or to capture stunning photos. Though the peak bloom is in summer, water lilies continue to flourish well into autumn, ensuring enchanting beauty no matter when you visit.

Places to Relax and Recharge
Scattered throughout Semiwon are numerous benches and traditional pavilions, perfect for taking a restful break while enjoying the beauty of the park. A particularly serene spot is the pavilion located by the White Lotus Pond. Here, you can stretch your legs, gaze out over the lush greenery of lotus leaves, and immerse yourself in peaceful solitude. Take a moment to pause, listen to the sounds of nature, and fully appreciate the calming atmosphere Semiwon offers.

Hours of Operation and How to Get There
Semiwon is open from May to October, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and from November to April, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Do note that the park is closed on Mondays during the winter season, so it’s a good idea to check ahead before planning your visit.

Getting to Semiwon is easy. It’s located in Yangseo-myeon, Yangpyeong County, and is accessible by both car and public transportation. The park offers convenient parking, and its proximity to Seoul makes it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway.

Wrap-Up
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape into nature, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll surrounded by the beauty of water lilies and lotus flowers, Semiwon is the perfect destination. Let the harmony of water, flowers, and nature wash away the stress of daily life as you explore this tranquil haven in Yangpyeong.

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