Chungcheongnam-do Province is a land of the West Sea, plains, and rolling hills. Its seasonally varying sceneries can be reached in an hour through expressways and railroads from the Seoul Metropolitan Area. Historical and cultural heritage, from the old Kingdom of Baekje to the Joseon period and modernity, add to the joy of traveling in Chungcheongnam-do.
Tourist sites in Chungcheongnam-do Province can be grouped into the coastal and inland areas. The former is characterized by tourist beaches, such as Daecheon Beach. If the East Sea displays angular, masculine features, the West Sea is known for its gentle, feminine charms. One can enjoy seafood at Daecheon Beach, which hosts the famous Mud Festival, and the fishing ports surrounding the area. Come sunset, visitors crowd to see the sun setting beyond the horizon. Agroland Taesin Farm is a popular tourist site that allows visitors to get in contact with green nature and animals. It was the first farm in Korea to be recognized as an experiential farm in 2004. You can find cows, sheep, horses, goats, and other animals grazing peacefully on the green field. One way to enjoy your visit is to enjoy a leisurely walk in the nature, and other programs on site include agricultural experiences and horseback riding. There’s even a campground and a swimming pool, so you can stay for a night and slowly take in what it offers.
Another place worth visiting is Jukdo Island, an island lush in bamboo which was connected to the mainland with the completion of the embankment in 1999. Head to the island’s southern side and look toward the mainland to see the majestic view of the mountains and the sea beyond the embankment. If you need to take a breather away from your busy day, head to the Cittaslow Town of Yesan. Daeheung-myeon, Yesan, was recognized as a Cittaslow Town in 2009 thanks to its immaculately preserved nature and traditional culture. The area is full of places to see, from the blue waters of Yedang Reservoir to Bongsusan Mountain’s Baekje-era sites and a 600-year-old Hyanggyo (Local Confucian School).
The star of the Gong ju National Museum is the exhibition dedicated to the Tomb of King Muryeong, the 25th ruler of Baekje, and the Stone Guardian (Jinmyosu) from the Tomb of King Muryeong, a mythical creature similar to a pig in appearance. It is said to protect one’s tomb from evil, so sculptures of Jinmyosu are erected to protect the souls of the buried.
 | CERAMIC JINMYOSU These ceramic sculptures are affordable and come in a variety of colors. Its biggest strength is its friendly appearance that appeals to people of all ages and genders. They are ideal as spoon and chopstick holders or ornaments around monitors.
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 | SMALL METAL JINMYOSU Despite being the smallest product, this Jinmyosu is sturdy and surprisingly detailed. It can be used as a paperweight or a table ornament. Another strength of this sculpture is that it can be transported without worrying about breakage.
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