Since my last road trip to South Korea back in Oct 2025, I seem to fall in love with driving in South Korea stopping by and feasting away at rest stop. This time round, I decided to cover Andong, Gyeongju & Daejeon and see what I can uncover from there.
I will be staying over 2 nights in Andong, 3 nights in Gyeongju and 2 nights in Daejeon for this trip of mine. You bet, I am absolutely excited to explore more of the other local “untouched” areas in South Korea thereby experiencing their unique culture and its hidden beauty within.
As usual, excitement starts the moment after departure hall. 😊
Enjoying a light dinner at SilverKris Lounge.
Time to board for my red-eye flight bound for Incheon Airport.
Commencing breakfast prior to descend.
Flat rice noodles in chicken broth, with fish balls, fish dumplings, fish cake, bean sprouts and shallot onions. Served with tung chai (Chinese preserved vegetables) and sliced red chilli.
Annyeonghaseyo! Safe arrival to Incheon Airport.
CoolRain, a large purple inflatable character installation at Incheon International Airport in South Korea.
Smooth and hassle-free AREX non-stop express train from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station that costs ₩13,000 per pax as compared to taking an Airport Limousine Bus that costs ₩16,000 per pax.
Feels good to be back at Seoul Station again.
Staying over for the night at my usual haunt, Seoul Station R Guesthouse before heading out of Seoul the next day. Storing my luggage while waiting for the check-in at 4pm later.
Off to Blue Bottle Coffee inside Seoul Station to kickstart the morning.
Trying out one of their new recommended drink, Iced Apple Cinnamon Latte.
After a quick perk up, moving on next to Naksan Park, a scenic hilltop public park in the Jongno District of Seoul, celebrated for its panoramic day and night views of the city skyline.
Statue of independence activist Kim Sang-ok located in Marronnier Park in Daehangno.
Start at Hyehwa Station (Line 4, Exit 2). Walk through the bustling theatre alleys of Daehangno and follow the signs along Dongsung-gil and Naksan Gongwon-gil.
This is a short but remarkably steep 10-to-15-minute uphill climb up a residential street.
You will enter the lower gates of Naksan Park. Continue up the paved loop trails or climb the 284 stone steps to reach the highest observation pavilions.
The scenic overlook and resting area at Naksan Park along the Seoul City Wall trail in Jongno-gu, featuring trimmed pine trees, wooden railings, and a view toward the surrounding mountains.
A scenic view of Seoul from Naksan Park looking north across the city toward the granite peaks of Bukhansan National Park in the distance.
The historic stone fortress wall at Naksan Park along the Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong).
Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong) along the Naksan Park trail. Originally built in 1396 during the Joseon Dynasty, this paved stone fortress path offers panoramic city views and sits right next to the Ihwa Mural Village.
Panoramic view of Seoul from Naksan Park near the Hanyangdoseong (Seoul City Wall) Trail and Ihwa Mural Village, looking out toward the northern/northeastern hills and the university and residential districts of Jongno-gu.
You can even see Namsan Tower from here too.
Beautiful view taken near Naksan Park and the Seoul City Wall looking southwest toward Dongdaemun Design Plaza (the curved silver-white landmark), the Dongdaemun wholesale/skyscraper area (including the tall Doota/Doosan Tower), and the mountains in the background.
The famous pink Hello!! Ihwa Mural Village welcoming wall located near Naksan Park and the Seoul City Wall walking trail.
A painted mural of a Gothic-arch rose stained-glass window.
A famous hillside art neighborhood situated on the slopes of Naksan Mountain with an elderly couple with their dog.
A wall painting featuring sunflowers, pumpkins, and falling maple leaves.
Playful panda and bamboo mural.
The famous Angel Wings Mural.
This one is great for side profile shot.
This vibrant floral mural is painted on the exterior wall of EDIYA Coffee Jongno Ihwa-dong Branch.
Another colourful street art mural located on the slope of Naksan Mountain.
The “Before I Die” public art wall.
A vibrant koi fish mural.
The painting depicts a sunset or sunrise sky filled with soft clouds, a glowing sun, Seoul’s fortress wall, and a skyline featuring the iconic N Seoul Tower on Namsan Mountain.
The artwork prominently features a tribute to South Korean football star Son Heung-min (“Super Son No. 7”) alongside an “I ❤️ Seoul” design.
The artwork pays tribute to the neighbourhood’s working-class history and the local textile and garment-making industry that once thrived in the area. It features a large-scale portrait of a person working at a sewing machine alongside sketched figures (including fencers) set against a tiled wall.
A street art piece featuring the signature character Raviollie and the “Mr. Tongue” motif.
Doesn’t it seems familiar like the street art in Penang? Well, do challenge yourself to see if you can find as many murals as me in your next visit to Ihwa Mural Village. 😉
Adjourning for a quick meal at Plus 82 Coffee, a popular South Korean franchise cafe known for its budget-friendly coffee, waffles, toast, fruit juices, and desserts.
Followed up quickly by chilling out and juicing up my phone at Starbucks immediately thereafter before heading back to R Guesthouse for my scheduled check-in.
Loved the huge and spacious room for my overnight stay.
Ventured off to Sinchon to spend the rest of the evening and decided to have Puradak Chicken for dinner.
Changcheon Methodist Church, known for its twin-spire Gothic-revival style brick facade, arched stained-glass windows, and night lighting that makes it a well-known visual landmark in the bustling Sinchon district.
I have never had a chance to have bingsu in all my previous visits to South Korea, so I tell myself that I have to make it happen for this trip and, here I am at Sul Bing Cafe for my long anticipated bingsu. 😅
Oh my! I never knew bingsu is that good. Simply love it to the max……👍👍👍
A massive Seoul Square building located across from Seoul Station featuring a large “LOVE” and heart media art display on its LED facade.
Waking up to a super cold Day 2 morning at 6 degrees.
Morning starter at Burger King with a Jambon Ham & Cheese Omelet Croissan’wich Meal with Truffle Mushroom Pie Royale.
Getting ready (after check-out) to head over to Lotte Rent A Car to pick up my car for the next 8 days’ road trip. 🤗
Got myself a Hyundai Avante for this road trip. Everything checked ✔️ and now good to go. 🤗
Will be heading up to Andong (about 250km) from Seoul.
Stopping by Majang Premium Service Area to break for lunch.
Decided on Nolbu Budaejjigae for lunch, a popular South Korean franchise specializing in budaejjigae (army stew) and related Korean comfort foods.
Next stop being Cheondeungsan Service Area which features a unique Goguryeo-themed park area with historical murals and stone sculptures.
Samjok-o (three-legged crow) sculpture located in the Goguryeo Theme Park.
Rest area decorated with Goguryeo tomb mural replicas and wooden rest platforms.
Goguryeo armored cavalryman (Gaema-musa) statue.
Brother Chapssal Kwabaegi, a popular Korean snack of sweet rice donuts (chapssal-donuts) dusted with sugar and served in a white paper bag.
Final stop (before arriving into Andong) at Danyang Palgyeong Rest Area. This rest area includes a walking trail / healing theme park, local agricultural product sales, food court and a Hollys Coffee.
The entrance to the wild flower healing theme park.
Some of the interesting exhibits which you can find here though I am not too sure how the healing part comes in. 😂
Had a bowl of ramyeon inside the food court just to satisfying my craving.
Finally arrived into Goodstay Andong Park Hotel for my stay while I am in Andong.
The hotel may look dated from its exterior facade but the interior is still pretty decent with a reasonable amount of space to maneuver.
Wander off to the street of Andong after settling in to the hotel.
Andong Galbi Street, a specialized food street with about 15 Korean beef (Hanwoo) rib restaurants.
A flower-and-leaf-covered arched entryway with Korean text spelling out “Match Made in Heaven Date Road”.
A pedestrian-friendly downtown shopping and cultural street that lights up at night with neon lights, unique art installations, rest benches, and a small water stream running through the centre of the tables.
It transforms into a romantic spot for evening walks, local food stops, and photos once the sun goes down.
Andong Main Cultural Street in Andong, South Korea, featuring the illuminated “왓니껴?” (Andong dialect for “Did you arrive?” or “Welcome?”) and “천생연분 데이트 길” (Match-made-in-heaven Date Road) night photo.
You will get to see many various white, marshmallow-like character statue along Andong Central Culture Street.
Namseo Shopping Street in the Andong Old Market area.
Traditional covered arcade market, clothing vendors, and home to famous local culinary spots like Andong Jjimdak and street food.
Andong Jjimdak Alley inside the Andong Old Market.
As Jjimdak is a must-eat dish item in Andong, I decided to have it at Kokkiyo Kim Jun-nyeon Andong Jjimdak, a popular braised chicken restaurant located in the Jjimdak Alley of the Andong Old Market.
Observing the owner (in action) cooking jjimdak.
This is how best I could handle. Have no choice but to make a painful decision to sacrifice most of the japchae. 🤣
Strolling over to Home Plus (hypermarket), a Korean discount store retail chain to spend some time before my last activity for the night.
Korea’s longest traditional wooden-style footbridge, measuring 387 metres in length and 3.6 metres in width.
An octagonal Korean-style pavilion located in the middle of Wolyeonggyo Bridge.
I LOVE ANDONG illuminated sign located at Wolyeong Park near the famous Wolyeonggyo Bridge.
Taking a leisure stroll in the cold and be mesmerised by the beautifully illuminated walking path and the stunning night view. This is also one of the filming scene for Spooky in Love. Words can’t do justice to the scenery. You need to be here to experience it on your own.
Greeted with a cloudy Day 3 morning at 9 degrees.
Beating the morning crowd at Wolyeonggyo Bridge for the day pics.
Stone monument with the Chinese characters 月映橋 (Wolyeonggyo) at the start of the bridge.
Distant view of Wolyeongjeong in the middle of Wolyeonggyo Bridge.
Day view of Wolyeongjeong. So different from its night view.
The day view is equally mesmerising and stunning too.
Found the exact filming spot for Spooky in Love.
Reenacting the exact scene filmed. 😅
It’s interesting and funny. That’s what makes a holiday fun. 😄😄😄
Had an early brunch at Mammoth Bakery, a renowned pastry shop in Andong. It was selected in the 2011 Michelin Guide Korea and has been featured on various Korean TV programs.
Their cream cheese ppang (cream and cheese bun) and yuja pound are patented, and they offer a variety of cakes and European-style bread made with sourdough.
Their bread is really doughy just like eating mochi bread. Highly recommended! 👍👍👍
After a satisfying meal, continuing exploring the streets of Andong city before making a couple of visit attractions.
Andong Culture Street Traveler’s Shelter and a yellow heart-shaped photo zone.
Traditional Korean-style gate (pa楼/pa-ru or traditional gate arch) at the entrance of the Andong Culture and Food Street.
A colourful street art installation and photo zone in the Andong Food Street.
First visit of the day to Byeongsan Seowon.
It is a historic Confucian academy and UNESCO World Heritage site located in Andong.
Bongnyemun Gate, the main entrance leading to the Mandaero Pavilion at Byeongsan Seowon.
Dongje (Eastern Dormitory / Dongjikjae) building with its signature crape myrtle (crape myrtle tree / baekilhong).
Jangpangak building at Byeongsan Seowon, a prominent Neo-Confucian academy honoring the scholar Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong.
Jusa, the caretaker’s house.
Jeonsacheong at Byeongsan Seowon, the preparation building where ritual foods and ceremonial items (jesu) are prepared and inspected before memorial services (hyangsa) are held.
This toilet is used by the servants of the academy’s students.
The toilet’s interior has no door or roof but its structures in which one end of the wall covers the other end hides its inside area from the outside.
Managed to catch hold of a persimmon tree while on the way out.
Next visit will be to Andong Hahoe Folk Village, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Designated for preserving traditional Joseon Dynasty architecture, clan culture, and layout.
The centre roof of the gate rises higher than the side walls, a traditional architectural style designed to allow people riding horses or in a palanquin to pass through easily.
Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong with mud stone walls (doldam), thatched roofs (choga), and traditional aristocratic tile roofs (giwajip) from the Joseon Dynasty.
Buyongdae Cliff and the Nakdong River viewed from near the Hahoe Folk Village.
Traditional jang (totem poles) carved in the style of Hahoe mask dance characters at the entrance area of Andong Hahoe Folk Village.
You may also visit the Hahoe World Mask Museum here too.
Viewing the various masks exhibits inside the museum amd learning about its history.
Trying out Andong Apple Sikhye. Quite unique though.
Paying a visit to Myungin Andong Soju Hahoe, a space to sample and purchase Master Park Jae-seo’s Andong Soju.
Pampering myself with a bottle of Master Park Jae-seo’s Andong Soju.
Final visit of the day, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bongjeongsa Temple.
Founded by the famous Silla monk Neungin, Bongjeongsa Temple contains a few historic architectural works and is Korea’s oldest extant wooden building which dates back to the Goryeo period, and is widely admired for its simple beauty and robust structure. The orderly layout of these ancient buildings set amid a beautiful scenic landscape constitutes one of Korea’s finest cultural scenes of the past.
Iljumun Gate (One-Pillar Gate) at Bongjeongsa Temple.
Wooden pavilion ceiling at Bongjeongsa Temple decorated with colourful lotus lanterns, a wooden ritual fish (mokteo or beopgo/mokfish), and a traditional drum.
Enjoying a local cuisine dinner at Gimbap Cheonguk Nambu-dong, a popular Korean casual snack restaurant.
Day 4, waking up to a gloomy, wet morning and it is forecasted to be raining for the entire day. Well, this is what travelling is all about. Expect the unexpected and embrace what is ahead of us. Stay chill and be grateful for the weather. 😊
Tummy warming at No Brand Burger.
Love this chain as their beef burger quality is of standard and importantly value for money. 👍
Encoring back Mammoth Bakery for round 2 brekkie.
They are really good for their bread, pastry and cake. I will miss this bakery for sure. 😋
Thanks to the rain, took a quick refuge at Home Plus to spend some time before leaving Andong for Gyeongju.
Spotted Gyodong Donas stall located inside Homeplus Andong Branch.
A traditional Korean glutinous rice donut filled with sweet red bean paste and a chewy rice cake (mochi) centre. This is so darn good. 👍👍👍😋😋😋
Stopping over at Gunwi Service Area for a quick lunch before driving on.
Snack break at Geoncheon Service Area.
Arrived into Hotel Palace Gyeongju for my next 3 nights stay.
Wow, absolutely love the big, spacious and classy feel of the room. The TV screen size is extremely huge too. Almost the size of the king size bed. 😱
It has a small cosy breakfast area too and the room comes with complimentary breakfast.
There is also a nice chill out lounge with complimentary coffee and tea for your enjoyment during your stay here too.
Since it is raining, the only possible thing to do now will be indoor activity.
Spending time at No Brand Supermarket and…..
…..Homeplus Hypermarket doing grocery shopping.
Visited Gyeongju Jungang Market next, a traditional market. It is the main marketplace for Gyeongju locals. Nearly 700 stores selling clothing, oils, rice cakes, vegetables, general goods and meat.
By the time I arrive in the late evening, only Mandu Jinppang Donuts still opens then. This is a traditional Korean market stall selling hand-made street foods like dumplings, king croquettes, red bean donuts and twisted donuts.
What an uneventful day given the heavy rain. 😂
Another gloomy and wet morning awaits in Day 5. It is also forecasted to rain for the entire day just like yesterday. 🤣
I love the decent and pretty impressive wide spread of breakfast options provided. Simple yet elegant in style. Nothing fanciful but enough to cater to everyone’s needs for sure.
I will be eagerly looking forward to the next 2 mornings meal. 😋
Well, the rain will not be a showstopper and the “show” must go on. We just need to rough it out no matter what it takes. 😎
Will be doing a couple of attraction visits today. 💪
Stone marker for the Gyeongju Historic Areas (Gyeongju-yeoksa-yujeok-jigu), a UNESCO World Heritage site in Gyeongju.
Entrance monument for Daereungwon Tomb Complex.
Front gate of the Daereungwon Tomb Complex
Main gate (Sammun / entrance gate) of the Tomb of King Michu, located inside the Daereungwon Tomb Complex.
Oh, saw some Persimmon Tree while on the way.
Gyeongju Daereungwon 3D Anamorphic Media Cube (a 6-sided LED display).
Entrance to the Cheonmachong Tomb (Heavenly Horse Tomb).
The interior reconstruction of the Cheonmachong Tomb (Heavenly Horse Tomb).
Viewing and learning from the various exhibits inside the exhibition hall.
Pond with lily pads located near the Cheonmachong area.
You will see lots of the ancient grass-covered royal burial mounds from the Silla Kingdom here in the tomb complex.
Crossing over next to Cheomseongdae, an ancient astronomical observatory.
Followed by the historic Woljeonggyo Bridge.
This is a historical wooden pavilion bridge spanning the Namcheon Stream originally built during the Unified Silla period and reconstructed in modern times.
The traditional painted wooden ceiling and red pillars inside the Woljeonggyo Bridge, featuring classic Korean dancheong (decorative colouring on wooden buildings) with vibrant teal, red, and blue geometric and floral patterns.
Breaking for lunch at Hobak Goeul before continuing on with more visits.
Look at the pumpkin duck in the restaurant interior. So adorable. Great for photo spot. 👍
Small bowl of thin Korean wheat noodles served in a clear broth, topped with kimchi and seasoned seaweed.Af
After a hearty lunch, proceeded on to Bulguksa Temple.
Gilt-bronze triad of the main Buddha and attendants inside the Daeungjeon Hall.
Large traditional Buddhist drum (beopgo) supported by a turtle-shaped pedestal inside a pavilion.
Gilded-bronze seated Vairocana Buddha statue housed in the Birojeon Hall.
Beomjonggak (Belfry Pavilion) housing the bronze bell.
Final visit for the day will be to Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond.
A small island with a weeping tree in the middle of a lake at Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond.
The 3 traditional restored pavilion at Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond.
These are the 3 buildings close to the pond that were restored when the historic site was repaired from 1976 to 1980.
The historic water intake structure (inflow waterway) located at the southeast corner of Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond. It consists of tiered granite basins (a 2-stage stone water tank) that let the water cascade smoothly before flowing into a small gravel-bottomed pool and finally into the main pond.
Circling back to Gyeongju Jungang Market since being slightly earlier before the closing time.
Still managed to catch some stalls in action.
Snack break at Seongmi Bunsik, a traditional Korean snack bar (bunsikjib).
Serving local comfort food.
Ending the night at Hyundai Milmyeon, a well-known local milmyeon (wheat noodles) restaurant for dinner.
Waking up to a cloudy Day 6 morning. The rain seems to be clearing up from today onwards as forecasted. Yay! 👏
Getting ready for breakfast. Woohoo.
Enjoying the process of making my own instant noodle from the cooking machine.
Tada, my noodle is now ready for consumption. 🙂
Adding ingredients to my noodle for the extra touch. 😋
Slowing things down this morning by taking in sights in the city area by taking advantage of the good weather.
“Gyeongju” landmark sign located outside the Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal and Gyeongju Intercity Bus Terminal area in Gyeongju.
This is the place that first invented traditional glutinous barley bread (chalbori-ppang) in Gyeongju.
Signature Menu: Glutinous barley bread (chalbori-ppang) and glutinous barley rice cake (chalbori-tteok).
A traditional-style Korean building with a sign that reads “Gyeongju ❤️ You” on Geumseong-ro in Gyeongju, near Hwangnidan-gil.
Hwangnidan Street in Gyeongju, famous for its mix of traditional Korean hanok architecture and modern shops, cafes, and bakeries.
Gyeongju Jegwa, a specialty bakery selling traditional Gyeongju-style pastries like Gyeongju bread and glutinous barley bread in Hwangnidan-gil.
Another must eat item while in Gyeongju.
A green alien named “Gewaeng-i” dressed in a traditional Korean Gat (hat) and Hanbok while holding a fan. It is created as a large FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Plastic) photo zone sculpture combining traditional Gyeongju aesthetics with a quirky character concept.
Miffy Store Gyeongju, a themed retail shop housed in a traditional Korean hanok building located on Hwangnidan-gil.
This is the traditional Hanok-style courtyard inside Olive Young Gyeongju Hwangnam.
Twi-ho, a popular street food and dessert stall specializing in crispy fried hotteok (twigim hotteok).
Crispy fried hotteok with options like Turingcle (seasoned powder-coated cheese hotteok), Injeolmi fried hotteok, peanut butter fried hotteok, 100% natural mozzarella cheese hotteok, and peanut butter soft-serve ice cream.
Sounds weird but surprisingly delicious. No wonder it’s the hit menu item here. Try it the next time if you visit Hwangnidan-gil in Gyeongju.
The street gets more crowded as the day passes. Recommend to come early to avoid the crowd especially if you would like a good photo shoot without the photo-bombers.
Chanced upon this interesting 3D Trick Art street painting titled “Lost World: Silla” located on Bonghwangro Culture Street. It depicts an aerial view of the ancient Silla capital featuring historic landmarks like Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond and the Hwangnyongsa 9-Story Wooden Pagoda.
In search of lunch at Wolseong Bunsik, a well-known local Korean home-style meal (bapsang) restaurant.
Comes with a generous spread of banchans serving. This is the place to be in if you are looking for the truly authentic homely-feel local comfort food.
Chilling and relaxing over cuppa at Bread Monster.
This is what life should be about. Enjoying the beautiful scenery ahead while sipping a nice cup of latte.
Bonghwangdae, the largest single ancient tomb from the Silla Kingdom.
Relaxing by the stream in Gyo-dong and taking in the beautifully illuminated stunning night view of Wolyeonggyo Bridge.
The opposite bank of the stream illuminated night view is equally stunning too.
Ending my final night in Gyeongju with a dinner at Ondo, a Japanese-inspired restaurant located near Bonghwangdae.
This is definitely good stuff. Glad that I have been here is all I can say. 😉
Thereafter, took a leisure stroll at Hwangnidan Street to soak into the night atmosphere before calling it a night.
A bright and sunny Day 7 morning awaits.
A quick breakfast followed by a leisure stroll around the city area before leaving Gyeongju for Daejeon.
The historic royal burial mounds (tumuli) of the Daereungwon Tomb Complex situated in the centre of Gyeongju-si. It is maintained as an open park with walking paths, benches, and tree-lined lawns.
A decorative metal floor inlay embedded in the pavement in Gyeongju, featuring the text “Beautiful Gyeongju” alongside Korean characters (“신라대종”, referring to the Silla Great Bell).
You get to learn more about the history and the interior burial reconstruction of the Geumgwanchong Tomb (Tomb of the Golden Crown) in this exhibition hall.
A display of the replica of the Silla royal gold crown and artifacts inside a stone-and-wood-lined wooden chamber tomb (dolmuji-jeotneol-mudeom).
Geumgwanchong Gold Crown and Belt Set (National Treasure No. 87) from the ancient Silla Kingdom.
It’s really an eye-opener to see the behind the scenes work in constructing the tomb. A highly recommended visit for sure!
Had a quick lunch break at Geoncheon Service Area (Seoul-bound).
Stopping by Gyeongsan Service Area (Seoul-bound) next for bio break.
Having fun at the tomb park at the service area. It is a collection of ancient grass-covered mound tombs (tumuli) built for regional rulers and nobility of the Silla Kingdom, similar in style to other famous burial complexes in the region.
Making a final stop at Chupungnyeong Service Area (Seoul-bound) before reaching Daejeon. This service area is known as South Korea’s very first highway rest area.
Stretching my legs and having a caffeine fix at Hollys Coffee to freshen up prior to continuing on with the journey.
This monument is built to commemorate the completion of the Gyeongbu Expressway (linking Seoul and Busan), which opened on July 7, 1970.
The cloud bridge connecting to Gimcheon Chupungnyeong Theme Park in Gimcheon, Gyeongsangbuk-do, which also links to the southbound Chupungnyeong Rest Area on the Gyeongbu Expressway.
Finally arriving into Benikea Hotel Daelim after a long drive of 220 km.
My humble abode for the next 2 nights.
Thereafter, headed over to Daejeon Expo Science Park, a retro-futuristic public space in Yuseong District.
Hanbit Tower (Tower of Great Light) and the Kkumdori (Kumdori) family mascots at Expo Science Park in Daejeon.
Kkumdori, the iconic mascot of the 1993 Daejeon Expo, alongside “The Kkum Family.” The first floor features the Kkumdori Ramen Shop and themed snacks/instant noodles while the second floor houses the Kkumdori Goods Shop selling character merchandise, keyrings, magnets, and souvenirs.
The iconic red-and-blue arched Expo Bridge.
Outdoor sculpture and entrance area of the Daejeon Convention Centre (DCC).
Sungsimdang DCC Branch, a popular bakery and brunch café in Daejeon. Importantly, it is one of those to do list when in Daejeon. 🤣
Look at the amount of breads they offer! Every item just looks so darn good. So much so that I want to try all of them out. 😂
This is what I can accommodate for now. 😋😋😋
Dinner will be at Sungsimdang Terrace Kitchen, South Korea’s first-ever bakery restaurant.
It is located on the second floor of the main Sungsimdang bakery building in Daejeon, uniquely combines a casual dining restaurant with the legendary bakery downstairs.
Greeted with a bright and cold Day 8 morning at 4 degrees.
This morning we will be doing a leisure hiking cum sightseeing attraction outskirt to Wolyeongsan Suspension Bridge.
Stopping over at Geumsan Insam Land Service Area, known for its local ginseng-themed treats for my morning starter.
The service area features large golden ginseng root sculptures, a heart-shaped photo zone, and cartoon ginseng characters.
It also features a waterside park, small animal farm, and regional promotion halls in addition to standard service area dining and convenience stores.
A wooden deck entrance to the Insam Waterside Park.
A decorative pond with fountains runs alongside the main building’s terrace and food court areas.
A giant ginseng root sculptures in the water park.
A small outdoor animal enclosure and eco-friendly rest space where visitors can see animals like rabbits and peacocks.
Entrance to the Geumsan Wolyeongsan Suspension Bridge.
There are a total of 415 steps to climb to the start of the suspension bridge.
Hanging in there, half way through the climb.
Finally, I made it! Phew…..😅
Entrance gate of the Wolyeongsan Suspension Bridge.
This is a 275-metre-long, towerless (anchored) suspension bridge that offers views of the Geum River and surrounding cliffs.
Taking in the panoramic view of the Geum River, Cheonnae Bridge, and the surrounding Wolyeongsan and Bueongsan mountains in Jewon-myeon, Geumsan-county.
Reaching the end of the bridge. 💪
Looking back at my achievement from the start to end.
This is how far we went for the leisure hike.
Wongol Artificial Waterfall, a tall artificial waterfall cascading down the rocky cliff next to a scenic deck path, situated near the bridge connecting Wolyeongsan and Bueongsan.
Mesmerised by the beautiful view of the Wolyeongsan Suspension Bridge and the Wongol Artificial Waterfall located along the Bupyeong/Bung-yeong and Wolyeong mountains near the river in Cheonnae-ri.
Another great view of the fall from across the river.
Having a nice lunch at Wongol Sikdang, a famous local restaurant with a 30-year tradition, specializing in Eojuk (fish porridge) and Dori-baengbaeng (pan-fried small river fish).
A nutritious fish porridge boiled with local ginseng.
Time to stock up last minute grocery stuff at Lotte Mart before returning car tomorrow in Seoul. That’s the biggest advantage of doing self-drive.
Thereafter, spending the rest of the afternoon exploring Daejeon downtown.
The central meeting plaza featuring an illuminated tree sculpture and a decorative fountain inside the Jungang-ro Underground Shopping Mall.
Decided to have dinner at Sungsimdang Piatto, a popular Italian restaurant run by Sungsimdang.
Daejeon Skyroad, a 214-metre-long, 13.3-metre-wide, and 20-metre-high ultra-wide LED ceiling screen that transforms the walking street with colourful media art and animations after dark.
The vibrant pedestrian and shopping street here reminds me of the street in Myeongdong but without the major crowds.
Watching and enjoying the large-scale overhead LED ceiling media canopy (the Skyroad) that lights up with colours and animations in the evening.
Encoring back Sungsimdang Bakery at the historic Sungsimdang Bakery Main Store.
Trying out their #1 Signature Bread, Fried Soboro and also their Salt & Butter Bread. It’s deliciously good and value for money.
Not forgetting their Sungsimdang Cake Boutique as well. Look at the massive crowd forming but fret not, the queue moves pretty fast as the staff are quick to serve. 😊
Bought a couple of their confectionery back home too.
You will be able to consume the bread and cake here at Sungsimdang Cultural Centre, a multi-floor cultural space, merchandise/souvenir shop, and café that opened near the historic bakery.
Time to enjoy my Kirish Tile, a small square chocolate-and-cherry cake variant together with a nice cup of Cafe Oat Latte before calling it a night.
Day 9, a cloudy morning at 7 degrees and we will be leaving Daejeon back to Seoul thereby marking the end of our 8 days road trip.
Spending our morning at leisure enjoying the beauty at Daejeon downtown.
Mokcheokgyo Bridge, a white arched landmark bridge in Daejeon, South Korea, that connects Jung-gu (Bank-dong) and Dong-gu (Jung-dong) over the Daejeoncheon stream. It features the pedestrian wooden boardwalks and nearby night market/pocha food spots along the stream.
Visited Daejeon Jungang Market, a covered traditional market arcade with various clothing, food, and specialty vendor alleys.
The market is lively with most of the stall vendors out in action.
Happily snacking my way down the food street in the market.
The wooden deck and “DAEJEON IS U” bench overlooking Daejeoncheon stream near Mokcheokgyo Bridge.
Strolling through the skyroad walk alley and taking in the day’s sight.
Getting my caffeine fix at Mega Coffee.
Holy Moly! Look at the bustling crowd queueing at Sungsimdang Bakery Main Store. I am not spared either by joining in the queueing fun. 😅
One for the road meal at Sungsimdang before leaving Daejeon, Korea’s City of Bread. Will definitely miss their breads for sure.
A cute, cartoonish baker mascot statue sitting on a wooden bench with baguettes, alongside a notice board reading “Please enjoy drinks ordered from the 1st floor…”.
Look what I see! Can’t believe my own eyes. Audri, a specialized bakery and cake storage locker facility located near Sungsimdang’s main branch in the Daejeon Underground Shopping Centre (near Gate 4). 😱
Stopping over at Jukjeon Service Area, also known as the last rest stop before entering the Seoul metropolitan area, it features a cafeteria/self-service restaurant, a convenience store, local specialty shops, EV charging stations and a car wash.
Enjoying a light snack to mark the trace that I am here at the last service area. 😊
Damn! Got caught in a massive jam on the Expressway while going into Seoul. The 160km trip took me almost 4 hours to get there. 🤣
Finally checking in to Travel House conveniently located right across Lotte Mart Zettaplex after car return.
This will be my last 2 nights stay in Seoul before homecoming. Loved the spacious room, clean and well maintained. It even has a mezzanine floor with a double bed too.
Having Kyochon Chicken for dinner at Seongsu.
Caught this interesting mural while on my way to Seoul Forest Park.
Entrance sign of Seoul Forest Park. This is a sprawling urban green space in Seongsu-dong that blends peaceful nature walks, public art, and interactive wildlife areas.
The “Majung Garden – Starting Line of the Forest” installation at Seoul Forest featuring a racing horse and jockey art installation set among ornamental grasses and illuminated pathways.
The illuminated Metasequoia Path at Seoul Forest.
Red sculpture “Walk Together” by artist Lee Yong-deok, located in the sculpture garden.
Promise of Hands 2, an outdoor stone sculpture created by artist Kang Hee-duk and installed in 2007 at the sculpture garden.
“Poet’s Footprint” created by artist Jang Hyeong-taek in 2009, which is installed in the sculpture garden.
“In the Centre of the Wind” by artist Kim Yong-jin, created in 1991 and located in the sculpture garden of Seoul Forest Park with a large stack of metal book at the back.
A large, illuminated character sculpture and sign reading (Seoul International Garden Show) at Seoul Forest.
Elysian Forest, a corporate companion garden created by GS건설 (GS E&C) featuring Xi’s landscaping philosophy at Seoul Forest during the 2026 Seoul International Garden Show.
Beautiful night view of the Mirror Lake and the K-Beauty Garden Pavilion created by Clio during the 2026 Seoul International Garden Expo at Seoul Forest.
Definitely a great way to spend a relaxed night here while escaping from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Day 10, a day just before homecoming. How time flies! It’s a bright and sunny morning at 8 degrees.
A great nice beautiful morning view as seen from the window of the apartment that I am in. 👍
Taking a quick morning bite at Lotteria inside Seoul Station before heading up to Suwon to spend a day there as I did not manage to visit the Suwon Fortress in my last trip back in Oct 2025 due to the heavy rain back then.
Suwon Rodeo Street, a vibrant commercial and entertainment alley located near Suwon Station.
Enjoying a nice a lunch at Nipong Naepong, a fusion jjamppong (spicy seafood noodle) and pizza restaurant located on the Rodeo Street near Suwon Station.
With a satisfying meal, time for some leg work to take a leisure and relax stroll to Suwon Fortress.
A multi-tiered stone pagoda located near the Suwon Central Library.
Stone archway tunnel along the Paldalsan Mountain circumnavigation road (Hoejudoro) at Suwon Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. This scenic spot is also famous as a filming location for the K-drama Twenty-Five Twenty-One.
Namporu, a historic artillery pavilion located along Hwaseong Fortress.
Suwon Haengcha photo zone located near the Namporu on Paldalshan Mountain in Suwon, overlooking the city skyline and Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
Seongsinsa, a traditional shrine located on Paldalsan Mountain within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
A beautiful birds-eye view of Hwaseong Haenggung, the largest temporary royal palace outside of Seoul, built during the late 18th century by Joseon King Jeongjo.
You will be able to see the stone ramparts, battlements while strolling along the walking path of Hwaseong Fortress.
The watchtower or bastion feature along the stone walls of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
Seobukgangnu (Northwest Pavilion) along the stone wall of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
The stone ramparts and rampart walk of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress looking out toward the city skyline near Hwaseomun Gate and Seojangdae.
Managed to see a vibrant autumn foliage with a mix of red and orange Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) in the foreground and a bright yellow ginkgo tree (Ginkgo biloba) in the background.
Hwaseomun Gate (West Gate) and the tall Seobukgongsimdon (Northwestern Watchtower) of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
The two-story pavilion and the defensive walls of Janganmun Gate (the North Gate) at Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
The historical Hongipo (hong-po) cannon replica placed along the ramparts of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
Janganmun Gate, the grand main northern gate of the historic Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
It was a nice pleasant stroll along the walking path and taking in the scenic sites. Glad that I am able to make it up for this trip as this is one of the key visit attraction in Suwon.
Time to juice up myself and my phone at A Twosome Place.
Followed by Mom’s Touch for dinner before returning to Seoul.
Like it or not, Koreans are damn good with their fried chickens! 😋😋😋
The outdoor K-Drama exhibition and photo zone located outside Lotte Outlets Seoul Station, featuring an “I’m in KOREA Right Here” archway and a screen playing K-dramas.
Having a good time here reminiscing those snippets of the dramas that I have watched.
Another bright and sunny morning awaits at Day 11, day of homecoming. Happy times always fly past before we know it.
One for the road Korean breakfast at Gimbap Cheonguk, a popular Korean casual snack restaurant (bunsikjip) chain.
Perfect ending with a Kyoto-style Iced Latte at Blue Bottle Coffee before leaving Seoul for Incheon Airport.
Off to the airport for now.
Chilling out and relaxing at the SilverKris Lounge while waiting for my flight home.
Freshening up prior to boarding.
Time to board for homecoming.
Chargrilled marinated chicken skewers served with a spicy rich peanut sauce, cucumbers and onions.
Lightly smoked Atlantic salmon sliced with horseradish cream, red onion, capers and crisp marinated radish, accompanied by fresh baby leaves. Served with a zesty lemon dressing.
Chicken stir-fried with dried chilli and ginger served with seasonal vegetables and egg noodles, finished with a garnish of roasted cashew nuts.
Garnished with vanilla sauce and granola with nuts.
Well, it’s always nice to go on a trip and I will be looking forward to my next driving trip in Korea next year. Till then and enjoy your read!