



[Yangsan / 1 Night] Rediscovery of Yangsan | Tongdosa Temple · Local Experience · Imgyeongdae Pavilion · Hotel Stay
A Solo 2-Day, 1-Night Trip to Yangsan: An Unfamiliar Journey Turned into a Warm Connection ♡ "All you have to do is add a spoon to a prepared meal." This 2-day, 1-night trip to Yangsan was a personal healing journey I embarked on simply to rest my body and mind. The itinerary was packed with activities, including Imgyeongdae, Beopgi Reservoir, Janggi Recreation Village, Tongdosa Temple, and Jangseon Village. At Janggi Recreation Village, I admired flowers, drank fragrant flower tea, made my own perfume, and even experienced a "flower hand bath" by soaking my hands in the tea. In Jangseon Village, I made acorn jelly myself, tasted acorn pancakes, and felt the simple joys of rural life by pounding rice cakes and making Injeolmi. It was especially meaningful to be able to listen to the guides' explanations at Imgyeongdae, Beopgi Reservoir, and Tongdosa Temple. As they shared the history, culture, and hidden stories intertwined with the region, it became a journey that went beyond just seeing with the eyes to understanding with the heart. The guide was well-versed in local restaurants and specialties, allowing me to truly experience the authentic flavors of the region. Above all, what will remain in my memory the longest from this trip is the warm hospitality and genuine human warmth of the countryside. Throughout the journey, I could feel the sincerity put into every single experience, along with a simple yet generous spirit. They even gave me gifts after the rural activities (prepared with care: Baenaegol specialties, flower tea, Injeolmi, and Dodori-muk). I would also like to express my gratitude for the guide's thoughtful consideration. Since I was traveling alone, I must have tossed and turned the night before due to excitement, as I ended up oversleeping in the morning. The guide, who was looking after the safety and schedule of each person, personally came to my accommodation to wake me up. Thanks to them, I was able to safely join the itinerary, and since that day, I even earned the fun nickname "Travel Maker." Seeing how they paid attention to even the smallest details, I could feel the heart of a true travel companion. Through this trip, I also developed a wish. I hope that local rural experience programs like this will become even more popular. What if we could create a healthy travel culture that connects local agricultural products, food, experiences, and village resources with travel, with the profits returning to the rural communities and residents? Travel that offers travelers great experiences at affordable, reasonable costs, while bringing new vitality and income to rural areas—a mutually beneficial form of travel! I believe this is the true definition of local travel where both travelers and rural communities find happiness together. Above all, this trip gave me great courage. My worries about whether traveling alone would be lonely or if I could get along with strangers were fleeting. Laughing, talking, and gazing at the same scenery, the travelers I met for the first time soon became friends, sharing a bond like family. Now, I am no longer afraid of traveling alone. On the contrary, I look forward to seeing what wonderful people I will meet on my next trip. And next time, I plan to organize a slightly more special trip. If more than 10 family members can join, I would like to try organizing a private package tour just for my family. A trip where we laugh and build memories together—just thinking about it makes my heart flutter.