Hadong (하동) is a county in South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, well known for its scenic landscapes and traditional tea culture. Nestled between the Seomjin River and the Jirisan Mountains, Hadong offers a slower pace of life compared to the bustling cities, with picturesque villages, lush green tea fields, and historic temples. The area is especially famous for its Hadong green tea, considered one of the oldest and most prestigious in Korea, with a history dating back over a thousand years. Visitors can enjoy hiking in Jirisan National Park, strolling along the Seomjin River, exploring traditional markets, or experiencing Korea’s tea heritage through tea festivals and hands-on tea-making programs.
Understand
[edit]History
[edit]Hadong has long been at the heart of Korea’s tea culture. Historical records say that tea seeds were first brought from China and planted here during the Silla Dynasty in the 9th century, beginning a tradition that has continued for more than a millennium. The area also preserves strong Confucian and Buddhist traditions, with historic temples and pavilions scattered across its hills and valleys. Despite gradual modernization, Hadong still keeps much of its traditional charm, offering visitors a glimpse of Korea’s serene rural past. Its tea fields, ancient villages, and riverside markets together reflect a slower, harmonious rhythm of life that continues to define the region today.
Orientation
[edit]Hadong is located in the southwestern part of South Gyeongsang Province. The Seomjin River forms its western boundary, while the eastern side rises into the rugged Jirisan National Park. The county is made up of small towns and villages surrounded by tea fields, rice paddies, and forested hills. Hadong-eup is the county seat and main town, serving as the base for exploring the surrounding attractions.
Climate
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Hadong enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are especially pleasant, bringing fresh mountain air, blooming wildflowers, and brilliant fall colors along the Seomjin River. Summers are hot and humid, influenced by the East Asian monsoon, while winters are cold but relatively mild compared to northern Korea. The tea fields reach their most vibrant green from late spring to early summer, making this the most scenic time to visit.
Get in
[edit]- 1 Hadong Bus Terminal
- 2 Hadong Station
- 3 Hadong IC
- 4 Seomjin River Bike Path (Hadong Pine Forest access)
Get around
[edit]
Map of Hadong
By car
[edit]- Most convenient: Renting a car is the easiest and most practical way to explore Hadong. Tourist attractions such as Ssanggyesa Temple, Hwagae Market, Pyeongsari Field, and the Jirisan trails are often 10–30 km apart.
- Navigation: Major roads are well signposted in Korean and English. National Route 19 and local scenic roads follow the Seomjin River. Use Korean apps such as Naver Map or Kakao Map for accurate directions, as Google Maps has limited functionality.
- Parking: Free or inexpensive parking is widely available at temples, markets, and scenic areas.
By bus
[edit]- County buses: Since July 2024, Hadong has operated its rural bus network at a flat fare of ₩100 for all passengers, including both locals and tourists. About 57 routes cover towns and villages throughout the county.
- Service frequency: Buses often run only once or twice per hour, and services taper off in the evenings. Schedules are posted at bus stops but usually only in Korean.
- Intercity terminal: Hadong Bus Terminal in Hadong-eup connects to Jinju (about 1 hr), Suncheon (about 40 min), and occasionally Busan or Seoul.
By taxi
[edit]- Availability: Taxis are easy to find in Hadong-eup and near major tourist sites, but scarce in remote villages.
- Fares: The basic fare is ₩5,000 for the first 2 km. After that, ₩150 per 130 m is added. Idle time charges are ₩150 per 31 seconds. A 20% surcharge applies at night (2:00-04:00), and a 30% surcharge applies in outlying rural zones.
- Practical tips: Some taxis accept cards or T-money, but cash is safest. Write your destination in Korean to show the driver. For longer trips, arranging a return pickup is advisable.
On foot and hiking
[edit]- Local walks: Markets, riverside areas, and village centers are pleasant to explore on foot.
- Hiking: Hadong borders Jirisan National Park, with trails starting at Ssanggyesa Temple and other locations. Paths are well maintained, but trailheads are usually far from towns, so combine hiking with bus or car transport.
By bicycle
[edit]- Cycling along the Seomjin riverside or through farmland can be rewarding. However, rentals are limited; some guesthouses or pensions may provide bikes. Roads in rural areas are narrow and winding, so cyclists should take care.
See
[edit]- 1 Samseonggung (삼성궁), 13, Samseonggung-gil, Cheongam-myeon, ☏ +82 55-884-1279. 08:30-16:40 (final entry). Samseonggung is a unique cultural and spiritual complex located about 1.5 km up a mountain trail in Cheonghak-dong, Cheongam-myeon, at an altitude of around 850 m on Jirisan. Founded in 1983 by Master Hanpul, it was built as a shrine dedicated to Korea’s founding figures — Hwanin, Hwanung, and Dangun — and as a center for the practice of Korea’s traditional spiritual path known as Sundo. The complex is particularly known for its thousands of hand-built stone pagodas, called sotdae, which were created by disciples as symbols of wishes and spiritual devotion. These stone towers, rising from the forested slopes, give the site a distinctive and almost otherworldly atmosphere. Today, Samseonggung serves as a place for ritual, martial arts, music, and meditation, with the goal of preserving Korean indigenous culture and spirituality. Adult ₩8,000, youth (middle/high school student) ₩5,000, child (elementary school and under) ₩4,000, concessions (person with disabilities, National Merit honorees – individual) ₩5,000, adult (group) ₩7,000, youth (group) ₩4,000, children (group): ₩3,000, concessions (person with disabilities, National Merit honorees – group) ₩5,000.
- 2 Ssanggyesa Temple (쌍계사), 59 Ssanggyesa-gil, Hwagae-myeon, ☏ +82 55-883-1901. 08:00–17:30. An 8th-century Buddhist temple nestled in the southern foothills of Jirisan. Founded in 722, Ssanggyesa is famous for its historical relics, scenic valley location, and a 6 km cherry blossom avenue connecting it to Hwagae Market. Visitors can explore centuries-old stone pagodas, wooden halls, and a tranquil mountain atmosphere. It’s one of the most beloved cultural and natural landmarks in Hadong. Free admission.
- 3 House of Choi Champan (최참판 (Toji Cultural Village)), 66-7 Pyeongsari-gil, Agyang-myeon, ☏ +82 55-880-2651. 09:00–18:00. A restored 19th-century manor featured in the epic Korean novel Toji (“The Land”) by Park Kyung-ni. The complex consists of over a dozen hanok buildings set above the vast rice fields of Pyeongsari Village. It recreates the lifestyle of a Joseon-era gentry family and also served as the filming location for the Toji TV drama. The site overlooks the Seomjin River, offering visitors a blend of literature, history, and pastoral beauty. Adults ₩2,000, teenagers ₩1,500, children ₩1,000.
- 4 Hadong Wild Tea Museum (하동야생차박물), 571-25 Ssanggye-ro, Hwagae-myeon, ☏ +82 55-880-2956. Mar–Oct: 09:00–18:00; Nov–Feb: 09:00–17:00; closed Mondays. Located near the famous Hadong tea fields, this museum showcases Korea’s 1,200-year-old wild tea tradition. It offers exhibits on tea history and culture, along with hands-on experiences like roasting tea leaves and participating in a traditional tea ceremony. A relaxing and educational stop for tea enthusiasts exploring Hadong. Free.
- 5 Simni Cherry Blossom Road (십리벚꽃), Road between Hwagae Market and Ssanggyesa Temple, Hwagae-myeon. Always open (best in early April). A picturesque 4-km road lined with over 1,200 cherry trees, connecting Hwagae Market to Ssanggyesa Temple. Known as “Wedding Road,” it is one of Korea’s most romantic springtime destinations. During early April, the Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival fills the area with food stalls, music, and photo spots under pink flower tunnels. Free.
Do
[edit]Hadong offers a wide range of outdoor and cultural activities year-round — from scenic rail bike rides and thrilling ziplines to vibrant local festivals.
- 1 Haetteul Ranch (해뜰목), 31-108 Yangu 1-gil, Okjong-myeon, ☏ +82 55-810-8101. 10:00–17:00. Haetteul Ranch is a family-friendly dairy farm in the foothills of Jirisan. Visitors can try feeding cows, bottle-feeding calves, milking, or making ice cream. Fresh milk and homemade dairy snacks are available on site, making it a hit with children and families. No admission fee; costs depend on the activities or snacks chosen.
- 2 Hwagae Market (화개장터), Tap-ri, Hwagae-myeon, ☏ +82 55-883-5722. 09:00–18:00 (Open year-round). A traditional market bridging Gyeongsang and Jeolla provinces, famous for green tea, persimmons, and folk culture. Immortalized in Korean songs and stories, Hwagae Market remains a living piece of regional heritage where visitors can still feel the charm of old Korea.
- 3 Hadong Rail Bike (하동 레일 바이크), 2446-6, Gyeongseo-daero, Bukcheon-myeon, ☏ +82 55-882-2244. 09:30–17:30 (break 12:00–12:40). Pedal along a scenic rail track through Bukcheon-myeon, known for canola blossoms in spring and cosmos in autumn. The route offers calm countryside views and a fun activity for couples, friends, or families alike. 2-seater ₩30,000; 4-seater ₩44,000.
- 4 Hadong Zipwire (짚와이어), 493-5, Gyeongchung-ro, Geumnam-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1397-8065. 08:30–17:00 (break 12:00–13:00, 15:00–15:30). Soar above the Seomjin River on one of Korea’s longest ziplines, offering stunning views and an adrenaline rush. Safety gear and staff guidance are provided, making it suitable even for beginners. Adults ₩45,000; youth ₩40,000; children ₩35,000 (half price for Hadong residents).
Festivals
[edit]Throughout the year, Hadong celebrates its tea heritage, river culture, and rural beauty with lively local festivals. From tea ceremonies in spring to flower fields in autumn, each season offers something festive and distinctly Hadong.
- Hadong Wild Tea Cultural Festival (하동야생차문화축제), Hwagae-myeon. Held every May in scenic Hwagae Valley, this signature event celebrates Korea’s oldest tea-growing region with tea-making, tastings, and traditional performances.
- Seomjingang Clam (Jaechup) Festival (하동섬진강문화재첩축제), Songnim Park & Seomjin River banks. Held in June, this summer festival highlights the Seomjin River’s famous freshwater clams with fishing events, live music, and water games.
- Bukcheon Cosmos & Buckwheat Flower Festival (하동북천 코스모스·메밀꽃 축제), Bukcheon-myeon. In October, the fields of Bukcheon turn into a sea of pink and white as cosmos and buckwheat flowers bloom, drawing crowds of photographers and visitors from across Korea.
- Eat Hadong (Hadong Byeolmat) Festival (하동을먹다, 하동별맛축제), Hadong-eup. An autumn food festival featuring Hadong’s local specialties, markets, live performances, and creative dishes by regional chefs.
Buy
[edit]- 1 Bamtoli Chestnuts (밤톨), 17-1, Hwagae-ro, Hwagae-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1408-8999. 09:30 - 18:00. Hadong Bamtoli refers to premium-quality chestnuts grown in Hadong County, known for their large size, sweet flavor, and easy-to-peel shells. Cultivated in the clean natural environment near Jirisan Mountain and the Seomjin River, these chestnuts are widely appreciated across Korea. Visitors can buy fresh chestnuts directly from local markets or agricultural cooperatives, especially during the autumn harvest season. A charming mascot named "Bamtoli" is also used to promote local agricultural products. The Chestnut Pie Set (6 pieces, ₩21,000), Chestnut Pie (₩3,600), and Chestnut Pie Set (9 pieces, ₩31,500) are popular Hadong snacks loved for their sweet flavor and high ratings.
- 2 Hadong Honey Pear Liquor (하동 꿀배주), 28, Pyeongsari-gil, Agyang-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1313-8505. 12:00 - 18:00. Hadong Honey Pear Liquor is a traditional alcoholic beverage produced in Hadong. It is made from locally grown pears combined with natural honey, resulting in a mildly sweet flavor with a refreshing finish. The drink reflects the agricultural heritage of the region and is enjoyed both as a local specialty and as a souvenir for visitors. ₩19000.
- 3 Hadong Green Tea (하동 녹차), 571-25 Ssanggye-ro, Hwagae-myeon, ☏ +82 55-880-2956. Best enjoyed in spring harvest season (Apr–May). Hadong Green Tea is one of Korea’s most famous local specialties and a registered Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System by the FAO. The region’s tea fields along the Seomjin River have been cultivated for over 1,200 years using traditional hand-picking and pan-firing (deokkeum) methods. Visitors can buy premium loose-leaf teas ranging from high-end Ujeon to aromatic Sejak and enjoy tea products, gift sets, and ceramics at local shops, markets, and the Hadong Wild Tea Museum. Freshly processed tea is best purchased during the spring harvest season from April to May. Varies by grade (Ujeon, Sejak, etc.) and by tea experience programs.
Eat
[edit]- 1 Hyesung Sikdang (혜성식당), 48 Hwagae-ro, Hwagae-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1418-2164. 09:00–20:00. A long-standing restaurant near Hwagae Market, well known for Seomjin River dishes like jaecheop-guk (clam soup) and chamge-tang (crab stew). Loved by travelers visiting Hwagae’s cherry blossom road and Ssanggyesa Temple. ₩10,000–30,000.
- 2 Jirisan Isima Shiitake Rice (지리산이시마표고버섯밥), 24 Ssanggye-ro, Hwagae-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1392-2930. 08:00–20:00. Famous for rice cooked with locally grown shiitake mushrooms from Mt. Jiri. This restaurant emphasizes healthy, additive-free dishes and offers mushroom tea to guests. A peaceful place to enjoy traditional mountain food. ₩12,000–25,000.
- 3 Saebusan Seafood Restaurant (새부산횟), 2 Noryanghaean-gil, Geumnam-myeon, ☏ +82 55-884-5255. 10:00–21:00. Located right by the water in Hadong’s Noryang area, Saebusan Hoetjip offers premium sashimi prepared from locally sourced seafood. It’s a popular stop for both travelers and residents, known for its friendly service, generous portions, and true taste of Korea’s southern coast. ₩15,000–100,000.
- 4 Seomjingang Fish Restaurant (섬진강횟집), 2539-8 Seomjingang-daero, Hadong-eup, ☏ +82 55-883-5527. 08:30–21:00. A riverside restaurant specializing in freshwater fish and crab dishes from the Seomjin River. Popular for raw fish platters, chamge-tang (crab stew), and spicy stews enjoyed with scenic views of the river. ₩15,000–55,000.
- 5 Jangteo Gukbap (장터국밥), 2539-8 Seomjingang-daero, Hadong-eup, ☏ +82 507-1342-1585. 08:00–19:00. A countryside restaurant inside Pyeongsari Village known for sanchae-baekban (mountain-vegetable set meal) and grilled fish. Guests can dine overlooking rice fields and Jirisan’s foothills, making it perfect for those exploring Hadong’s literary and rural heritage. ₩12,000–35,000.
Sleep
[edit]- 1 Kensington Resort Jirisan Hadong (켄싱턴리조트 리조트하동), 532-6, Ssanggye-ro, Hwagae-myeon, ☏ +82 55-880-8000. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. Kensington Resort Jirisan Hadong is a four-star resort located in Hwagae-myeon, Hadong, at the foot of Mt. Jirisan. Surrounded by scenic mountains and valleys, it offers travelers a comfortable base for exploring the famous Hwagae Market, Ssanggyesa Temple, and the Seomjin River area. The resort provides spacious rooms, on-site dining, free parking, and spa facilities. Guests can also enjoy the natural surroundings and views of Jirisan National Park. It is a convenient accommodation option for families, groups, and independent travelers looking to experience both the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Hadong. ₩65,349 per night.
- 2 RG Pension (알지 펜션), 624 Hwagae-ro, Hwagae-myeon (on the road between Hwagae Market and Ssanggyesa Temple). Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. RG Pension is a quiet and scenic guesthouse in Hwagae-myeon, featuring garden views, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains and river. It is a peaceful base for travelers exploring Ssanggyesa Temple, Hwagae Market, and the cherry blossom road. Varies by room type.
- 3 Hadong Castle Pension (하동 캐슬펜션), 624 Hwagae-ro, Hwagae-myeon (near the Cherry Blossom Road in Hwagae), ☏ +82 10-4565-7888. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. Hadong Castle Pension offers spacious, modern rooms and a scenic mountain backdrop. Located along Hwagae’s famous cherry blossom road, it provides convenient access to Ssanggyesa Temple and the Seomjin River. Facilities include BBQ areas, terraces, and parking. ₩80,000–150,000 depending on room.
- 4 Haneulbit Hwangtobang Pension (하늘빛 황토방 펜션), 1423-8 Cheonghak-ro, Hadong-eup (within Hadong-eup, 5 minutes by car from the bus terminal), ☏ +82 10-9325-7425. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. Haneulbit Hwangtobang Pension is a cozy accommodation in Hadong-eup built with natural red clay. It features clean rooms, traditional ondol heating, BBQ facilities, and a quiet garden atmosphere. Suitable for couples and families seeking a local-style stay close to town. ₩60,000–120,000 depending on season.
Cope
[edit]Public services
[edit]- 5 Hadong County Office
- 6 Hadong Police Station (Gyeongnam Hadong)
- 7 Hadong Pine Forest Park (Hadong Songnim Park)
- 8 Hadong Public Stadium
Go next
[edit]- Gurye — across the Seomjin River in Jeollanam-do, Gurye is one of the main gateways to Jirisan National Park. The town is surrounded by scenic valleys and famous for the Sansuyu (Cornus) Flower Festival in spring. Popular hiking trails to Nogodan and Hwaeomsa Temple start here.
- Gwangyang — west of Hadong, Gwangyang is known for its plum blossom villages that bloom along the Seomjin River in early spring. The city also offers riverfront parks, Baegun Mountain hiking, and access to the Gwangyang Steelworks industrial area.
- Jinju — about an hour northwest of Hadong by intercity bus, Jinju is a historic riverside city known for Jinju Fortress (Jinjuseong) and the Namgang Lantern Festival. It also offers vibrant local cuisine, including Jinju-style bibimbap and beef soup (yukgaejang).
- Suncheon — a short drive west from Hadong, Suncheon is a well-known eco-tourism city. Highlights include the Suncheonman Bay Wetland Reserve, the reed fields, and the Suncheon Open Film Set, which recreates Korea’s 1950–80s urban scenes.