YANGGU, Nov. 20 (Korea Bizwire) – A provincial arboretum in mountainous Gangwon Province has transformed into a popular year-round destination, drawing visitors with seasonal attractions ranging from tulip festivals to nighttime light displays.
The Yanggu Arboretum had already welcomed 46,907 visitors as of November 14, nearly matching last year’s total attendance of 47,628, local officials reported. They expect the final count to exceed 50,000 visitors by year’s end.
Seasonal events have proved particularly successful, with 72% of visitors arriving during the spring tulip festival, summer night openings, and autumn chrysanthemum exhibitions held between April and October.
A year-round sledding facility, opened in January last year, has become an unexpected hit with both children and adults. The 78-meter track features three lanes with steep slopes and curves, offering thrills regardless of the season. The attraction has drawn about 7,000 visitors this year alone.
“We’re working to develop diverse content that showcases our rich natural environment,” said Seo Heung-won, the county mayor. He added that the arboretum will be integrated with new projects, including a healing forest and a trail around Soyang Lake, to establish the region as a premier forest recreation destination.
Situated on the slopes of Daeamsan at an elevation of 450 meters, the 189,141-square-meter arboretum houses over 300 species of trees and flowering plants. Its collection includes endangered plant species, 1,500 bonsai specimens including pine and Chinese hornbeam trees, and 150 taxidermied animals, including rare mountain goats and foxes.
The facility also offers forest education programs for children, wildlife ecology exhibitions, a wood culture experience center, and various recreational spaces including well-maintained walking trails and picnic areas.
Image credit: Yanggu County / photonews@koreabizwire.com
