A Story of Escape: Finding Wonderland in Gyeonggi-do
Imagine this: You are tired of the endless gray skyscrapers and the fast-paced noise of Seoul. You crave a place that feels like a dream—somewhere the air smells like wet soil and blooming flowers, and every corner looks like a scene from a fairytale movie. This was exactly how Sarah, an expat living in Korea, felt last weekend.
She hopped on a bus heading north to Paju, not expecting much. But as she walked through the imposing "Castle Gate" of Byeokchoji Gardens, her jaw dropped. To her left, a serene Korean pond reflected ancient willow trees. To her right, Greek statues stood guard in a manicured European garden that looked straight out of Bridgerton. She realized she hadn't just found a park; she had stepped onto the set of her favorite dramas. This wasn't just a garden; it was a living painting. Today, I invite you to walk the same path. ๐ฟ
What is Byeokchoji Gardens?
Located in Paju, Gyeonggi-do, Byeokchoji Gardens (The Botanical Garden BCJ) is a breathtaking arboretum established in 2005. The name "Byeokchoji" roughly translates to "a pond with green willows and grass." But don't let the humble name fool you.
Spanning over 120,000 square meters, this place is a unique fusion of East and West. It is divided into six different themed spaces, housing over 1,000 species of plants. It is not just a place to look at flowers; it is a space designed for immersion. Whether you want the meditative calm of a traditional Korean forest or the grandeur of a European palace garden, you will find it here. ๐ณ
The Queen’s Garden: A Slice of Europe
The most Instagram-famous spot in the arboretum is undoubtedly the Queen's Garden and the Castle Gate. As you pass through the massive, rusty-hued European gate, you are transported to a different continent.
The Vibe: Think Versailles meeting ancient Greece. The garden features perfectly symmetrical hedges, a majestic fountain, and numerous marble statues of Greek gods and goddesses. ๐️
The Highlight: The "Zeus Garden" area is wide and open, offering a dramatic backdrop that feels incredibly cinematic. It is no wonder this specific area is used for wedding photoshoots and dramatic TV scenes. The contrast between the blue sky and the white statues is simply stunning.
The K-Drama Pilgrimage Site
If you are a fan of Korean dramas, Byeokchoji Gardens might give you a sense of dรฉjร vu. That is because it is one of the most filmed locations in Korea! ๐ฌ
Walking through the gardens feels like re-living your favorite episodes. Here are just a few of the massive hits filmed here:
Vincenzo: The garden was used for the luxurious party scenes.
Hotel Del Luna: The dreamy, otherworldly atmosphere fit the ghost hotel theme perfectly.
Descendants of the Sun: Yes, that legendary drama filmed scenes here too.
The Penthouse: The grandeur of the European garden matched the show's theme of wealth.
Wherever you turn, there is a photo zone waiting for you. Make sure your phone battery is fully charged! ๐ธ
The Eastern Garden: The Sound of Silence
After you have taken enough photos in the European section, head over to the Eastern Garden for a complete change of pace. This area focuses on the natural beauty of Korea.
The centerpiece is the large Lotus Pond (Byeokchoji). A long wooden bridge cuts across the water, leading to a traditional Korean pavilion.
The Scenery: Weeping willows drape their branches over the water, and in the summer, the pond is filled with blooming lotus flowers and water lilies. ๐ชท
The Experience: It is quieter here. The path is made of soft dirt and wood chips, encouraging a slow walk. It is the perfect place to sit on a bench, listen to the birds, and breathe in the scent of pine trees. It captures the essence of "Korean beauty"—harmonizing with nature rather than controlling it.
Seasonal Beauty: When to Visit
Byeokchoji Gardens is a chameleon that changes its colors with every season. There is no "wrong" time to go, but each season offers a different flavor. ๐
Spring (April-May): The undisputed king of seasons here. The tulip festival paints the ground in rainbows, and cherry blossoms shower the paths in pink.
Summer (June-August): Hydrangeas and lilies take over. The greenery is at its most vibrant, and the lotus pond is in full bloom.
Autumn (September-November): The chrysanthemum festival is famous. The maple trees turn fiery red, creating a romantic, melancholy atmosphere perfect for walking.
Winter: While the flowers are gone, the garden sometimes hosts a lighting festival (check the schedule beforehand), where the barren trees are wrapped in millions of sparkling LED lights. ✨
Q1. Is it difficult to get there from Seoul without a car?
A. It is a bit of a journey, but it is possible! ๐ You can take the Gyeongui-Jungang Line subway to Wollong Station. From there, you will need to take a taxi (about 10-15 minutes, costing around 10,000 KRW) or a local bus. Since the bus intervals can be long, a taxi from the station is highly recommended for convenience.
Q2. Can I bring a stroller or a wheelchair?
A. Yes! Most of the main paths are paved or flat enough for strollers and wheelchairs. ♿ However, some of the wooded trails in the Korean garden section might be a bit bumpy with roots or dirt paths, so stick to the main walkways for the smoothest experience.
Q3. Is there food available inside?
A. Yes, there is a cafe and a restaurant (Brunch Cafe) inside the main building near the entrance. You can enjoy coffee, pasta, or pizza with a view of the gardens. ๐☕ There is also a gift shop selling herb products and plants. Note that outside food is generally restricted to maintain cleanliness.
Conclusion: A Healing Pause
Paju Byeokchoji Gardens is more than just a tourist attraction; it is a reminder of the beauty that exists when humans and nature collaborate. Whether you are a K-Drama fan chasing filming locations, a couple looking for a romantic date spot, or a family wanting a safe place for kids to run around, this arboretum offers a perfect escape.
Next weekend, why not trade the city noise for the whispering willows and the silent gaze of Greek statues? Paju is waiting for you. ๐ท
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