Uidong Valley우이동계곡

About

Uidong Valley, the best-known valley in Gangbuk, lies between Dobongsan and Bukhansan mountains. The nine-bend stream flowing from Bukhansan through Ui-dong is called Ui Gugok (the Nine Bends of Ui). The name was given by Igye Hong Yang-ho, who lived here from 1762. He loved the valley so much that he named nine spots along it and wrote Uidong Gugokgi (Record of the Nine Bends of Ui-dong), which remains the only work of gugok (nine-bend) literature about Seoul. Stairs, walking trails, and other facilities around the valley make it easy to explore, and a stroll through the greenery or a splash in the stream will help you forget the sweltering summer heat. There are also restaurants along the clear, cool stream, and their chicken porridge is a particular summer treat. Guesthouse stays are available, and in March and April the valley is a favorite spot for university students' MT (membership training) retreats. About a 20-minute walk up the valley brings you to temples such as a Won Buddhist monastery, Seongbulsa, Yongdeoksa, Seonunsa, and Gwangmyeongsa, where the lively mood at the entrance soon gives way to a calmer, different kind of charm. Close to downtown Seoul and easy to reach by public transportation, it is a great place for Seoul residents to relax and recharge without much effort.