Things To Do
in Hwasu-dong

Hwasu-dong is a vibrant neighborhood located in the beautiful city of Suwon, South Korea. Known for its rich historical significance and modern urban charm, it offers a mix of traditional culture and contemporary living. The area is home to stunning architecture, bustling markets, and serene parks, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration.

Visitors to Hwasu-dong can immerse themselves in the local lifestyle while enjoying the scenic views of nearby landscapes and cultural landmarks.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can walk along the walls and enjoy panoramic views of Suwon.

afternoon
:

Head to the Korean Folk Village to experience traditional Korean culture through performances, crafts, and authentic village life.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Suwon's famous galbi (grilled beef ribs) and take a stroll through the lively streets of Hwasu-dong.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Suwon Botanical Garden for a peaceful morning surrounded by diverse plant species and beautiful landscapes.

afternoon
:

Explore the Suwon Hwaseong Museum to learn about the history and significance of the fortress and the region.

evening
:

End your day at a cozy café in Hwasu-dong, enjoying a cup of traditional Korean tea while reflecting on your adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍚Bowl of Rice$1
🍜Noodle Dish$5
🍺Beer (local)$3
Coffee$4
🥡Street Food Snack$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural history and beautiful landmarks.
  • Delicious local cuisine and diverse dining options.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Language barrier for non-Korean speakers.
  • Public transportation can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Limited options for nightlife outside of the main areas.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "죄송합니다" - I'm sorry
  • "얼마예요?" - How much is this?
  • "도와주세요" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Hwasu-dong

Visit one of these nice places.

Hwaseong Fortress

Capture stunning views of the fortress walls and surrounding landscapes, especially during sunset.

Suwon City Hall

The modern architecture contrasts beautifully with traditional elements, making it a great spot for photography.

Suwon Botanical Garden

A picturesque setting with diverse flora, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hwasu-dong

Hwasu-dong offers a delightful culinary journey with its unique local dishes and vibrant food scene.

Hwasu-dong Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Galbi

Suwon's signature dish, consisting of marinated beef ribs grilled to perfection.

Must-Try!

Kimchi Jjigae

A spicy stew made with kimchi, tofu, and pork, perfect for warming up.

Sundubu Jjigae

A soft tofu stew that is rich in flavor and often served with a side of rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Suwon Night Market

A bustling market filled with street food vendors offering a variety of snacks like tteokbokki and hotteok.

Hwasu-dong Street Food Alley

A vibrant alley where you can sample local delicacies and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hwasu-dong experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 35°C (75°F to 95°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging around -6°C to 5°C (21°F to 41°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to older individuals; it is an important cultural norm.

Removing Shoes

In many traditional accommodations and homes, it is customary to remove shoes before entering.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin your meal.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hwasu-dong is generally a safe area for travelers. However, as in any urban setting, it's important to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Hwasu-dong

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect pleasant temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms in parks, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and humid, summer is perfect for visiting water parks and enjoying cold dishes like naengmyeon (cold noodles).

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn leaves create a stunning backdrop for sightseeing.

Winter

Cold and sometimes snowy, winter offers a chance to experience traditional Korean winter foods and hot beverages.

Nightlife Guide

Hwasu-dong at Night

Hwasu-dong's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring a mix of traditional pubs, modern bars, and nightclubs. The area is known for its lively atmosphere, especially on weekends, with many locals and visitors enjoying drinks and music. Karaoke rooms are popular spots for group entertainment, making it easy to join in the fun and experience local culture.

Hiking in Hwasu-dong

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Namhansanseong Trail

A scenic hiking trail that winds through the historical Namhansanseong fortress, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Gwanggyo Lake Park Trail

A peaceful trail around Gwanggyo Lake, ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Hwasu-dong by plane.

Incheon International Airport

Located approximately 80 km from Hwasu-dong, this is the primary international airport serving Seoul and the surrounding areas, offering a range of domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hwasu-dong is highly walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and parks located within a short distance. The area features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, making it easy to explore on foot. Additionally, the local infrastructure is designed to accommodate walkers, enhancing the overall experience of exploring the neighborhood.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to Hwasu-dong due to its vibrant atmosphere and employment opportunities.

Families

Many families choose to live in Hwasu-dong for its excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Taekwondo

Originating from Korea, Taekwondo is a popular martial art practiced throughout the region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in South Korea, and local games often draw large crowds, especially in the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hwasu-dong can be moderate to heavy, particularly during rush hour. Public transportation, including buses and the metro, is efficient and widely used, making it easy to navigate the city. Additionally, taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing services are also popular among locals and visitors.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hwasu-dong.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Korean cuisine often includes meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of popular dishes.

Halal Food

Some restaurants cater to halal requirements, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in South Korea is of high quality and widely accessible. There are numerous hospitals and clinics in Suwon, including both public and private facilities. Most healthcare providers speak some English, and it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are also readily available for minor health concerns and over-the-counter medications.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide