Damyang: Korea’s Green Paradise You Can Visit from Seoul or Gwangju
Damyang Travel Guide – Bamboo Forest, Metasequoia Road & Slow City Vibes
Damyang is Korea’s classic bamboo town, famous for its lush Juknokwon Bamboo Forest, photogenic Metasequoia-lined Road, riverside Gwanbangjerim Forest & Samjicheon Stream, and local dishes like tteokgalbi and bamboo rice. This guide shows how to visit from Gwangju or Seoul, what to see and what to eat in one easy itinerary.
🌿 Why Visit Damyang?
Damyang is a small county in South Jeolla Province, just north of Gwangju, known for its bamboo forests, tree-lined roads and riverside parks. It’s one of Korea’s best places to slow down, breathe fresh air and enjoy green scenery without a complicated itinerary.
Most visitors come for Juknokwon Bamboo Forest, the iconic Metasequoia Road, the traditional village atmosphere of Damyang-eup, and calm walks along Samjicheon Stream and Gwanbangjerim Forest. Add a plate of tteokgalbi and a café stop, and you have a perfect Korean countryside day trip.
🚆 How to Get to Damyang
| From | Transport | Time (one way) | Approx. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gwangju | Local bus or taxi → Damyang-eup / Juknokwon | ~30–40 minutes | ₩2,000–₩20,000 | Most convenient starting point; many visitors base in Gwangju. |
| Seoul | Express bus → Damyang Bus Terminal | ~3–3.5 hours | ₩18,000–₩30,000 | Check schedules; some routes may be seasonal or limited. |
| Seoul | KTX/SRT → Gwangju + local bus | ~2–2.5 hours (+ bus) | ₩30,000–₩50,000+ | Fast rail to Gwangju, then bus/taxi to Damyang. |
| Busan / Yeosu | Bus → Gwangju → Damyang | Varies | Varies | Easy to include Damyang on a Jeolla-region trip. |
For most travelers, the simplest plan is: stay in Gwangju, then take a day trip to Damyang by local bus, taxi or tour.
🏨 Where to Stay in and Around Damyang
Base in Gwangju + Day Trip to Damyang
Many visitors choose to stay in Gwangju for better hotel options, restaurants and transport, then visit Damyang for a full or half day. This works well if you also plan to explore Gwangju’s markets and cultural spots.
Good choice if you prefer more nightlife and dining options, or if you’re traveling without a car.
Stay in Damyang-eup or Near Juknokwon
If you want maximum nature and quiet, look for pensions, guesthouses or small hotels near Damyang-eup, Juknokwon or Metasequoia Road. Waking up early for a calm walk in the bamboo forest can be a highlight.
Expect roughly ₩60,000–₩120,000 per night for mid-range rooms; hanok-style or view rooms may cost more.
📍 Top Things to Do in Damyang
1. Juknokwon Bamboo Forest
Juknokwon is Damyang’s signature attraction: a large bamboo forest park with walking paths, viewpoints, small pavilions and photo spots. The air feels cooler and calmer inside, and the sound of the bamboo leaves in the wind is very relaxing.
2. Metasequoia-lined Road
Not far from Juknokwon, the Metasequoia Road is a long stretch of tall trees planted along both sides of the road. It is famous as a filming location and a popular photo spot, especially in spring and autumn.
Some sections are car roads and others are pedestrian-friendly; follow local signs and safety rules when taking photos.
3. Gwanbangjerim Forest & Samjicheon Stream
Gwanbangjerim Forest and the Samjicheon Stream stretch through Damyang-eup, creating a calm riverside park with large trees, stone paths and small bridges. It’s perfect for a slow walk before or after visiting Juknokwon.
4. Damyang-eup Traditional Streets
The center of Damyang-eup has small streets with local restaurants, traditional houses, cafés and shops selling bamboo products. It’s a nice place to look for lunch or dinner and small souvenirs.
5. Korea Bamboo Museum (Optional)
If you want to learn more about bamboo culture and craft, the Korea Bamboo Museum (or related exhibition spaces) sometimes offer displays of bamboo tools, furniture and artwork that show how important bamboo has been in Korean daily life.
6. Cafés with Forest Views
Around Damyang, you’ll find view cafés overlooking rice fields, forests or rivers. These are great for a break between walking routes, especially on warm or rainy days.
🍲 What to Eat in Damyang
Damyang is famous for tteokgalbi (grilled short-rib patties), bamboo rice, and other comforting Korean dishes that feel perfect after a long walk among trees.
Tteokgalbi (Grilled Short-rib Patties)
Tteokgalbi is made from seasoned beef or mixed meat shaped into thick patties and grilled over charcoal or a hot plate. In Damyang, it often comes as a set with rice, soup and many side dishes.
Bamboo Rice & Other Local Dishes
Bamboo rice (bap steamed inside bamboo), noodle soups, jeon (savory pancakes) and simple Korean home-style meals are easy to find around Damyang-eup and near the main attractions.
🗓 Suggested Damyang Itineraries
1-Day Damyang Highlights (from Gwangju)
- Morning: Travel from Gwangju to Juknokwon Bamboo Forest.
- Walk the bamboo paths, climb to viewpoints and take photos.
- Lunch: Tteokgalbi or bamboo rice near Juknokwon or in Damyang-eup.
- Afternoon: Visit the Metasequoia Road for a tree-lined walk and photos.
- Late afternoon: Stroll along Gwanbangjerim Forest & Samjicheon Stream.
- Evening: Café time or early dinner, then return to Gwangju.
2-Day Slow Damyang & Gwangju Combo
- Day 1: Follow the Damyang highlights itinerary at a slow pace.
- Stay overnight in a pension or guesthouse near the forest or in Damyang-eup.
- Day 2: Enjoy a quieter morning walk or café time in Damyang.
- Return to Gwangju for lunch and spend the afternoon exploring Gwangju’s markets or museums.
🗺 Map & Useful Links
You can search these places on Naver Map or Kakao Map using their Korean names:
- 죽녹원 (Juknokwon Bamboo Forest)
- 담양 메타세쿼이아길 (Damyang Metasequoia Road)
- 관방제림 (Gwanbangjerim Forest)
- 담양읍 (Damyang-eup town center)
- 한국대나무박물관 (Korea Bamboo Museum)
❓ Damyang Travel FAQ
Is Damyang good for all seasons?
Yes. Bamboo forests stay green year-round, and Metasequoia trees are beautiful in both fresh spring leaves and autumn colors. Summer can be hot and humid but shady paths help, while winter is quieter and less crowded.
Do I need to rent a car to visit Damyang?
Not necessarily. If you’re staying in Gwangju, you can reach Damyang and the main attractions by bus or taxi. A car is helpful if you want to explore more rural areas or hidden cafés, but it’s not essential.
Can I visit Damyang and another city in one trip?
Damyang combines very well with Gwangju, and can also be added to a longer Jeonju–Gwangju–Damyang itinerary.
More Nature & City Combo Trips in Korea
If you liked this Damyang guide, you might also enjoy: Gwangju Culture & Food Guide · Jeonju Hanok Village & Food Guide · Suncheon Bay Wetland & Garden Guide
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