Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon

Hwaseong Fortress is located in Suwon, Republic of Korea.  King Jeongjo (22nd King of the Joseon Dynasty) ordered construction to begin in January 1794 in order to honor and move the remains of his father, Crown Prince Jangheon (AKA Crown Prince Sado), from Yangju to Suwon.  Construction was completed in September 1796.  The short time in construction and the relative low price was attributed to Sihak (a new type of practical learning in the 18th Century).  During its construction, the Geojunggi (type of traditional Korean crane) was developed in order to transport the large stones.  The architecture combines Eastern and Western influence which sets it apart from other Korean buildings.  It consists of forty-eight facilities but seven facilities have not been restored due to destruction from Japanese colonial rule, WWII, and the Korean War.  

The pictures from the Paldalum up to the "Performances of 24 Martial Arts Demonstration" are arranged in a clockwise tour of the Fortress.  Hwaseong Haenggung and King Jeongjo's Bronze Statue are located in the central area of the fortress.  This was taken over two days (April 21st-22nd) due to the fact that I did not have a memory card for my camera and started a little late.  The walk around the fortress is almost 6 kilometers and it normally takes about 2 1/2 hours to walk. 

You can get to Hwaseong Fortress by taking the Blue Line/Line #1 and getting off at Suwon Station (stop P154).  From there you take the bus (#11, 13, 36, or 39) and it will drop you off at Paldalmun.  On the opposite side, the same bus lines will also take you back to Suwon Station.   Entry fee into Hwaseong Fortress is 1000 won (approximately $1) for adults, 700 won for youth, and 500 won for children.  Entry fee for Hwaseong Haenggung is 1500 won for adults, 1000 won for youth, and 700 won for children.  Groups of at least 30 get a reduced rate.  The fortress is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM but closed on Mondays.  There is a "Performance of 24 Martial Arts" show every morning at 11:00 AM.  The weekends has shows from the last weekend in March to November at 2:00 PM.  Saturdays feature a show composed of different genres centered on traditional performances that give Suwon's unique sights and activities.  Sundays feature the "Jang Yong Yeong (Royal Guards) Security Guards Ceremony". 

Official link:  http://ehs.suwon.ne.kr/asp/02/05.asp

NOTE:  On October 8th from 1000-1300 there is a re-enactment of King Jeongo's visit to his father's tomb.  The march covers some 8 kilometers and about 2000 marchers.  It is a reminder of "filial piety".