Dumulmeori in Yangpyeong, located in Gyeonggi Province, is a beautiful natural attraction popular among both domestic and international tourists. The name 'Dumulmeori' means 'the meeting point of two waters,' referring to where the North Han River and South Han River converge. This site harmoniously blends traditional Korean landscapes with modern amenities, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. The main attraction of Dumulmeori is its stunning natural scenery. The landscape, where rivers meet mountains, changes with each season, drawing visitors year-round. Spring brings cherry blossoms in full bloom, while autumn paints the area in vibrant fall colors. These beautiful scenes are particularly popular among photography enthusiasts, making Dumulmeori a frequently featured location on social media.
Historical Value of Dumulmeori in Yangpyeong
Dumulmeori is not only a place of natural beauty but also holds significant historical importance. The area contains several cultural heritage sites dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, allowing visitors to experience Korean history and culture. A notable example is a 400-year-old zelkova tree, which is said to have served as the village's guardian spirit. Nearby, Semiwon is a site that recreates pavilions and ponds from the Joseon era, showcasing the beauty of traditional Korean gardens.
Dumulmeori also played a crucial role as a logistics hub in the past. During the Joseon Dynasty, goods were transported to Seoul via the Han River using rafts from this area. This historical background has influenced the current landscape of Dumulmeori, where traces of old docks can still be found.
Activities
Visitors to Dumulmeori can enjoy various activities beyond simply admiring the scenery. There's a 2.5-mile (4km) walking trail along the riverside, popular for its simultaneous views of the river and mountains.
Water activities are also available at Dumulmeori. Visitors can rent kayaks or paddleboards to experience the scenery from the water, or take a cruise for a broader view of the landscape. The sunset cruises are particularly popular among couples for their romantic atmosphere.
The area around Dumulmeori features various cafes and restaurants where visitors can relax and enjoy good food. Riverside cafes are especially popular, offering coffee with beautiful views. There are also restaurants serving local specialties, allowing visitors to taste the flavors of Yangpyeong.
Tips for Visitors
There are several things to keep in mind when visiting Dumulmeori. First, it can get very crowded on weekends and holidays, so weekday visits are recommended if possible. Also, the scenery can change dramatically depending on the weather, so it's advisable to check the forecast before visiting.
If using public transportation, you can take a bus from Yangpyeong Station. If driving, it's best to arrive early as parking spaces are limited. Remember that Dumulmeori is a nature preservation area, so littering and picking plants are strictly prohibited.
While Dumulmeori is beautiful year-round, it's most popular during cherry blossom season in spring and fall foliage season in autumn. These times offer the most spectacular views but are also the busiest, so plan accordingly.
Parking Information
Several parking facilities are available for visitors to Dumulmeori. The main options are the Dumulmeori Tourist Site Parking Lot and the Yangpyeong Seolmae-ri Parking Lot. The Dumulmeori Tourist Site Parking Lot is the closest and most convenient, but it fills up quickly on weekends and during peak seasons. This lot can accommodate about 300 vehicles, with parking fees for small cars at 2,000 won (approximately $1.80) for 2 hours, and 500 won (about $0.45) for each additional 30 minutes.
The Yangpyeong Seolmae-ri Parking Lot is about a 10-minute walk from the Dumulmeori tourist site. It's larger, accommodating about 500 vehicles, and charges a flat rate of 3,000 won (about $2.70) per day for small cars, making it more economical. This lot is recommended for weekend or holiday visits.
Both parking lots have designated spaces for disabled visitors and electric vehicle charging stations.
It's important to note that during peak seasons and weekends, parking lots start to fill up early in the morning. It's advisable to arrive before 9 AM if possible. If the main lots are full, private parking lots nearby are available, though they may be more expensive.
Using public transportation is also a good option when visiting Dumulmeori. Buses from Yangpyeong Station to Dumulmeori run every 20-30 minutes, with a journey time of about 30 minutes, allowing for a worry-free sightseeing experience without parking concerns.
