1. Introduction to Deokjin Park

Welcome to Deokjin Park, an iconic urban oasis located in Jeonju, South Korea. This park combines rich history, fascinating legends, and breathtaking natural scenery. Visitors from all over the world come here to relax, walk along the lake, and admire the famous summer lotus flowers.

A Unique Origin Rooted in Feng Shui

Deokjin Park holds a very unique history compared to typical agricultural reservoirs. Local legends say King Gyeon Hwon of Later Baekje built an embankment here in 901 AD to protect his capital’s defense lines.

Historical records in the ancient book Dongguk Yeoji Seungnam offer another intriguing story. Jeonju sits in a basin with mountains surrounding three sides, leaving only the northern direction open. Ancient ancestors built a dam between Garyeonsan Mountain and Geonjisan Mountain based on Feng Shui principles. They created the lake to trap the natural energy of the earth and prevent it from flowing away.

Growth and Public Significance

The government first officially designated the park area in May 1938. Authorities later declared it a public citizen park in April 1978. Since January 1, 2001, the park opens to everyone free of charge, welcoming local residents and global travelers every day.

A Thriving Natural Ecosystem

The total park area spans 148,761 square meters, featuring 49,587 square meters of green land and 99,174 square meters of lake water. The sprawling lotus habitat covers an impressive 42,975 square meters.

During July and August, millions of pink lotus blossoms bloom across the lake, creating an unforgettable sea of flowers. The lake ecosystem supports various freshwater species:

• Fish Species: Snakeheads, carps, Crucian carps, catfishes, yellow catfishes, turtles, and loaches.
• Bird Species: Eurasian coots, spot-billed ducks, little grebes, and egrets.
• Aquatic Plants: Pink lotuses, hornworts, yellow iris, native iris, reeds, and cattails.

Cultural Highlights: Yeonhwajeong Library

Right in the center of the lake stands Yeonhwajeong, a stunning traditional Hanok building that serves as a public library. Visitors can read books, view the lake through wooden window frames, and cross the scenic Yeonhwagyo bridge for ideal photo opportunities.

2. How to Get to Deokjin Park

Reaching Deokjin Park is simple whether you travel by bus, train, or taxi from Jeonju Hanok Village or other major cities.

From Jeonju Station (KTX / Train)

1. By Bus: Walk to the bus stop outside Jeonju Station. Board City Bus No. 119 or 545. Ride for about 15 minutes and get off at the “Deokjin Park” stop.
2. By Taxi: Take a direct taxi from the train station terminal. The ride takes about 10 minutes and costs around 6,000 KRW.

From Jeonju Intercity / Express Bus Terminal

1. By Bus: Catch City Bus No. 101, 165, or 970 from the terminal area. You will arrive at the park entrance within 10 to 12 minutes.
2. By Taxi: A quick 5-minute taxi ride brings you straight to the main park gate.

From Jeonju Hanok Village

1. By Bus: Take City Bus No. 165 from the Hanok Village stop directly to Deokjin Park. The trip takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes.

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5. Surrounding Information

Enhance your trip to Jeonju by exploring nearby attractions, staying at comfortable hotels, and dining at famous local spots.

Nearby Attractions

• Jeonju Hanok Village: A world-famous historic district featuring over 700 traditional Korean Hanok houses, street food stalls, and cultural workshops.
• Jeonbuk National University Shopping District: Located right next to the park, offering vibrant cafes, fashion shops, and budget-friendly restaurants.
• Deokjin Park Music Fountain: An exciting night attraction inside the park featuring colorful laser light shows synced to music over the lake.

Recommended Accommodations

• Lahan Hotel Jeonju (라한호텔 전주): A premium hotel offering panoramic views of Jeonju Hanok Village.
  • Address: 85 Girin-daero, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si
  • Contact: +82-63-232-7000
• Jeonju Tourist Hotel Kkotsim (전주 관광호텔 꽃심): A clean, modern hotel located conveniently near downtown Jeonju.
  • Address: 171 Paldal-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si
  • Contact: +82-63-285-6800

Famous Local Restaurants

• Gogung Deokjin Main Branch (고궁 덕진본점): Famous for traditional Jeonju Bibimbap topped with fresh herbs and raw beef.
  • Address: 33 Songcheon-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si
  • Contact: +82-63-251-3211
• Hanguk Jip (한국집): A historic Bibimbap restaurant recognized by the Michelin Guide.
  • Address: 119 Eojin-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si
  • Contact: +82-63-284-2224