Discover Yeongheung Arboretum: Suwon’s Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers

October 2, 2025

Welcome to Yeongheung Arboretum (영흥수목원), a serene escape right in the heart of Suwon, South Korea. For travelers seeking a peaceful blend of carefully curated gardens and natural forest landscapes, this is the perfect destination. Unlike typical city parks, Yeongheung Arboretum is built on the area’s original mountainous terrain, offering stunning views and diverse plant life. Get ready to explore a sanctuary that beautifully combines horticulture, relaxation, and unique architecture.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

1. Introduction to Yeongheung Arboretum

Yeongheung Arboretum is enveloped by the larger Yeongheung Forest Park, utilizing the natural hilly landscape to create a dynamic and engaging botanical experience. As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by expansive green lawns that invite immediate relaxation, surrounded by forests categorized into various thematic gardens and zones.

The absolute landmark of the arboretum is its Greenhouse. This isn’t just a space for flowers—it’s a vibrant spectacle housing unique, exotic plants that transport you instantly to a tropical or foreign locale. It’s a perfect spot for stunning photos, even on a chilly or rainy day.

For visitors, the Visitor Center acts as a hub for rest and learning. Here, you can enjoy a coffee at the café while overlooking the beautiful grounds, browse various exhibitions, or participate in educational programs about botany and nature.

Bonus Tip for Travelers: The arboretum occasionally offers Night Openings during specific seasons. Experiencing the gardens at dusk, illuminated by subtle lighting, reveals a completely different, magical side of the park, perfect for a romantic evening stroll or a unique photo opportunity. Be sure to check their official website for seasonal operation times!


2. How to Get to Yeongheung Arboretum

Getting to Yeongheung Arboretum is relatively straightforward, whether you’re arriving from downtown Suwon or Seoul.

By Subway & Bus: The most convenient public transport route is to take the subway to Yeongtong Station (영통역) on the Suwon Subway Line 1 (수인분당선). From the station exit, you can easily catch a local bus (check routes that go towards Yeongheung Park or Mangpo-dong) or take a short taxi ride (approx. 5-10 minutes) directly to the arboretum entrance.

By Taxi or Car: If you prefer direct travel, a taxi from Suwon Station will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The arboretum has a designated parking lot, making it an easy drive for those renting a car. Simply search for “Yeongheung Arboretum” on your GPS or navigation app.


3. The Scenery of Yeongheung Arboretum

The beauty of the arboretum lies in its seasonal transformations and thematic variety.

  • Spring & Summer: The themed gardens burst into life with color. Look for the Rose Garden and various flowering shrubs. The lush green mountains surrounding the park offer a cooling, shaded environment.
  • Autumn: This is arguably the most beautiful season, as the surrounding forest transforms into a spectacular display of red, orange, and yellow foliage. The hilly terrain offers elevated vantage points for capturing the stunning autumn colors.
  • Winter: Even in winter, the arboretum is a serene spot. The evergreen trees maintain their color, and the warm Greenhouse provides a tropical escape from the cold, making it a viable year-round destination.

4. Surrounding Information

Make your visit a full-day itinerary by exploring nearby attractions and ensuring a comfortable stay.

CategoryLocation/NameKey Feature & Contact Info
Historical AttractionSuwon Hwaseong Fortress (수원 화성)A UNESCO World Heritage site and an essential piece of Korean history. Located about 25-35 minutes away by car/taxi. A must-see!
Accommodation (Hotel)Courtyard by Marriott SuwonA modern, comfortable stay located near Gwanggyo Lake Park, about 15-20 minutes from the Arboretum. Contact: (Check local booking sites for current rates and contact)
Famous RestaurantBonghwa Galbi (봉화갈비)Famous local Korean BBQ (Galbi) spot known for its delicious marinated beef. A classic Korean dining experience. Address: Search for locations near Mangpo-dong or Yeongtong-gu.


Discover more from Creative Innovator in Korea

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.