Andong, often referred to as the "Capital of Korean Spiritual Culture," is a historic city located in North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. Situated approximately 260 kilometers southeast of Seoul, Andong is renowned for its preservation of traditional Korean culture and Confucian heritage. The city's history dates back to the Three Kingdoms period, and it has been a center of Korean Confucianism since the Joseon Dynasty. Andong has preserved many aspects of traditional Korean culture for over 2,000 years. The city is characterized by its rich heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites and vibrant local festivals.
Population: approximately 160,000 as of 2024.
Economy: Andong's economy is centered around agriculture, traditional crafts, and tourism. Known for its cultural heritage and Hahoe Folk Village, Andong attracts visitors seeking authentic Korean experiences, boosting local businesses and food production.
Landmarks: Hahoe Folk Village, Byeongsan Seowon, Bongjeongsa Temple,Andong Soju & Traditional Food Museum, Woryeonggyo Bridge, Andong Open Air Folk Museum
South Korea
Andong's history dates back to the Three Kingdoms period (57 BC - 935 AD), when it served as an important center of Confucianism and Buddhist culture. The city's strategic location along the Nakdong River and its proximity to the Baekdu Mountain Range contributed to its development as a hub of learning and spirituality. During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), Andong became a stronghold of Confucianism, with many prominent scholars and officials hailing from the region. The city is home to numerous Confucian academies, known as seowon, which served as centers of learning and intellectual discourse. Two of these academies, Dosan Seowon and Byeongsan Seowon, are UNESCO World Heritage sites, reflecting their historical and cultural significance.
Predominantly composed of ethnic Koreans. The city's history as a center of Confucianism and folk culture contributes to a strong sense of community and identity among its residents. The people of Andong are generally friendly and hospitable towards tourists. Given the city's designation as a "Tourism Hub City" by the Ministry of Culture, locals are accustomed to visitors and often eager to share their cultural practices, traditions, and stories. This openness is particularly evident during festivals such as the Andong Mask Dance Festival, where locals actively participate in showcasing their heritage.
Chunghyodang - © kikujungboy CC
In Andong, you can explore the rich cultural heritage of South Korea through its top attractions, such as the Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves the traditional Korean way of life with well-preserved hanok houses and cultural performances.
Buyongdae Cliff - © gather
Andong Jjimdak - © Pas Go
The Andong Mask Dance Festival is one of the most significant cultural events in the region, held annually in Hahoe Folk Village. The festival features performances of traditional Korean mask dances, known as Talchum, as well as international mask dance performances from around the world. Visitors can enjoy various cultural activities, including workshops to learn about mask-making and dance. The atmosphere is lively, with food stalls and games, making it a festive experience for all ages.
This festival is an extension of the traditional mask dance celebration, inviting international performers to showcase their unique styles of mask dance and cultural performances. The event includes competitions, parades, and workshops, allowing visitors to engage with the art form and learn about its significance in different cultures. The festival emphasizes cultural exchange and global unity through the performing arts.
The Andong Soju Festival celebrates the region's famous traditional rice wine, Andong Soju. This festival features tastings, demonstrations of the brewing process, and various food pairings. Visitors can learn about the history and cultural significance of Andong Soju while enjoying local cuisine. The festival is a great opportunity to experience the culinary heritage of Andong.
The Andong Cultural Festival showcases the city's rich history and traditions through various performances, exhibitions, and activities. Visitors can enjoy traditional music, dance, and art displays, as well as participate in hands-on workshops that highlight local crafts and customs. The festival aims to promote Andong's cultural identity and engage both locals and tourists.
While not a festival in the traditional sense, the Hahoe Mask Dance Performance takes place regularly at Hahoe Folk Village. Visitors can witness this unique cultural performance that has been passed down through generations. The dance is performed in traditional costumes and masks, offering insights into Korean folklore and history. This experience is a must for anyone visiting Andong, as it highlights the city's artistic heritage.
Byeongsan Seowon - © Wikimedia
Bongjeongsa Temple - © Wikimedia
Andong experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, making it essential for travelers to understand the weather patterns when planning their visit. Here’s an overview of average temperatures, rainfall, the best time to travel, and other relevant weather information.
The best times to visit Andong are during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these months, visitors can enjoy mild temperatures, beautiful natural scenery, and fewer crowds. Spring is particularly famous for cherry blossoms, while autumn showcases stunning fall foliage.
Traditional Mask-Making Workshop - © Korea Herald
When visiting Andong, understanding the local customs and etiquette is essential for a respectful and enjoyable experience. Here are some important cultural etiquette and customs to be aware of:
Andong Soju Festival - © wediditourway
Andong has several bank branches and ATMs located throughout the city. Some of the major banks with ATM services include:
Andong National University also has banking services and ATMs available on campus for students and visitors.
Hide away in the gentle hills of Tochigi Prefecture, Mashiko is more than a stop on a map, it’s a living gallery of clay, craft, and community. Known worldwide for its Mashiko-yaki pottery, this charming rural town draws travelers seeking hands-on creativity and a slower pace of life. Here, kiln smoke curls into blue skies, and artisan shops spill treasures onto narrow streets. Only a few hours from Tokyo, Mashiko offers the perfect escape for lovers of traditional Japanese culture, authentic local food, and countryside landscapes.
Population: Approximately 22,000 in 2020.
Economy: Mashiko’s economy thrives on its renowned pottery industry, attracting both domestic and international buyers. Tourism plays a vital role, fueled by pottery fairs, local crafts, and cultural events.
Landmarks: Famous for the Mashiko Pottery Museum, Pottery Street, and the Saimyoji Temple.
Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go feels like a scene from an old Japanese folktale. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses, wooden homes with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy winter snow. Here, each season paints the village in new colors: spring blossoms, green summer paddies, golden autumn leaves, and glistening winter snow.
Population: Approximately 60,000 in 2020.
Economy: Shirakawa-go’s economy blends heritage preservation with sustainable tourism. While agriculture, especially rice farming, remains part of local life, tourism is now the main economic driver.
Landmarks: Famous for Ogimachi Village, Wada House, and Shiroyama Viewpoint.
Fuji-shi, or Fuji City, is a vibrant gateway to Japan’s most iconic peak, Mount Fuji. Located in Shizuoka Prefecture, this coastal city blends scenic beauty with rich traditions. From its bustling streets to the peaceful banks of the Fuji River, every corner offers a postcard-worthy view of the mountain. Just an hour from Tokyo by train, Fuji-shi is ideal for travelers seeking authentic Japanese city life with nature close at hand.
Population: Approximately 245,000 in 2019.
Economy: Fuji-shi is a major hub in Shizuoka Prefecture’s manufacturing sector, known for its paper and pulp production. The city also benefits from the logistics and transport industries due to its location along the Tōkaidō corridor.. Fishing at Tagonoura Port, tea production in nearby plantations, and tourism linked to Mount Fuji further diversify the local economy.
Landmarks: Famous for Mount Fuji viewing points, Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, and Tanuki Lake.
Nestled in the far west of An Giang Province, Châu Đốc is where the Hậu River bends toward the Cambodian border. This riverside city is a blend of cultures, faiths, and flavors. Here, Vietnamese, Khmer, Cham, and Chinese communities live side by side, shaping a rich tapestry of daily life. For travelers, Châu Đốc offers more than stunning river views. It’s a city of floating markets, sacred temples, and bustling border trade.
Population: Approximately 100,000 in 2019.
Economy: Chau Doc’s economy thrives on cross-border trade, aquaculture, and agriculture, especially rice and fish farming. Tourism also plays a key role, fueled by its cultural diversity and proximity to Cambodia.
Landmarks: Famous for the Sam Mountain, Ba Chua Xu Temple, and the Chau Doc Floating Market.
Tucked away on the southeastern edge of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay is a dazzling mosaic of emerald waters, hidden beaches, and towering limestone karsts. Often called the “quiet sister” of Halong Bay, it offers the same breathtaking scenery without the tourist crowds. Here, over 300 islets and unspoiled coves create a paradise for kayakers, nature lovers, and those seeking authentic cultural encounters. This is where the rhythm of the sea shapes daily life, and where travelers can slow down to embrace Vietnam’s coastal charm.
Population: As a part of Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay is home to a small population, primarily concentrated in Viet Hai village, which has a population of around 300 people.
Economy: Lan Ha Bay’s economy is closely tied to tourism, fishing, and aquaculture. The bay attracts visitors with its scenic beauty, supporting hotels, boat tours, and local services. Fishing and seafood farming, especially oysters and squid, provide income for coastal communities. Eco-tourism and sustainable aquaculture are increasingly promoted to balance economic growth with environmental protection.
Landmarks: Famous for the Monkey Island, Dark & Bright Cave, and the Nam Cat Island.
Hai Phong, known as the City of Red Flamboyant, blends coastal beauty, historical depth, and vibrant urban life. Sitting on Vietnam’s northeast coast, this dynamic port city opens the door to famous attractions like Cat Ba Island and Ha Long Bay. Stroll along tree-lined boulevards, admire French colonial architecture, or wander through bustling markets alive with local flavors.
Population: Approximately 2 million in 2022.
Economy: Hai Phong is one of Vietnam’s key economic hubs, driven by its strategic position as a major seaport in the north. The city’s economy thrives on shipping, logistics, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and fisheries. Tourism and hospitality also play a growing role, supported by Hải Phòng’s coastal attractions and cultural heritage.
Landmarks: Famous for the Ky Co Beach, Do Son Beach, and the Tam Bac Lake & Flower Street.