[Suwon City Tour] - Suwon Fortress, Hwahongmun and Banghwasuryujeong

Hwahongmun (화홍문) meaning beautiful rainbow-colored gate.

Hwahongmun, also known as Buksumun (the north gate) is  is located below the Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion, which the Suwon stream flows entering Hwaseong.  

The Suwon stream broadening at this point and

flowing through the Seven arches forming the bridge.

 The gate also functions as a bridge and housed cannons  to protect the Fortress.

It was originally intended to be the second battle command post, 

but instead its scenic location made it a favored place for feasts. 

 Hwahongmun played a role of a bridge, connecting villages from the either side of the river.

 

Seven arches were constructed in different sizes. The central opening is larger 

than the ones towards the outside making it easier to let the water through. 

 I love Suwon Fortress~^^

 Yeah nice scenery looking down from Hwahongmun...

Beautiful Suwon stream flowing from the North to the South.

 Suwon city harmonizes with sturdy Suwon Fortress.

The highlight iconic of Suwon city "Suwon Hwaseong Fortress"

         

 Hwaseong fortress wall stretches for a total of 5.52km, and about 4 to 6 metres high.

It was built over two and a half years from 1794 to 1796 based on  
Silhak (practical learning) which encouraged the use of science and industry.

 The architect Jeong Yak-Yong incorporated fortress designs from Korea and China 

along with contemporary science into his plans.

Bukammun (북암문 = Northern Secret Gate).

Hwaseong Fortress has 5 secret gates for the passage of people, cattle and military supplies. Bukammun is the only structure with brick walls at Hwaseong Fortress, which was constructed in 1796 between Banghwasuryujeong Paviliaon and Dongbukporu (Northeastern Sentry Post).

Banghwasuryujeong (방화수류정) Pavilion.

It served as watchtower, a command post and pavilion.

It's harmony with the natural surrounding, thus was named with the meaning

"A pavilion chasing after flowers and floating along the willow branches"

 This pavilion is said to be the most beautiful and unique structure

of Hwaseong Fortress. You can see this round pool and city view

from this pavilion. Awesome watchtower & pavilion indeed!

Hwaseong Fortress Dragon Train (화성열차).

Tourist Dragon Train route:  Paldalsan Mountain (General Gamchan Gang's Statue) -> Hwaseomun Gate -> Jangan Park -> Janganmun Gate -> Hwahongmun Gate -> Yeonmudae.

The front of the train is shaped like a powerful dragon that signifies King Jeongjo, 

and the guest cars resemble palanquins that once carried the king during his excursions.

We're going to Yeonmudae too after this... but sad face not with this cool dragon train. But at least I took a picture with it. ㅋㅋ

Related Posts:
~ Suwon Hwaseong Haenggung Palace
~ Trazy Suwon Hwaseong Fortress