I was biking on Naesuip-gil in Seojong-myeon until I ran into a dead end. Along with a sign that says there is no road ahead, a sign for Natural Gardens 529 was seen. Natural Gardens 529 is located in Suip-ri, which means “entrance through which water flows in.” A valley that starts from Yumyeongsan Mountain winds through Bangil-ri and Nomun-ri, and flows into Bukhangang River. I began to wonder what kind of scenery awaits me at Natural Gardens 529.

Natural Gardens 529 was a private garden owned by Mr. Jang Gi-young, former president of Hankook Hakwon, who settled in Yangpyeong in 2000 to build a house and plant lettuce and peppers as well as many Korean indigenous trees like pine trees. Hundreds of flowers including Siberian chrysanthemum, dahlia, willow herbs and evening primroses were also planted, and the facility was additionally decorated with Korean stone pagodas and sculptures. Flowing in front of the garden, Byeokgyecheon Stream forms a magnificent sight together with the mountain nearby. This beautiful garden created by sweat and efforts of men as well the nature’s aid won the “Gyeonggi Garden Culture Awards” in 2013.

As more and more acquaintances started to visit the “secret garden,” Mr. Jang built a guesthouse and a red clay room but, as he saw his friends getting refreshed and having a joyful time, he consistently thought how great it would be to enjoy the beauty of nature with more people. Thus, in June 2017, he opened the gates to what had been a privately owned garden for 17 years, and started to welcome visitors under the sign of Natural Gardens 529. From Bridge of love, talking parrot, stone tower, natural swing and boy monk to a tree observatory, mini golf course and baby elephant of luck, fun statues and interesting elements are placed throughout the garden. The wide lawn is a great location for outdoor performances or small wedding ceremonies.

Although it has not been open for too long, many people who have heard about the place via word of mouth have come to indulge in a relaxing time. The previous guesthouse building was transformed into an Italian restaurant while the house he had lived in became a café. The bakery manufactures naturally fermented species to bake and sell healthy breads that are ripened and fermented at low temperature for 24 hours. Each admission includes an exchange ticket for a cup of beverage such as coffee.

Because it is in the outdoor, Natural Gardens 529 is a place from which the changes of four seasons are witnessed in the first row.

Extended broadly over a 2,000-pyeong land, the garden is surrounded by a mountain in front and Byeokgyecheon Stream, which makes visitors feel as if they are stepping into the frame of an oriental painting. Relaxation in the nature is closer to you than you think.

Written and photos by Kim Sun-joo

Website https://naturalgarden529cafe.modoo.at/

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