Shall we listen to the songs of the old raftmen? Gangwon-do Auraji, stories flowing along the waterway
In the deep mountain foothills of Gangwon-do, where two streams meet and become one, shall we listen to the songs of the old raftmen? Perhaps their voices, filled with sweat and sorrow, seem to faintly emerge from the mist. This place is not merely where rivers converge, but a historic waterway where countless life stories flow, none other than Auraji.
A place that was a livelihood and filled with sorrow for raftmen who transported timber by raft all the way to Hanyang during the Joseon Dynasty. How about a time travel journey to Auraji, where a sorrowful history, like the Arirang tunes they sang, coexists with beautiful nature?
Now, it’s a place where the lively sounds of rail bikes utilizing a disused station blend with tranquil scenery, creating new memories. Let’s embark together to discover its charm.
Where Two Waterways Meet and Become History, the Special Charm of Auraji
Auraji is the birthplace of Jeongseon Arirang and embodies the meaning of Songcheon and Goljicheon streams combining into one. This place, which was a rafting route transporting timber along the waterway to Hanyang since ancient times, holds a history as deep as its winding waters. Shall we listen to the songs of the old raftmen? If you imagine it, you can feel the traces of their arduous yet romantic lives.
The Story of Auraji Held by its Flowing Waters
- Confluence Point A point where the two streams, Songcheon and Goljicheon, meet and become one, boasting beautiful natural scenery.
- Historical Significance It was an important waterway for transporting rafts from the Joseon Dynasty to Hanyang and became the backdrop for Jeongseon Arirang, which contains the sorrows of the raftmen.
- New Transformation Currently, it serves as both the terminal and starting point for rail bikes utilizing the disused Gujeollyeok and Aurajieok stations, offering new enjoyment.
Auraji, A Joyful Journey Along the Waterway
Jeongseon Auraji is located in Yeryang-ri, Yeryang-myeon, Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do, and can be visited relatively conveniently by public transport or private car. The moment you arrive along the winding mountain road, the expansive riverside scenery makes you forget the fatigue of your journey.
Check the exact location of Auraji on the map below:
Attractions Encountered Along the Auraji Route
- Arrival and Parking Park your car in the parking lot around Aurajieok Station and begin your full-fledged journey. If using the rail bike, you can choose the course that goes from Gujeollyeok Station to Aurajieok Station.
- Rail Bike Experience The approximately 7.2km rail bike course from Gujeollyeok Station to Aurajieok Station is optimal for enjoying the beautiful scenery of Goljicheon while feeling the cool breeze. This unique experience utilizing a disused station offers an enjoyable time for families and couples alike.
- Visit Gumijeong Gumijeong, built on the Goljicheon rock formation near Auraji, is a tranquil pavilion where you can glimpse the refined tastes of old scholars. It’s a good place to rest for a while and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
- Explore Baekdudaegan Herb Village Experience a healing time, inhaling the scent of nature at Baekdudaegan Herb Village, where you can enjoy various experiences themed around medicinal herbs.
The rail bike is particularly popular, so it’s best to book in advance if you want to use it at your desired time. Pedaling through the open nature, shall we listen to the songs of the old raftmen? Losing yourself in thought for a moment is also a unique charm of Auraji.
Around Auraji, Splendid Scenery and Experiences Unfold at Every Step
Gumijeong, the Refined Taste of Old Scholars on the Goljicheon Rock Formation
Gumijeong, which can be found by moving a short distance along the Auraji waterway, stands gracefully on the Goljicheon rock formation. As its name, meaning ‘nine beautiful sceneries,’ suggests, the surrounding magnificent landscape is breathtaking. The tranquil atmosphere, reminiscent of Joseon Dynasty scholars composing poems and enjoying the arts here, is impressive.
A Healing Gift from Nature, Baekdudaegan Herb Village
Another treasure encountered in Auraji is Baekdudaegan Herb Village. Here, you can find various medicinal herbs grown in Gangwon-do’s pristine nature and participate in diverse experience activities using these herbs. Don’t miss this special experience that combines health and healing.
Special Experience Activities You Can Enjoy in Auraji
- Jeongseon Rail Bike A highly popular activity to enjoy both the ambiance of a disused station and the beautiful scenery of Goljicheon. The course from Gujeolli to Auraji is particularly beautiful during the autumn foliage season.
- Herb Experience At Baekdudaegan Herb Village, you can directly see and touch herbs and experience various programs such as making herbal tea and soap.
- Traditional Culture Experience Around Auraji, small performances or experience events related to traditional culture, such as Jeongseon Arirang, are occasionally held, so it’s good to check before visiting.
Shall we listen to the songs of the old raftmen? Auraji Visit Tips
Auraji is beautiful throughout all four seasons, but especially in spring, with fresh sprouts and clear water, and in autumn, with colorful autumn foliage, it creates a spectacular view. Rail bikes are affected by weather, so it’s good to check the weather conditions before visiting, and reservations are essential on weekends and public holidays.
| Category | Content |
|---|---|
| Rail Bike Operating Hours | Varies by season and day of the week, prior check on website recommended |
| Rail Bike Fares | Paid (Fares vary by number of passengers) |
| Auraji Cultural Heritage Viewing | Some facilities paid or free |
| Baekdudaegan Herb Village Experience | Paid per experience program (prior reservation recommended) |
Checklist for a Comfortable and Enjoyable Trip
- Comfortable Shoes Comfortable shoes are essential for riding the rail bike and walking around.
- Sunscreen and Hat Since there are many outdoor activities, it’s good to prepare to block out the sun.
- Camera Don’t forget a camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful scenery. There will be many perfect photo opportunities.
- Light Snacks and Drinks It’s even better to bring snacks that can satisfy your hunger or quench your thirst while moving.
- Spare Clothes It’s useful to prepare a light outer garment or spare clothes in case of weather changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Where is Auraji located?
Auraji is located in Yeryang-ri, Yeryang-myeon, Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do. It is the confluence point where the two streams, Songcheon and Goljicheon, meet, and it is a place with beautiful surrounding scenery.
Q2. What are the main experience activities available in Auraji?
The most popular experience is the rail bike that runs from Gujeollyeok Station to Aurajieok Station. In addition, you can enjoy visiting Gumijeong, and an herb experience at Baekdudaegan Herb Village.
Q3. Do I need to make a reservation for the Auraji rail bike?
Yes, the rail bike is popular, so advance booking is recommended on weekends and public holidays. Especially during specific time slots or peak season, it may be difficult to use without a reservation, so please check in advance.
Q4. What kind of place is Gumijeong?
Gumijeong is a pavilion built on the Goljicheon rock formation, meaning ‘nine beautiful sceneries.’ It was a place where old scholars enjoyed the arts, and the surrounding natural scenery is outstanding.
Q5. Are there any other places worth visiting near Auraji?
Near Auraji, there are various Things to see and sights such as Gujeollyeok Station (rail bike starting point), Baekdudaegan Herb Village, and the Arirang Center, fitting for the home of Jeongseon Arirang.
