A place where just looking can lead to meditation. There are places that make you want to visit just by hearing the name.
For those planning a break during holidays or weekends, I introduce a place where you can quietly feel nature and find peace of mind, rather than crowded tourist spots. The Meditation Garden located in Daejeon Dong-gu along the 4th section of the Daecheong Lake 500-ri Trail is the perfect place for those seeking complete relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
How to Easily Find It
The Meditation Garden is located along the lakeside romantic path of the 4th section of the Daecheong Lake 500-ri Trail. If you are visiting by car, you can easily find it by searching for 'Meditation Garden Hanteo Parking Lot' in your navigation. After parking, you need to walk along the wooden deck, and regardless of whether the path splits left or right, you will arrive at the Meditation Garden.
The Beauty That Changes with the Seasons
The biggest charm of the Meditation Garden is the scenery of Daecheong Lake that changes with the seasons and water levels. In particular, spring is filled with the full atmosphere of spring as the fresh green turns to green, welcoming visitors with warm sunlight and cool breezes. Occasionally, when the water level drops, paths that are usually submerged in water are revealed like the 'Miracle of Moses', providing a unique experience.
In the Meditation Garden, a single tree in the distance and the calm Daecheong Lake behind it unfold like a painting. Just sitting on the benches provided here and leisurely looking around or taking a walk is enough for healing. Stepping into this place away from the time-pressured daily life gives a feeling of awakening the five senses.
From Drama Filming Location to Citizens' Resting Place
The Meditation Garden is also famous as the filming location for the drama 'Sad Love Story' and the movie 'Rampant'. This place, which was a filming location, has been upgraded to a Meditation Garden, becoming a resting space for citizens. Even on weekdays, many citizens spread out mats to recharge their energy, and it is also gaining popularity as a wedding photo spot. In particular, there is a barrier-free deck path near the Meditation Garden, allowing everyone to comfortably enjoy the pleasures of nature.
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
There are various amenities and attractions around the Meditation Garden. Recently, the Daecheong Lake 500-ri Trail Exploration Support Center has been expanded and relocated, opening as a service space for the revitalization of ecological tourism at Daecheong Lake, catering to nearly 1 million tourists annually. Across from the center, a large café facility called 'Marigold' has also opened, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning views of Daecheong Lake.
Additionally, the Daecheong Lake Natural Ecology Museum, located at the end of Chudong Garaeul Village, has recently been renovated into an experiential ecology museum incorporating digital technology. The city of Daejeon and Dong-gu are also promoting a project to create the largest rose-themed park in the country in the Daecheong Lake Natural Riverside Park area.
The Charm of the 4th Section of the 500-ri Trail
The 4th section of the Daecheong Lake 500-ri Trail, where the Meditation Garden is located, starts from Wimalmae in Masan-dong, Daejeon Dong-gu, and extends 12.5 km through the Lotus Village in Jusan-dong to Sinseong Bridge. There are many attractions and various viewpoints that provide unique inspiration, and just a little off the walking path, there are well-decorated cafés and restaurants. The biggest charm of the 4th section is that you can spend a fulfilling day without a grand plan. Even on weekdays, there are many visitors, so the parking lot can get crowded, so using the nearby Wimalmae Parking Lot can make parking easier.
The Daecheong Lake 500-ri Trail is a beautiful path that spans 200 km, consisting of 21 sections, each with its own characteristics, but the 4th section is considered the highlight. People who visit here come not to consume but to find rest and relaxation in nature, free from the irritating noise and the need to spend money. There is only time to recharge energy through rest, surrendering oneself to nature.
If you want to escape the noise and bustle and quietly feel nature while finding inner peace, how about visiting the Meditation Garden in the 4th section of the Daecheong Lake 500-ri Trail? This hidden gem, which can be found close to the city without traveling far, will provide comfort to your weary heart.
Video source: Daejeon TV
Healing News Editor Oh Ji-hyun
