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Walking Along Busan: Nakdonggang River Estuary
The golden reed fields of Samnak Eco Park make the perfect setting to capture special moments.
The beginning of a new year is always a time for self-reflection, to consider how we've grown and how much growth is still to come. In this spirit, Busan is Good introduces a new series, "Walking Along Busan." This monthly column will spotlight the city's evolving landscape, looking at what was, what is, and what will be in various parts of the city.
The inaugural installment of "Walking Along Busan" explores the Nakdonggang River Estuary, which city officials hope will become Korea's third national garden, following Suncheonman Bay National Garden in Jeollanam-do Province and Taehwagang National Garden in Ulsan.
■ A scenic stroll along the Nakdonggang River
When walking out of Gupo Station (metro line 3) through exit 2, visitors are immediately greeted by the Nakdonggang River Estuary Walkway. This seemingly endless path offers a tranquil escape from the city.
A 20-minute walk along the path leads to Samnak Interchange, where an underground tunnel connects to the sprawling Samnak Eco Park.
Park golf offers players of all ages a fun outdoor activity.
■ Samnak Eco Par: From polytunnels to protected paradise
Fifteen years ago, the tract of land on the border between Saha-gu and Gangseo-gu districts was set aside for industrial greenhouse agriculture. Polytunnels stretched as far as the eye could see. However, in 2009, the area underwent a dramatic transformation as part of the nation's Four Major Rivers Restoration Project. It turned into what we now know as Samnak Eco Park.
Today, the park boasts amenities to welcome migratory birds and human visitors. These include feeding grounds, wildflower gardens, bike paths, auto camping sites, and water sports facilities. For park golf enthusiasts, the park offers four courses ranging from nine to 36 holes. The area also has accessible features to ensure inclusivity for all visitors.
Samnak is a vital wintering site for migratory birds.
■ A haven for wildlife and heritage
As a vital wintering site for migratory birds, the Nakdonggang River Estuary is a Cultural Heritage Protection Area. It was also registered as National Monument No. 179 in 1966 and as a Wetland Protected Area in 1999, ensuring its status as a wildlife haven for generations.
In August 2023, Busan officially designated Samnak Eco Park as its first local garden. The designation was the first step in seeking to elevate Samnak Eco Park to the status of a national garden. National gardens are state-managed public spaces that ensure more systematic protection of natural ecosystems and serve as major tourist attractions, blending environmental preservation with cultural and recreational opportunities. To wit, according to the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Suncheonman Bay National Garden and the Suncheonman Wetland were the most visited attractions nationwide in 2023. The garden and wetlands received 7.8 million visitors in 2023, ahead of places like the Everland theme park, at 5.9 million, and Gyeongbokgung Palace, at 5.6 million.
＊Address: 29-46 Samnak-dong, Sasang-gu