Ojukheon

I visited Ojukheon , and it was a really cool experience. It’s a famous historical place, and I liked walking around the old buildings and learning a bit about the history. What stood out the most were the cherry blossom and magnolia trees they were in full bloom and looked amazing. The pink and white flowers made the whole place feel peaceful and beautiful. Spring is definitely the best time to go.

Ojukheon is a deeply historical site in Gangneung. It is the home of Shim Saimdang, artist, and her son Yi I, a famous Confucian scholar. She is on the 50k won note and he is on the 5k note. The location houses a sprawling garden and several buildings which contain museum exhibits relevant to the area and the former inhabitants. The gardens are well kept and are seeded with native korean plants. You can spend a few nice hours here wandering around and taking photos. There's a money museum as well that has historical Korean notes including from before the Japanese occupation. It was really peaceful and beautiful. If you visit gangneung you should stay closer to the city centre and visit ojukheon. There is a small discount if you go to this location during culture day (final Wednesday of the month).

It’s a place with rich history but I didn’t find this too special. Still, it’s a nice walk and there’s museum and on history of KRW!

A peaceful and cultural stop in Gangneung 🏯🍂 Ojukheon is the birthplace of Shin Saimdang and Yulgok Yi I, who appear on the ₩5,000 bill. The traditional hanok buildings and quiet pine tree trail were perfect for a winter walk. Inside, you can see a small currency museum, and there’s also a hanbok experience area for photos. Entry was just 3,000 KRW for adults. Definitely worth a visit if you love Korean history and architecture! 💡 Want to see more photos and a full review? Check out my Instagram: [@blogger_leo]

There were many museums and many things to see. Also it was well preserved as it used to be. Me and my son had very good time as Simsaimdang and her son Yiyi.

Was it in high school or college? I can't quite recall, but I remember the shock I felt upon learning that the "O" in Ojukheon comes from the Chinese character for crow (烏), symbolizing black. Black bamboo—could such a thing even exist? How could bamboo, which I had always associated with the vibrant green, whispering sound of wind brushing through its leaves, be black? That revelation completely reshaped my understanding of the place. From that moment, Ojukheon became a sort of pilgrimage site for me, a place to see this mysterious black bamboo. Now, living in another country and visiting Korea briefly, I find myself returning to Ojukheon with a different sense of appreciation. The historical figures who once lived here—Yulgok Yi I and Shin Saimdang—have long since become static figures in textbooks, their stories no longer growing or evolving. My real curiosity now lies with the black bamboo. How much stronger and more dynamic have they grown since my last visit? And what about the grand old pine trees surrounding the grounds—how much thicker and denser have they become over the years? I walked through Ojukheon with a sense of gratitude, not just for the history the place holds, but for the natural beauty that has continued to flourish here. The bamboo, the pines, and the serene landscape—they all seemed to reflect the quiet strength and resilience of the past while remaining vibrant and alive in the present.

Gives an insight into this family and its routes, making It quite real. Koreans worship the mother and son it would seem. Worth and hour or two out of your day as this quality of historic building is rare in South Korea would seem

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Gangneung, Ojukheon is a timeless gem that effortlessly transports visitors back in time. Stepping onto its grounds feels like entering a portal to Korea's rich cultural heritage. As a history enthusiast, I was captivated by the exquisite architecture, meticulously preserved artifacts, and the profound stories echoing through its halls. The traditional hanok-style architecture of Ojukheon exudes an aura of elegance and simplicity, reflecting the refined taste of the Joseon Dynasty. Walking through its corridors, I couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship of the wooden structures and the intricate details adorning every corner. The highlight of my visit was exploring the birthplace of the renowned scholar, Shin Saimdang, and her son, Yi I. It was a humbling experience to stand in the very rooms where these influential figures once lived and to gain insight into their lives through the carefully curated exhibits. The surrounding gardens, lush with bamboo groves and tranquil ponds, provide the perfect backdrop for contemplation and relaxation. I found myself lost in the tranquility of nature, soaking in the essence of traditional Korean aesthetics. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a moment of serenity away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, Ojukheon is a must-visit destination. It's a timeless masterpiece that showcases the beauty of Korea's past and leaves a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of exploring its wonders.