Discover Naju-si: History and Hanok

Naju-si reveals itself through specific historic sites and distinctive details. In the courtyard behind Geumseonggwan Hall stands a large ginkgo tree with a dense canopy, more than 600 years old. Its former functions, varied architectural forms, and seasonal impressions offer several perspectives on the area’s history. Travelers who want to explore culture and nature together will find a range of ideas to help plan their trip.

Geumseonggwan: Guesthouse and Historic Site

The walking tour of Naju-eupseong Village begins at Geumseonggwan Hall and continues toward Naju Hyanggyo. The hall was built sometime between 1475 and 1479 and served during the Joseon period as a state-run guesthouse for government officials. Historically, it was the setting for ceremonial rituals praising the king on the first and fifteenth days of each month. The guesthouse and the rituals tell of different roles the building once served.

A restoration project to return the hall to its original appearance took place from 1976 to 1977. The hall also became a symbol of the anti-Japanese movement led by Naju’s residents. Its construction, former use, and historical significance form distinct chapters in its story.

Naju Hyanggyo: Education and the Seasons

Naju Hyanggyo was once Naju’s state-run school. Its layout follows the same Jeonmyohuhak plan as Sungkyunkwan in Seoul. For architecture enthusiasts, this shared feature offers a specific point of comparison between the two sites. At the same time, the hyanggyo’s former function recalls its role as a place of learning, without implying that it is a school today.

The seasons also shape the distinctive impressions at Naju Hyanggyo: crape myrtles bloom there in summer, while the ginkgo foliage is a highlight in autumn. Visitors planning when to go can take these two seasonal features into account. In summer, the blossoms take center stage; in autumn, it is the changing leaves.

Village Route and Traditional Hanok

Naju Moksanaea is also on the Naju-eupseong Village walking tour. This traditional hanok house was built in 1825, offering an architectural focus different from Geumseonggwan Hall and the former school. For visitors interested in architectural history, it brings together a specific date and a traditional house form. These three sites thus offer different ways to explore history: former functions, educational architecture, and a 19th-century hanok.

More Perspectives in Naju Administrative District

The former Naju Station offers another historical perspective in Naju Administrative District: wax figures recreate ticket inspections and the work of railway staff during the Japanese occupation. This adds scenes from everyday life on the railways at the time to the history of public buildings and educational institutions.

For a culinary stop, try Naju Gomtang Noanjip, a restaurant in Naju Administrative District specializing in Naju gomtang. If you plan to eat there, check in advance that it is currently open.

Finding a Vacation Rental Based on Your Travel Interests

When looking for a vacation rental in Naju-si, it helps to have a clear focus: the places described here are particularly suited to travelers interested in architectural history, former public functions, and seasonal impressions. If you’re traveling with children, the differences between the guesthouse, former school, hanok, and the railway scenes on display can provide conversation starters to enjoy together.

Discover more destinations: Wando-gun, Gwangyang-si, Damyang-gun, Mokpo, Yeonggwang-gun, Boseong-Gun, Muan, Yeongam-Gun.

For the broader travel overview: Jeollanam-Do.