Semiwon: The Sanctuary of Lotus and Waters, Where Nature and Heritage Intertwine
The name “Semiwon” originates from the ancient sage’s words, suggesting one should cleanse their heart by watching water and beautify it by looking at flowers. Semiwon is located at Dumulmeori in Yangseo-myeon, Yangpyeong-gun, where the South Han River and North Han River meet.
Semiwon, Garden of Water and Flowers
Semiwon, spanning 62,000 pyeong (around 205,000 square meters), predominantly cultivates lotus flowers celebrated for their exceptional water purification properties. This cultivation plays a vital role in cleansing the waters of the Han River. Summer in Semiwon is especially enchanting, with the landscape coming alive with blossoming lotuses. Throughout the year, the garden transforms in harmony with each season, ensuring there’s always a captivating view for visitors. Beyond its natural beauty, Semiwon stands as a hub for ecological learning, hands-on education, and diverse exhibitions.
Dedicated to fostering a pristine and thriving Han River, Semiwon places a special emphasis on the cultivation of lotuses, nature’s water purifiers. As summer unfurls, the garden is adorned with a vibrant display of lotuses: from the mesmerizing red and graceful white varieties to globally acclaimed types gifted by lotus expert Perry Slocum. The garden also boasts water lilies that evoke the essence of the artist Monet, the majestic Victoria water lilies with their expansive leaves, and unique water lilies exclusive to Semiwon’s confines.
Semiwon's Dreams and Goals
- Creating a vibrant space where nature education, hands-on learning, and captivating exhibitions unite.
- Through traditional gardens, the rich ecological tales of the region are brought to life, fostering greater appreciation.
- At Semiwon, there’s always an emphasis on both cherishing and delighting in nature’s wonders.
Lotus Museum
Lotus Museum at Semiwon Right at Semiwon’s entrance stands the Lotus Museum, the only one of its kind globally focusing entirely on lotus. Inside, visitors can explore a plethora of lotus-associated artifacts, manuscripts, and traditional foods. Established in January 2009, the museum treasures over 1,000 items that reflect how Korea’s forebears integrated lotuses into their daily life. The lotus, often symbolizing purity and serenity, serves as a sanctuary for those wanting to escape modern life’s hustle and embrace nature’s serene beauty.
While the second floor is dedicated to a permanent display of Korea’s lotus history, the third floor features special exhibits. Here, folk paintings vividly depict lotuses, echoing the aspirations and aesthetics of past eras. These artworks, often accompanied by whimsical depictions of birds and fish, encapsulate the warmth, laughter, and comforting allure of traditional tales.
Semiwon Water Lily Culture Festival
Semiwon Water Lily Culture Festival Celebrate the beauty of water lilies at Semiwon between August 21st and October 31st. Operating from 9 am to 6 pm daily, this early-autumn festival showcases a mesmerizing array of water lilies, most notably the regal Victoria water lily. This majestic flower, known for its vast leaves and blossoms, undergoes a captivating three-day transformation from white to red in its rare “coronation” bloom.
At the festival, you can witness the Victoria water lily’s enchanting 3-day shift from white to red.
For those seeking global flora, the Tropical Water Lily Pond and World Water Lily Pavilion offer a stunning array of water lilies from across the continents. Not to be missed is the “Semi” water lily, gracefully floating at Semiwon’s entrance and inside the garden’s tropical pond.
In the heart of Yangseo-myeon lies Semiwon, a testament to nature’s splendor and the age-old wisdom of sages who believed in the restorative power of water and flowers. This garden, where the North and South Han Rivers embrace, invites every visitor to pause, reflect, and find solace amid the serene tapestry of lotuses and water lilies. Through its meticulous cultivation practices, commitment to ecological education, and celebration of Korea’s rich history with the lotus, Semiwon serves as a bridge between past and present, nature and culture. Whether one is drawn by the allure of the Lotus Museum, the annual spectacle of the Water Lily Culture Festival, or simply the tranquil beauty that each season offers, Semiwon beckons all to immerse themselves in its ever-evolving dance of water and flowers. It’s more than just a garden; it’s a journey through time, an ode to nature, and a sanctuary for the soul.
Location
Images from: 경기도, https://www.kogl.or.kr/recommend/recommendDivView.do?recommendIdx=37094&division=img
에코저널, http://www.ecojournal.co.kr/news_view.html?code=02000000&uid=144339
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