Botanical Gardens in Korea

By Camila Palmer

Numerous studies indicate the benefits to spending time outside and in nature for mental health. In fact, a study done at the University of Michigan concluded that walks in nature are linked with better health and moods while a study at Stanford suggested that spending 90 minutes walking in nature reduced activity in the area of the brain that is connected with depression.

Korea is full of beautiful botanical gardens with something to offer everyone in the family year round. The trails are often easily accessible to those looking for a nice walk with their stroller. The playgrounds are usually impressive, nature-related learning opportunities for young children. Occasionally, you will find a little library tucked away in the trees, and the gardens can be a fun visit in all of Korea’s seasons with warm greenhouses to provide a dose of greenness and nature during cold Korean winters and splash pads to cool off in during the hot, humid summers. If you’re looking for a quiet spot to stroll, forest bathe, or tuck away to enjoy a good book, look no further!

One of our favorite places close by to visit during the cold Korean winters, particularly when the air quality is poor, is Asan World Flower Botanical Garden. The large greenhouse areas provide warmth and a healthy dose of greenery. If you do not mind traveling a bit further afield by train or car, the Seoul Botanical Garden also has a large greenhouse space to explore in warmth on cold winter days.

Visiting botanical gardens has been one of my favorite things to do during my time in Korea. I go with my children, alone, and with friends. Here are some of our favorite nearby locations that we have found on Naver:

• Samseonsan Arboretum

• Peaceland

• National Institute of Ecology

• Saemiwon Lotus Garden

• The Pyeongtaek Agricultural Eco Park

• Seoul Sweet Flag Garden

• Ansan Botanical Garden

• Seoul Forest Insectarium and Butterfly Garden

• Shingu College Botanical Garden

• Hwadam Forest

• Pyeonggang Land

• Hantaek Botanical Garden

• Yulbom Botanic Garden

• Seoul Botanical Garden

• Asan World Flower Botanical Garden

Camila Palmer enjoys traveling around Korea with her children, friends, and alone. She can be found on Instagram @ camila_elise.