“Custom Suwon Hwaseong historical tour and photography experience.”

I spent an excellent day exploring Suwon Hwaseong with Susu. She has a superb command of English, is engaging and enthusiastic, and clearly loves Suwon and enjoys sharing her city with visitors. One of Susu's best decisions was beginning our tour at the Suwon Hwaseong Museum. She explained the fortress's construction, defensive design, equipment and unique features there, establishing a foundation that greatly improved my understanding of everything we subsequently saw. As we walked the fortress, she continually connected the structures we encountered with what she had explained at the museum, including the distinctive defensive characteristics of the gates and the differently designed secret entrances. Our day included Hwaseong Haenggung, the climb to Seojangdae on Mt. Paldal, the fortress walls to Janganmun, Hwahongmun, Yongyeon Pond, Banghwasuryujeong, Yeonmudae and traditional archery. The climb to Seojangdae is physically demanding but absolutely worthwhile and was one of the highlights of the day. Susu's local knowledge also led to an excellent lunch featuring a distinctive Suwon-style bibimbap. What particularly impressed me was that her assistance continued beyond our tour. Knowing that I planned to explore independently afterward, she developed an afternoon and evening itinerary for me, purchased tickets for some of the activities, and advised me where to position myself for the opening night of the Suwon Hwaseong Media Art show. I would highly recommend Susu both to first-time visitors and to travelers with a serious interest in Korean history. Her knowledge, excellent English and genuine enthusiasm for Suwon made this a memorable day.

Susu Y.

(1 reviews)

Thank you so much, Brian, for such a thoughtful and detailed review. It was truly a pleasure spending the day with you and sharing Suwon Hwaseong, a place I know and love, with someone who has such a genuine interest in Korean history and photography. I especially enjoyed our conversations throughout the day and seeing Suwon Hwaseong through your perspective as a photographer. I’m also very glad that the museum visit at the beginning helped you better understand and appreciate the fortress as we explored it together. Thank you again for choosing me as your guide and for sharing such wonderful photos with me. I hope to welcome you back to Suwon someday!