I think I have heard that Tong-yeong is the original Korean name, and the Japanese imperialists changed it to Chungmu when they made it their main naval port — certainly, it was the Japanese who planted the famous cherry trees there.

> Also drove south to Mireuk-do, and did
> the perimeter road around the island.

Yeah, that’s a great island, right across the bridge — one really great old Temple in a sweet little park on the north slope of that mountain…

Getting there from Daegu was a bit of a headache (2-lane highway west from Masan; 88 Olympic expressway on the way back) and the train doesn’t really go anywhere near there, but with the newly extended freeway 35, getting there from the direction of Daejeon is probably quite easy.

We went at just the right time of spring, I guess, because the dongbaek-kkot (동백꽃; camellia japonica blossoms) were out in full bloom. Man, the sea, the blue sky, the Mediterranean afternoon light, the flowers…it was gorgeous.

For a second there I thought the Marmot had let one of the boys from the Dave’s ESl Cafe forum post here.

Sat-Sun Oct 13-14: GYEONGJU (KYÔNGJU) CITY TOUR – AMAZING RELICS of the SHILLA KINGDOM — The entire city of Gyeongju is an outdoor museum, recognized by UNESCO as a prime display of Korean culture, including some of the world’s best Buddhist artworks. This weekend visit will cover the main historic sites and offer an interesting look at the Shilla Kingdom’s culture, as our guide recounts the many myths and legends associated with the sites. This tour will be led by Professor David Mason, an expert on Gyeongju’s history and treasures.

Sun Oct 14th: WALKING TOUR OF JOSEON SITES of Downtown SEOUL — This tour is a walk through Seoul’s past, examining the cultural and historical background of Seoul’s palaces and Joseon (Chosôn) Dynasty landmarks, as well as some little-known but very important historic buildings monuments. Led by Peter Bartholomew, a renowned expert on traditional Korean architecture.

Sat-Sun Oct 20-21: SEORAK-SAN (SÔRAKSAN) NATIONAL PARK TOUR — This is Korea’s premier national park, containing some of the most superb natural scenery to be found on the peninsula. The colorful autumn leaves should be outstanding on this weekend! This is definitely a “must” during your stay in Korea and once you have experienced this park, you’ll want to return time and time again.