Gwangsan-gu in the South Jeolla-Gwangju integrated special city has launched an experiential bus tourism program called "Gwangsan Ariyo Tour" to promote local tourism.
The program takes participants by bus along themed routes connecting Gwangsan-gu's major landmarks and cultural sites, offering a range of hands-on experiences along the way.
From August through November, the district will offer a series of bus travel itineraries packed with distinctive experiences and sights, showcasing the area's signature urban tourism offerings.
The inaugural tour runs Saturday, timed to the summer vacation season, with a theme of historical and cultural travel bridging Gwangsan's past and present. The route takes in the Sinchang-dong Mahan Heritage Experience Center, which recreates life from the Mahan period some 2,000 years ago; Donggok Museum, a multipurpose cultural arts space; the birthplace of democracy activist Yun Sang-won, remembered as "the flame of the May democratic spirit"; Wolbong Seowon, a Confucian academy steeped in the philosophy of scholar Gi Dae-seung; and Muyang Seowon, where visitors can learn the wisdom of Joseon-era seonbi.
In September, the district will run a "Mupe Tour" — combining attendance at the 4th Gwangsan Music On Festival with a visit to the Goryeo village — on two dates: Sept. 19 and Sept. 20.
October brings two more tours: on Oct. 17, participants can explore the Kim Bong-ho House and Hogajeong pavilion and experience Wolbong Seowon; on Oct. 24, the itinerary features an archery experience, a visit to the Wolgye-dong janggobun ancient burial mounds and a performance at Pungyeongjeong pavilion.
On Nov. 7, the program closes the season with a route linking Songsan Sheep Farm, the Myeonghwa-dong janggo burial mounds and Hogajeong pavilion.
The Gwangsan Ariyo Tour is open to any resident who wants to explore Gwangsan-gu in a new way. Each tour accommodates about 30 participants on a first-come, first-served basis.
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