Ulsan opens water-reed ecology experience site along Taehwa River

A water-reed ecology experience site has opened along the Taehwa River in Ulsan, marking the arrival of autumn at one of the city's most scenic natural spots. The site, operated by the Taehwa River Eco-Tourism Council, is located in the water-reed colony near Naehwang Bridge in Myeongchon-dong, Buk-gu, where the Taehwa River meets the Dongcheon stream.

The site is open daily — except on rainy days — from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., from Monday through Nov. 22. No advance reservation is required, and the site is open to all visitors.

The area around Naehwang Bridge is home to a variety of wetland plants, including water reeds, common reeds, silvergrass and reed canary grass, making it one of the city's most representative autumn eco-tourism destinations.

At the site, visitors can learn about the ecological characteristics of wetland plants and the role of riparian wetlands from certified nature interpreters. Hands-on activities include examining water-reed seeds through magnifying glasses, blowing soap bubbles through reed stems, solving ecology quizzes, crafting circular badges featuring migratory winter birds, and taking photographs against the backdrop of the sweeping reed colony.

"Water reeds are a vital ecological resource — they purify river water and provide habitat for a wide range of living creatures," a city official said. "We hope visitors will come and experience firsthand the ecological value of water reeds as the Taehwa River estuary takes on its autumn colors."