The city of Andong is heralded in Korea for its outstanding
traditional food, especially its steamed chicken (Jjimdak), grilled mackerel
(Kohdunga) and native all-natural rice-wine (soju). In fact, a trip to Andong
is well worth it just to enjoy these three culinary treasures. But Andong, which is
Gyeongsangbuk-do’s largest city in the northern part of the province, is
internationally regarded for its amazing folk heritage--in particular, The
Hahoe Folk Village and the Annual Folk Festival featuring the Andong Masks.
The Hahoe Folk Village can be reached via a scenic bus ride
from downtown Andong. The village uniquely features an active community of
residents living as they would a century ago. Walking down the village’s lanes
and alleys affords visitors glimpses of traditional Korean life that have
become all too rare. It’s easy to lose track of time as you turn a corner and
gaze at rice paddies and mountains without any modern distractions. Not
surprisingly, Hahoe Folk Village has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage
site.
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| Traditional Korean residence at Hahoe Folk Village |
Recently Andong residents welcomed tens of thousands of
visitors to the 41st Annual Folk Festival that featured its parade
of masks and presentations by performing artists from around the world. The
masks have the power to mesmerize as they come alive in numerous theatrical
shows and displays. Vendors from throughout Korea dot the fair grounds offering
everything from natural foods to clothing. The entire festival, held each
fall, is striking in its diversity and vibrancy.
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| Masks at Andong's Annual Folk Festival |
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| Even restaurants get into the act |
Enhance your visit to Andong with an overnight stay at a
local Korean inn (min-bak). A fine example is The Man Hyu Guest House located
about 25 minutes from downtown Andong. Take bus #51 and ask for Bongjeongsa
Temple. Sit back and let the driver take you to the end of the line. Man Hyu
Guesthouse is just a short walk up the hill.
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| A delicious breakfast at the Man Hyu Guest House |
Visit Andong for yourself and experience its marvelous
masquerading. It is surely one of Korea’s, and Gyeongsangbukdo’s, best treasures.
Getting there: Andong is about a 2-hour train ride from Dong
Daegu Station.
The Man Hyu Guest House is a 25-minute bus ride from
downtown Andong. Take the #51 bus to its last stop.
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