5 Places You Must Not Miss in Busan!
by Charlie Lee
photos by Charlie Lee and Eileen Chang
Are you still looking for the perfect place for your graduation trip? Where is the best place to make unforgettable memories with your dear friends? Consider Busan, a city with profound history and wonderful scenery. Busan is definitely the perfect city for relaxation. Before visiting, let’s check out 5 places you must not miss in Busan!
Known as Korea’s Machu Pucchu, Korea’s Santorini, Gamcheon Culture Village is beautiful. The colorful buildings and childlike murals draw thousands and thousands of tourists to Busan. If you ask any local in Busan, this is the first tourist site that comes to mind. However, before you visit, you should not miss out on the story behind all the vibrant colors. The history of Gamcheon Culture Village can be traced back to the 50s. During the Korean War, Busan was the last stand for South Korea to combat North Korea; therefore, a lot of civilians escaped to Busan and settled down there.
For a long time, Gamcheon-dong was the poorest area in Busan--in other word, it was a slum. It was until 2009 that the Korean government revived Gamcheon-dong. With help from the government and various NGOs, the once cramped and crowded houses were beautifully renovated with lively colors. Without erasing the history of Busan, tourists can now enjoy the spectacular scenery.
- Gamcheon Culture Village
Known as Korea’s Machu Pucchu, Korea’s Santorini, Gamcheon Culture Village is beautiful. The colorful buildings and childlike murals draw thousands and thousands of tourists to Busan. If you ask any local in Busan, this is the first tourist site that comes to mind. However, before you visit, you should not miss out on the story behind all the vibrant colors. The history of Gamcheon Culture Village can be traced back to the 50s. During the Korean War, Busan was the last stand for South Korea to combat North Korea; therefore, a lot of civilians escaped to Busan and settled down there.
For a long time, Gamcheon-dong was the poorest area in Busan--in other word, it was a slum. It was until 2009 that the Korean government revived Gamcheon-dong. With help from the government and various NGOs, the once cramped and crowded houses were beautifully renovated with lively colors. Without erasing the history of Busan, tourists can now enjoy the spectacular scenery.
2. Yeongdodaegyo Bridge
People gather every afternoon by the bridge, watching nine seagulls rise up and fly into the sky as the bridge id pulled up. Yeongdodaegyo Bridge is the only bascule bridge in Korea. Built in 1934, the history of Yeongdodaegyo Bridge can also be traced back to the Korean War. The North Korean liberation army had stormed Seoul, continuing to march south toward other cities.
The war tore apart a lot of families. The separated families would carve names onto the railing, hoping to hear news from their loved. The bridge carries the sad traces of missing relatives and destructiveness wars. In 2007, the Busan City Government decided to rebuild the bridge due to its dangerousness. After 6 years, Yeongdodaegyo Bridge reopened with a firmer and brighter look. Now, everyday at 2pm, tourists can watch the double-leaf bascule open and see nine seagulls flying toward heaven.
People gather every afternoon by the bridge, watching nine seagulls rise up and fly into the sky as the bridge id pulled up. Yeongdodaegyo Bridge is the only bascule bridge in Korea. Built in 1934, the history of Yeongdodaegyo Bridge can also be traced back to the Korean War. The North Korean liberation army had stormed Seoul, continuing to march south toward other cities.
The war tore apart a lot of families. The separated families would carve names onto the railing, hoping to hear news from their loved. The bridge carries the sad traces of missing relatives and destructiveness wars. In 2007, the Busan City Government decided to rebuild the bridge due to its dangerousness. After 6 years, Yeongdodaegyo Bridge reopened with a firmer and brighter look. Now, everyday at 2pm, tourists can watch the double-leaf bascule open and see nine seagulls flying toward heaven.
3. Songdo Skywalk + Cable Car + Songdo Park
When you come to Busan, you cannot miss out on the beach. Songdo Beach, completed in 1913 is the very first official beach in Korea. Getting off at Jagalchi Station, visitors walk onto view of the big blue sea and the clear skyline. Strolling along the beach, you will arrive at what made Songdo even more popular these days -- the newly built Songdo Skywalk. The 365 meters long, dragon-shaped skywalk has been one of the hottest tourist sites for the past few years. The concept of the skywalk is not about height, but about walking into the ocean. While walking and taking in the wonderful view, you will also encounter the famous statue interpreting the Korean legend of love between a fisherman and the daughter of a dragon king.
To enjoy a half-day trip around Jagalchi Station, you should take the 2017 newly opened gondola to Songdo Park! The gondola allows you to get a bird’s-eye view of the beach and the skywalk.
The ride is 1.6 kilometers long, taking 8.5 minutes to arrive at Songdo Park. Songdo Park is the perfect place to have some snacks and take pictures. The greenness of the place is relaxing. It is best to sit back and have a cup of coffee, while watching the waves crashing into one another, healing the mind and heart. After leaving Songdo Park, don’t rush home too soon. Check out Jagalchi Market for delicious seafood!
When you come to Busan, you cannot miss out on the beach. Songdo Beach, completed in 1913 is the very first official beach in Korea. Getting off at Jagalchi Station, visitors walk onto view of the big blue sea and the clear skyline. Strolling along the beach, you will arrive at what made Songdo even more popular these days -- the newly built Songdo Skywalk. The 365 meters long, dragon-shaped skywalk has been one of the hottest tourist sites for the past few years. The concept of the skywalk is not about height, but about walking into the ocean. While walking and taking in the wonderful view, you will also encounter the famous statue interpreting the Korean legend of love between a fisherman and the daughter of a dragon king.
To enjoy a half-day trip around Jagalchi Station, you should take the 2017 newly opened gondola to Songdo Park! The gondola allows you to get a bird’s-eye view of the beach and the skywalk.
The ride is 1.6 kilometers long, taking 8.5 minutes to arrive at Songdo Park. Songdo Park is the perfect place to have some snacks and take pictures. The greenness of the place is relaxing. It is best to sit back and have a cup of coffee, while watching the waves crashing into one another, healing the mind and heart. After leaving Songdo Park, don’t rush home too soon. Check out Jagalchi Market for delicious seafood!
4. Yongdusan Park + Busan Tower (Nampo Station)
Nampo-dong is one of the biggest shopping districts in Busan. Recommended by many tourists and bloggers, Nampo-dong is definitely the perfect place for a one-day trip. However, Nampo-dong is not only for shopping. The famous Yongdusan Park and Busan Tower are also located in this area. You can always come during day time and shop through Lotte Market, a wonderful place to find souvenirs, and then, go to BIFF Square for snacks and look for the handprints of famous directors and celebrities. Lastly, end your shopping at Gwangbokro Culture and Fashion Street. Your wallet will be a good deal lighter because it is impossible not to go crazy for all of these high-end products and cheap goods!
After all the crazy shopping, you can visit the nearby Yongdusan Park for a calmer atmosphere. Yongdusan Park is built on Yongdusan Mountain, one of the most famous mountains in Busan, and the park itself covers more than 130 years of history. Since Yongdusan Park is really high, people can take the escalator up the hills. The famous statue of Admiral Yi Sun-shin stands at the park to commemorate this Korean hero who defeated Japanese pirates during the Japanese invasion in 1592.
Busan Tower, a landmark of Busan, is so significant that you should automatically include this into your travel plans. With a height of 120 meters, Busan Tower allows tourists to take in a stunning night view of the city. You can pre-order tickets online at a discount and avoid purchasing line on the scene. If you feel like snacking on some food, popcorn is sold in Busan Tower, adding to the movie-like experience. If you miss out on the famous Busan Firework Festival in October, you can still take joy in the Window Mapping Show, which is a gorgeous light show projected onto the windows of Busan Tower. Every night from 8pm to 10pm, stand still and wait for the wonder to stun you!
5. Cheongsapo Daridol Skywalk + Lighthouse
What is the most famous tourist site in Busan these days? If you would like to know the answer, you should take a look at Cheongsapo Village. The 2017 summer newly opened Cheongsapo Daridol Skywalk is one of the most popular tourist sites in recent years. 20 meters above sea level and 72.5 meters long, this new skywalk draws people to experience a new view of Haeundae. The streamlined shape of the skywalk symbolizes the guardian of this fishing village, a blue dragon. Before entering, there are cloth covers provided for your shoes to prevent damage to the glass floor. It is exciting and frightening -- to look down through the glass floor and see the sea rolling underneath.
Other than the popular skywalk, there are other special tourist sites in Cheongsapo. Cheongsapo Lighthouses are another perfect spot for photo taking. In Korean, the two lighthouses are named “Cheongsapo Twin Lighthouses” -- one is red, and the other is white, just like a pair of fraternal twins with different personalities. Standing in front of either one of the twin lighthouses, you can get an ethereal shot of clear landscape, blue sky, aesthetic lighthouse, and you.
Before you leave this lovely village, you have to try out the seafood here. There are a lot of seafood restaurants along the main road. Choose one that suits your tastes and order some fresh seafood! If you feel like having a cup of coffee after meal, there is a famous cafe named Cafe Rooftop located nearby. The beautiful deco of the terrace makes for a wonderful view. The pastel colors fit well with the cloudless sky. Yet another place for your Insta-perfect photos!
Nampo-dong is one of the biggest shopping districts in Busan. Recommended by many tourists and bloggers, Nampo-dong is definitely the perfect place for a one-day trip. However, Nampo-dong is not only for shopping. The famous Yongdusan Park and Busan Tower are also located in this area. You can always come during day time and shop through Lotte Market, a wonderful place to find souvenirs, and then, go to BIFF Square for snacks and look for the handprints of famous directors and celebrities. Lastly, end your shopping at Gwangbokro Culture and Fashion Street. Your wallet will be a good deal lighter because it is impossible not to go crazy for all of these high-end products and cheap goods!
After all the crazy shopping, you can visit the nearby Yongdusan Park for a calmer atmosphere. Yongdusan Park is built on Yongdusan Mountain, one of the most famous mountains in Busan, and the park itself covers more than 130 years of history. Since Yongdusan Park is really high, people can take the escalator up the hills. The famous statue of Admiral Yi Sun-shin stands at the park to commemorate this Korean hero who defeated Japanese pirates during the Japanese invasion in 1592.
Busan Tower, a landmark of Busan, is so significant that you should automatically include this into your travel plans. With a height of 120 meters, Busan Tower allows tourists to take in a stunning night view of the city. You can pre-order tickets online at a discount and avoid purchasing line on the scene. If you feel like snacking on some food, popcorn is sold in Busan Tower, adding to the movie-like experience. If you miss out on the famous Busan Firework Festival in October, you can still take joy in the Window Mapping Show, which is a gorgeous light show projected onto the windows of Busan Tower. Every night from 8pm to 10pm, stand still and wait for the wonder to stun you!
5. Cheongsapo Daridol Skywalk + Lighthouse
What is the most famous tourist site in Busan these days? If you would like to know the answer, you should take a look at Cheongsapo Village. The 2017 summer newly opened Cheongsapo Daridol Skywalk is one of the most popular tourist sites in recent years. 20 meters above sea level and 72.5 meters long, this new skywalk draws people to experience a new view of Haeundae. The streamlined shape of the skywalk symbolizes the guardian of this fishing village, a blue dragon. Before entering, there are cloth covers provided for your shoes to prevent damage to the glass floor. It is exciting and frightening -- to look down through the glass floor and see the sea rolling underneath.
Other than the popular skywalk, there are other special tourist sites in Cheongsapo. Cheongsapo Lighthouses are another perfect spot for photo taking. In Korean, the two lighthouses are named “Cheongsapo Twin Lighthouses” -- one is red, and the other is white, just like a pair of fraternal twins with different personalities. Standing in front of either one of the twin lighthouses, you can get an ethereal shot of clear landscape, blue sky, aesthetic lighthouse, and you.
Before you leave this lovely village, you have to try out the seafood here. There are a lot of seafood restaurants along the main road. Choose one that suits your tastes and order some fresh seafood! If you feel like having a cup of coffee after meal, there is a famous cafe named Cafe Rooftop located nearby. The beautiful deco of the terrace makes for a wonderful view. The pastel colors fit well with the cloudless sky. Yet another place for your Insta-perfect photos!
Discover a Different Taiwan: Uncommon Beauty in Orchid Island
by Eunice Ng
photos by Eunice Ng
“Ākokay!” This is how you’ll be welcomed in Lanyu. Also known as Orchid island, Lanyu gets this name based on the beautiful flower which has almost been picked to extinction. The locals call it Ponso No Tao (“island of the people”) in their native tongue. Lanyu is a 45km² island offshore of the south-east of Taiwan, nearby Green Island. Both islands are accessible by air or by sea from Taitung City. Surrounded by mountains, this island is carpeted by a lush rainforest. Since the 1960s, tourists have been drawn by its coral reefs and beautiful sea views.
|
WHEN TO GO
The perfect time to visit the island is during spring or summer because the weather around that time is the most favorable for the ferries and flights across the sea. Winter time is not recommended as it is rainy and windy; there are fewer flights and almost no ferries at all. Because of concerns about the safety of tourists, the transportation companies might not provide transportation from August to September, which is the typhoon season. Lanyu Island has flying fish season from February to May. During this period of time, you might see some flying fishes offshore, and you can attend one of the ceremonies where the fishermen’s canoes are launched to sea. |
HOW TO GET THERE
There are two options to get to the island. By sea or by air.
There are two options to get to the island. By sea or by air.
Going by ferry
The ferries depart from two main harbours in the south; one is Taitung Fugang Fish Harbour, and the other is Kenting Houbihu Harbour. It takes approximately 2 to 3 hours to reach Lanyu from both places. If you have serious motion-sickness, you may use the small bucket placed beside your seat prepared by the ferry companies if you feel unwell during your journey to the island. From October to March, the ferry boat companies probably will stop operating due to the inclement weather. For timetables, you should contact one of the ferry companies or the Visitor Center in Taitung or Kenting. A round trip ticket is cheaper than a one-way ticket, but you must know exactly when you want to depart. It is 1200NTD for a one-way ticket while the round-trip ticket costs 2300NTD for an adult. |
Going by plane
Hoping on a plane from Taitung Airport is another option to get to the island. So far the only company who provides plane service is Daily Air. The air fare is between 1400NTD and 1500NTD one way. The plane ride to Lanyu lasts around 20 minutes, much faster than taking the ferry. People who wish to reduce their travel time are suggested to take the plane. However, make sure you book the ticket in advance, especially during summer holidays, because flights may all be fully booked. |
Exploring the underwater world
Snorkeling and scuba-diving are always the first activities to cross out on the to-do list in Lanyu. Lanyu is recognized as one of the best spots to have a look underwater around Taiwan. In addition, ordinary sea creatures, the hawksbill and green turtles are also a common sight, along with groupers and barracuda. An extremely lucky diver might even spot a whale shark. All manner of nudibranch can be found just off Kai Yuan Harbour, and soft and hard corals are everywhere, along with sea snakes swimming in and out of the crevices.
For divers who like to challenge themselves, they can try out diving around Ba Dai wreck located near Imorod. Ba Dai wreck is a Korean freighter that capsized during a typhoon, and it features large, deep wildlife species shooting in and out of their underwater shelter.
Snorkeling and scuba-diving are always the first activities to cross out on the to-do list in Lanyu. Lanyu is recognized as one of the best spots to have a look underwater around Taiwan. In addition, ordinary sea creatures, the hawksbill and green turtles are also a common sight, along with groupers and barracuda. An extremely lucky diver might even spot a whale shark. All manner of nudibranch can be found just off Kai Yuan Harbour, and soft and hard corals are everywhere, along with sea snakes swimming in and out of the crevices.
For divers who like to challenge themselves, they can try out diving around Ba Dai wreck located near Imorod. Ba Dai wreck is a Korean freighter that capsized during a typhoon, and it features large, deep wildlife species shooting in and out of their underwater shelter.
WHAT IS SPECIAL ON THE ISLAND
Tao Tribe
The beautiful island of Lanyu is often described as an “aboriginal island” because it’s home to the Tao, one of the numerous indigenous tribes of Taiwan. Like the other indigenous tribes of Taiwan, the Tao have their own language and their own culture that is really different from what is common on mainland Taiwan. For example, you can barely see any temple on the island but many churches instead! The Tao are mostly Catholic and they go to church every Sunday.
Tao Tribe
The beautiful island of Lanyu is often described as an “aboriginal island” because it’s home to the Tao, one of the numerous indigenous tribes of Taiwan. Like the other indigenous tribes of Taiwan, the Tao have their own language and their own culture that is really different from what is common on mainland Taiwan. For example, you can barely see any temple on the island but many churches instead! The Tao are mostly Catholic and they go to church every Sunday.
Canoes
When you step on the island, the traditional wooden canoes will definitely catch your eye. They are called Tatara, and they are painted all in white with carved red and black patterns. The round shape that look like burning suns drawn on the head and the tail of canoe are eyes, referring to the belief that the canoe guides the fishermen at sea. The building of these canoes is such an important step in every man’s life in the Tao culture. Most men make a living by fishing on the sea. Tatara is treated as a spiritual item so people should not touch them without permission.
When you step on the island, the traditional wooden canoes will definitely catch your eye. They are called Tatara, and they are painted all in white with carved red and black patterns. The round shape that look like burning suns drawn on the head and the tail of canoe are eyes, referring to the belief that the canoe guides the fishermen at sea. The building of these canoes is such an important step in every man’s life in the Tao culture. Most men make a living by fishing on the sea. Tatara is treated as a spiritual item so people should not touch them without permission.
Flying fish
The Tao culture is closely tied to the ocean and especially the flying fish, called Arayo. Once the flying fish season starts, the Tao will launch their boats into the sea and hold a ceremony. As mentioned before, the men usually spend a good amount of time building and carving their canoes. Once the canoe is done, the owner will host a large ceremony, where they will wear a traditional outfit and cook a great meal.
The Tao culture is closely tied to the ocean and especially the flying fish, called Arayo. Once the flying fish season starts, the Tao will launch their boats into the sea and hold a ceremony. As mentioned before, the men usually spend a good amount of time building and carving their canoes. Once the canoe is done, the owner will host a large ceremony, where they will wear a traditional outfit and cook a great meal.
The Tao will sing and pray out loud when they launch the boat to the sea.
Here is a fun fact: the Tao calendar is divided according to the flying fish season. There are times to build the boat, times to summon the flying fish to come, times to fish and times to dry the fish. Flying fishes are seen as a gift from heaven. The Tao even have a schedule to catch the fishes in order to prevent the overfishing and possible extinction of the species.
Here is a fun fact: the Tao calendar is divided according to the flying fish season. There are times to build the boat, times to summon the flying fish to come, times to fish and times to dry the fish. Flying fishes are seen as a gift from heaven. The Tao even have a schedule to catch the fishes in order to prevent the overfishing and possible extinction of the species.
One-day Trip to Dadaocheng: Reviving Old Taipei
by Nicole Liao
photos by Nicole Liao
Although Dadaocheng is no longer the business center of Taipei City, it is still very famous for its Chinese New Year Market. In the 2000s, Taipei City government launched a campaign in order to bring renew the old neighborhood of Dadaocheng. Nowadays, Dadaocheng is a place not only rich in history but also with great culture and opportunities fortune creative industry.
cultureGan-Jou Street
Gan-Jou Street, also known as “The Tea Street,” was the entrepot of the tea trade in the late 19th centuries. Tea leaves were a product that brought in big profits; consequently, Gan-Jou Street, located near the Dadaocheng harbor, became the center of the tea trade. At that time, there were many tea shops and tea factories along Gan-Jou Street. Although the tea industry declined and tea shops closed one after one, there are still many tea shops operating on the street, retaining the glorious past of the tea industry. FOODXia-Hai City God Temple
Xia-Hai City God Temple was built in 1856 at Di-Hua Street, which is the business center of Dadaocheng. The main god of this temple is a city god who protects the city and helps it to prosper. Interestingly, the Chinese love god became famous because supposedly people had a good romantic relationship after worshipping him, and the Chinese love god is now the most popular god in the temple. If you want to have a good romantic relationship, you can try to worship the Chinese love god in Xia-Hai City God Temple. Do not forget to bring something sweet as an offering for the love god. If he is pleased, he may make your wish come true! SHOPPING |
Dadaocheng, located in the south-west of Taipei City, is a historical neighborhood but now with the innovations of modern culture. In the 19th century, Dadaocheng was the business center of Taiwan famous for tea. Because Dadaocheng was a harbor village near Tamsui river, various kinds of goods were imported and exported, and Dadaocheng prospered from this business. During the Japanese Colonial Period, Dadaocheng was where the intellectuals gathered against Japanese government, and they worked hard to improve the rights of the Taiwanese people. After WWII, the sedimentation of Tamsui river led to the defunctionalization of the harbor, and Dadaocheng became less and less important as a business center.
Xia-Hai City God Temple
Xia-Hai City God Temple was built in 1856 at Di-Hua Street, which is the business center of Dadaocheng. The main god of this temple is a city god who protects the city and helps it to prosper. Interestingly, the Chinese love god became famous because supposedly people had a good romantic relationship after worshipping him, and the Chinese love god is now the most popular god in the temple. If you want to have a good romantic relationship, you can try to worship the Chinese love god in Xia-Hai City God Temple. Do not forget to bring something sweet as an offering for the love god. If he is pleased, he may make your wish come true! Jia-Xing Fishball
Located in a quieter area near Dihua street, Jia Xing Fishball is often crowded during its business hours. Jia Xing Fishball has been there for more than sixty years, and it is the top brunch choice for the locals. However, not only locals, but also tourists come a long way to eat the food and none of them are disappointed. The most well-known product of Jia Xing Fishball is fishball soup. The making of the signature fishball follows the tradition of Fuzhou, China, which featured in the soft fish mince as the exterior and the salty minced pork as the fillings. |
Yong-Le Market
Yong-Le Market is one of the biggest cloth markets in Taipei, and it has the longest history. Just like many other Taiwanese markets, fresh food and daily commodities are sold at Yong Le Market; what makes it unique is the second and third floors of the building, where the entrepot of cloth and materials for clothing are located.
In the Japanese colonialperiod, the cloth used to be an important imported commodity central to Dadaocheng’s prosperity. With the passage of time, although Dadaocheng is no longer an essential port, it remains the center for the cloth trade.
Yong-Le Market is one of the biggest cloth markets in Taipei, and it has the longest history. Just like many other Taiwanese markets, fresh food and daily commodities are sold at Yong Le Market; what makes it unique is the second and third floors of the building, where the entrepot of cloth and materials for clothing are located.
In the Japanese colonialperiod, the cloth used to be an important imported commodity central to Dadaocheng’s prosperity. With the passage of time, although Dadaocheng is no longer an essential port, it remains the center for the cloth trade.
Dry Goods
Walking on Di-Hua Street, the most common products dry goods, such as herbs, nuts, and dehydrated vegetable. Because Dadaocheng was a harbor, it is the place where dry goods are imported; hence, it makes Di-Hua Street an entrepot of dry goods.
Dry goods are usually displayed in big plastic bags on the sides along the pavements, and the dry goods have a special smell that makes the whole street smells like a Chinese herb clinic.
Walking on Di-Hua Street, the most common products dry goods, such as herbs, nuts, and dehydrated vegetable. Because Dadaocheng was a harbor, it is the place where dry goods are imported; hence, it makes Di-Hua Street an entrepot of dry goods.
Dry goods are usually displayed in big plastic bags on the sides along the pavements, and the dry goods have a special smell that makes the whole street smells like a Chinese herb clinic.
Cultural and Creative Industry Center
Apart from products connected with history, there are also some new trends developing in this historic neighborhood. The Artyard was established to promote local artists’ works that relate to Taiwanese culture. There are 6 branches of The Artyard in Dadaocheng, and each of them has different features. Moreover, The Artyard could serve as exhibition centers that showcase local artworks, historical footages, and rented can be for private exhibitions. The Artyard has successfully revived the old neighborhood with new ideas and brought in more visitors, boosting the economy of this area.
Apart from products connected with history, there are also some new trends developing in this historic neighborhood. The Artyard was established to promote local artists’ works that relate to Taiwanese culture. There are 6 branches of The Artyard in Dadaocheng, and each of them has different features. Moreover, The Artyard could serve as exhibition centers that showcase local artworks, historical footages, and rented can be for private exhibitions. The Artyard has successfully revived the old neighborhood with new ideas and brought in more visitors, boosting the economy of this area.
“Stonehenge was built possibly by the Minoans. It presents one of man's first attempts to order his view of the outside world,” said Stephen Gardiner. Stonehenge is no doubt one of the wonders of the world and the most famous prehistoric monument in Europe.
The appearance of Stonehenge
When walking closely to Stonehenge, you will find that Stonehenge is comprised of several massive stones. The first major construction at Stonehenge was a circular ditch, an internal bank and a smaller external bank. Today the ditch and internal bank are visible as low earthworks in the grass, but the external bank has largely been ploughed away.
There are two original entrances to the enclosure: a wide one to the north-east and a smaller one on the southern side. In the circuit, there are many gaps, mostly the result of later tracks that once crossed the monument. The second construction is in the center of Stonehenge. The stones of the central cluster are known as two types: the sarsens and the bluestones. Sarsens are larger, up to 9 meters tall and weighing 25 tons on average. Smaller stones are referred to as bluestones, which have a bluish tinge when wet or freshly broken, weighing up to 4 tons.
When walking closely to Stonehenge, you will find that Stonehenge is comprised of several massive stones. The first major construction at Stonehenge was a circular ditch, an internal bank and a smaller external bank. Today the ditch and internal bank are visible as low earthworks in the grass, but the external bank has largely been ploughed away.
There are two original entrances to the enclosure: a wide one to the north-east and a smaller one on the southern side. In the circuit, there are many gaps, mostly the result of later tracks that once crossed the monument. The second construction is in the center of Stonehenge. The stones of the central cluster are known as two types: the sarsens and the bluestones. Sarsens are larger, up to 9 meters tall and weighing 25 tons on average. Smaller stones are referred to as bluestones, which have a bluish tinge when wet or freshly broken, weighing up to 4 tons.
Who built Stonehenge and how?
The Stonehenge was not built in a day or by one person. In other words, there are many groups of builders. The first group, the Windmill Hill people, built the large circular furrows and mounds. The Beaker people was the second group, who were highly organized and diligent. They used sophisticated mathematical concepts to maintain the construct process. The Wessex People are viewed as the third and final group to build the Stonehenge, who arrived around 1500 B.C. These people are skillful and well-organized traders. Therefore, they are thought to have been responsible for the bronze dagger carving found on one of the large sarsen stones within Stonehenge.
The Stonehenge was not built in a day or by one person. In other words, there are many groups of builders. The first group, the Windmill Hill people, built the large circular furrows and mounds. The Beaker people was the second group, who were highly organized and diligent. They used sophisticated mathematical concepts to maintain the construct process. The Wessex People are viewed as the third and final group to build the Stonehenge, who arrived around 1500 B.C. These people are skillful and well-organized traders. Therefore, they are thought to have been responsible for the bronze dagger carving found on one of the large sarsen stones within Stonehenge.
When is the right time to visit Stonehenge?
The best time of day to visit Stonehenge is before 9.30am in the morning, and in the afternoon after 4pm in the summer or 2pm in the winter. During these time periods, it is less crowded and thus you can have a chance to take a wonderful picture of Stonehenge. Also, some people like to get to Stonehenge at sunset to enjoy a beautiful view of the sun dropping behind the stones to the southwest. How to have fun at Stonehenge? First, the price of a one-day tour is quite affordable, and it’s actually cheaper than going to Stonehenge by yourself. Second, there are other attractions involved in a one-day tour, such as Windsor Castle or Bath. These tourist spots are not far from Stonehenge, and thus you can visit them within a day. Third, a Chinese tour provides a tour guide who can speak Chinese. So, Chinese introduction is definitely better way for non-native speakers of English. |
Why was Stonehenge built?
Based on an archaeological evidence, Stonehenge was used as a burial site. However, most scholars believe it served other functions as well, such as a ceremonial site, a religious pilgrimage destination, a final resting place, or a memorial to honor and spiritually communicate with distant ancestors. The astronomer Gerald Hawkins claimed that the cluster of megalithic stones operated as an astronomical calendar, with different points corresponding to astrological phenomena including solstices, equinoxes and eclipses. |