Discover the Beauty of Anyangcheon in South Korea
Welcome to Korea, a land of rich culture, vibrant cities, and stunning natural wonders! Among the many hidden gems that this country has to offer, let us introduce you to a serene and picturesque spot that encapsulates the essence of Korean beauty – Anyangcheon.
1. Overview
This river functions as a tributary of the Han River. Its origins can be traced back to the Gyeongbu Line Railway Bridge located in Anyang City, as specified in Seoul Metropolitan Land Management Agency Notification No. 2016-152. The stretch downstream falls within the category of a national river, overseen by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport. Meanwhile, the upper portion is considered a local river, falling under the jurisdiction of Gyeonggi-do.
Moreover, this river serves as a geographic reference point for demarcating the neighborhoods of Yeongdeungpo and Gangseo/Yangcheon within Seoul.
2. Name Origin
In the year 1941, the region known today as Anyang City held the designation of Anyang-myeon. However, historical documents indicate that in the era when Gwacheon County was prevalent, Anyangcheon was situated 20 li (approximately 8 kilometers) to the west of Gwacheon County's central hub. This location, which aligns with the former site of Anyangsa Temple, corresponds closely with the 20 li distance. This hints at the possibility that Wang Geon oversaw the construction of Anyangsa Temple, with the stream surrounding it gaining the appellation Anyangcheon, and the expanse through which Anyangcheon meandered (previously Seomyeon) receiving the name Anyang City.
During the Joseon Dynasty, river names exhibited variation across distinct locales, and Anyangcheon bore different designations accordingly. For instance, in Yangcheon, where it converged with the Han River's estuary, it was referred to as Cheolgokpo. Near the arched bridge connecting Yangcheon and Yeongdeungpo, it was termed Omoknae. In Geumcheon and Gwangmyeong, the name Yeomcheon was applied, while in Daecheon, Hancheon, or Hannae, as well as in Anyang vicinity to Anyangsa, it held the name Anyangcheon or Galcheon. Upstream from the present-day Hakueicheon was recognized as Indukwoncheon, while the stretch of Anyangcheon prior to joining Hakueicheon had designations like Saguncheon and Gunpocheon.
Focusing solely on the contemporary Anyangcheon, excluding its tributaries, its nomenclature appeared to transition through Hangang - Cheolgokpo - Ooknae - Yeomcheon or Dacheon - Anyangcheon or Galcheon - Gunpocheon or Saguncheon. Varying localities employed distinct names, suggesting the possibility of additional designations. The diverse range of labels was standardized into the term Anyangcheon during the period of Japanese influence to establish consistency.
3. Bikeways
This segment constitutes a portion of the cycling and inline skating core route, alongside Hakuicheon, Yangjaecheon, Tancheon, and the primary Han River. Notably, commencing from the Hakmuicheon side permits access to the main Han River through the Bisan-dong twin streams. With the exception of the primary Han River (Seoul sector), it's often likened to the "bikeway light rail" due to its linear nature, sometimes even experiencing higher traffic than the Han River itself.
Two main pathways are popularly used: Gunpo City or Indukwon Station leading to Seoksu-dong in Anyang City, primarily along a local river, and Geumcheon-gu Station (or Kia Bridge) leading to the main channel of the Han River, which falls under national jurisdiction. The Gunpo-Anyang stretch is notably well-equipped, attributed to Anyang City's focus on tourism, evident through pamphlets and an established ecological learning center. From Seoksu-dong, the junction of Seoul and Gwangmyeong, to Geumcheon-gu Office, only small residential zones exist. While management was previously challenged due to financial constraints of Geumcheon-gu Office, substantial improvement has been observed since 2018. The landscape appears quite sparse, marked by distant tall structures. Consequently, it's naturally segmented into the Seoul and Gyeonggi-do sectors. Notably, the Kia Bridge downstream for approximately 7 kilometers lacks facilities aside from sports venues, such as soccer fields on Anyangcheon's banks. The presence of the Gyeongbu Line Railway on the river's right side isolates it from the opposing residential area, resulting in a desolate ambiance compared to Gwangmyeong City and Mokdong's opposite side. The terrain holds more elevation variations than anticipated, proving more challenging than expected, requiring effort to navigate.
The western side of Anyangcheon lacks a bicycle pathway from Kia Bridge to Parkdal Sewage Treatment Plant near Gwangmyeong Station, a portion designated as "Ttukbang-gil" in Gwangmyeong.
Cycling clubs and enthusiasts find it a feat to capture the Han River mainstream within Anyang City, Gunpo City, or Uiwang City, its originating point. Most cycling aficionados in Anyang, Gunpo, and Uiwang have ventured there, even making it a point of pride. Covering approximately 28 kilometers one way from Geumjeong Station to the Han River, the route features gradual elevation for the most part, with a well-maintained bike path. This makes it feasible for teenagers and the general public to complete most sections in half a day, provided they have the requisite stamina. Encompassing the Han River mainstream through Yeouido, Tancheon through Seongnam-si, Gwacheon, and Anyang, along with the Heart Course back to Anyang, offers ample coverage for all seasons with clear skies.
The Anyangcheon Bikeway runs parallel to the inner bank of the river, occasionally above it. Especially, the bike-pedestrian lane above Tukbang near Geumcheon-gu Office Station is lined with cherry trees on both sides, creating a splendid cherry blossom display in spring. A few sections across the river also host flourishing cherry trees. In Ttukbang of Seoksu-dong, local apartment residents often gather under these trees to relish the spring blooms.
During the warmer seasons of spring, summer, and fall, flying insects become quite abundant, sometimes proving a minor nuisance. Particularly, the segment between Guil Station and Seoksu Station becomes populated with flying insects after 5 pm as the sun sets, making regular riding a challenge unless wearing glasses or goggles. These insects dissipate after dark, making goggles and a mask essential for swift daytime riding in this area.
Experience Anyangcheon
When visiting Korea, make sure to include Anyangcheon on your itinerary. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a glimpse into Korean culture, or simply a place to appreciate the changing seasons, this hidden gem has it all. So, come and take a leisurely walk along the stream, feel the harmony of nature, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
In the midst of your Korean adventure, don't miss out on the beauty and tranquility that Anyangcheon has to offer. It's a journey into the heart of Korea's natural and cultural heritage that you won't want to miss.
Comments
Post a Comment