Writer : Sandra Bakker
Recently, we embarked on an incredible 5-day trip to Namhae Island with a group of international high school students. This adventure, hosted by Adventure Korea, was filled with cultural exploration, hands-on activities, and meaningful experiences that not only brought students closer to nature but also fostered teamwork and community spirit. Let’s take a look at what made this trip so memorable.
Introduction to Namhae
Namhae is a picturesque island located in the southern part of South Korea, known for its breathtaking landscapes, lush rice fields, and serene coastal villages. The island has gained popularity as a destination for both tourists and locals who want to experience Korea’s rural beauty and traditional culture. Rich in history, Namhae offers a glimpse into the country’s agricultural roots while also boasting scenic mountains, pristine beaches, and quaint villages that make it an ideal place for immersive learning experiences.
Day 1: Discovering Darangyi Village
Our journey began with a stay at Darangyi Village, a small terraced farming community located on the hillsides of Namhae. Known for its beautiful rice terraces that cascade down the mountain, the village offers a unique look into Korea’s traditional farming practices.
We had the privilege of meeting the village chief, who shared stories about the history of Darangyi and its cultural significance. His tales offered the students a deeper understanding of how the village has preserved its traditions over the years.
Afterward, the students participated in an orienteering activity around the village. Orienteering involves navigating through unfamiliar terrain with the help of a map and compass to complete a series of tasks or missions. This was not only an exciting way for the students to explore the village but also a great team-building exercise.
As night fell, we took part in a magical lantern walk, where we learned about the natural beauty and ecological importance of Darangyi. Walking through the village with lanterns illuminated the peaceful surroundings, and the students gained an appreciation for the village’s natural resources and the importance of preserving them.
Day 2: Helping Farmers and Cultural Immersion
On the second day, we kicked off the morning by volunteering where the students crafted scarecrows—a crucial part of Darangyi’s agricultural life. The village’s rice fields are vast, and scarecrows play an essential role in protecting the crops from birds and other pests. This activity not only allowed the students to unleash their creativity but also helped them understand the significance of scarecrows in ensuring a successful harvest for local farmers.
In the afternoon, the group visited a local elementary school to volunteer with the children. Volunteering is an activity where participants offer their time and skills to benefit others, and it was heartwarming to see the students engage in various activities such as arts and crafts, sports, and even teaching English. This cross-cultural exchange was enriching for both our students and the local children.
Later, we visited Namhae’s famous German Village. This village was established by Koreans who had migrated to Germany for work in the 1960s and later returned to build homes that mimic the architectural style of Germany. The students were fascinated by the quaint homes and the unique history behind this cultural fusion.
In the evening, we participated in a traditional Korean music workshop, where the students learned to play instruments like the Janggu, buk, and Kkwaenggwari. Despite it being their first time, the students impressed everyone with their rhythmic skills.
Day 3: Environmental Awareness and Fun on the Water
Our third day started with an environmental activity focused on beach clean-up. The students learned about the dangers of microplastics, small plastic particles that pollute our oceans and harm marine life. This hands-on experience helped them understand the impact of plastic waste on the environment and the importance of reducing plastic use.
In the afternoon, we took to the waters for a fun-filled kayaking session. The students loved paddling through the gentle waves, especially since the weather was warm. It was a great way to enjoy Namhae’s coastal beauty while engaging in a physical activity that requires teamwork.
Afterward, we moved to our next accommodation at Sangju Beach, where the students spent the evening playing volleyball, relaxing by the ocean, and treating themselves to ice cream after a day of adventure.
Day 4: A Spiritual Journey to Mount Geumsan and Geumsansa Temple
The fourth day began with a challenging yet rewarding hike up Mount Geumsan. This mountain is one of Namhae’s natural treasures, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the ocean. The 3.5-hour hike led us to Boriam Temple, a Buddhist temple perched on the mountainside. Boriam is renowned for its serene atmosphere and its status as a pilgrimage site. The students were awestruck by the beauty of the temple and the sense of peace it offered.
After descending from the mountain, we headed to Geumsansa Temple for a temple stay. Geumsansa is a large temple complex in the nearby city of Gimje, where we stayed overnight to experience Buddhist practices firsthand. The students participated in traditional activities such as the 108 prostrations, a meditative practice involving repetitive bowing, and a tea ceremony, which taught them mindfulness and patience. They also crafted their own lotus flower lanterns, symbolizing enlightenment in Buddhism.
The evening was filled with stories from the resident monk, who shared the history and philosophy of Buddhism, offering students a deeper understanding of the spiritual aspect of Korean culture.
Day 5: A Reflective Return to Seoul
On the fifth and final day, we packed up and returned to Seoul, filled with unforgettable memories. The students had a truly enriching experience, gaining insights into Korea’s rural culture, environmental issues, and spiritual traditions. They also developed stronger bonds with each other, making this field trip both an educational and personally transformative journey.
For over 15 years, Adventure Korea has been organizing educational trips like this one, with the mission of inspiring and empowering young people through outdoor exploration and cultural engagement. By working with international schools, we aim to create opportunities for students to connect with nature, challenge themselves, and build lasting memories.
If you’re looking to provide your students with a unique and enriching educational experience, Adventure Korea is the perfect partner for your next adventure. Join us in inspiring the next generation to learn, grow, and explore the world around them.