Dalmaji Hill is a scenic walk near Haeundae beach. Known for spectacular views of the sea and the moon, the sidewalks here are wider and more accomodating to foot traffic. A pleasant change to most streets in Korea. On the weekends, Dalmaji Hill is the site of a logcal arts market, where local craftsmen peddle their wares in the open air.
Intrigued by this prospect, my girlfriend Carrie and I resolved to find this market.
The following account is our ridiculous experience:
Our journey began on a Saturday (the arts market is only open Saturday and Sunday 2-6 pm) a poor choice as Carrie and I are not known for our ambitious approach to Saturdays.
Cantankerous Carrie demands to know why she's awake at 11am |
The climb isn't difficult, and is no more strenuous that other hills in Korea. We ambled our way up, enjoying the views on the coast and beach below, laughing, talking and drinking our soju.
Cantankerous Carrie enjoys a nearby garden overlooking the beach. See how happy she is? |
Upon reaching the top of the hill, we found this small plaza with local arts. It was certainly less extensive than we'd anticipated, but by this time the soju was working is menacing magic and we pressed on for more sights on our Saturday afternoon.
Merry Michael is clearly more of a morning person |
There are lots of fine restaurants and shops here on Dalmaji Hill, as well as unique hotels overlooking the sea. Rumor has it, Dalmaji also possesses a large open air amphitheater that local thespians use to perform Shakespeare in the summer. We never found the theater but amused ourselves with taking funny photos with the local sculpture:
EAT ALL THE GUMMY BEARS!!!! |
My own attempt at devouring gummy sculpture via forced perspective failed miserably. I merely look like a laughing cartoon villain! Though local Koreans were amused at us attempting this shot! |
Add ocean to Cantankerous Carrie to induce elated smiles! |