Gimhae Astronomical Observatory Selected for Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism's 'Ecological Theme Tourism Promotion Project' for 3 Consecutive Years

Gimhae Astronomical Observatory seen from the sky (Photo by Gimhae City)

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Kang Woo-kwon] Gimhae City in Gyeongnam announced on the 24th that its project "Starlight Journey to Bibidan with Gimhae Astronomical Observatory" has been selected for the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism's "2020 Ecological Theme Tourism Promotion Contest" for the third consecutive year, securing 150 million KRW in national funding.

This contest aims to revitalize local tourism by developing and operating experiential programs, training professionals, and supporting promotional marketing, with ecological resources as the core tourism content.

Fifteen local governments nationwide were selected, and Gimhae City was chosen in the ecological green tourism promotion category (regeneration of aging tourist facilities incorporating cultural content) along with four other local governments (Hadong-gun, Jeongseon-gun, Hoengseong-gun, and Goesan-gun).

Since its opening over 20 years ago, the Gimhae Astronomical Observatory had seen a decline in visitor numbers, but through the Bibidan project, including the "Starry Night Festival," the "Haenim Byeonim Program," the creation of the Bibidan Trail, and repainting the observatory's exterior walls, it has regained positive responses.

Additionally, the observatory operates a youth docent program (guides who explain exhibits), which simultaneously fulfills volunteer activities and curiosity, greatly contributing to the increase in visitor numbers.

This year’s Starlight Journey to Bibidan features Bibidan guides who explain Gayasa Temple and astronomy along the Bibidan Trail with visitors. On Children's Day, astronomy lectures and various science experience events are held.

The family healing experience program "Moonlight Outing with Mom and Dad," held by observing the moon between the 7th and 12th days of the lunar calendar each month, includes fun stories about the moon and a moon-making workshop. Other programs include the Haenim Byeonim Program for kindergarteners, "Bibidan First Steps," and "Star Stories" for elementary students, and the Starry Night Festival is held on summer nights (in August).

A city official said, "With the selection for the government contest, we plan to offer differentiated programs unique to Gimhae Astronomical Observatory, giving children dreams and hope, and adults romance and memories," adding, "We invite many to visit Gyeongnam’s first citizen astronomical observatory, where you can experience the mysterious night sky, the vast universe, and beautifully falling starlight."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.