Creation of a 33km Trail Connecting Soraepogu, Incheon Grand Park, and the 800-Year-Old Ginkgo Tree

Incheon Namdong-gu to Complete Four Courses Including Barrier-Free Paths by Next Year

Namdong Dullegil Course [Provided by Namdong-gu, Incheon]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Hyesook] Namdong-gu, Incheon, is creating a trail that connects major attractions such as Sorae Port, Incheon Grand Park, and the Jangsu-dong Ginkgo Tree.

According to the district on the 3rd, with a project budget of 600 million KRW, they plan to establish a 33.5 km eco-friendly trail (tentatively named Namdong Dullegil) centered around six mountains including Manwolsan, linking parks, streams, and barrier-free sharing paths.

The Namdong Dullegil will feature a total of four courses, each with a theme. Along each course, visitors can experience Namdong-gu’s tourist attractions such as the Jangsu-dong Ginkgo Tree, Natural Monument No. 562, Sorae Wetland Ecological Park, Sorae Port Shrimp Tower, Neulsolgil Sheep Ranch, and the Youth Media Tower.

In particular, by connecting three barrier-free sharing paths, the plan aims to improve forest accessibility for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and people with disabilities.

The district plans to complete design services and install signboards within this year, and from next year, will actively develop the trail by connecting major disconnected sections and installing convenience facilities along each route. Completion is scheduled for June next year.

Additionally, storytelling will be developed for each trail course, and walking events linked to the Sorae Port Festival, as well as issuing completion certificates, will be promoted.

Lee Kang-ho, the district mayor, stated, "The Namdong Dullegil will become a new tourist resource where people can physically feel and enjoy the pristine natural environment and find relaxation. We will focus on developing content to help revitalize the local economy through synergy with key tourist attractions."

▲Course 1 (tentatively named 'Happiness Connection Path')

Starting from the Jangsu-dong Ginkgo Tree, Natural Monument No. 562, this course is 11.5 km long. The Jangsu-dong Ginkgo Tree, over 800 years old, stands 28.2 meters tall with a circumference of 9.1 meters, inspiring awe just by looking at it.

Walking along Jangsu Stream, flower paths appear on both sides. These flower paths, which change their splendid attire with the seasons, have long been a famous feature of Jangsu Stream. At the end of the course, you will encounter the Jangasan barrier-free sharing path. Established in 2019, this path has been recognized for excellence by the Korea Forest Service and enjoys high satisfaction among users.

▲Course 2 (tentatively named 'Life Enrichment Path')

The second course, covering the Sorae Port area, is full of sights and activities. It begins at Sorae Wetland Ecological Park, the largest ecological park in the metropolitan area. The vast wetlands, salt warehouses, and windmills create a unique landscape that makes walking alongside them a delight.

Leaving the park, you reach Sorae Port, the representative fishing port of the metropolitan area. From the newly upgraded fish market to the restaurants filled with the aroma of seasonal dishes, the area draws visitors. The leisure space at Haeoreum Square and the landmark 'Shrimp Tower' of Sorae Port are also impressive.

The course continues to the barrier-free path through the cypress forest of Neulsolgil Park. This area, offering greenery throughout the four seasons, features gentle slopes and a forest playground, attracting both local residents and tourists alike.

▲Course 3 (tentatively named 'Sharing Together Path')

The third course, about 6 km long, connects Neulsolgil Neighborhood Park and Obong Neighborhood Park and features the Youth Media Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the entire Namdong-gu. The Youth Media Tower, remodeled from the former Namdong Tower, provides an impressive view from its 122-meter height.

On clear days, Namsan Tower can also be seen. Passing the tower, the course continues from Dumbaesan to Obongsan, composed of dense forests and natural dirt paths.

▲Course 4 (tentatively named 'Hope-filled Path')

The fourth course is another route starting from the Jangsu-dong Ginkgo Tree. While Course 1 heads toward Seochang-dong, Course 4 crosses the original downtown area of Mansu-dong, spanning 7 km.

Early in the course, you encounter Incheon Arboretum, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons. Incheon Arboretum, a representative attraction of Incheon Grand Park, is a must-visit spot for families and couples every year, with dazzling displays of seasonal flowers such as cherry blossoms and roses.

The Mansusan barrier-free sharing path, connected to Incheon Arboretum, has recently begun construction to enhance forest welfare in the original downtown area. Scheduled for completion in December, this path features an average gentle slope of 6% up to the summit (201 meters above sea level), allowing comfortable access for wheelchairs and strollers. It will be equipped with electric wheelchair charging stations, handrails, Braille signboards, and night lighting to improve convenience for people with disabilities.

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