Seoul & Suwon: Starfield Library, Hwaseong Fortress & Gwangmyeong Cave Day Trip

Summary

Books soaring in Suwon, fortress walks and a cave full of gold surprises

You’ll start among soaring bookshelves at Suwon’s Starfield Library before walking ancient walls at Hwaseong Fortress with a local guide sharing stories along the way. Then descend into Gwangmyeong Cave—a cool maze of lights, dragons, and hidden wine tastings. This day trip from Seoul mixes quiet moments with lively ones, ending back downtown with your head spinning just enough.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me at Starfield Library in Suwon wasn’t the books—though those shelves really do stretch up like something out of a dream—but the hush. Even with people moving around, there’s this soft hum, almost respectful. I found myself running my hand along the wooden railings (they’re smooth and a little cool), half-listening to our guide Jin talking about how it’s become this meeting spot for locals who just want to sit and read or chat over coffee. I tried to order an espresso at the Vinyl Cafe and totally blanked on how to say “americano” in Korean—Jin laughed and helped me out. The light coming through the glass ceiling made everything feel kind of unreal, honestly.

After that, we headed out to Hwaseong Fortress. It’s only about 40 minutes from Seoul but feels like another world—old stone walls looping around hills and city blocks, with those watchtowers peeking out. There was this older couple doing their morning walk along the ramparts; one of them nodded at us as we passed (I think he was amused by my slightly dramatic huffing on the uphill part). Jin pointed out some old cannon holes and told us about King Jeongjo building all this for his father. The wind up there tasted faintly dusty and sweet—spring pollen maybe? The view over Suwon is wild; you can see shiny malls on one side and tiled rooftops on the other.

I didn’t expect Gwangmyeong Cave to be so… weirdly fun? You go down into these old mine tunnels where it’s chilly even when it’s hot outside, and suddenly there are glowing dragons, golden waterfalls (not real gold but still), and even a wine cave where we tried a tiny sip surrounded by crystals. There were families everywhere—kids shrieking at some LED monster display—and I got lost for a second near an underground lake that was so quiet I could hear my own breath echoing back. It felt both silly and kind of magical.

By the time we got dropped off back near Myeongdong Shopping Street (you can choose City Hall too), I was tired but in that good way where your head is full of new stuff. I still think about the fortress walls sometimes—how old stones can hold so many stories—and how Jin said every local has their own favorite spot in Suwon. Maybe next time I’ll find mine.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Suwon and Gwangmyeong attractions

• Meet at Myeongdong Subway Exit 9
• Meet at Seoul City Hall Subway Exit 6
• Travel to Suwon Starfield Library
• Visit Starfield Library and Vinyl Cafe
• Tour Hwaseong Fortress and walls
• Explore Gwangmyeong Cave attractions
• Return and drop off at Myeongdong Shopping Street
• Return and drop off at Seoul City Hall

Top questions

How long does the Seoul & Suwon day trip take?

The tour lasts one full day with morning pickup from central Seoul locations and drop-off in the evening.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

No hotel pickup; meeting points are Myeongdong Subway Station Exit 9 or Seoul City Hall Subway Station Exit 6.

Are entrance fees included in the price?

Yes, all entrance fees for Starfield Library, Hwaseong Fortress, and Gwangmyeong Cave are included.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No lunch is included; you’ll have time to grab food at stops like Starfield Suwon mall or nearby eateries.

Can infants join this tour?

Yes, infants can join; they must sit on an adult’s lap or use a pram or stroller if needed.

What languages does the guide speak?

The guide speaks English or Chinese depending on your group preference.

How much walking is involved at Hwaseong Fortress?

You’ll walk sections of the fortress walls; some uphill paths but suitable for most fitness levels.

What should I bring for Gwangmyeong Cave?

A light jacket is useful as it can be chilly inside the cave even during warmer months.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transport from central Seoul meeting points, entrance fees to all attractions (Starfield Library, Hwaseong Fortress, Gwangmyeong Cave), and guiding in English or Chinese throughout—all you need to do is show up ready to explore beyond Seoul’s usual sights.