Suwon Hwaseong Fortress [UNESCO World Heritage]

수원 화성 [유네스코 세계유산] · Gyeonggi · Palaces & heritage

Suwon was one of four main regional government centers during the Joseon dynasty. Hwaseong Fortress, built to protect the city, was designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site on December 12, 1997 for its historical value. The fortress offers various performances daily as well as the Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival every fall. The walls stretch for approximately 5.7 kilometers, with Paldalsan Mountain at the center. The fortress, constructed from 1794 to 1796, was built as a display of King Jeongjo’s filial piety towards his father and to build a new pioneer city with its own economic power.

Getting there

From Korea Tourism Organization open data. Opening hours and admission can change — check the official page before you go.

On nearby while you're here

Events run on fixed dates — check these against your own trip. Trip Planner shows everything on for the days you are in Korea.

• Sep 19, 2026 – Oct 6, 2026Suwon Hwaseong Media Art · right next door
• Feb 12, 2026 – Mar 1, 2027Collection Show: Blanc Black Panorama · 600 m walk
• Jul 23, 2026 – Nov 1, 2026Patricia Piccinini: Kinship · 600 m walk
• Oct 4, 2026 – Oct 11, 2026Suwon Hwaseong Festival · 600 m walk

Within walking distance

right next door

Hwaseomun Gate

400 m walk

Haenggung-dong Mural Village

500 m walk

Hwahongmun Gate (화홍문(華虹門))

500 m walk

Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion (방화수류정(동북각루))

600 m walk

Suwon Museum of Art

600 m walk

Temporary Palace at Hwaseong Fortress (Hwaseong Haenggung Palace)

800 m walk

Jeongjo Theme Performance Hall

800 m walk

Suwon Hwaseong Museum