2023.03.13 Chungwoon Literature Library

Today was cold and sunny. Looking at the clear sky from the office, I had an urge to visit the Chungwoon Literature Library during lunchtime, which I had been meaning to check out for a long time. I looked up the route on the map and a 44-minute walk one way looked quite challenging. I would barely have time to have lunch or look around the library. It was still worth a visit. Since I checked out almost every cool place near my office, it was time to go on some other adventures.

 

I left the office at 11:30 am, took out one roll of kimbap, and walked towards the library. The first half of the route was just walking on a flat sidewalk. The second half, which started at the end of Gyeongbokgung Palace, was mainly walking uphill as the library was located on a high hill. Although it was quite hard, it found it interesting to see fancy houses on the way. They reminded me of the ones in the movie Parasite. I think I heard the shooting took place somewhere around this neighborhood.

 

By the time I wanted to take off my coat because of the heat, the library finally came into sight. As soon as I saw the overall view I felt I got transported to the Joseon period. The library consisted of several traditional Korean buildings with beautiful little waterfalls. I thought anyone could fall in love with the scenery right away. Luckily there was almost no one as it closed on Monday. (I chose a closed day on purpose as there would be fewer people around.) I had a quick lunch while sitting in the shade hearing the waterfalls. I felt so lucky to be able to have this little moment to get out of hustle and bustle of the office life and fully enjoy the nature.

 

Not long after I had to go back to the office. I thought about walking back at first, but later changed my plan to take the bus. Since it was my little picnic I didn’t want to get pressed for time or stressed out while walking in the sun. (Facing the sun could hurt my eyes.) It only took 20 minutes by bus. So convenient! I could safely arrive at the office before 1 pm.

 

It will be difficult to visit the library frequently during lunchtime. 90 minutes is just too short to enjoy the library. Nevertheless, today’s adventure was excellent. Maybe I can even spare my weekend to visit this place again. (Note that I normally hate visiting the area near my office…)