A Gift from the Forests of Donghae: Neat Bamboo Rice and a Stroll Through Gulttukchon, Filled with Floral Scents

A Place Where the Green Breeze Lingers: An Invitation to Gulttukchon

As I drive along Samhwa-ro in Donghae, I find my heart feeling inexplicably relaxed. With the windows slightly rolled down, the scent of earth and fresh grass gently brushes against my nose to greet me. The place I visited today is 'Gulttukchon,' located at 253-6, Samhwa-ro, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do. This was not just a trip to grab a meal, but a journey to find a simple table that resembles the breath of nature.

As soon as I stepped into the entrance, I was greeted by a garden where over 180 types of wildflowers and herbs harmonized. The noise of the city faded away, and I was greeted by the sound of petals swaying in the wind and the innocent eyes of the native Sapsali (dog) guarding the garden. It was a landscape that perfectly suited the description of a place where one spends time slowly within nature.

The Taste of Nature Packed in 12 Grains, Bamboo Rice

I took a seat and waited until a neat table was set. They say that no artificial seasonings are used here, and every dish is flavored only with natural ingredients. The highlight is definitely the bamboo rice. The rice, packed tightly with 12 kinds of grains between the segments of bamboo and steamed over a gentle fire, released a faint bamboo scent and steam the moment the lid was opened.

Taking a large spoonful, the chewy texture of the grains seemed to spread healthiness throughout my mouth. Pairing this with mushroom hot pot or mushroom bulgogi was a truly wonderful combination. Thanks to their skill in bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients without being overly stimulating, my stomach felt very comfortable. The charcoal-grilled fresh duck and a glass of subtle bamboo wine were enough to wash away the fatigue of the trip. I realized that the title of 'Clean and Delicious Restaurant' recognized by the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) was not given without reason.

Tips for Enjoying Your Own Relaxing Time

If you want to fully enjoy Gulttukchon, it is better to choose a time a bit earlier than lunch or a quiet afternoon. After finishing your meal, just sitting on one of the benches placed around the garden, smelling the herbs, and looking blankly at the sky is healing enough. Especially from spring to autumn, various wildflowers fill the garden with their own colors, so I recommend filling your eyes with the scenery rather than a camera.

Nearby attractions where you can fully enjoy the nature of Donghae, such as Samhwasa (Temple) or Mureung Valley (Mureung Gyegok), are close by, making it a great post-meal course. It may not be a flashy sight, but anyone who knows the comfort that simple nature and a bowl of sincere food can bring will surely love this place. On the way back, I carried the fresh scent of Gulttukchon’s herbs deep in my heart.