Explore Jeollanam-do’s New Garden Tourism Program: 50% Entry Fee Rebate with Local Currency!

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South Jeolla Province is rolling out a garden-focused tourism program that ties visits to local spending. The province will reimburse part of garden admission fees in regional currency to lower visitors’ costs and encourage spending at neighborhood businesses and private garden operators.

In partnership with the National Garden Culture Center, the province will feature 77 gardens, arboretums and forest recreation sites across the region. Routes are curated by area, season and travel theme to suit different tastes.

The headline benefit is an admission subsidy. After feedback from last year’s stay-style garden tourism pilot showed entry fees deterred participation, officials decided to cover 50% of admission costs in local currency. The aim is to attract more visitors while keeping tourism dollars circulating within the community.

The program offers two main options. The self-guided one-day course lets visitors wander through 35 private gardens and arboretums at their own pace. Complete 10, 20 or all 35 stops, submit a stamped tour book, and you’ll receive a commemorative medal. Those who finish the full route will also be invited to the 2026 Private Gardens Festa.

There are also overnight stay courses. Offered as 1-night/2-day and 2-night/3-day itineraries, these run 19 times during spring, fall and peak vacation periods. A professional garden guide accompanies each trip, sharing the stories behind each garden and pointing out nearby attractions.

The stay courses showcase Honam’s three signature private gardens alongside healing forests, forest recreation facilities and notable local eateries. Rather than simple sightseeing, the focus is on extending stays by blending relaxation, food and hands-on local experiences.

Participation details and registration schedules will be posted in stages on the National Garden Culture Center’s website. To make it easy for travelers, the province will stock private gardens and arboretums with stamps, tour books and garden maps.