Ganghwa Island is the ideal place for a family outing during these clear autumn days, with its vestiges of history from the Paleolithic age to the modern and its beautiful natural scenery.

Gwangseongbo, which is designated as national historic site No. 227, is one of the 12 garrisons in Ganghwa Island, known as the site of the ferocious battle during the United States expedition to Korea in 1871.

A fortress gate called "Anhaeru," which means "dominating the sea," is one of prominent features there.

Once visitors go through the gate, they get a splendid coastal view. The promenade passes monuments to unknown solders and the remains of old cannon.

Visitors also can see a national beachhead fort called "Yongdu" which sits on a dragon-head-shaped rock with monuments. The water current there is said to be the second fastest current in Korea.

Besides, there are some hiking trails for nature lovers.

The best way to get to the island is to take the Incheon city tour bus, which runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. Visitors can book a guided tour at the entrance.