Ganghwa Island

Strategically located at the mouth of the Hangang River, long the main artery to Seoul, Ganghwa Island has defended the national capital from attack for centuries. Its historic fortresses and coastal bastions have witnessed a long list of invaders, from the Mongols and Manchus to the French, Americans, and Japanese. In addition to its historical sites, Ganghwa Island is also home to one of Korea's most sacred mountains, Manisan.