About gimje
Gimje is one of the most typical urban-agricultural cities, located on the western region of the Jeollabuk-do (Northern Jeolla) Province. It stands in the heart of the Honam Plains, and the Moak Mountain, also known as the "Soul mountain of the people", is located just east to the city. The two rivers, Mangeyong and Dongjin, give life to the vast plains, while also making the Gimje region one of the largest producers of rice in Korea. Gimje is a place of beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage.
Gimje is the birthplace of the rice-farming culture. The oldest and largest irrigation facility of the Orient, Byeokgolje, which was made by King Biryou of the Baekjae Dynasty, is located here in Gimje. The Byukgoljae Agricultural Museum is also located in the area.
Gimje is a home for both the 1400year-old ancient temple Geumsansa, and also Oh-ree-al-teo, which are the sacred grounds of Maitreya Buddhism and Jeungsangyo respectively. Sooryu Catholic Church, which represents the persecution of Roman Catholicism, and the 100year-old Geumsan Church, are also located here, making Gimje a major historical ground for religion.
One can experience the heavenly-blessed scenery of the West Sea from Manghaesa, Shimpo-harbor, and many other observatories made along the coast. Watching the beautiful sunset, along with a dish of freshly sliced raw fish, will surely be a thing to remember. The annual "Gimje Horizon Festival" offers yet another joyful and unforgettable experience. It is held to celebrate a year of rich harvest and also to give an opportunity for people to directly experience agricultural life.
