Course Overview
This night drive follows the Namgang River in Jinju. Jinjuseong Fortress (Historic Site No. 118), one of the three great victory sites of the Imjin War, glows beautifully at night with illuminated walls and Chokseongnu Pavilion reflected in the river.
During the Jinju Namgang Yudeung (Lantern) Festival every October, tens of thousands of lanterns float on the river creating a magical nightscape. Even outside festival season, the riverside night scenery is year-round beautiful. Jinju bibimbap, topped with raw beef, is the city's signature dish.
Section Highlights
Section 1: Jinjuseong to Chokseongnu (approx. 5 km)
Start from Jinjuseong parking lot and drive along the fortress walls to Chokseongnu, Yeongnam's finest pavilion overlooking the Namgang.
Section 2: Chokseongnu to Namgang Embankment (approx. 5 km)
Drive along the southern embankment viewing the illuminated fortress across the river. This section is most spectacular during the lantern festival.
Section 3: Namgang Embankment to Jinju Bridge (approx. 5 km)
Complete the drive to Jinju Bridge with city lights reflecting on both sides of the Namgang.
Driving Tips
- Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival runs mid-October to early November
- Jinjuseong admission is free (open year-round)
- Jinju bibimbap restaurants cluster near Jungang Market by the fortress
- Best night driving time is 1 hour after sunset