Tour Highlights

Seoul - Hongcheon - Seoul (L) 160km
Upon arrival at Nogo Gallery after about 1 hour 20 minutes drive, you follow the gentle uphill road to the exhibition room and studio. You will find various ceramics displayed outdoors surrounded by nature. There are kilns and unique black porcelain pieces that cannot be found elsewhere. Listen as your instructor describes how black potteries are made. See an expert demonstrate the skills and learn about unique artworks of Master Kim Sy-young and the evolution of celebrated black pottery.
See the wood-fired kilns and appreciate his masterpieces at the galleries.

Fascinated by the subtle color, Kim dedicated himself to learning the techniques of handling earth and fire for 10 years. He finally succeeded in reproducing the traditional color of black porcelain, a combination of black and reddish brown. Black porcelain is baked at a higher temperature than celadon or white porcelain, and the patterns found on black porcelain differ according to the length of time it is exposed to fire. “That is the magic of a potter,” as per Kim. That is why a potter is a magician who can handle fire.

You are treated to a tea served in Dawan, a black tea bowl unique to Nogo Gallery, perhaps first time in your life. And then get behind the pottery wheel to shape your own masterpiece under the guidance of your instructor. The class is very beginner-friendly and the instructor will be there every step of the way so you'll never get stuck. You may not be able to mimic these handicrafts of the highest quality, but you can at least try your hand at it here. Your artwork is shipped to you after two months upon baking.

With time for lunch, you will tour Dumulmeori is an absolutely gorgeous park. Two bodies of water merges here and flow gently down through Seoul and finally Yellow Sea. The view is marvelous and you may feel as if you are standing on the edge of the lake. Peaceful river with calm view will relax your hectic lives. There is a Semiwon garden that is solely dedicated to the lotus flower. It creates a colorful spectacle with its stock of water lotuses in summer. The tour is about escaping from hustle and bustle, and taking the vast, lush and enchanting nature.