Shopping

Gwangju is a traditional city in the middle of an agricultural area. Specialties of the area include handmade brushes (for calligraphy and ink painting), lacquerware, and tea grown in nearby Mudeungsan.

Stop by "Art Street," which becomes the Gaemi Shijang ("Ant" Market) on weekends, where you'll find art and antiques from the area. Even on weekdays this three-street area is the city's cultural hub. Masters of pansori and gayageum (a traditional stringed instrument), as well as master calligraphers and potters, live and work in the area. Be sure to check out the beautiful musical instruments and the calligraphic works from the region. To reach "Art Street," located behind the Jung-ang Elementary School, take bus no. 11, 17, 30, 222, or 333 to the Docheong bus stop and walk about 5 minutes.