[#Liam's Tour Diary] Passing through...Leaving Gongju(공주)- Eposode 1

As I prepare my move from Gongju-si (공주시) to another city, memories from my first motorbike riding experiences came flooding in. Passing through this historic town was quite regular, always finishing off a day of riding with a coffee by the Geumgang River.

Watching the sunset as the lights of its famous Gonsangseong Mountain (Baekjae fortress) (공주 공산성) across the river begin their nighttime illumination, gave a nice end to the day from the many rides around this county side location.

Gongju is the next large town located along the 32 road about 30 kilometers West of Daejeon. It edged the famous Geumgang River(금강) and steeped in history. The 32 road continues up to Yesan, but a ride to the beach would break off just after Gongju onto the new 36 fast highway.
It’s also the last supply stop before Changyang, so many bikers meet at this location before heading off on a long day ride.

I personally have fond memories of exploring these roads with one riding buddy who lived nearby in Donghaksa(동학사). On most days after class, a quick spin-off the beaten track to Magoksa Temple (마곡사) or Jochiwon Lake was always a great unwind from the daily routine. I felt like I was visiting another country, as South Korea is represented well in the evening colours of this rather mountainous, yet farming area.

I arrived as a resident back in October 2017 to work at Kongju National University, just as the Beakjae festival for that year had its opening ceremony. It was a special welcoming site as I watched the fireworks over the city from the fortress. I was easily transitioned with a view from the Gongsanseong hilltop, which became the back yard to my home.

I am not one for apartment living, so I was lucky to have a very kind Korean friend, help me to search for a two-bedroom house, with barbecue balcony, and a garage for the motorbikes. It is not the usual foreign teacher living accommodation, so I was very fortunate to land such a place. I made morning coffee on the balcony, the perfect meeting spot.

A general direction was discussed before an unknown ride towards the coast. Summertime had lots of adventure, with trips to the beach, only to return to a few choice restaurants in Gongju, one or two decent bars, and excellent work colleagues to chat with over a few pints of beer.