[hkskyline]

Cheap flights over the long weekend lured me to Mokpo, an off-the-beaten track destination for foreign tourists. Located in the southwestern part of the country, this is the gateway to many islands off the coast. The city itself is unfortunately known for its decay and poverty. In fact, the whole province saw public funding cuts from the 70s as the government tried to starve the opposition foothold.



Many fishing boats are still moored right in the city centre steps from the ferry terminals.







So it is not surprising that the sea offers a lot for your palette.















Although a new district, Hadang, and Mokpo in general, doesn't have much to offer in terms of international-rated hotels. There are a lot of love motels though, which discreetly have covers over their garage entrances so couples wanting a good time won't be as visible to everyone else.













Just a short walk from the residential area is Gatbawi Rock, 2 rocks that look like people wearing traditional hats. Formed by volcanic ash from about 80 million years ago, the rocks face the water and a promenade that extends into the water make viewing and photos easy.









Mokpo's city centre is quiet and seems devoid of much economic activity. Nevertheless, there are several historic points of interest and signage is decent to walk around and find them. The former Japanese consulate that was built in 1900 is now the Modern History Museum. It has many historic photographs and details from the painful occupation. After the Japanese left, the building became City Hall, Municipal Library, and Cultural Centre.

















Part 2 of the museum is a few blocks away at the former Oriental Colonization Company's branch. The building dates from 1920 and the company's intention was to monopolize the local economy for the Japanese overlords.







Meanwhile, elsewhere on these streets ...



























More on my website : https://www.globalphotos.org/mokpo.htm