Gwangjuho Lake Eco Park is a large park around Gwangjuho Lake that is divided into themed districts. The 184,948 m?-park features a natural observation center, eco-experience center, grass plaza, wetlands, and more. Just 30 minutes from downtown Gwangju, the park has been a popular retreat for locals since opening in March 2006. From spring to fall, visitors can see all kind of plants growing in the natural environment. There are more than 170,000 kinds of wild flowers including azaleas, forsythia, smile rosebay, roses, royal azaleas and hydrangeas growing in the flower district. Visitors may also enjoy the picturesque view of over 3,000 kinds of trees including snowbells, quince, Chinese parasol trees, Japanese maples, and Metasequoia trees. Many birds make nests in the wetlands district, providing the opportunity to see birds hatch and grow.