The Korean Bell of Friendship

Among the hidden gems of the South Bay is Angel's Gate Park, a breezy hilltop sanctuary that is the home to the Korean Bell of Friendship, one of the largest bells in the world.

A gift from the Republic of Korea to the American people in 1976 to celebrate the bicentennial, the Korean Bell of Friendship would be a unique sight anywhere in the world. The 17-ton, 12-foot high work of art, made of copper and tin, has a diameter of 7 ½ feet and an average thickness of eight inches. The Daily Breeze looked back at its history, including how it took 30 craftsmen 10 month to build the Korean temple that houses the bell.

The chance to actually hear the bell will take some timing. It is struck just five times a year on New Year's Eve, Korean American Day (January 13), the Fourth of July, Korean Liberation Day (August 15) and every September in celebration of Constitution Week.

It was also rung on Sept. 18, 2001, a week after the attacks on the World Trade Center, and again on the first anniversary in a special memorial ceremony.

The backdrop to the Korean Bell of Friendship is perhaps one of the most breathtaking views in all of Southern California. Bring a blanket and a picnic to enjoy the open, grassy space and don't forget a camera to capture the views overlooking Point Fermin Park, the ocean and on a clear day the Catalina Islands. You will also be able to gaze up at the many kites likely to be in air, taking advantage of the ocean breezes.

There is plenty of parking at Angel's Gate Park, which also includes a playground for kids and basketball courts. Visit the [Department of Recreation & Park ] for more information, or check out what Yelpers shared about their experience visiting the Korean Bell of Friendship.