There’s more to Davao than just its beaches, Mt. Apo (the highest mountain in the Philippines), national eagles and durian. There are so many museums, parks, churches, among others, to visit.
Museums
1. Davao Museum
The Davao Museum is the perfect place to learn about the history and culture of the Davao province. It features different exhibitions on the indigenous collection of jewelry, weapons, tools and clothing, among others. It’s a small museum but enough to show you what the Dabawenos are all about.
2. Japanese Museum
The Japanese people had a profound effect on Davao. Even before World War II, the Japanese had started settling into the city. Then the Japanese occupied the Philippines in World War II, and some (including the early settlers before the war) stayed after the war. The museum features traditional Filipino and Japanese national costumes. The museum also features an abaca processor, which was pretty common during the Japanese occupation when Davao city became the center of abaca production.
Parks
1. Osmena Park
Now a famous park where families spend their Sundays, Osmena Park used to be a settlement site for Bagobos. This is where they lived with their families. Nowadays, people come here to spend quality time with their families.
2. Eden Nature Park
Eden Nature Park is Davao’s 95% man-made mountain resort. Terraces were carved out of mountain slopes, and thousands of pine tree seedlings were planted to create this peaceful nature park. Explore nature, adventure, leisure and culture at Eden. Visit the campsites, the skyrider or the mountain trail with your family or friends.
3. People’s Park
The People’s Park of Davao opened December 2007 for the people and visitors of Davao. It features a rainbow brick road, a Waling-Waling (indigenous orchid) decorated facade, a Durian dome made of wire mesh, statues of the national eagle and a 10-meter tall man-made waterfall. Vendors are not allowed inside to provide a quiet and clean place for the people to relax.
4. Mt. Apo
At 2954 meters tall, Mt. Apo is the highest mountain in the Philippines. It’s flat topped with three peaks and a 500-meter volcanic crater. Lots of hiking enthusiasts and professionals have challenged themselves and hiked up this mountain. An average hike up Mt. Apo takes about 2 to 4 days.
Next up: Davao Churches, Temples and other Attractions
