Chuncheon (춘전), meaning ‘Spring River’ in Korean is a known for its breath-taking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. It is a perfect weekend or a day away from Seoul and offers many places worth visiting. I was very lucky to have been offered to go to Chuncheon on my first visit to South Korea and the memories will always stay in my heart.
How to get there
Chuncheon is just northeast of Seoul and therefore it is much easier to travel there from Seoul than from anywhere else in Korea.
- By Train: Chuncheon is accessible by train from major cities in South Korea. The journey from Seoul to Chuncheon takes approximately one hour on the ITX-Cheongchun train. Trains run frequently throughout the day, providing a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation.
- By Bus: Chuncheon is well-connected by bus services from various cities in South Korea. Seoul Express Bus Terminal and Dong Seoul Bus Terminal offer regular bus services to Chuncheon. The journey duration depends on the departure location, but it typically takes around one to two hours.
- By Car: If you prefer driving, Chuncheon is easily accessible by car. The city is connected to the national highway network, and the journey time from Seoul is approximately one to two hours, depending on traffic conditions.
When is the best time to visit Chuncheon?
The best time to visit Chuncheon is either during Spring (April-June) or autumn (September/October). I have went in October and the autumn colours made it just a little bit more magical.
What food is Chuncheon famous for?
Chuncheon is renowned for its dakgalbi, a popular Korean dish made with stir-fried marinated chicken, vegetables, and spicy gochujang (red chili pepper paste). It’s a must-try specialty of the region and often enjoyed with a variety of side dishes. It is a crime to go there without having trying one of these dishes.
Top places to visit in Chuncheon
1. Nami Island
By far, the most famous place in Chuncheon is the Nami Island (남이섬). Nami Island is known for its stunning landscapes, lush forests, and astonishing views. The island is surrounded by the clear waters of the Han River and is especially popular during the spring and autumn seasons when cherry blossoms and vibrant foliage create a mesmerizing backdrop.
Nami Island gained international recognition as a filming location for the popular Korean drama series “Winter Sonata.” Fans of the drama visit Nami Island to re-enact memorable scenes and immerse themselves in the romantic ambiance depicted in the drama.
Nami Island is not just a place for peaceful walk around the island; it’s also an outdoor playground for adventure enthusiasts. Rent a bicycle and pedal your way through the island’s scenic trails, exploring hidden corners and discovering hidden gems. Take a leisurely boat ride along the river or try your hand at various water sports activities, such as kayaking or paddle boarding. The island’s natural surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for active pursuits and a chance to connect with nature.
How to get there
The only way to get to the island is by a ferry (5 minutes ride) or if you want to make it a little bit more interesting, you can take the Zip Line.
2. Gangchon Railpark
Set on an old railway track, Gangchon Railpark allows you to pedal along the charming route while enjoying breath-taking views of the surrounding landscapes. The railbikes, which are modified bicycles fitted to run on the tracks, provide a fun and leisurely way to explore the area with friends and family. As you pedal along, you’ll pass through charming tunnels, cross over scenic bridges, and be treated to panoramic vistas of lush greenery and flowing rivers. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing outing amidst nature or a thrilling adventure, Gangchon Railpark offers a delightful and enjoyable excursion for all ages.
3. Jade Garden
Jade Garden has been set with the theme of “small Europe in the forest”. It is a popular filming location for dramas such as Angel’s last mission: Love (if you haven’t watched it, please go and watch it now!) and That Winter, the Wind Blows. The garden has a total of 24 themed gardens where you can find Italy’s Tuscan style entrance centre for visitors, Italian wedding Garden or English Border Garden.
As you meander through the pathways, you’ll encounter charming gazebos, cascading waterfalls, and enchanting ponds that create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The garden is renowned for its extensive collection of jade sculptures, adding a touch of elegance and uniqueness to the surroundings. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or simply find a quiet spot to relax and unwind.
4. Gugokpo Waterfalls
The waterfalls cascade down a series of rocky cliffs, creating a mesmerizing spectacle and a soothing soundtrack of rushing water. As the water falls down, it twists (gok) nine times (gu) which is why it has been given that name.
Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, Gugokpo Waterfalls offers a serene and tranquil setting for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The cascading waters create a refreshing mist in the air, providing a cool respite on hot summer days. Hiking trails and wooden bridges allow visitors to explore the area, offering different vantage points to admire the cascades.
5. Dakgalbi Street
I have already mentioned that visiting Chuncheon without trying their signature dish Dakgalbi is a crime. To make it easier on you, you can visit the Dakgalbi street providing numerous restaurants offering this delicious dish. Each eatery offers its own unique twist on the dakgalbi recipe, allowing you to indulge in a variety of flavors and spice levels. The sizzling sounds of the grills and the bustling atmosphere create an exciting and energetic dining experience. In addition to dakgalbi, you’ll find an array of other local delicacies and street food options, including spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki), fried chicken, and savory pancakes.
6. Soyanggang Skywalk
Perched on the edge of a cliff, the Skywalk is a transparent glass walkway that extends out over the beautiful Soyang River, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Being a whoping 174 meters long, it makes it the longest glass structure ever constructed in Korea. As you step onto the Skywalk, you’ll feel a rush of excitement and a sense of walking on air, as if suspended above the water. The transparent floor allows you to see the glistening river below, creating a thrilling and unforgettable sensation.
7. Gubongsan Mountain observatory
Gubongsan Mountain Observatory is a hidden gem that offers a remarkable vantage point to soak in the breath-taking views of the surrounding landscapes. You will find it on top of Gubongsan Mountain so it is often welcomed by the hike enthusiasts. The observatory boasts an open-air viewing deck, allowing visitors to marvel at the sweeping vistas and witness the ever-changing colors of the landscape with each passing season.
8. The Literary Village of Kim Youjeong
This historic house is a dedicated space that celebrates the life and literary contributions of Kim You Jeong, who is widely regarded as one of Korea’s most influential modern writers. As you step into the tranquil grounds of the house, you’ll be transported to the world that inspired Kim You Jeong’s iconic works. The traditional Korean architecture, peaceful gardens, and serene atmosphere create an ambiance that reflects the author’s deep connection to nature and his hometown. The house showcases Kim You Jeong’s personal belongings, manuscripts, and other artifacts, offering visitors a glimpse into his life and literary journey.
9. Cheongpyeongsa Temple
With a history dating back over a thousand years, the temple holds deep significance in Korean Buddhism. It was first built in 973 by Monk Seung Hyun but during the Korean War, parts of the temple have been destroyed. It is still a great place to visit.
There is also a tale associated with this temple. Once upon a time, a young man was in love with a princess, known as Princess Pyeongyang. Her father, the emperor Taejong ordered for the man to be killed. However, the young man’s love was so strong that he has been reborn to be a snake and constantly held on to the princess. No effort was spared to try and separate him from the princess, but without any luck. One day, the princess came upon the valley where later this temple would be built. She spent the night in the Princess Cave (Gongju-gul) and bathed herself in the Princess bath (Gongju-tang). She has also dressed in a traditional monk’s clothing (Gasa) which has ultimately helped to break the snake away from her.
10. National museum of Chuncheon
From ancient artifacts and traditional crafts to historical documents and artworks, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the region’s cultural significance. Visitors can delve into the fascinating exhibitions, learning about the lives of ancient civilizations, the traditions of the local communities, and the artistic achievements of Korean artists throughout the centuries. The museum also hosts special exhibitions, cultural events, and educational programs, making it an engaging and dynamic place for visitors of all ages.
11. Gongjicheon Sculpture park
The park is a visual feast for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, offering a harmonious blend of art and natural beauty. As you wander through the park’s pathways, you’ll be greeted by an array of thought-provoking sculptures created by renowned Korean and international artists. Each sculpture tells its own unique story, evoking emotions and sparking imagination.
