Here in this city embraced by nature close to its heart, mountains touch the skies, and its rivers gently glide through those rugged valleys. Chuncheon, the capital city of Gangwon Province in South Korea, is a city bestowed with alluring charms. With rolling hills and lush green landscape surrounding its main center, the city is a captivating gem hidden away from the list of top destinations in the country.
It is in this off-the-beat city where one can find the many different hues of Korean diversity. The cultural magnanimity of this region is unparalleled anywhere else. Discover the many shades of Chuncheon in a day by exploring these hidden treasures. Enjoy a relaxing holiday away from the usual urban landscape. From majestic historical monuments to bustling local markets, here are some of the best places to visit in Chuncheon.
Nami Island
At the heart of the city is a half-moon-shaped island that adorns many colors through different times of the year. Nami Island is famous for its beautiful tree-lined paths that attract tourists from all over the globe. Explore the island by renting a bicycle or taking a leisurely stroll. By whatever means one explores the island it sure won’t fail to surprise. Other than the stunning visual scene the island also hosts many sporting activities such as paddling and kayaking.
During the peak of autumn, the trees here paint an atmosphere of orange in many hues. Once that starts to fade the winter brings the attire of a sublime white submerged in a frozen wonderland. This would then give way to the shades of pink sprinkled in splendid fragrances of spring and finally, the contrasting colors of summer take over the stage. This alluring shade of nature masquerading in the serene landscape of Nami Island makes it a must-visit destination.
Cheongpyeongsa Temple
Cheongpyeongsa Temple is a 10th-century Buddhist temple located far away from the bustling cityscape. Built-in 973 AD during the reign of the Goryeo Dynasty in Mt.Obongsan, this is a temple known for its magnificent architectural beauty. Nestled far away from the city center, the temple might seem elusive to most visitors. The temple today boasts many rich paintings that are found nowhere else in Korea.
During the sixth year of Goryeo King Seonjong, Lee Ja-hyun decided to renounce his royal duties and palace extravagances. The former king took up the peace and tranquility of Cheongpyeongsan Mountain for the rest of his life. Dwarfed by mountains on all sides the temple sets the perfect calmness for a refreshing experience. It is easily accessible from the main center of Chuncheon through a 10-minute ferry ride from the Soyang Lake Ferry Dock.
Myeongdong - Dakgalbi Street
A lot is said and celebrated about the opulence of Korea’s dynamic shopping experience. From the glistening shopping streets of Seoul to the modern splendors of Busan, there is no lack of market streets. Although not as grandeur as Seoul, or Busan, there exist many such vibrant shopping centers in Chuncheon too. Myeongdong, a miniature version of the popular Myeong-dong in Seoul, is one of Chuncheon’s most visited attractions.
The market might have gotten its name from its distant Seoul sibling, but the essence offered here is unrivaled anywhere else in Korea. Dakgalbi Street, another one of Chuncheon’s famous markets, is known for its delicious local food. The street is lined up with restaurants on both sides, serving special delicacies. The most sought-after dish on this street is Dakgalbi, a spicy stir-fried chicken fish that originated here in Chuncheon.
Gugokpokpo Falls
Amidst the lush green scenery and dense forests, the Gugokpokpo Falls stands tall as the crown jewel among the many attractions in Chuncheon. Located near Bonghwasan Mountain in Chuncheon, this region is bestowed by nature with richness and diversity. The Gugokpokpo Falls is part of many mountain streams that originate from this region. It twists and turns nine different times before flowing down from a rock cliff.
This waterfall is surrounded by spectacular rock formations, such as the Haneulbyeokbawi Rocks, that are popular among tourists as picturesque locations. There are many outdoor recreational activities available here. Among them, hiking is most attractive as it opens the door to various viewing points of the waterfall. One of the hiking trails that goes on the right side of the falls leads to a small community called Munbae Village, well known for its heritage.
Gangchon Rail Park
Gangchon Rail Park is an eco-friendly attraction located in a scenic area of Chuncheon. It offers low-key bicycle tours on old railway tracks that have been converted into a recreational biking course. This is a fun-filled recreational activity to enjoy with your family, as these rail bikes are designed to seat multiple individuals. The route provides breathtaking views of the majestic mountain ranges and the serene landscape on the banks of the Bukhan River.
Enjoy the tranquil rural environment blessed with calmness by pedaling along the old railroad. There are many attractions that stand out in this tour, this includes multiple themed tunnels, rest stops, and a ride on a vintage train at the end. The special train called the “Romance Train” offers a panoramic view of the countryside serenity..
Soyanggang Skywalk
A history spanning thousands of years, a cultural heritage that hasn’t ebbed away to this day, and a vibrant local tradition that has garnered the world’s attention, if this is not enough, then there is the grand Andong Cherry Blossom Festival. Andong is a historic city located in the Gyeongsangbuk-do province. Towards the end of March, and the first week of April, the city celebrates the elegance of the spring season.
With an abundance of cherry blossom trees, this annual event brings out the breathtaking visuals of the city. Another major destination in the city that is famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture is the Andong Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nowhere else can one get this close to traditional Korean culture and traditions than in Andong.
Animation Museum
A paradise for lovers of anime and animation, a place that is specially created for kids but open for all ages–The Animation Museum of Chuncheon is the only museum of such kind in Korea. It is an exciting destination that showcases the origin, development, technique, and process of making animations. It is filled with exhibitions that illustrate the rich history of animation-making through interactive displays.
Along with the Toy Robot Studio, the Animation Museum is a well-known tourist attraction in Chuncheon. The museum was built to educate visitors about the evolution of animation as an art form and its cultural significance. It includes many interactive activities such as entertainment screens, hands-on activities, and multimedia presentations. The museum houses collections from all over the world that showcase the diversity of animation as an art form.
Jade Garden
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and lush greenery, Jade Garden is a popular tourist destination easily accessible from the Chuncheon city center. The botanical garden sprawls across a lavish 20-acre of stunning landscape. With more than three thousand species of plants, each season is a spectacle here in Jade Garden. The entire garden is built on the model of European classical architecture.
An array of alluring attractions awaits visitors here in the Jade Garden. Among them, the well-maintained pathways around the floral displays provide a serene mood for leisurely strolls. There is a specially curated walking course, such as the tree scent trail, maple tree trail, and forest breeze trail, that shows around the many themed gardens of the arboretum. Once the walking course is over visitors can relax with refreshments at the nearby cafe.
