In between the towering skyscrapers that reach for the sky and the awe-inspiring landscape that stretches to the sea, there is much to explore in Incheon– The third largest city in South Korea. Situated on the shores of the Yellow sea, this is the gateway to discovering hundreds of holiday escape islands on the western sea.
Neighboring the capital city of South Korea, Incheon is perfectly suited for a day trip or a weekend layover. The city’s international airport is a popular layover airport in East Asia and helps to attract many international tourists. Here are some of the best attractions in Incheon for a wonderful day trip.
Incheon Grand Park
One of the most happening places in the city is the iconic Incheon Grand Park. As the name suggests this grand attraction in Incheon is a picturesque park sandwiched between the two majestic mountains of Gwanmosan and Sangasan. This rare geographical advantage makes the park all the more attractive for hiking trails or for a relaxing holiday walk with your family.
Sprawling across the landscape of 727 acres, it is the largest urban green park in the city. The park further houses many beautiful lakes, a children’s zoo, and a botanical garden. The simple yet peaceful lush greenery environment in the park makes it a fine picnic spot, especially during the times of cherry blossoms.
Wolmido Island
There is no lack of islands in South Korea or Incheon particularly. But there are a few worthy of being the collector’s item. Wolmido Island is one such attraction in Incheon that will grasp the visitors with its enchanting scenic landscapes and maritime heritage. It is also one of the easily accessible islands with a steady monorail service in and out of the island.
Wolmido Island located just 1 km off the Incheon coast is shaped like a half-moon. The huge theme park that is a favorite among the children and the 770 meter-long seafront that tempts the adults for a walk along the sea till the lighthouse makes it a perfect family holiday spot.
Jeondeungsa Temple
A sanctifying Incheon tour through the relics of the ancient past that still stands tall to retell the epics. That is the experience awaiting you at the great Jeondeungsa Temple. A thousand-year-old Buddhist temple located inside the majestic Samnangseong fortress is a testament to the grandeur of Korean Buddhism.
The Jeondeungsa Temple complex consists of many great smaller temples, buildings, and structures each with its own architectural marvel. Daeungbojeon, the main building, Beomjong Bell, the Yangheonsu Victory Monument, and Yaksajeon are some of the fabulous works of art inside the complex.
Eurwangni Beach
Eurwangni Beach is a cozy white sand seaside escape from the bustling city. It is one of the most popular beaches among locals and tourists to enjoy a retreating holiday. The beach is a 10-minutes drive distance from the Incheon International Airport and one can easily reach this wonderful destination without any hassles.
Among the many reasons that make Eurwangni beach a much sought-after family holiday destination is its shallow sea. With an average depth of just 1.5 meters, the sea is not so dangerous for partaking in water sports activities. You can enjoy a joyful ride on the banana boats, jet skis, or surfing and then witness a marvelous sunset to end the day trip.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a special part of every major city in the world. Over the years it has grown its status and has become a part of the life and character of many cities. In Incheon, it is special in many other ways because it is the largest official Chinatown in all of South Korea. Exploring the cultural heritage of Chinatown is one of the best things to do in Incheon.
Established in the year 1884, Chinatown in Incheon has become a thriving city center to explore the restaurants and museums that showcased the cultural heritage of Chinese-Korean people. This is the best place in Incheon to get a taste of delicious Chinese foods such as noodles with black bean sauce.
Jayu Park
Jayu park is an iconic park situated in the heart of Incheon. It was opened in 1889 as the first western-style park in Korea. The park is located on Mt. Eungbongsan in Songhak-dong and offers many scenic attractions for visitors. It is situated near Chinatown and Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village.
The park hosts many statues and structures with historical values such as a statue of General MacArthur, the memorial tower for the Student Volunteer Force in the Korean War, and the monument for the centenary of Korea–US relations. Also known by the name Manguk Park (meaning “All Nation’s Park”) it has several walking trails that offer mesmerizing sea views of Incheon shores.
Songdo Central Park
In a city that is so busy and awake all the time, it is difficult to find space where one can find peace. Songdo Central Park is one such location in the center of Songdo International City. A widely acknowledged recreational spot with a wide variety of sporting opportunities. It is undoubtedly one of the most scenic locations to enjoy the Incheon tour.
The park consists of a 1.8 km waterway that is open for watersports such as kayaking and boating. The stroll gardens, sculpture gardens, and terrace gardens all add charm to the well-prepared walking trails inside the park. The observation deck on the 33rd floor of G-Tower offers a panoramic view across the park of the Western sea, and at night you can witness the illuminating city lights.
Sinpo International Market
Incheon was started as a small trade harbor named Jemulpo that can act as a gateway to Seoul. Throughout the entire history of the city, it has led the international trade in the western seas. And in such a city it is obvious that the Sinpo International Market stands out as one of the best attractions in Incheon.
The increase in trading activity in the late 19th century allowed the Sinpo International Market to establish itself as a leading trading destination for foreign visitors. Take a stroll through the buzzing market vendors and squeeze in some time to taste some delicious Korean street food. Sinpo dakgangjeong is a very famous dish among Korean people.
Heungryunsa Temple
A calm, peaceful, and spiritual spot tucked away on a small hill adjacent to Songdo International City. Heungryunsa Temple is a quiet and sanctifying spot to catch a glimpse of the splendid Korean Buddhist culture. The temple hosts a lot of amazing Buddha statues that stood the test of time. It is undeniably one of the best attractions in Incheon to see and experience.
Being seated on the top of a hill makes the temple all the more exciting to visit. Because it offers a scenic view of the city from up the hill. One can easily escape from the nonstop buzz of Incheon’s city life to hike along the many stairs that lead to this spiritual heaven in the land. Visitors can also opt for a temple stay to enjoy a more soul-filling experience.
Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village
There is so much to cover in a single day in Incheon and there will always be many other destinations that will be missed and regretted later. But if there is one perfect spot that can conclude a great day trip in a splendiferous way then that is Songwol-dong fairy tale village. It is a dazzling neighborhood in Incheon filled with an extravaganza of mural painting.
Set out to Songwol-dong fairy tale village to experience the nostalgic Disney characters all coming alive in vibrant colors. There are many charming houses and walls in this village decorated with fairytales from Little Red Riding Hood to Wizard of Oz. It is also a popular shooting location for Kdrama and movies.
