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A woman enjoying the mountain view in Chuncheon, South Korea.

Things to do in  Chuncheon

Seoul’s favorite escape

The capital of South Korea’s Gangwon Province, Chuncheon sure packs a punch with its natural landscapes. Its biggest claim to fame is Namiseom (Nami) Island, where swathes of magical pine, ginkgo, and redwood trees served as the backdrop for the popular K-drama Winter Solstice. Other outdoorsy things to do in Chuncheon include climbing to the summit of Samaksan Mountain and picnicking at Gongjicheon Sculpture Park. And after working up an appetite, don’t forget to sample Chuncheon’s signature chicken dish of spicy dakgalbi.

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Local Currency
South Korean Won (₩)
When to visit

Because of its natural landscapes, the best time to visit Chuncheon is in the spring (plan your visit in early April to see the cherry blossoms) or fall, when the region’s maple trees blaze red and orange. Winter is typically extremely cold (the 2018 Winter Olympics were held in Gangwon Province), so expect snow and temperatures as low as -23°F (-11°C). Every year, from May through June, the city hosts the Chuncheon International Mime Festival, which draws performers from across the globe.

Getting around

Chuncheon is easy to reach from Seoul, making it a popular weekend getaway among residents of the sprawling capital. The express ITX-Cheongchun train connects the two cities in about an hour, while buses run regularly to Chuncheon's intercity bus terminal from Incheon and Gimpo airports. Once in Chuncheon, your best way of getting around is by taxi, as the city doesn't have its own metro, and buses can be difficult to navigate unless you can speak and read Korean.

Traveler tips

The man-made Soyangho Lake is the largest body of water in South Korea, earning it the nickname the “Inland Sea.” Many of Chuncheon’s best activities center around the lake; you can traverse the body of water during a ferry cruise, go fishing for more than 50 different freshwater species, or admire the lake from above as you walk over the Soyanggang Skywalk, a transparent glass bridge that makes you feel as though you’re walking on water.

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People Also Ask
Q:What are the top attractions in Chuncheon?
A:

The top attractions in Chuncheon are Nami Island, the famous filming location of Winter Sonata; Gangchon Rail Park, where you can pedal along a former double-track railway overlooking mountain scenery; Jade Garden Arboretum, home to 24 themed gardens; and Soyanggang Skywalk, a glass bridge that allows you to walk over Soyangho Lake.

Q:What activities can you do in Chuncheon?
A:

Chuncheon’s lakes and mountains mean you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities. Some of the best include hiking to Gubongsan Mountain Observatory, which offers stunning views of the countryside, and strolling through Gongjicheon Sculpture Park. You can also go wakeboarding or take a personal watercraft out on Soyangho Lake.

Q:What are the best cultural attractions and museums in Chuncheon?
A:

The best cultural attractions and museums in Chuncheon include the Chuncheon National Museum, which traces Gangwon Province’s history back thousands of years through archeological artifacts. There’s also the Animation Museum, where you can learn about the history of animation in Korea, and the Toy Robot Studio, featuring a variety of exhibits on robotics.

Q:What dishes should you eat in Chuncheon?
A:

Chuncheon’s signature dish is dakgalbi. It consists of chicken marinated in a spicy gochujang sauce, stir-fried (usually in a cast iron pan) with sweet potatoes, cabbage, rice cakes, and perilla leaves. Typically eaten wrapped in lettuce or more perilla leaves, dakgalbi is paired with spices such as garlic and Korean chili flakes.

Q:How many days should you spend in Chuncheon?
A:

While you can see the major highlights of Chuncheon on a day trip from Seoul, two or three days is a good amount of time if you want to soak up the city’s relaxed atmosphere, spending the rest of your time here hiking in the surrounding mountains or relaxing at Soyangho Lake.

Q:What day trips can you take from Chuncheon?
A:

Chuncheon is an ideal base for exploring the wider Gangwon Province. Seoraksan National Park, South Korea’s first UNESCO–listed Biosphere Reserve, is just a 1.5-hour drive from the city, while the fabulous ski resorts of Pyeongchang (which hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics) are also just 1.5 hours away.

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