Curator’s statement
Chuncheon, South Korea, is a beautiful mid-size city that is about a 1.5 hour train ride from Seoul on the Korail ITX train. Nestled among lakes, rivers and mountains, the natural scenery is a nice contrast to the big city lights of Seoul. Chuncheon has a slower pace than Seoul, but many opportunities for outdoor adventure and fun!
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Where to stay in Chuncheon, South Korea
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Things to do in Chuncheon, South Korea
Chuncheon Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car - Ride Korea's longest cable car to the top of Samaksan Mountain. The scenery as you travel across the lakes to the visitor center at the top of the mountain is stunning. At the top, you can hike up a well-maintained hiking trail to an observation deck for spectacular mountain views. You can also enjoy a coffee or ice cream at the mountain-top coffee shop. Crystal clear cable cars are available for the brave!
Soyang Dam — Visit the Soyang Dam (aka Soyanggang Dam), which is referred to by locals as the "Hoover Dam of Korea." The dam was built between 1967 and 1973, providing flood control and hydroelectric power. You can see the reservoir and dam from places to look, explore on a relaxing ferry boat, or get excited by racing around the reservoir in a speed boat.
Legoland Korea Resort — On an island in the river sits Legoland Korea Resort. There is a resort hotel, pool, dining, shopping and theme park. There are lego-themed tour busses to help in exploring the surrounding attractions.
KT&G Sangsangmadang Chuncheon Arts Center — This cultural center, music venue and art museum is a main place for the Chuncheon arts community to meet. This museum is on the river. It has some interesting exhibits for music fans, from traditional Korean music to K-Pop.
Day trips
Nami Island - Near Chuncheon is Nami Island, a forested island with beautiful gardens and an adventure park. It has become popular in recent years because it was the filming location for the popular K-drama "Winter Sonata." While there, you can take scenic walks down tree-lined paths, zipline or ride the bikes at Gangchon Rail Bike Park. The island has many beautiful photo spots.
Places to eat & drink in Chuncheon, South Korea
Janghodak The Grill — This Korean BBQ restaurant is known as one of the best and most famous in Korea. Fresh vegetables and meats are cooked over traditional charcoal table-top grills, with all of the traditional Korean side dishes. Delicious! The location is convenient to all the attractions, and not too far from the train station.
Dancing Caffeine Baker — This lovely cafe with a river view has delicious teas, coffees, pastries and even ice cream. Really cute selfie stations for Instagram-worthy photos are around every corner. This cafe is nestled near the KT&G Sangsangmadang Chuncheon Arts Center.
There are many coffee shops and dining places throughout Chuncheon. Be courageous and try new foods!
Need to know
I want to thank my friends, the Min family, in Chuncheon for introducing me to their hometown. It is a very special city that I look forward to visiting again in the future. Visiting Chuncheon was one of the highlights of my summer trip to Korea.
Travel Advisor
Crystal Wilkerson
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to South Korea.