Culture and History of Chuncheon
Chuncheon, the capital city of Gangwon Province, South Korea, is rich in cultural history and natural beauty. Surrounded by lakes and mountains, it offers a picturesque environment that has inspired many cultural activities and historical stories over the years.
Prehistoric times of Goryeo
Chuncheon’s history dates back to prehistoric times, and there are numerous archaeological discoveries that show early settlements in the area. During the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392), it was known as an area of strategic and military importance due to its geographical location.
Joseon and modern times
During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) Chuncheon was an administrative and military center. The role of the city continued to evolve, reflecting Korea’s wide range of historical and political changes throughout the Korean Empire to the present day.
cultural heritage
Chuncheon is famous for its rich intangible cultural heritage, passed down through generations of traditional music, dance, and crafts. The city celebrates this heritage with various festivals and events, including the Chuncheon International Mime Festival, which showcases the city’s specialties along with cultural performances, and the Chuncheon Dakgalbi & Makguksu Festival.
literary significance
The city is also famous in Korean literature, especially the work of Kim Yu-jeong, a renowned Korean writer born in Chuncheon in the early 20th century. His childhood home has been preserved as a museum, displaying the artist’s life and work and highlighting the city’s impact on his writing.
modern cultural development
In recent decades, Chuncheon has embraced modern cultural expression while preserving its historical heritage. The city has several museums, art galleries, and theaters that showcase both traditional and contemporary art. Chuncheon’s beautiful nature continues to inspire artists and cultural practitioners, establishing itself as the vibrant center of Korean art and culture.
A place worth visiting in Chuncheon
1. Nami Island(남이섬)
Nami Island, a small crescent-shaped island located in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, Korea, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Korea. The island was originally formed in a natural basin of the Han River, but it artificially took on a more unique shape when the Cheongpyeong Dam was built in 1944. Nami Island not only provides a peaceful and beautiful natural environment in itself, but also provides attractive experiences for visitors with various cultural and artistic activities and events.
Characteristics of Nami Island
· Natural Landscape: Nami Island boasts beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons. The island is beautifully decorated with cherry blossoms and canola flowers in spring, green trees and flowers in summer, autumn leaves in autumn, and snow-covered scenery in winter. The entire island remains pristine, making it a perfect place for those who want to escape from city life and enjoy the nature.
· Culture and Arts Activities: Nami Island is a center of various cultural and artistic activities. Various festivals and performances are held throughout the year, and more tourists are visiting, especially after it became known as a filming location for the Korean drama Winter Sonata. The island has several cultural facilities, such as photo exhibitions, sculpture parks, and a fairy tale village for children.
· Leisure Activities: Nami Island offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as walking, biking, and riding an electric car. In particular, the Metasequire route surrounding the island is very popular for walking, and bike rental services are also available, making it great for exploring the island.
· Accessibility: Chuncheon City is easily accessible by car or public transportation, and you have to cross over by ferry to reach the island. This short journey provides a beautiful prelude to the experience of Nami Island.
Tips for Visitors
· Seasonal Visit: Nami Island offers different charms throughout the four seasons, so you can choose the season you want to visit and enjoy the right natural scenery and events.
· Booking: Due to large crowds during peak seasons, it can be difficult to visit the island, so we recommend booking ferry tickets and tickets to the event on the island in advance if possible.
· Supplies: It is important to prepare comfortable shoes and seasonal clothes, especially hats and sunscreens in summer, and warm clothes in winter.
Nami Island is Korea’s representative tourist attraction that combines nature and culture, making it an ideal place to visit with family, friends, and lovers. A day at Nami Island will surely be an unforgettable memory.
Operating Hours
[Ferry Schedule]
08:00–09:00 (30 min intervals)
09:00–18:00 (10-20 min intervals)
18:00–21:00 (30 min intervals)
*The ferry schedule is subject to change depending on circumstances.
Address
124464 KOREA, Nami Island-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do
Phone number
+82) 031-580-8114
Website
http://www.namisum.com/
Admissions
Regular: KRW 16,000
Discount: KRW 13,000 (student (secondary and high school student), senior (70+)
Special: KRW 10,000 (children (34 months to elementary school students)
2. Edelweiss Swiss theme park(에델바이스 스위스 테마파크)
Located in Chuncheon, the Edelweiss theme park is a family-oriented leisure and theme park. It offers a variety of themed gardens, handicraft studios, and colorful facilities to experience traditional German and Swiss culture. It is especially popular with visitors who want to spend time leisurely in nature.
business hours
The opening hours of the Edelweiss theme park may vary depending on the season and day of the week, and may change on special events or holidays. It is usually open in the morning and open until late in the afternoon, but it is important to check the opening hours on the official website or contact them in person before visiting.
visiting tip
· Check the website: Information on the latest events, admission fees, available services, and more is available on the official website.
· Weather Preparation: There are many outdoor activities, so be prepared to dress according to the weather on the day you visit.
· Reservation status: It can be crowded during peak seasons or weekends, so we recommend checking your reservation in advance if possible.
The Edelweiss theme park is especially popular with family-level visitors, and it is a place where you can enjoy various cultural experiences in nature. Don’t forget to always stay up to date before visiting.
Address
304 Icheon-ri, Seorak-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Contact information
+82-31-581-9400
Open time
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays
Weekends and holidays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m
Website
http://www.swissthemepark.com
Admissions
Adult (Age 20 and above): 10,000 won
Youth(Age14~19):6,000won
Child(36months~Age13):5,000won
Senior(Age65andabove):6,000won
3. Kim Yu-jeong Literature Village(김유정 문학관)
Kim Yu-jeong Literature Village is a literary theme park created by restoring the birthplace and surroundings of the famous Korean short story writer Kim Yu-jeong. Located in Sindong-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, it was created to honor Kim Yu-jeong’s literature and life and promote his works. Kim Yu-jeong is an active writer in the 1930s, and her works contain a simple yet warm human beauty and occupy an important place in Korean literary history.
Characteristics of Kim Yu-jeong Literature Village
· Including Kim Yu-jeong’s birthplace, several buildings that offer a glimpse into life at the time have been restored. Visitors can experience the experience of going back to the time when Kim Yu-jeong lived.
· There is an exhibition hall that introduces the life of Kim Yu-jeong and his works. You can gain a deeper understanding of his literary world through his masterpieces and related materials.
· There is a road with stone tablets engraved with phrases related to Kim Yu-jeong’s work in the literary village, so you can feel the writer’s literary sensibility while walking.
· Kim Yu-jeong Literature Village offers various cultural events and educational programs. Literature courses, meetings with writers, and literature camps are held regularly to provide valuable experiences to those interested in literature.
Address
25, Sile-gil, Sindong-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do
Phone number
+82-33-261-4650
website
http://www.kimyoujeong.org/
Admissions
Free
4.Chuncheonmyeong-dong Chicken Galbi Alley(춘천 명동 닭갈비 골목)
Chuncheon Myeongdong Chicken Galbi Alley is a famous food street located in Jungang-ro, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, Korea. Chuncheon is a famous city for its chicken ribs, and this alley is one of the representative restaurants of Chuncheon, and it is packed with numerous chicken ribs restaurants, offering visitors the opportunity to taste various types of chicken ribs. Dakgalbi is a food that is stir-fried with vegetables marinated in a spicy sauce and is one of Korea’s representative delicacies.
Characteristics of Chuncheon Myeongdong Chicken Galbi Alley
· Diverse Restaurants: The alleyway ranges from restaurants with long traditions to restaurants with a modern atmosphere. Each restaurant offers chicken ribs with a unique seasoning and cooking method, so visitors can enjoy different flavors of chicken ribs.
· Local Specialty: Chuncheon Myeongdong Dakgalbi Alley has become a must-visit course for tourists visiting Chuncheon. Dakgalbi here is a local specialty and is considered one of the representative foods of Chuncheon.
· Cost-effectiveness: Most restaurants offer generous portions of chicken ribs at reasonable prices. Here, you can have a satisfying meal in both taste and quantity at an affordable price.
· Additional Food: It is also served with a variety of foods, such as budae jjigae and makguksu, that you can enjoy with dakgalbi. After finishing your meal, a common way to finish is to add fried rice and fry it in a seasoned pan.
visiting tip
· Avoid weekends and dinner time zones: It can be very crowded during weekends or dinner times, so if possible, it’s recommended to visit a little early to avoid waiting times.
· Restaurant Selection: Since each restaurant offers different flavors of chicken ribs, it is recommended to select a restaurant that suits your taste by referring to reviews from several restaurants.
· Parking Consideration: It is recommended to use public transportation as the alleys can be congested, and if you are using a car, you should check the parking spaces nearby in advance.
Chuncheon Myeongdong Chicken Galbi Alley is the best place for those who really want to enjoy the traditional Korean food, Dakgalbi. Here, you can enjoy the taste and atmosphere of Chuncheon and provide visitors with an unforgettable dining experience.
Address
66-3 Joun-dong, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Phone number
+82-33-250-3089
5.Soyang River Skywalk(소양강 스카이워크)
The Soyang River Skywalk is one of the popular tourist attractions located in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province. With a panoramic view of the Soyang River, this glass-bottom skywalk provides a special experience for visitors. Located near the Soyang River Bridge, it offers a unique opportunity to enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape of the Soyang River and Chuncheon.
Characteristics of Soyang River Skywalk
· Location: Located in Geunhwa-dong, Chuncheon, it is adjacent to the Soyang River, so you can enjoy beautiful rivers and natural scenery.
· Length and structure: About 174 m long, especially at the end, there is a 12-m-long glass floor section, where you can see the current of the Soyang River just below while walking.
· Scenery: At the Soyang River Skywalk, you can enjoy the Soyang River Dam, Chuncheon City’s downtown view, and beautiful scenery of the surrounding mountains. The scenery at sunset is especially impressive.
· Safety: The skywalk is designed with high quality tempered glass and a sturdy structure for safety. Visitors can walk on the structure with confidence.
Visit Information
· Admission fee: There may be an admission fee to visit the Soyang River Skywalk. Please check Chuncheon’s official website or tourist information center for the latest information.
· Operating Hours: Operating hours may vary depending on the season and holidays, so it is recommended that you check the official website or contact us directly before visiting.
· About parking: There are parking spaces available around, but it may be convenient to use public transportation as parking spaces may be scarce during peak seasons.
visiting tip
· Weather Check: Visiting on sunny days is a good idea, especially to enjoy the experience of walking on glass floors to the fullest.
· Wearing comfortable shoes: It is recommended to wear non-slip shoes for a safe and comfortable viewing.
· Photo shoot: You can take wonderful pictures with the beautiful scenery of the Soyang River Skywalk in the background, so please have your camera or smartphone ready.
Address
8-1 Geunhwa-dong, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Phone number
+82-33-250-3668
Price
Individual
Children:1,000KRW
Teenagers:1,500KRW
Adults:2,000KRW
Groups
Children:800KRW
Teenagers:1,200KRW
Adults:1,600KRW
*Groups=20people or more
*Free admission for children 6years old and under , seniors 65years old and over , people with disabilities (proof required)
6. The Garden of Morning Calm(아침고요수목원)
The Garden of Morning Calm, a famous arboretum located in Sangsang, Gapyeong County, Gyeonggi Province, Korea, opened in 1996 with the aim of preserving and exhibiting Korea’s beautiful natural scenery. Its name comes from the Goryeo Dynasty, which means “quiet and peaceful country,” and it is famous for its various plants and beautiful garden designs that harmonize with nature. The Garden of Morning Calm offers different experiences to visitors throughout the four seasons, as you can see various plants and flowers bloom in different seasons.
Characteristics of the Garden of Morning Calm
· Various Garden: Inside the Garden of Morning Calm, there are various themed gardens, including traditional Korean gardens, wildflower gardens, aquatic plant gardens, and forest baths. Each garden offers visitors a variety of attractions with its unique plant composition and design.
· Seasonal Flowers and Plants: You can see cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, water lilies and sky lilies in summer, autumn leaves and chrysanthemums in autumn, and snow scenes in winter, so you can enjoy different natural beauty from season to season.
· Night Openings and Lighting Festival: During certain periods, the arboretum is also open at night, so you can enjoy a beautifully decorated garden with lights. Especially in winter, there is a colorful lighting festival, which attracts many tourists.
· Educational programs and events: The Garden of Morning Calm runs educational programs for children and adults, and hosts a variety of seasonal events and exhibitions.
visiting tip
· Seasonal attractions: When planning a visit, it’s a good idea to check in advance what plants and flowers are blooming seasonally.
· Photo shoot: The beautiful scenery of the Garden of Morning Calm is the best place to take pictures, so don’t forget to prepare your camera.
· Comfortable Clothes: Inside the arboretum, comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended because you need to walk.
Address
432 Sumogwon-ro, Sang-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Phone number
+82-1544-6703
Website
http://morningcalm.co.kr
Admissions
Individual
Adults:8,000KRW(weekdays),9,000KRW(weekendsandholidays)
Teenagers:6,000KRW(weekdays),6,500KRW(weekendsandholidays)
Children:5,000KRW(weekdays),5,500KRW(weekendsandholidays)
Group
Adults:7,000KRW
Teenagers:5,000KRW
Children:4,000KRW
*Groups(30peopleormore)
*Teenagers(ages12~18),Children(ages36monthsold~11)
*Discountprovidedfortheelderly(ages65andolder)andthedisabled(IDproofrequired)
7.Gangchon Rail Park(강촌 레일 바이크)
Gangchon Rail Park is a unique leisure experience facility located in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province. It is a rail bike facility built using abandoned railways, where visitors can enjoy beautiful natural scenery while biking on the rails themselves. Gangchon Rail Park operates on an 8.6 km section connecting Chuncheon and Gangchon, and is loved for its course along the scenic Bukhangang River.
Characteristics of Gangchon Rail Park
· Rail Bike: A rail bike is a bike that can be ridden by two or four people, allowing you to enjoy the surrounding nature while riding on a closed railroad track. Of course, the bike is fixed on the rail, allowing you to safely complete the course.
· Landscape: The Railbike course passes through a section where you can see beautiful scenery of the Bukhangang River and surrounding mountains. In particular, you can feel the peace of nature with the glitter of the water when you run along the riverside.
· With family and friends: The rail bike at Gangchon Rail Park is a perfect activity to enjoy with family visitors or friends. With easy and safe leisure, it can be enjoyed by all ages.
· Other facilities: The rail bike terminus also features a range of amenities along with a walk along the river, allowing you to relax after the rail bike experience and enjoy nature more closely.
visiting tip
· Booking: Many people visit, especially on weekends or holidays, so if you want to take a rail bike, it’s a good idea to book online in advance.
· CLOTHING: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for the weather as it is an outdoor activity.
· Camera: Because the surrounding landscape is very beautiful, we recommend that you prepare a camera or smartphone and take pictures of wonderful memories.
Gangchon Rail Park is an ideal attraction for those looking for unique leisure activities to enjoy in nature. It offers a chance to create special memories while enjoying beautiful scenery with family, friends, and lovers.
Address
1385 Gimyujeong-ro, Sindong-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Phone number
033-245-1000
Opening Hours
9 a.m. to 4 p.m
Website
http://railpark.co.kr/main/index.asp
Price
25,000 KRW (2-pax bike)
35,000KRW(3-paxbike)
8. Cheongpyeongsa Temple(청평사)
Located in Sinbuk-eup, Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, Cheongpyeongsa Temple was built during the Goryeo Dynasty and is considered one of the most beautiful temples in Korea in harmony with the beautiful scenery of Soyang Lake. The temple was relocated to its current location due to the construction of the Soyang River Dam, and some structures were newly built or restored in the process. Cheongpyeongsa Temple is a place of great significance for those who seek peace and tranquility in nature along with its historical value.
Characteristics of Cheongpyeongsa Temple
· History: Cheongpyeongsa Temple was first built during the Goryeo Dynasty and has been repaired and relocated to the present day. In particular, it is known to have been repaired during the Joseon Dynasty.
· Cultural Properties: There are many cultural properties in Cheongpyeongsa Temple. Among them, Buddha statues and Buddhist scrolls, which are designated as national treasures and treasures, are famous. These cultural properties show the importance of Cheongpyeongsa Temple in Korean Buddhist culture.
· Landscape: Cheongpyeongsa Temple boasts a combination of Soyang Lake and the surrounding mountains. In particular, the panoramic view of Soyang Lake from the road to the temple leaves an unforgettable impression on visitors.
· Daeungjeon Hall: The Daeungjeon Hall of Cheongpyeongsa Temple is a beautiful wooden structure, and it is the center of worship at the temple. The Buddha statue enshrined there impresses ordinary visitors as well as religious Buddhists.
visiting tip
· View: When you visit Cheongpyeongsa Temple, make sure to enjoy the natural scenery around Soyang Lake together. Especially, the scenery with autumn leaves is very impressive.
· Respecting Cultural Properties: Cultural properties and Buddha statues in temples have great religious and historical values, so please enjoy them with respect.
· Comfortable Clothes: Wearing comfortable clothes and shoes is recommended to explore the temple and surrounding nature.
Cheongpyeongsa Temple itself contains the history and culture of Korean Buddhism, bringing tranquility and emotion to visitors with beautiful natural scenery around it.
Address
673 Cheongpyeong-ri, Buksan-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Phone number
+82-33-244-1095
Website
http://cheongpyeongsa.co.kr/
