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June 25, 2020

6 Easy Day-Trips from Seoul 

Article by:
Ady

6 Easy Day-Trips from Seoul 

 

Seoul is a busy, crowded, and fast-paced city, and going through the hustle and bustle of Seoul during the weekdays may be exhausting. Despite the modernization and high technology of the city, the country also offers a traditional, cultural, and wide outdoor space just near the city. Take a break during the weekends with some quick trips on the outskirts of Seoul that will have you back in the city before the day ends.

 

Image Source: blog.airpaz

 

1. Enjoy the Natural and Instagram-Worthy Sight at Nami Island

A half-moon shaped island found in Han River, Nami Island is a popular spot open for everyone. Originally called Namiseom, this fantasy island became a hit after it appeared in the Hallyu drama named Winter Sonata in 2001. It is annually visited by over 3.3 million visitors because of its natural environment beauty, cultural heritage, aesthetic sceneries, and variety of activities for kids and adults. 

Formed in 1944 and transformed to become a tourist spot, this attractive landmark found in the north of Seoul is perfect not only for couples wanting an intimate stroll but also for individuals who want to take a fresh breath of air away from the city. You will surely enjoy a walk in a naturally preserved place where telephone poles are not found and electric wires are built underground. 

 

Activities to do at Nami Island

 

Capture the most beautiful photos of the Nami nature

At Nami Island, there is no such thing as the best time to visit. Winter, spring, summer, or autumn—whatever season you visit Nami—you’d surely appreciate the charm. The top three tree-lined paths which are great for photos are The Central Korean Pine Tree Lane, Ginkgo Tree Lane, and the Metasequoia Lane. 

Aside from these tree lines, you can also stroll along the Woods and Riverside Paths with your partner found in the southern part of Nami Island. 

 

Cycle  around the island alone (or with your loved one)

Do not worry about your legs since you can rent a bike and stroll around the island which is 430,000 square meters. You can rent a regular bike which costs 3,000 KRW or opt for an electric tri-way which costs 10,000 KRW, both are good for 30 minutes. For friends and couples, there are also tandem bikes for 6,000 KRW.

 

Bring home a remembrance from Namishop Sonata souvenir shop 

Bring back souvenirs to Seoul, visit their shop and check out the key chains, jewelry boxes, bookmarks, miniature sculptures, rings, postcards, and stationery, fridge magnets, and other accessories.  For Winter Sonata fans, check out the “snowman” collectibles they sell. 

 

How to Go to Nami Island from Seoul

Option 1: By Train 

Ride the subway going to Gapyeong Station.  Then either walk for 30 minutes or take a 5-minute taxi ride to Gapyeong Rail Park. 

Option 2: By Bus

Take the Gapyeong/Chuncheon Bus at Sangbong-dong/Guui-dong to Gapyeong Bus Station. From there walk for 5 minutes going to  Gapyeong Rail Park.

From there, choose from two options: ferry or zip-wire. Ferry costs 8,000 KRW and takes about roughly 20 minutes. But if you feel extra adventurous, try zip-wire that amounts to 38,800 KRW. 

 

 

Image Source: Alpaca World

 

2. Bond with the Fluffy and Adorable Alpaca at the Alpaca World

The largest forest experience farm and the first Alpaca-themed sentimental travel site, Alpaca World is definitely the best place all ages can enjoy. Aside from alpacas, this 110,000 square foot travel destination also offers animal zones, nature settings, art shops, and food and drink shops. They operate from 10:00 to 18:00 every day. 

Prepare yourself physically because it’s going to be a lot of walking. And since it is located on the side of a mountain, your journey means lots of up and down and side and up and down again. Thus, wear your most comfortable clothes and shoes. If you will bring your kids with you, the struggle is going to be worth it, for you will surely see them smile and enjoy the activities. 

 

Image Source: Alpaca World

 

Activities to do at the Alpaca World

 

Walk with and feed the alpacas 

This is a dream come true for alpaca lovers. You can get close and cuddle more than 20 fluffy alpacas in the park. What’s more enjoyable is you can feed them for only 1,000 KRW you can purchase at various vending machines. So make sure to bring cash with you, since vending machines do not accept credit cards. 

 

Travel with the Alpaca Safari Train

For only 3,000 KRW, you can experience this must-try activity wherein you ride a train around the hillside where Alpaca are enclosed. The fun happens when the train makes brief stops and blows the horns to call the alpacas. The alpacas will run toward the train, wanting to get fed. 

 

Have an intimate alpaca healing walk

Maximize your visit by trying the healing walk with an alpaca for 10,000 KRW. For about 15 minutes, you can walk and take pictures with a soft, furry alpaca. You will be given two alpaca food sachets. Here, you will get personal time with this adorable animal and it will take your worries away. 

 

How to Go to the Alpaca World from Seoul

From Cheongnyangni Station or Yongsan Station transfer to ITX-Cheongchun train and go down at Namchuncheon Station (from Cheongnyangni Station the ride will take 1 hour 15 minutes,  from Yongsan Station it will take 2 hours).

At Namchuncheon Station, take exit 1 to street level where the bus stop is located. Take bus #3 to Alpaca World for 1,000 KRW. The trip will take 1 hour 30 minutes.

The schedule of the bus are the following:

From Namchuncheon Station - 8:50 / 12:20 / 16:10 

From Alpaca World - 9:55 / 14:05 / 17:20 

If the bus schedule does not match your arrival time, take a taxi instead, this would take 45 mins, 45,000 KRW. So if you would like to save up, time your trip to the bus schedule.

 

 

Image Source: koreatodo

 

3. Hike at the Trails of Namhansanseong Provincial Park

Now popular for its hiking trails, Namhansanseong Park and Fortress is listed as UNESCO World Heritage in 2014 for its numerous temples and shrines and significant historical and cultural value. Located 20 kilometers south-east of central Seoul, this mountain fortress was built for the use of King Injo in the 17th century. 

Aside from hiking, one major attraction here is Sueojangdae or Defense Commander's Post. It is the only remaining military facility out of four posts in the Provincial Park, built on the top of the highest Iljangsan Mountain. 

 

Activities to do at the Namhansanseong Park and Fortress

 

Appreciate the view of the city of Seoul

The walls of Namhansanseong Provincial Park is built perfectly to provide overlooking views of the city. If you love sunsets and view at night, go to West Gate as your last stop.

 

Hike at your preferred trails

Since Namhansanseong Park and Fortress provides several trails for its visitors, you can choose your preference. If you want to hike the entire wall perimeter, it will be around seven hours of sweat. But if you opt for the most desired route, the loop will take around two hours. The direction will lead you to the main gates of the North Fortress Gate to West Gate to South Gate. 

In between your break, you can also take a photo of the historical temples you will see during your trek, including Chimkwaejeong, Sueojangdae, Haenggung, Janggyeongsa Temple, Cheongryangdang Shaman Shrine and Sungryeoljeon Shrine.

Image Source: kids fun in seoul

 

How to Go to Namhansanseong Provincial Park from Seoul

Go to Sanseong Station Line 8 Exit 2 and take bus number 9 to the Fortress's South Gate. 

 

 

Image Source: The Five Foot Traveler

 

4. Visit the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

Yes, you can visit the military demarcation line bordering North Korea and South Korea established on July 27, 1953. Now, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations, open to foreigners and locals, but only through tours offered by select travel agencies. So do not forget to bring your ID card, passport, or other types of identification documentation. 

 

Activities to do on Your DMZ Tour

 

Learn About the Korean War at the DMZ Theater

Once you pass the security checkpoint, you can now go to the DMZ Exhibition Hall where you can watch a short 3D film about the Korean War, the history, and the ecology of DMZ. You can also photograph sculptures outside the theater as a remembrance. 


Get a glimpse of the Northern territory in Dora Observatory

You can see the world’s tallest flagpole acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records, standing 160 meters tall. And when the sky is clear, catch the sight of Kim Il-sung’s statue and Gijeongdong. 

 

How to Go to the Korean Demilitarized Zone 

The best advice is to book through an accredited tour agency for your visit to the DMZ. But if you prefer to do it alone, the Korean Peace Train, which only operates from Wednesdays to Sundays, will take you to the DMZ via the Dorasan Station. From the station, visitors are required to ride the scheduled bus for 18,000 KRW, where it will take you to four points: Dorasan Peace Park, lunch stop at a military cafeteria, Dora Observatory, and 3rd Tunnel of Aggression + the DMZ Pavillion Museum.

 

Korean Peace Train Timetable:

Image Source: Let’s Korail

 

Korean Peace Train Ticket Price:

Gyeongui Line: Seoul to Dorasan (single trip, vice-versa) 9,200 KRW for adults and 6,400 KRW for children.

Gyeongwon Line: Seoul to Baengmagoji  (single trip, vice-versa) 12,800 KRW for adults and 8,200 KRW for children.

 

Image Source: Korea Tourism Facebook

 

5. See the Beauty of Nature from Above by Paragliding at Danyang 

Tick off another bucket list with this adventurous try. The most popular and famous region in the nation for paragliding is Danyang because of its beautiful mountain view, which is essential in paragliding. 

It might be a scary activity, but this tandem paragliding activity will be guided by a pilot who is a member of the national paragliding team and Korean Champion Paragliding. It costs 85,000 KRW and if you choose to have your fly video recorded, add another 20,000 KRW. The payment has insurance inclusions adding more security for you. 

Do not worry if you have zero knowledge of this sport, all you need is courage and attend the required safety training. 

 

How to Go to the Danyang 

It is four hours away from Seoul Central City Bus Terminal via bus. But the best way to get to your destination is to ride a train, taking only 3 hours and 26 minutes from Seoul.

 

  • Location: 196-52 Dusan-gil, Gagok-myeon, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, South Korea

  • Official Website for Paragliding in South Korea: https://www.paragliding-korea.com/

 

6. Everland Theme Park and Caribbean Bay

Everland is located in Yongin, a city in Gyeonggi-do. Opened in 1976, it is the oldest and largest theme park in South Korea and is owned by the Samsung Group. The park consists of an amusement park, a zoo, and a waterpark. 

 

Image Source: Everland Facebook

 

Activities in Everland 

The park is divided into five sections, the Global Fair, Zoo-Topia, European Adventure, Magic Land, and American Adventure. In their Zoo-Topia zone, one can view safari animals and ride the Amazon Express where the driver will feed the giraffes, lions, and bears along the route. Everland also once housed a polar bear, who recently died of old age in 2018.

At the entrance of the park, you can find the schedule of shows for the day, set an alarm using your phone 30 minutes in advance to remind you of the schedule. Watch the parades at 2:30 pm and 8:30 pm and fireworks show at 9:30 pm.

Everlannd is the theme park for the thrill-seekers, ride the first wooden roller coaster in South Korea the T-Express,  the Robot VR a virtual reality ride, Hurricane a rotating pendulum, and Double Rock Spin.

There are also rides that you can pay using your T-Money like the Gyro VR, Live Hologram, and Horror Maze.

 

  • Opening hours: 10:00 - 21:00

  • Ticket Price: 

  • 1 day pass for adults 56,000 KRW, 44,000 KRW for children

  • 1 day pass after 4pm for adults 46,000 KRW, 37,000 KRW for children

  • 2 day pass for adults 87,000 KRW, 69,000 KRW for children

 

Image Source: Everland Facebook

 

Activities in Caribbean Bay

Beside Everland is Caribbean Bay, the largest indoor and outdoor water park in South Korea. It consists of five main areas: the Aquatic Center, Sea Wave, Bay Slide, Fortress, and Wild River. Caribbean Bay is a great place to visit during the warmer season, however, during the cool weather, the indoor waterparks can still be enjoyed. 

 

  • Opening hours: 10:00 - 18:00

  • Ticket Price: 

  • 1 day pass for adults 50,000 KRW, 39,000 KRW for children

  • 1 day pass after 2:30pm for adults 42,000 KRW, 33,000 KRW for children

 

Combination of Everland and Caribbean Bay Ticket Price: 

Visit both parks in one day - 1 day pass for adults 73,000 KRW, 39,000 KRW for children

One day for Everland, one day for Caribbean Bay - 2-day pass for adults 89,000 KRW, 72,000 KRW for children

 

How to Go to the Everland/Caribbean Bay from Seoul

Option 1: By Bus

From Gangnam Station take exit 10, look for the bus stop near the exit and take Bus 5002. The journey will take 1 hour and cost 2,600 KRW for a single-trip. At the Everland bus station, there will be a free shuttle bus from 5:30 to 23:30.

Option 2: By Train

Take the Yongin EverLine subway, Jeondae Everland direction. Alight at Jeondae Everland Station and take exit 3. At the Everland bus station, there will be a free shuttle bus from 5:30 to 23:30.

 

  • Location: 199 Everland-ro, Pogog-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

  • Website: http://www.everland.com/

  • Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/witheverland/

 

This list brings you a variety of the best day trips that one can do in a full day during the weekend or a holiday. It is natural for one to take a quick and relaxing break after a week's work. Whether you prefer nature sightseeing, animal park, cultural heritages, historical refreshment, or even thrilling flying adventures - there are places near Seoul that you can visit.

 

Ady
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