Chuncheon sits among lakes about an hour from Seoul, and is usually visited alongside Nami Island, one of the most popular day trips out of the capital.
Highlights
- Nami Island, reached by ferry from Gapyeong — Metasequoia Lane and Gingko Tree Lane are the classic photo spots, especially golden in autumn. Budget 2–3 hours to walk the loop.
- Dakgalbi, Chuncheon's own spicy stir-fried chicken dish, cooked at your table with cabbage, sweet potato, and rice cake — there's a whole street of restaurants built around it (better eaten in town than at the overpriced options near the ferry wharf).
- Gangchon Rail Bike, pedal-powered carts along a disused rail line near Chuncheon.
Getting there
The ITX-Cheongchun express runs from Cheongnyangni Station to Chuncheon in about 70 minutes. For Nami Island specifically, take an ITX or commuter train to Gapyeong Station (about an hour from Seoul), then a short taxi or shuttle to the ferry terminal.
When to go
Autumn (October–November) is peak season for the colours on Nami Island; spring brings cherry blossoms and noticeably smaller crowds.