In case you’re planning a visit to Korea between December and March, you’ll have to know the most effective locations to go to throughout the cooler months. So seize your massive coat and prepare to discover winter in Korea!
Whether or not you’re a fan of winter sports activities, trying to immerse your self in conventional Korean actions, or in search of a New 12 months like no different, Korea’s winter locations promise adventures and reminiscences to be made. Seize your massive coat and prepare to discover winter in Korea!
South Korea is a superb place to go to all yr spherical. There may be a lot to see and do, a plethora of tradition, arts, delicacies and historical past to experience. Because the temperatures drop and South Korea dons its winter coat, a magical transformation unfolds throughout the nation, which you wouldn’t wish to miss. From icy landscapes to New 12 months celebrations, Korea turns into a winter wonderland ready to be explored.
I’ve put collectively a number of the finest locations to go to in winter in Korea, discovering the marvel of snowy escapes, frozen lake festivals, palaces and sunrises!
The perfect locations to go to in winter in Korea
There are many fantastic locations to go to in Korea throughout the winter months, from palaces to islands and ski resorts to festivals.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul
Open all yr spherical, however an particularly superb sight to behold in winter, Gyeongbokgung is the most important of the 5 Grand Palaces constructed throughout the Joseon Dynasty. There‘s a lot beautiful structure inside the palace and loads of alternatives for nice vacation snaps!
A number of highlights of the palace embody Geunjeongjeon, the principle throne corridor, the place the king formally granted audiences to his officers. There are additionally not one however two beautiful pavilions, Gyeonghoeru and Hyangwonjeong, that are located on islands inside the palace grounds.
Guests can witness the ceremonial Altering of the Guard at Gwanghwamun, the principle gate, and expertise the each day reenactment of the standard royal guard-changing ceremony. Open to the general public, the palace gives an exploration of its grounds, offering insights into Korean historical past amid lovely gardens. Gyeongbokgung Palace can be illuminated at night time, providing extra glorious photograph alternatives. It might positively be some of the lovely locations to go to in winter in Korea.
2. Namsan Seoul Tower, Seoul
Namsan Seoul Tower, also referred to as N Seoul Tower, is an icon of the realm and is positioned on Namsan Mountain within the coronary heart of Seoul. In case you fancy it you possibly can take a hike or a cable automobile to the highest of Namsan Mountain which is without doubt one of the finest locations to go to in winter in Korea for its breathtaking views of Seoul lined in snow.
Through the years, the tower has develop into a well-liked vacationer attraction, providing two statement decks that supply beautiful 360-degree views of Seoul and its surrounding areas and the fantastically illuminated at night time too making for a superb backdrop to your vacation images!
3. Jeju Island
Only a quick flight from Seoul, you’ll discover Jeju Island. Visiting Jeju in December has been one in every of my favorite wintry journeys. The island was quiet, the seashores had been nonetheless lovely, and it was nice worth!
Click on right here to learn extra about what to do on Jeju Island in winter, the place to remain on Jeju, and methods to do a highway journey spherical Jeju Island too.
I’d additionally suggest you learn my information to travelling Jeju solo, suggestions and recommendation for all!
4. Seoul Lantern Pageant, Seoul
Seoul Lantern Pageant is an annual occasion held in November and December. The competition is widely known in and round Gwanghwamun Sq., Cheonggyecheon Stream and Seoul Plaza and transforms the areas right into a wonderland of vibrant lanterns. It’s a mesmerising sight, particularly after sundown.
The competition gives glorious alternatives for pictures, particularly throughout the nighttime when the lanterns are illuminated. Because it solely takes place for a number of weeks, it’s positively one in every of my prime options for locations to go to in winter in Korea. Additionally, it’s a free competition which makes it accessible to everybody who needs to go!
Remember that occasion particulars and dates fluctuate barely from yr to yr, so I like to recommend double-checking probably the most present details about the Seoul Lantern Pageant and cross-referencing it with the date you propose to journey there. I wouldn’t need you to overlook it!
READ MORE: 14 of the Greatest Cafes in Seoul, South Korea
4. Nami Island
Nami Island, formally often called Naminara Republic, is a small, lovely island positioned in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, South Korea. Throughout the winter months, usually from December to February, it transforms right into a winter wonderland.
The island is legendary for its tree-lined paths which create a fairy-tale-like environment when lined in snow; and when the lakes which encompass the island freeze it turns into much more magical when the ice displays the panorama.
It gained worldwide fame because the filming location for the favored Korean drama ‘Winter Sonata’, so you might even see a number of vacationers who’re followers of the present visiting the island because it performed a big function in selling South Korea’s cultural affect throughout Asia.
Gorgeous strolling trails that wind via the wooded areas are aplenty on the island. These trails, adorned with snow-covered branches and paths, make for a lovely setting wherein you’ll wish to take a number of images. After all, it might make for a really romantic setting as nicely.
All through the island, you’ll discover varied artwork installations and sculptures that solely add to the pure magnificence. These items of artwork, combined with the winter panorama, create superb sights which I’m positive you’ll fall in love with, which is why it’s among the best locations to go to in winter in Korea.
Given the chilly temperatures, you might want to keep in mind to pack a number of heat layers; the whole lot from a winter coat, gloves, and a hat wouldn’t go amiss. Appropriate footwear for strolling in snow is important because the island is a must-do however it is going to be icy.
Nami Island is accessible by a ferry journey from Gapyeong Wharf and the quick journey throughout the river provides one other thrilling aspect to the journey!
The explanation you must go to Nami Island is its capability to move guests right into a magical world of snow-covered landscapes as if from a film! This implies it’s positively one of many prime locations to go to in winter in Korea
5. Alpensia Ski Resort, Gangwon Province
Alpensia Ski Resort is located in Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province. The resort performed a big function throughout the 2018 Winter Olympics, internet hosting varied occasions similar to alpine snowboarding, cross-country snowboarding, and biathlon.
Alpensia Ski Resort is a haven for winter sports activities followers. The resort gives glorious snowboarding and snowboarding services, catering to all ranges of experience, from freshmen to superior skiers. It additionally options luxurious locations to remain, with many accommodations that supply beautiful panoramic views of the encompassing mountains and slopes.
Other than winter sports activities, guests can discover the Alpensia Olympic Park, which incorporates the Olympic Stadium and different services used throughout the Winter Olympics. The Olympic legacy makes it among the best locations to go to in winter in Korea and is undeniably a premier winter sports activities vacation spot.
6. Jeongseon Rail Bike, Gangwon Province
The Jeongseon Rail Bike is one for the adventurers! Expertise driving a rail bike via the snow-covered landscapes of Jeongseon. The route takes you thru tunnels and over bridges, making you’re feeling like an motion hero! The Jeongseon Rail Bike expertise is a one-of-a-kind journey the place guests journey specifically designed bikes alongside outdated railroad tracks. The tracks wind via the snow-covered countryside supplying you with an journey you wouldn’t wish to miss and makes it among the best locations to go to in winter in Korea.
The Jeongseon Rail Bike is appropriate for guests of all ages and health ranges so everybody can have a go. It’s an awesome exercise for households, teams of mates, and adventurers basically who’re in search of an attention-grabbing winter tour.
Each Alpensia Ski Resort and Jeongseon Rail Bike supply unimaginable experiences in Gangwon Province, catering to these in search of the fun of winter sports activities and people searching for a extra scenic journey. Whether or not you’re a snowboarding fanatic or somebody desirous to benefit from the winter landscapes in a relaxing means (pardon the pun), Gangwon Province has one thing to supply.
7. Pyeongchang
One other main ski resort in Pyeongchang is Yongpyong Resort, recognized for its in depth slopes and internet hosting the slalom and big slalom occasions throughout the Olympics. The resort is a well-liked vacation spot for each leisure {and professional} skiers.
Pyeongchang is surrounded by the Taebaek Mountains, creating a surprising backdrop for winter actions which can take your breath away – positively one to be captured on digicam to share with all of your nearest and dearest when residence.
Past the Olympic venues, Pyeongchang gives scenic trails for winter climbing and exploration. The snowy landscapes and surroundings make it a stunning vacation spot for nature lovers.
Pyeongchang isn’t solely about sports activities; you’ll be able to discover conventional markets, temples, and native festivals to get a style of the area’s traditions.
Whether or not you’re an avid winter sports activities fanatic or somebody in search of a scenic escape, Pyeongchang’s mixture of world-class services and pure magnificence makes it one of many prime locations to go to in winter in Korea.
8. Inje Icefish Pageant
The Inje Icefish Pageant takes place within the city of Inje, positioned in Gangwon Province, South Korea. The competition is held throughout the winter season, when the climate is chilly sufficient to freeze the floor of Soyangho Lake. The precise dates can fluctuate from yr to yr, so it’s really helpful to examine the competition schedule upfront.
The spotlight of the competition is the ice fishing! The lake’s frozen floor turns into a short lived fishing floor throughout the competition. Guests are supplied with the chance to expertise conventional ice fishing by drilling holes within the ice and attempting their luck at catching mountain trout. It is a must-do exercise in winter in Korea, what number of different alternatives in life will you get to strive your hand at one thing so distinctive! The mountain trout caught throughout the competition can usually be ready and cooked on-site, permitting individuals to take pleasure in their catches!
Along with ice fishing, the competition options quite a lot of performances and actions that showcase the native traditions and heritage of Inje. Conventional music, dance performances, ice sculptures and artwork installations by native artists provide you with insights into the fantastic historical past of the area and add to the magic of the competition.
Soyangho Lake, surrounded by mountains, makes for an awe-inspiring setting for the competition good for a lot of a photograph alternative to seize the second and make reminiscences for all times. It’s certainly among the best locations to go to in winter in Korea.
9. Hahoe People Village
Hahoe Village stands out as one in every of Korea’s famend people villages, nestled amidst the Nakdonggang River. A UNESCO World Heritage website, this village preserves conventional Korean homes, often called hanok. Strolling via the village appears like stepping again in time, and winter provides an additional layer of magnificence to the environment.
Its fame grew considerably after notable visits from Queen Elizabeth II in 1999 and President George H. Bush of the united statesA. in 2005. Acknowledged for its cultural richness, the village is a house to so many treasures that it led to its designation as Nationwide Folklore Cultural Heritage in 1984. Notably, the village options the Hahoe Masks, acknowledged as a Nationwide Treasure.
The village is residence to tons of of conventional Korean homes that are characterised by their wood buildings, tiled roofs, and courtyards referred to as marues. Most of the hanoks have been preserved, providing guests a glimpse into conventional Korean structure. Some homes are open to the general public, functioning as cultural centres and museums.
10. Mudeungsan Nationwide Park
Go winter climbing in Mudeungsan Nationwide Park and be rewarded with the panoramic views of Gwangju. It’s recognized for its superior panorama, together with rugged peaks, forests and temples.
Mudeungsan Nationwide Park is a well-liked vacation spot for climbing fans all year long however the winter provides an additional particular dimension. The park’s trails, that are surrounded by lush greenery throughout different seasons, rework right into a winter wonderland when lined in snow. Hikers could come throughout temples, shrines, and stone pagodas nestled inside the park, making for an much more rewarding hike!
The park is characterised by three major peaks: Gwanggyo, Hyangjeokbong, and Deokyusan. Every peak gives totally different ranges of problem for hikers, that means each freshmen and skilled trekkers can have a go.
It could be apparent however keep in mind it’s essential to decorate appropriately for winter climbing. Put on insulated layers, a great winter jacket, gloves, and a hat to remain heat. Put on sturdy and waterproof climbing boots to navigate snowy and icy trails extra comfortably.
Gwangju, the sixth-largest metropolis in South Korea, serves as a gateway to Mudeungsan Nationwide Park. The park is definitely accessible from the town, making it a handy day journey for you in your journey.
As options for locations to go to in winter in Korea go, climbing in Mudeungsan Nationwide Park gives a particular mixture of nature, snowy trails, lovely views, and temples makes it a superb alternative for an outside journey.
11. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Pageant
This competition, held on the frozen Hwacheon Cheon Stream, gives quite a lot of winter actions, together with ice fishing, sledging, and conventional people video games. It’s a vigorous and festive environment, good for experiencing Korean winter traditions.
Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Pageant embraces Korean winter traditions by that includes quite a lot of conventional people video games. Guests can take part in actions like yutnori (a standard board sport), jegichagi (a sport utilizing a shuttlecock-like object), and tuho (arrow throwing).
The competition gives sledging actions designed to cater to totally different age teams and ability ranges, making it a family-friendly exercise.
Identical to the Inje IceFish competition talked about earlier, one of many major highlights of the competition is ice fishing on the frozen Hwacheon Cheon Stream. You possibly can expertise the distinctive thrill of drilling holes within the ice and trying to catch sancheoneo, a sort of mountain trout native to the area.
Hwacheon is definitely accessible by public transportation from Seoul and different main cities and gives an awesome mixture of winter actions, memorable experiences and festive enjoyable.
New 12 months’s Dawn Festivals
Welcoming within the New 12 months in Korea is without doubt one of the best issues you are able to do. There are a lot of ‘Dawn Festivals’ the place folks collect to observe the very first dawn of the New 12 months.
1. Seongsan Dawn Pageant
The Seongsan Dawn Pageant takes place at Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone, often called ’Dawn Peak’. Past the attractive dawn, the occasion guarantees parades, performances, firework shows, bowls stuffed with tteokguk (rice cake soup). Regardless of the time of yr, it’s one of many finest issues to see on Jeju Island.
To make sure security, solely 500 persons are allowed up the tuff cone on the early morning of January 1. For these wanting to take part, functions will probably be open on the Seongsan Dawn Pageant web site ranging from midday (KST) on December 20.
2. Homigot Dawn Pageant
Homigot Dawn Plaza at Homigot Cape stands out as a very fashionable spot for witnessing the New 12 months’s dawn, due to its breathtaking yellow and golden dawn panorama.
The Homigot Dawn Pageant options fascinating performances, a spectacular fireworks show, and a tteokguk occasion able to serving as much as 10,000 folks!
3. Jeongdongjin Dawn Pageant
That includes a novel distinguished sandglass on Jeongdongjin Seaside this dawn competition serves up a neighborhood landmark and a magical point of interest for the Jeongdongjin Dawn Pageant. It’s a spectacle because it takes a full yr for the sand within the higher bulb to fall into the decrease one.
On the stroke of midnight, a grand ceremony unfolds, that includes the flipping of the sandglass, symbolising the passage into the brand new yr. This momentous event is marked with fireworks and performances.
There are different dawn festivals too however these are a number of the most notable. As locations to go to in winter in Korea go, these dawn festivals welcoming within the New 12 months are an awesome concept!
Simply because it’s chilly within the winter doesn’t imply the enjoyable has to cease. If something, it opens up an entire new means of experiencing the nation and having a vacation not like some other. Get your snowshoes, skis, scarves and gloves and provides your self the present of enchanted forest getaways and beautiful first sunrises in Korea this winter!
Is it value visiting Korea in winter?
Completely, visiting Korea throughout winter is a splendid concept. The season transforms the panorama right into a picturesque wonderland, particularly within the mountainous areas. Winter sports activities fans will discover loads of alternatives for snowboarding and snowboarding, notably in well-known resorts like Pyeongchang. Moreover, it’s a good time to expertise Korea’s distinctive winter delicacies and conventional festivals, which supply a deep dive into the nation’s wealthy tradition.
Is it value going to Seoul in December?
Visiting Seoul in December is extremely really helpful. The town is adorned with festive lights and decorations, making a magical environment. It’s an excellent time for purchasing, with quite a few markets and purchasing festivals. Cultural occasions are in full swing, and you may take pleasure in conventional Korean performances. The chilly climate is ideal for savouring sizzling road meals and warming conventional drinks, making it a comfy and pleasant expertise.
What’s the winter temperature in Korea?
In winter, temperatures in Korea can fluctuate considerably relying on the area. Usually, the typical temperature ranges from -6°C to three°C. Nevertheless, it might get colder, particularly within the northern elements and within the mountains, the place temperatures can drop under -10°C. It’s advisable to arrange heat clothes, together with thermal put on, to comfortably benefit from the winter season in Korea.
