Important Notice: Please note that I have stopped updating all South Korea-related content published before 2020 on this blog. You may find all updated South Korea travel content at my dedicated, new travel site here: www.thecalmchronicle.com 

In an online poll of  “Countries that Singaporeans want to have an Air Travel Bubble with” conducted by The Straits Times, South Korea scored 40.7 per cent of votes, claiming its place as Singaporean’s favourite destinations after the COVID.

So here are my insider tips of 10 hidden Winter Wonderland destinations you should consider post-pandemic. Who knows, maybe we’ll have a travel-bubble with South Korea someday!

1. Jeonju Hanok Village

If you are an avid foodie at heart and interested in Korean traditional culture, Jeonju (전주) in Jeolla-do province is where you should head to. It is arguably the culinary city of South Korea where a long list of mouth-watering food experiences awaits. And if you are lucky enough, the snow painted Jeonju Hanok Village ( 전주 한옥마을) will be a sight to behold during your trip. Check out our Jeonju Hanok Village Street Food Guide and our 3D2N Jeonju itinerary here.

2. Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm 

Pyeongchang county (평창군)  in Gangwon Province is a snowboard capital of South Korea. And Daegwallyeong (대관령)  is nested within this beautiful county famed of its sheep farms and snow-covered landscape in winter. These enormous sheep farms offer a rare opportunity for city kids to enjoy the beauty of mother nature. Read my dedicated post regarding Daegwallyeong Yangtte Sheep Farm, a delicious Tangsuyuk and Jjajjang Myun restaurant in the region, as well as my recommended accommodation in Degwallyeong at Queen’s Garden Guesthouse.

3. Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌 한옥 마을) in Seoul is a traditional Korean housing cluster inhabited by the elite Yangban Noble class during the Joseon Dynasty. It has developed into a tourist site packed with independent cafes, tea-houses, and interesting shops or museums in recent years. Experience the enchanted atmosphere of Bukchon Hanok village after the snow here.

South Korea, Seoul, Jongno-gu, Gahoe-dong | 서울특별시 종로구 계동길 37 

4. The Palaces

I love going to the palaces in Seoul after heavy snowfall. Gyeongbok Palace is one of my favourites. The frozen lake, blue sky and the red, green, yellow motifs of the traditional architecture make a striking contrast against the white snow. Complete your palace tour experience wearing a traditional hanbok here!

5. Jeongdongjin

Located in Gangneung, Gangwon-do, Jeongdongjin (정동진)  is a picturesque town with a train station closest to the ocean in the world. The beach right behind the Jeongdongjin station is also a well-known sunrise spot. Sunrise spectators would take an overnight train to Jeongdongjin station on the new year’s eve for the first sunrise of the year. The nearby Jeongdongjin Sun Cruise Resort is a beach resort modelled after a cruise ship perched on top of a cliff!

Jeongdongjin Station:
Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung-si, South Korea

Jeongdongjin Sun Cruise Resort:
950-39 Heonhwa-ro, Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea 

6.Hahoe Folk Village

Tucked away in a secluded valley in Gyeongsang Province, the Andong Hahoe Folk Village (안동 하회마을)  is an idyllic place to unwind and experience traditional Korean rural life. Visitors can immerse in a rich array of cultural traditions such as Korean Mask Dancing and enjoy a wide variety of ancient culinary delights such as Andong Gangodeungeo (Salted Mackerel), Heotjesabap (A type of Bibimbap for the nobles) and Andong Guksu (A local noodle delicacy). Sleepover at one of the traditional hanok within the village and enjoy the fuzzy, magical and ethereal view the next morning!

40 Hahoe, Pungcheon-myeon, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea | 안동시 풍천면 하회남촌길 63

7. Gamaksan Mountain

This beautiful photo of winter at Gamaksan Suspension Bridge (감악산 출렁다리) located in Paju definitely warrant a mention on the list! It just feels straight out of the Disney “Frozen” to me. The bridge spans 150 meters across Silmari Valley, and is easily accessible from the car park area! (No hiking required!). Be early to enjoy this majestic winter view all to yourself!

365, Gisan-ro Gwangtan-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기 파주시 광탄면 기산로 365

8. Paju Heyri Art Village

Located just 1 hour away from Seoul, Paju is a heaven for any art and book lover. The Hyeri Art Village (파주 헤이리 마을) is home to filmmakers, publishers, book writers, and artists. Expect quirky museums & architectures, beautiful cafes, enormous book store and book cafes, interesting studios and art spaces in this village. Paju is the nearest South Korean city to North Korea. And the north’s winter is known to be harsher than the south, so you can imagine Paju to be a winter wonderland after a heavy snowfall.

There is a “Paju English Village” (파주 영어 마을) filled with European styled buildings to create an immersive environment for the students to learn the language. The space is open to the public so you may spot couples taking pre-wedding photos there too!

Paju Hyeri Art Village:
1652-239 Beopheung-ri, Tanhyeon-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do |경기 파주시 탄현면 법흥리 1652-239

Paju English Village:
Paju-si Tanhyeon-myeon Uleumsil-ro 40  |경기 파주시 탄현면 얼음실로 40 

9. Seonunsa Temple

Seonunsa Temple (선운사) is one of the largest temples in the Southern part in Korea with over 1,500 years of its history. And winter is considered one of the best seasons to visit the temple as the camellia flowers bloom and the persimmons ripen. The fiery orange persimmons covered in snow, together with the blooming camellias from shrubs to shrubs make for an alluring sight in winter.

567, Samin-Ri, Asan-Myeon, Gochang-Gun, Jeollabuk-Do, Korea |전라북도 고창군 아산면 선운사로 250 선운사

10. Boseong Green Tea Field 

Located at Jeollanam-do Province, the Boseong Green Tea Field (보성 녹차밭) is another beautiful place to visit after a snowfall in Winter. Enjoy a tranquil walk and soak in the picturesque landscape at Daehan Dawon (대한 다원), the largest green tea plantation in the country as the snow turned the plantation white. Do note that the plantation closes at 5 pm daily during winter.

Daehan Dawon Greentea Plantation:
763-67, Nokcha-ro, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do | 전라남도 보성군 보성읍 녹차로 763-67 

All photos are provided by KTO unless otherwise stated.
Please note that information of the article is accurate at the time of publishing. 

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Li

Sieondang 시은당 [pronounce as see-eun-dang] was definitely one of the best hanok guesthouses in Jeonju. It is a traditional hanok with an exquisite modern twist. The wood paper door, the spoon door lock, fine embroidery on the thick Korean bedding, the sights of warm sunlight falls onto the aged wooden floor, all scream tradition.

I really love the rustic yet minimalist approach to the interior. It was a pity that the guesthouse is no longer available The owner now starts a cafe at a remote area near the orchard in Jeonju. If you’re at Jeonju and didn’t want to join the crazy crowd, you may check out this huge cafe call The Orchard. The two chow chows might be at the cafe greeting you!

A photo posted by 가현 [kakao. @프롬유/@바이워너비] (@by_fromu) on Sep 1, 2016 at 2:12am PDT

A photo posted by @uptoe on Jan 25, 2017 at 2:13am PST

A photo posted by Sora Veronica Park (@dinosora90723) on Nov 23, 2016 at 10:46pm PST

A photo posted by Sora (@orchard_sieon) on Dec 23, 2016 at 8:49pm PST

A photo posted by Sora (@orchard_sieon) on Sep 21, 2016 at 6:12pm PDT

A photo posted by ᴍʏ ᴅᴀɪʟʏ_ (@_carpediemmm) on Dec 31, 2016 at 5:53pm PST

A photo posted by New Season (@sijun_r) on Jan 1, 2017 at 9:27pm PST

Address:

32-30 Hanjeol-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea
전북 전주시 완산구 한절길 32-30 (도로명주소로 검색하셔야 오차드까지 안내가 됩니다.)
Tel:  063 – 282 – 1153

Directions:

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Important Notice: Please note that I have stopped updating all South Korea-related content published before 2020 on this blog. You may find all updated South Korea travel content at my dedicated, new travel site here: www.thecalmchronicle.com 

1. The First Kiss: Hagwon Farm

This beautiful, blossoming buckwheat farm is a secret hideout for dokkaebi (Kim Shin), and it is also the place where Eun Tak and dokkaebi had their first kiss! This lush buckwheat farm is located at Hagwon Farm 학원농장, the country’s largest buckwheat farm located in Gochang county. Expect to see rapeseed flower in spring, sunflowers in summer and cosmos in autumn.

Address:
Hagwon Farm, 119-2 Seondong-ri, Gongeum-myeon, Gochang, Jeollabuk-do.
학원농장, 전라북도 고창군 공음면 학원농장길 158-6

 

 

 

 

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피곤하긴 했는데 세상에! 한시까지 꿈속에서 놀았어요 . . . #감성쟁이으니 #가을여행 #메밀꽃 Photo by @penetrar_u

A post shared by 감성쟁이으니 (@jeongeun_jo) on Oct 5, 2018 at 9:51pm PDT

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by 전라북도 (@jeonbukstar) on Jul 29, 2019 at 12:38am PDT

2. The First Summon: Jumunjin Beach

During the 1st episode, Ji Eun Tak inadvertently summoned Kim Shin for the very first time when she blows the candles on her birthday cake at a beautiful seaside. She then was gifted demanded Kim Shin’s buckwheat flower bouquet as her birthday gift. The beautiful scenery of Jumunjin 주문진 has become a popular tourist site after the episode went on air. People are flocking to the beach for photos that you may now need to queue before taking your photos.

Address:
81-32 Gyohyang-ri, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung-si, Gangwondo.
주문진, 강원도 강릉시 주문진읍 교항리 81-32

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by 27page (@___eun.ji___) on Oct 13, 2019 at 7:34am PDT

There was even a signpost that read “Muffler, flower and umbrella can be rented for KRW 1,000 each”, for visitors to recreate the drama scene. After much media attention, the signpost is nowhere to be seen.

 

A photo posted by KEVIN(JONGIN) PARK (@stoneheadboy) on Jan 4, 2017 at 6:47am PST

Apparently Jumunjin Beach has also become a popular K-pop destination after BTS filmed a photo in their album “You Never Walk Alone”. According to visitors, this place is so popular you might have to queue for your photos taken there.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Ji Yeon 지연 (@bli2s_) on Aug 30, 2019 at 2:44am PDT

Jumunjin is also famous for its seafood dishes. Freshly steamed giant red crab (홍게), anyone? There are many good restaurants around the area, but Daeyoung Yoo Tong 대영유통 is the famous among all. I mean, look at that drumstick-look-alike crab craw, I am sure it is already making everyone salivate. Crabs eggs come in a dark green liquid form, and taste the best when fried together with rice.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by 대전 유성 봉명동 리턴청춘PT전문 (대전PT/유성PT) (@1st_returncc) on Aug 30, 2018 at 4:26am PDT

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Hong_응구 (@iopaesr) on Oct 21, 2019 at 11:29pm PDT

Daeyoung Yoo Tong Crab House
312-341 Jumun-ri, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung, Kangwon-do, South Korea
대영유통, 강원도 강릉시 주문진읍 주문리 312-341.

3.The Church Summon: Mirinae Holy Site

“What a beautiful church!” This came up my mind when I saw this scene in the drama. Eun Tak finally found the way to summon Dokkaebi and chooses this venue to see her beau. This scene is filmed at Mirinae Holy Site 미리내 성지, located at Anseong, Gyeonggi-do. This church was built in 1986 and was famed as one of the best church to visit during autumn as it is surrounded by a thick autumn foliage.

Address:
420, Mirinaeseongji-ro, Yangseong-myeon, Anseong-si, Gyeonggi-do
456-932 경기도 안성 양성면 미리내성지로 420

4. Beautiful Night Walk: Cheongnaho Lake Park

Quite a few scenes were taken at Incheon, including this one, the Cheongnaho Lake Park 청라 호수공원 where the alcohol intoxicated Dokkaebi reveals his secret to Eun Tak. Surrounded by high-rise apartment, it is a perfect place to enjoy a romantic stroll at night.  

Address:
135 Cheongna Canal-ro, Seo-gu, Incheon.
인천 서구 청라커낼로 135

5. Eun Tak’s 2nd Part Time Job: Yongpyong Ski Resort

I was once again mesmerised by Korea’s snowscape at episode 9 when Eun Tak left Goblin’s place and started working at Pyeongchang-gun 평창군, a place famous for its ski resorts. Her arbiet (part-time job) was at Yongpyong Resort, one of the South Korean’s all-time-favourite ski resort. Pyeongchang is located at the north-eastern part of the country, which is considered the colder area in S.Korea. Expect to see an enchanted winter wonderland during winter, and enjoy the natural aircon here during summer.

Address:
715, Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do
강원도 평창군 대관령면 올림픽로 715

6. Grim Reaper & Sunny’s Fated Encounter: Yeongdap Station Pedestrian Bridge

Team #JeoseungSunny would know this place best. The fated encounter between the eye candy couple is filmed at Yeongdap Station Pedestrian Bridge 용답역 육교. A place where you can get a glimpse of ordinary life of local commuters.

Address:
159, Salgoji-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul. (Subway Line 2 Yongdap Station, Exit 2)
2호선 용답역 2번 출구. 서울시 살곶이길 성동구 159.

7. Goblin & Grim Reaper’s Home: Unhyeongung Yanggwan

The exquisite looking house where goblin and grim reapers stays is filmed at Unhyeongung Yanggwan (운현궁양관), or the Unhyeongung Western House, located within the Duksung Women’s University (Jongno Campus). It is currently listed under South Korean’s cultural property, hence it is unavailable for viewing. However, you may still access to the surroundings of the building via the main gate of the university.

Address:
464 Samil-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
운현궁양관, 서울시 종로구 삼일대로 464

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by @hoyul1052 on Jun 19, 2019 at 11:13pm PDT

8. Meeting For The First Time: Samcheongdong Doldamgil

All drama has its legendary, fated meeting-for-the-first-time between the protagonists. Eun Tak and Kim Shin’s was at Samcheongdong Doldamgil (삼청동 돌담길). There are many ways to reach Samcheongdong, and this doldamgil is located right at the usual route I would take to Samcheongdong. I like it because there are many things to see along the scenic route.

Address:
Taepyung-ro 1 ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Anguk Station Exit No.1)
서울시 종로구 태평대로 1가 

 

A photo posted by 김민희 (@chloechloekim) on Dec 26, 2016 at 6:08pm PST

9. The Accidental Summon: Mocca Bookstore

This yellow graffiti wall appeared in the drama where Eun Tak was blowing off the flames on her burnt squid snack and accidentally summoned the goblin. For those who’re wondering, this place is the same location where Kim Woo Bin filmed his Maxim coffee CF. It is called the Mocca Bookstore 모카책방 and was demolished after the filming. You may still see the graffiti at the location, though.

Address:
333-93 Seongsu-dong 2 ga, Seongdong Gu, Seoul. (Seongsu Station Exit No.4)
서울시 성동구 성수동 2가 333-93

 

A photo posted by 전농동 동아아파트 상가 102동 103호 (@moderneasy) on Sep 15, 2016 at 10:21pm PDT

10. Eun Tak’s School: Jungang Highschool

Eun Tak’s school is really beautiful, isn’t it? It is not a filming set, but a real, functioning high school located in Samcheongdong. I remembered visited the school a few times for model photo shoots, and the school looks exactly like what you saw in the drama. Visitors are not allowed during school hours, so be sure to come in a weekend.

Address:
Jungang Highschool, 164 Gye-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
중앙 고등학교, 서울시 종로구 계동 164

 

A photo posted by June Soo Park (@laetus83) on Dec 14, 2016 at 6:14am PST

11. The Library: Duksung Women’s University Library

Remember the scene where Kim Shin was annoyed by Eun Tak’s summoned to the school library? The location of all the library scenes was filmed in Duksung Women’s University Library. The library is open since 1955, with a collection of over 600 thousand books. The library also appeared in another popular drama “Reply 1988” (응답하라 1988).

Address:
114 Unni-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
덕성여자대학교, 서울시 종로구 운니동 114

12. Eun Tak’s Part Time Work Place: BBQ Olive Chicken

Ever wondered where was the small fried chicken restaurant where Eun Tak works as a part-timer? It is located at Gangnam! I haven’t tried their chicken at their new Olive Chicken Cafe, as I am always just a call away from my forever-love Kyochon. But if you’re all out for a Goblin themed trip, chicken and beer at Dae Cheong outlet is a must. Because nothing feels like Korea without fried chicken and beer.

Address:
687-2 Ilwon 1 dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
올리브치킨 대청점. 서울시 강남구 일원1동 687-2

13. A Place Full of Memories: Hanmi Bookstore

I really like this bookstore with the quirky yellow colour facade. It is actually a 2nd-hand bookstore located at a hipster area in Incheon. It is so real and beautiful, you may want to recreate your own Goblin drama scene, just like the Korean couple below. Have fun!

Address:
Hanmi Bookstore, 14-5 Geumgok-dong, Dong-gu, Incheon City, South Korea.
한미서점.인천시 동구 금곡동 14-5

 

A photo posted by 럽스타그램/데이트코스 (@subongpark) on Jan 1, 2017 at 5:17am PST

 

A photo posted by 럽스타그램/데이트코스 (@subongpark) on Jan 1, 2017 at 9:59pm PST

14. Fall in Love Again: Woljeongsa Temple

I was once again mesmerised by Korea’s snowscape at episode 9 when Eun Tak left Goblin’s place and started working at Pyeongchang-gun (평창군), a place famous for its ski resort. Look at the screen grabs again! The shots taken there are so magical, they make me want to brave the snowstorm and visit Pyeongchang right now. Many of the snow scenes were taken at Woljeongsa Temple 월정사, where its snowscape is known to be one of the best in South Korea. If you’re thinking of doing a temple stay during winter, I believe Woljeongsa is a good choice!

Address:
63-1 Woljeong-sa, Dongsan-ri, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwondo.
월정사, 오대산 강원도 평창군 진부면 동산리 63-1.

 

A photo posted by @itplace on Dec 27, 2016 at 1:30am PST

Important Notice: Please note that I have stopped updating all South Korea-related content published before 2020 on this blog. You may find all updated South Korea travel content at my dedicated, new travel site here: www.thecalmchronicle.com 

The best autumn foliage venue got to be the ginkgo garden behind the queen dowager’s residence within the Gyeongbok Palace. — Insider Pheuron Tay

“One of my best place to embrace the autumn is the Gyeongbok Palace. I was taking a stroll on a weekday afternoon and accidentally found this beautiful ginkgo garden behind the Jagyeong-Jeon (자경전 慈慶殿). It was like walking into an ocean of glittering golden leaves.”

Tell us a must-do activity in Korea during autumn?
Glamping. Pack up your personal belongings, call your friends, and you can basically leave the rest of the stuff to the glamping site. Remember to prepare some Ramyeon and Army Stew ingredients and So-maek for an authentic Korean campsite experience. Read my detailed write-up about glamping here.

 

Autumn-to-do in Korea: camping. 날씨 가을가을이니까 글램핑 글램핑 가야징^^ 고미워 친구야~~ 내 생에 첫 캠핑추억을 함께 해줘서 #글램핑 #가을 #autumn #camping #campsite

A photo posted by 정가현. 정퓨니. (@pheurontay) on Oct 25, 2014 at 1:35am PDT

What are your personal must-eats during this season?
Grilled ginkgo nuts & fresh figs.

Tell us 3 interesting facts about yourself.
– Korean mistaken me as local while people at home refuse to believe I am not a foreigner.
– I own 35 lipsticks but insist on wearing the same 5 shades over and over.
– I love bright sunlight. I get cranky and depressed in a dimly lighted room.

Gyeongju has the best autumn foliage…even the small maeul (village) bus stops match the autumn atmosphere so well. — Insider Neoh

“Although most Korean will recommend hiking to enjoy autumn foliage, I enjoy the scenery at Gyeongju (경주) very much. The slow-pace life over there, the streets filled with ginkgo trees and the endless rice fields…check out the small maeul (village) bus stops! Surprisingly they match the autumn atmosphere so well. Last but not least, the historical sites and temples covered in red and yellow leaves…makes a trip down to Gyeongju worthwhile.”

Tell us a must-do activity in Korea during autumn?
Hiking. Try Seorak Mountain. Basically autumn is a great season to travel, eat, drink and sleep. Remember to take lots of photo and hashtag them like mad.

What are your personal must-eats during this season?
You should definitely try fresh Bang-eo aka Japanese Amberjack (방어회) and Gwamaegi, Korean half-dried pacific herring (과메기), they’re my favourite sashimi during autumn. If raw fish isn’t your cup of tea, try their fresh persimmon or dried persimmon.

I went paragliding at Danyang during early autumn and I was genuinely blown away by the magnificent scenery beneath me. (It was so beautiful) I could’t stop smiling to myself .– Insider Irene Siah

Video Courtesy of Irene Siah

Tell us a must-do activity in Korea during autumn?
Road tripping or PARAGLIDING. It was a great experience flying in the air, with amazing autumn foliage beneath! Definitely something you want to add to your bucket list!

What are your personal must-eats during this season?
Autumn is the season of tangerine! I just had a tangerine-grapefruit juice (감귤 자몽 주스) from U:DALLY and it tastes sooooo good! You can even bring the cute little bottle home after drinking the juice!

 Naejangsan National Park was probably my favourite… The best photo spots: the Uhwajeong Pavilion & the Maple Tunnel.– Insider Siska

All Naejangsan Photos By Siska Ariyanti.

“I suggest to skip the free shuttle bus service and walk all the way up because the route from the car park to the cable car station is amazingly beautiful. It takes about 30 mins-1 hour to reach the cable car station, depending where you park your car at.The Naejangsa itself is just so-so, but the two scenic photo spots I mentioned above are situated along the way to Naejangsa. “

Any other insider autumn foliage locations you want to share with us?
For a place within Seoul, Children’s Grand Park (서울 어린이대공원) is worth a visit. I would recommend a stroll around the park or even go for a picnic.

If you have time to travel out of Seoul, I would recommend Jeonju (전주). You can have a foodie tour yet at the same time, enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage this city has to offer. Check out Jeonju Hyanggyo Confucian School, their ginkgo trees are at least 200-300 years old, therefore creating a picturesque view.

What is your personal must-eat during this season?
Danpatjuk, the sweet red bean soup (단팥죽) at “The Second Best in Seoul” (서울서 둘째로 잘 하는집), Samcheong-dong.

 

Coming back for this~ Danpatjuk (단팥죽) Not a fan of red bean porridge honestly but this one is an exception. ? #둘째로잘하는집 #thesecondbestinseol #danpatjuk #seoulfoodie #seoulfoods #koreandessert #koreanfoods #foodstagram #먹스타그램 #단팥죽 #삼천동 #삼천동맛집 #samcheondong #redbeanporridge #redbean

A photo posted by Siska Ariyanti (@seara3112) on Nov 17, 2016 at 5:11am PST

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Here are some pictures taken last year during my Spring visit to Songgwang-sa Temple in Suncheon. You can check out more about my Suncheon write-ups and itineraries here. Expect elaborate rituals in the temples, especially the bigger and famous ones. It is a tradition that rows and rows of lanterns are to be pulled out for this annual festival each year, making the mountain trail to the temple picturesque, yet at the same time spiritual and solemn.

Contact Details

Songgwangsa-Temple송광사
12 Sinpyeong-ri, Songgwang-myeon, Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-do
전남 순천시 송광면 송광사안길 100 (구, 신평리12)

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UPDATE 2020:

The blog is originally created in 2015 to review the Suncheon City-Tour service by the local government. The tour is currently unavailable. However, I am still keeping this blog here to showcase what is available around Suncheon.

ABOUT SUNCHEON:

Suncheon is a southern coastal city at Jeolla-do province, also an up-and-rising popular travel destination for foreigners. The city is undergoing massive development since it is part of the Gwangyang Bay Free Economic Zone, yet at the same time, some part of the city is strictly protected as an ecological zone to preserve the natural ecosystem.

THE ITINERARY:

Departing from Suncheon Station → Suncheon Open Film Set  → Seonam Temple → Naganeupseong Village → Suncheon Bay Garden → Suncheonman Bay → Back to Suncheon Station

Suncheon Drama City 순천 드라마 세트장

The first stop we visit was Suncheon Drama City, a drama set made according to Bongcheong-dong in Seoul back in the 60s. Various dramas were filmed here at the fairly huge set. (No wonder they call it a ‘city’). It is divided into various sections, including the more westernized town area of the 80s and the neighbourhood area of the 60/70s. We were given about 40 minutes here.

Seonam-Sa Temple 선암사

The 2nd stop was Seonam-sa, one of the prettiest temple in South Korea. We walked about 1 km from the entrance to the temple, and then walk another 1km back to the car park. Not recommended for old folks, but a scenic trek in the woods during winter day I must say. I have blogged in detail about this beautiful Seonam-sa temple in another post here.

Lunch at Seonam-Siktang

We dined in at the restaurant located near the car-park of Seonam Temple and it turned out to be a mat-jib! Lunch of the day was Sanche-jeongsik 산채 정식, literally translated as “wild vegetables full course meal”, a typical menu you’ll find in the mountains and near a temple in South Korea, but it is also one of the must-eat when you visit a temple in Suncheon.

It was a down-to-earth yet sumptuous lunch with 27 refillable side dishes. The meal comes with grilled mackerel, steamed eggs and bean paste soup like what you get from usual jeongsik. There are many pickled or marinated dishes of wild vegetables, Deodeok, roots of balloon flowers that I can’t name. They might sound / look weird but oh well, me and my mom enjoyed the lunch very much! Everything for two costed KRW24,000, which was pretty reasonable.

It was a pity we can’t enjoy the meal as much as we usually do as we have to follow the schedule : (  but it was a memorable meal nonetheless.)

Address: Seonam-Sikdang 선암식당
763 Jukhak-ri, Seungju-eup, Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-do.
선암식당 순천시 승주읍 죽학리  776 (540-802)
Tel. 061-754 5232

Naganeupseong 낙안읍성

The Naganeupseong is considered one of the best-preserved town fortress in Korea. It witnessed the wax and wane of Goryo and Joseon Dynasty and remained untouched during the Japanese occupation. All artefacts are painstakingly preserved through the years, enabling its visitor to catch a glimpse of Korea some 600 years ago. Literary a living museum!

We were given about an hour and 20 minutes here at the town fortress. You will see some government office and private housing, also trying out traditional costumes, braiding a grass slipper if you like. The fortress looks different in every season. I have recently covered a blog post about spring at Naganeupseong here. Check it out if you are interested.

Suncheon Bay Garden 순천만 정원

A garden built for the Suncheon Garden Expo in 2013, this park provides different mini gardens from many countries including China, Japan, European, Southeast Asian and North American countries. Not a fan of mimicked gardens, I took a very brief tour by taking their tour train and went straight to the Lake Garden located at the center of Suncheon Bay Garden. It is designed by renowned landscape designer Charles Jencks based on the unique topography of Suncheon. Quite an interesting place to take some quirky pictures.

Suncheonman Bay 순천만

The final stop for the trip was Suncheonman Bay, where visitors get to see beautiful wetlands and reed fields from an observatory up on a hilltop, which is located 2 KM away from the entrance. We are given an hour + here at Suncheonman. I must say it was already an eventful day, we have been trekking in the mountains, climbing up the steep slope at drama city and the fortress town and etc. A trip to and fro the observatory means a total 4 KM by foot, and all these got to be completed within an hour. I would say it is a mission impossible for an exhausted body. So we decided to just take a stroll at the reef fields and rest at the cafe nearby.

Writer’s Note:

Suncheon is an ideal place to visit in winter. It is exceptionally beautiful when it snows. I have come across some breathtaking pictures of snowy Suncheon taken by some Korean bloggers online. This will give you a brief idea of how a snowy Suncheon should look like.

Too bad it didn’t snow when we visited these places in Suncheon. It only snowed in the middle of the night! Oh well, you may try your luck next winter here at Suncheon. Food is good and people are friendly. If you did your research prior to arrival, I believe your Suncheon trip will turn out a memorable one. ; )

OTHER INFORMATION 

Transportation within/ around Suncheon:
While the Suncheon city tour is a convenient way to cover all the places mentioned above, it is no longer available as of the year 2020. If you’d like to do a free & easy tour in Suncheon, you’ll have to spend more time and effort in your planning because public transportation is quite a problem for non-Korean speakers, especially for places outside Seoul. However, I figured their taxi drivers are kind and friendly. If you are the go-with-the-flow kind of traveller and do not like to travel with a tour group, then a taxi is a good choice. However, do note that some secluded places like temples are far away from town and will take you hours to finally hail one.

Transportation from Seoul:
I visited Suncheon right after my Jeonju Trip, stayed over at Suncheon for a night, and travelled back to Seoul via Korail Mugunghwa Train. There are train services that connect Yongsan (Seoul) → Jeonju → Suncheon. However, trains provided every day from Suncheon to Yongsan are of limited frequency and usually ends in the noon so check the train schedule and be punctual.

Naganeupseong is considered one of the best-preserved town fortress in South Korea. This little piece of heaven was lucky enough to be left almost untouched during the Japanese occupation. It was said to be inhabited since the beginning of first millennia and witnessed the wax and wane of Goryo and Joseon Dynasty.

Bric-à-brac of daily life (and yesteryears) could be observed here in the village. The town fortress was selected as an administrative core city back in the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors will get to see public and private facilities packed in one town fortress: government offices, private houses and ritual sites. In fact, there are about 288 people in 90 households living in the village today. I would say it is a living museum, where visitors could catch a glimpse of Korea centuries ago, or even enjoy a night or two staying in the fortress town. (Yes, there are families providing homestay/guesthouse service here!) Artifacts are carefully preserved and visitors are given an opportunity to immerse in the beauty of intangible cultural heritage such as farmer’s music (Nongak), Pansori epic chant, Jangu, Gayageum and seasonal customs and rites. So have fun and enjoy the blooming spring at Naganeupseong!

Directions:

1. Take KTX/ Mugunghwa from Seoul to Suncheon Station. That will cost you for about KRW 43,000 for KTX, approx. 3 hours journey.
2. Walk out from Suncheon Train Station 순천역, and proceed to the bus stop just right in front of the main gate of Suncheon Train Station. The Bus stop is called 순천역 정류장 [suncheon yok jong lieu jang]  in Korean.
3. Take bus no. 68 and alight 40 stops later at the Naganeupseong Station. (Approx. 43 minutes ride).

Before reaching the temple, you will get to see two rainbow shaped bridges. The large one is called Seung-seon Bridge, listed as No.400 of National Treasure of South Korea. It is famed for its beautiful outlook that blends well with the valley, making it a popular shooting location for movies and TV dramas. Visitors can do temple stay at Seonam-Sa as well. There is also a very good restaurant for Sanche-Jeongsik (산채 정식, wild vegetables full course meal) near the car park entrance.

The trip to Seonam-sa Temple was part of my Suncheon City Tour package. I’ll need more time to complete that rather long post. So enjoy the pictures for now, and I will be back with more information about the city tour.

Contact Details

Seonam-sa Temple (click me!)
100, Songgwangsaan-gil, Songgwang-myeon, Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-do
선암사 전라남도 순천시 승주읍 선암사길 450

Directions:

It is easy to do a Free & Easy trip to Jeonju. If you’re planning a relaxing trip to Korea but tired of the usual itinerary, and if your definition of “relaxing” includes wandering around the city, soaking up in the traditional, laid-back, cafe-hoping kind of atmosphere, Jeonju is the ideal destination. 

Important Notice: Please note that I have stopped updating all South Korea-related content published before 2020 on this blog. You may find all updated South Korea travel content at my dedicated, new travel site here: www.thecalmchronicle.com

The Jeonju Hanok Village has quite an array of things to check out. (And things look appealing under your camera lens as well). The best part? Each site mentioned in the post is within walking distance so it requires minimal travelling. Just pack your bag, catch your bus/ train and enjoy your stay right in the village.

So I am going to share my  3D2N Free & Easy itinerary to Jeonju with you here in the post. This itinerary covers almost every essential activities one should do in Jeonju. However, since I was traveling with the folks, the trip is more a relaxed one than an ambitious one. We did not follow the itinerary thoroughly. Anyway, I’ll still share my plan up here in the post.

This whole Itinerary includes:

✓Jeonju Hanok Village Tour
(Including Cafe and Street Foods, check my Jeonju Street Food Guide HERE)
✓Jaman Mural Village
✓Jeondong Cathedral
✓Nambu Market + Youth Mall
✓Gyeonggi-Jeon Shrine
✓Omokdae & Imokdae
✓Jeonju Hyang-gyo (Jeonju Confucian School)
✓Must Eat Foods (Bibimbap, Ddeok-galbi and Kalguksu)

Transportation:

From Seoul to Jeonju Hanok Village:
Free Shuttle service is ONLY available from Spring to early December. Since my trip was in late december, I had to travel via Korail train service. The Train departs from Yongsan Station (용산역) in Seoul and reaches Jeonju via Jeonju Train Station (전주역). There are two kinds of trains bound for Jeonju from Yongsan Station: KTX and Mugunghwa.

KTX offers express service. It takes about 2 hours to reach Jeonju and, of course, comes with higher price (Economy class ticket at KRW 32,900 for an adult per single trip).Mugunghwa travels at normal speed, which takes about 3 hours to reach Jeonju and cost about KRW 17,600.To reserve a ticket, simply check the ticket available on the Korail Train Reservation Site (Click Me) available in English.

For more information about the free shuttle bus service (frequency, timing etc.), please check here. Do note that this service is made available only to foreigners.

Within Jeonju Hanok Village: 
By foot!

Jeonju 3D2N Day 1 

Summary:
830am depart from Yongsan Station→ 12.30 noon reached Jeonju Station → Check-in at Becky’s Gallery & Guesthouse → Lunch at Veteran Kal-guksu (베테랑 Knife cut noodles) → Jeonju Omokdae (오목대) →   Jeonju Mural Village(자만 벽화마을)  → Imokdae (이목대) →Jeonju Hyang-gyo Confucian School (전주향교) → Bibimbap for Dinner.

Check-in at Becky’s Gallery & Guesthouse 백희

Becky was the place I called home for my 3D2N Jeonju Trip. It is a cafe cum gallery cum guesthouse in Jeonju Hanok Village. Check more pictures about Becky and my review here.

Lunch at Veteran Kal-guksu 베테랑 (Knife cut noodles)

A Kal-guksu (칼국수 Knife Cut Noodles) house that started their business in 1977. Very similar to the Chinese刀削面, or what we call Ban-mian, this bowl of Kal-guksu is a popular dish at the Hanok Village, especially in the winter. Cooking method is quite identical to our Ban-mian: Noodles are thinly sliced from a dough and cooked in anchovies stock soup, add an egg, drizzle some chilli oil and dried seaweed, voila!  The shop offers man-doo (meat dumplings, KRW 4,000) as well. A relatively economical meal in Jeonju. Each bowl goes at KRW 5000.

Address:
전라북도 전주시 완산구 교동 84-10.
84-10, Gyo-dong, Wansan-Gu, Jeonju-si. Jeollabukdo.
9am-930pm.

Jeonju Omokdae & Imokdae Pavilion 오목대& 이목대

This pavilion located right beside the Jeonju Hanok Village is a victory pavilion where general Lee Seong Gye celebrated his victory over Japanese pirates in 1380. The general later became King Taejo, the first King of Joseon Dynasty. A smaller “pavilion” beside Omokdae is called Imokdae, where it kept a stone stele written by King Gojong. The Stele is a monument to the ancestors of General Lee Seong Gye. It was originally stood opposite the mountain (where Lee’s ancestors were born), but moved to the current location.

It was extremely crowded during my visit and I wasn’t able to get a satisfying wide angle shot. So here’s two very beautiful shots by Tistory Blogger island 1969, during his visit to Omokdae & Imokdae Pavilion in a beautiful winter.

More pictures along the trail to Omokdae Pavilion:

Jeonju Mural Village 자만 벽화마을

Jaman-Dong Mural Village, a whimsical little village famed for its wall paintings. It is a good place to kill your time, but not a must. Steep slopes are probably the greatest problem you’ll face if you’re traveling with the folks, maybe you’ll need to check their condition before climbing up to the village.

Jeonju Hyang-gyo 전주향교

Th Jeonju Hyang-gyo is a Confucian school that was established during the Joseon Dynasty. It is known as the national education center during the Joseon Dynasty. The school was originally located at the Gyeonggijeon Shrine site but was relocated in 1603. I did not go to this place for this trip, so here’s three pictures I found online. But I’ll be back in Spring and hopefully, I can replace them with my own work. So till then!

Dinner: Bibimbap at Hankook-Jib 한국집

There are various places for bibimbap in Jeonju Hanok Village. I had mine at Hankook-jib 한국집, which is slightly off the main streets of Hanok Village, but a brief 2 mins walk from Becky’s Guesthouse. It is quite famous among locals, also visited by President Park Geun Hye recently. According to the restaurant, President Park Chung-hee also dined at the restaurant during his visit to Jeonju.

The restaurant provides 3 kinds of Bibimbap, the Yuk-hoe Bibimbap (육희 비빔밥) a kind of bibimbap with raw beef, or tartare instead of usual bulgogi; Dolsot Bibimbap (돌솥 비빔밥), which is served in hot stone pot, and Brassware Bibimbap (놋그릇 비빔밥), also called Jeonju Bibimbap which comes in muted gold colour tableware, and is said to be prepared based on royal court dish.

Address:
한국집 비빔밥. 전북 전주시 완산구  전동 2가-21번지.
Hankook-Jib. Jeondong yi(2) ga, 21 bonji, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-Si, Jeollabukdo.

After dinner: Rest

Jeonju 3D3N Day 2

Summary:  Breakfast at Gilgoria Baguette →  Jeondong Cathedral 전동성당 → Jeonju Nambu Market 남부시장 → Real New Town Youth Mall (Inside Nambu Market) 청녕몰 →  Jeonju Market by the River → Gyeonggi-Jeon 경기전 → Hanok-Village Street Food 한옥마을 길거리 → Cafe → Dinner at Elu-hwa Ddeokgalbi Restaurant 에류화 떡갈비.

Breakfast: Gilgoria Baguette 길거리아

One of the very popular street foods in Jeonju Hanok Village. Since the baguette and Dawoo-rang dumplings stall are located on the same direction to the Cathedral and Nambu Market, If you’re keen on completing your street food tour in Jeonju in a day, I suggest you to get these two extra popular street foods checked before embarking your excursion of the day. The queues are less crazy if you’re early.

Jeondong Cathedral 전동성당

A Catholic Cathedral built in 1914, in honor of Roman Catholic martyrs of the Joseon Dynasty on the very same spot the martyrs lost their lives. It is famed for its unique combination of Byzantine and Romanesque architectural styles, one of the most beautiful cathedral in Korea. I blogged about the Cathedral earlier here .

Jeonju Nambu Market 남부시장

Located 10 minutes away from the Hanok Village, the Nambu Market is another place worth explore. Traces and bits of history can be found at the market. Ginseng, Herbal Medicine, fresh veggies and even beddings are available here at the indoor market. Soondae (Blood Sausage Soup) is the delicacy here — but too bad I just don’t know the art of appreciating pig blood sausage yet so I decided to give it a miss.

Market by the River

Walking out from the covered market, heading towards the river, that is where you’ll see an outdoor market, with approximately 800 stalls along the river. It was a late morning (about 11am) so I supposed it was already off-peak hours at the market. Further across the river stood a few booths selling fresh vegetables and fruits. It is quite an interesting place to check out.

Real New Town Youth Mall (Inside Nambu Market) 청녕몰

On your way back to the Hanok Village, please remember to make a detour trip to the indoor market– the are a more to check out — The Cheongnyeon Mall (or Real New Town Youth Mall),  where you might find some hidden gems.

Located at the 2nd level of the indoor Nambu Market, this place is a cluster for young designers and baristas. Making good use of the aged shophouses, these small cafes, bars, art galleries, board games shops and accessories shops are a perfect mix of the old and new. Certainly a place of exceptional charm.

Below is a short clip by Arirang TV featuring the Nambu Market and the New Town Youth Mall located at the 2nd level of the market.

Gyeonggi-jeon Shrine 경기전

This shrine was build in 1410, and holds the portraits of King Taejo and his successors such as Sun-jong, Cheol-jong, Yeong-jo and many others can be found on display. The King Taejo and his queen is enshrined at the Jogyeong Shrine within the Gyeonggi Jeon. Part of the shrine is destroyed during the invasion of foreign forces in 1592-1598. The current structure that we see now here in the Gyeonggi-Jeon Shrine is a rebuild in 1614.

I did not spend long time here at the shrine despite visiting Jeonju twice in two months. As such, there isn’t any good pictures of the shrine taken by me.  The compound looks identical to a palace, no doubtedly less fancy. Well you can search online for more pictures if you wish to understand more about it.

Hanok-Village Street Food 한옥마을 길거리

You can’t leave Jeonju without trying their street food. If you are a foodie like me, there is no reason for you to go out hunting. I’ve compiled a Jeonju Street Food Guide earlier, I am pretty sure there are more to explore. Prepare your stomach for a feast!

Cafe: 산책 Taste & Walk Cafe  UPDATE MARCH 2015: Cafe Closed. 

A quaint Hanok cafe 산책 (Taste & Walk Cafe) located beside Eun-haeng-Jeong (은행정 银杏亭) is a perfect place to rest after a tiring food hunt. It is a cafe cum Italian restaurant build in a private hanok, with its own garden. Since it is hidden behind an alley, this place is relatively quiet. Coffee and the rice cakes are great. I am not too sure about their pizzas and spaghetti, but online reviews are positive.

Address:
전북 전주시 완산구 풍남동 3가 74-25
74-25 Pungnam-dong Sam(3)ga, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabukdo.

Exploring Jeonju Hanok Village

Famed as the starting point of Joseon Dynasty, Jeonju and its Hanok Village is brimming with that classic, ancient charm. Hanok shop houses, hanok cafes and stone wall trails (돌담길) are common scene in the village. Visitors are also allowed to rent hanbok at about KRW 5,000 for that old Joseon experience. That’s why you see people walking around wearing Hanbok. This city with remnants of beauty left from the past definitely worth spending half a day or more to explore.

Dinner: Elu-hwa Ddeokgalbi Restaurant 에루화 떡갈비

Dinner is settled at a ddeok-galbi (bbq pork patty) house at Elu-hwa 에루화. These yummilicious minced pork patty goes at KRW 8,500 per person. It was partly cooked and served on a grill. Salad and other fresh vegetables, together with a few side dishes are served together with the patties. Wrap the piece of patty with lettuce, slightly grilled garlic and some pickled onion slice… and this package of juiciness, freshness, and a hint of sweetness from the marinated meat will make you go mmmmm! Not a fan of cold noodles so I ordered a mini bibimbap to complete the meal. Nicely scented with sesame oil, this bowl goodness just disappeared within minutes.

For dessert, head to the huge pots of biscuits and grilled chestnuts located right at the entrance. Those are for free! *Dessert menu changes according to the season*

Address:
에루화. 전북 전주시 완산구 서신동 932-10
932-10 Seo Sin-dong, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabukdo.

WHY should one do Free-and-Easy in Jeonju?

It is easy to do a Free & Easy trip to Jeonju, even if you don’t speak Korean. English signboards are available at important places such as KTX stations and bus stations. The Jeonju Hanok Village itself has two tourist information centers (if I remembered correctly) and they offer maps in English. Take the free map in BOTH English and Korean Language so that it is easier for locals to help you around with that map in Korean.

If there is one city to recommend, other than Busan or Jeju Island, it’ll be Jeonju. In terms of convenience, it is just a 2-3 hours train ride from Seoul. The rest of the place are within walking distance.

What is more, there are plenty of stuffs to check out even within the Hanok Village itself. The Hanok stay is one great experience, renting Hanbok as cheap as KRW5,000 and walk around Jeonju in your Hanbok is another. Not to mention about Jeonju’s culinary skills, which is a nation pride — make Jeonju a foodie paradise.

Most importantly, with free-and-easy tour, you get to choose what you want to do, and how long you want to spend at certain places — this is particularly very important to me. Isn’t it a waste if you like certain place and would loved to spend more time there but have to move on to another place just because you are only given a stupid 40 minutes by your tour guide to eat, take picture, and shop? xD

HOW to wander around if I don’t speak Korean?

I’d say it is not really a problem if you do your homework — my itinerary above may help you a bit.

The Koreans learn English since young. On average, their command of English might not be as fluent, but most of them are equipped with good listening skills. Try to enunciate clearly, especially your “r” and “t”. Use short sentence, and speak in a slow, clear manner. Sometimes “No Ketchup.” works much better than “Please do not put ketchup in my burger”.

Roughly speaking, I find their younger generation speaks better English. Especially those born after 90s. Korean parents spent 20 trillion Won (USD 18 Billion) in private education each year, much of it on English Education. It is quite popular for them to send their kids to overseas English camp. I have came across Korean kids speaking English way better than our kids at home. My point is, try to speak to younger Koreans for better communication.

In a local restaurant and surrounded by mid-40s ajumma waitresses? Waitresses at famous restaurants are likely to speak simple English or even Mandarin. If worse come to worst, show them the photo of the food with hand gesture of the amount you’d like to order.

Having problems navigating around? Always have the Korean version of the address with you — this is also the reason why you can find Korean version of the address on every single posts on my blog. Most cabs here are equipped with GPS navigation system. Give the address to the cabby or call your hotel lobby/guesthouse owner and let the Koreans communicate.

See you in Jeonju! ; )

According to Visitkorea, the church was built in honor of Roman Catholic martyrs of the Joseon Dynasty on the very same spot the martyrs lost their lives. The piece of land where the church is located was purchased by a French Priest Baudenet in 1891, but construction of the church did not begin until 1908. The church was designed by Priest Poinel, who also designed the famous Myeongdong Cathedral in Seoul (this explains why the two churches bear resemblance). Construction was completed 6 years later, in 1914.

With its one-of-its-kind combination of Byzantine and Romanesque architectural styles, the church is considered one of the most beautiful Catholic churches in Korea, if not, one of the most beautiful building structures in South Korea. I am very much in love with the grey and red bricks, also the seafoam green roof.

p.s. The church is very popular with tourist and locals alike. If you’re planning to get some good architecture shots, do come as early as possible.

The church is open for mass scheduled below:

Weekdays: 05:30 (Mon-Sat), 19:00 (Tue, Thu), 10:00 (Wed, Fri)
Sunday: 05:30 / 09:00 / 10:30 (Mass for the people) / 17:00 (youths) / 20:00
Sabbatine privilege (Sat): 16:00 (children) / 18:00 (middle, high school students)

No interpretation service is available.

Directions:

From Jeonju Intercity/Express Bus Terminal, take Bus 5-1, 5-2 or 79.Get off at Jeondong Catholic Church (Hanok Village) Bus Stop.

From Jeonju Station, take Bus 19, 60, 79, 109 or 119. Get off at Jeondong Catholic Church (Hanok Village) Bus Stop.

**If you’re at Jeonju Hanok Village, it is just walking distance from Gyeonggi-Jeon (경기전) or Pungnam-mun (풍남문)**