Places To Visit In South Korea During Winter
Those who live in tropical countries like Singapore do not get to experience the winter season. Instead, we have to resort to travelling to other places to see snow. One of the most popular destinations is South Korea, because it is nearer compared to other locations.
If you’re planning to visit the country this winter, here are some spots you should add on your itinerary!
Vivaldi Park Ski Resort
Vivaldi Park is one of the most well known ski resorts in South Korea located at Hongcheon, Gangwon-do. It may be an hour and a half away from Seoul, but its various amenities make up for the travel time you will spend.
Aside from 12 slopes where you can experience skiing even at night, they also have ski lifts and gondolas for customers to try. Once you get tired from all that outdoor activities, you can then visit the resort’s mall to eat and chill.
If you don’t have any experience in skiing, don’t worry! The park also offers beginner lessons so you can learn the basics.
Taebaek Snow Festival
Since 1995, the city of Taebaek in the Gangwon-do Province has been organizing a snow festival every year. It usually starts at the end of January until the second week of February, so you should take note of these dates if you’re planning to attend.
During the event, large-scale snow sculptures are featured where tourists can enjoy taking photos. The festival also has a parade, snow sliding, snowflake hiking competition and more!
Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink
You don’t have to travel far away from the city to have a fun winter experience. At the Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink, beginner and advanced skaters alike can enjoy the sport!
Established in 2004, the full-moon shaped plaza is located just by Seoul City Hall. You don’t even have to bring your own skates as the rink has its own rental place.
There is also a rest area if you get tired, or you just want to watch skaters glide in the ice~
Garden of Morning Calm
The Garden of Morning Calm is a popular tourist destination in South Korea all year round. However, the place is extra special during winter season because they host an annual light festival.
It is also a good time to visit the area in the morning if you want to see snow-covered mountains and valleys. Once it starts to get dark, the colourful illuminations will then start to glow.
While the garden is open as early as 8:30 in the morning, the light festival will only start from 5:00 pm onwards.
Wondaeri Birch Forest
There are over 700,000 birch trees planted in the 138 hectares landscape of Wondaeri Birch Forest. The relaxing nature scenery in this place makes it a famous destination for those who love the environment, and enjoy hiking.
In the winter, the whole area is covered with snow giving that extra magical vibe. The forest, which has an average of 224,000 visitors annually, offers 7 trails depending on your expertise.
Yangpyeong Strawberry Farms
Strawberries thrive in cold weather, which means it is also the best time to visit the farms for some fruit picking. Yangpyeong located at Gyeonggi Province is known for its strawberries, so it’s a go-to place if you want to try strawberry picking.
Introduction and instructions are done in English, so the farms are very tourist friendly. In some months, visitors can even enjoy making strawberry jam and other desserts using what you picked!
Hallasan Mountain
For those who have more time to spare and are feeling extra adventurous, you can try some winter hike in Hallasan Mountain. It is the highest peak in South Korea, located at Jeju Island.
Hallasan offers various routes depending on your skill. If you are planning to reach the top, it can take you around 3 hours on a steady pace. Of course, adequate preparation is needed before you start the hike.
Proper winter clothes, gear and equipment are essential for safety.
Are any of these places already in your itinerary list? If not, consider adding these locations for the ultimate winter experience in South Korea!
