20 Best Places to Visit in Korea in Winter

Winter in Korea is a magical time when the landscape transforms into a picturesque wonderland. From snowy mountains to charming festivals, Korea offers a host of unforgettable experiences during the winter season. Here are 10 of the best places to visit in Korea in winter to add to your Korea travel itinerary.

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Important Tips for Visiting Korea in Winter

Holidays

If you’re visiting Korea during winter be careful about travelling during and around national holidays that fall during this period. For example Christmas, New Year’s Day, Lunar New Year and Independence Movement Day. Generally, during these dates, you can expect high traffic on the roads and transport bookings booked up. On a good note, during these holidays often numerous sightseeing sites will have free entry and offer special holiday programs.

What to Wear in Korea in Winter

To prepare yourself for the harsh cold weather in Korea make sure to pack warm clothing and lots of layers. In general, it can get quite chilly and I recommend packing the following essentials for winter in Korea:

• Hand warmers
• Warm socks
• Thick boots or warm walking-pair shoes
• Thin down jacket (for a base layer)
• Lots of layers such as sweaters.
• Thick long jacket that covers your legs
• Scarf, hat or beanie, gloves or mittens.
• Thermals – If you’re looking for recommendations on good-quality thermals I always recommend the heat-tech range from UNIQLO.

Travel Insurance

There are lots of ski resorts that are easily accessible from Seoul as a day trip or longer. Top ski resorts to visit in Korea near Seoul include Alpensia Ski Resort and Elysian Ganchon Resort which cater for both beginner and advanced skiers. If you’re planning to hit the slopes skiing or try any other winter spots make sure you organise travel insurance for your trip to cover any accidental incidents and medical coverage.

Guide to Visiting Korea in Winter

When is Winter in South Korea?

Winter in South Korea falls from December, January to February. However, depending on what region of South Korea you’ll be visiting the winter can differ vastly. Typically in the southern part of Korea such as Jeju Island and Busan winter is shorter than in Seoul and Gangwon-do provinces. As a general rule the more you head into mountainous areas, the colder the weather and the longer the winter is.

When does it snow in South Korea?

Usually every year the first snowfall in Seoul occurs in late November to early December. If you want the best experience of the snow in South Korea I recommend exploring areas outside of Seoul. An important tip is that the snowfall in Korea isn’t consistent, generally, it will snow for a few days, then warm up for a few days and repeat this pattern in cycles.

Does it snow in South Korea?

In South Korea, snowfall can happen anytime between late November and early March however most snowfall usually occurs during January and February. To best experience the most snowfall you’ll want to explore areas in the northeast of South Korea or head to the mountainous areas of Korea. Winter is the perfect time to enjoy snow through skiing, snowboarding, snow sledding and other winter sports. If this doesn’t appeal to you you’ll want to check out the winter festivals that happen across the country, including Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival and Cheongyang Ice Festival.

What is the temperature in Korea in winter?

During the winter months, the average temperature varies across the country however Seoul and the north see the coldest temperatures. January is typically the coldest month of the year in Korea with average temperature around -1°C (30°F). In places that are in the southern part of South Korea such as Daegu the average temperature fluctuates at around lows of -6°C (20s°F) and highs of 4 °C (40°F). With this in mind make sure to pack lots of layers and warm clothing to prepare yourself for the cold weather.

Are there indoor activities in Korea in Winter?

There are a range of indoor activities to try in Korea during winter from indoor theme parks, museums, and local eateries. Personal recommendations for indoor places to enjoy in winter include spending a day at Lotte World, checking out a jjimjilbang, cafe hopping or exploring an art gallery or museum.

If the weather isn’t too cold for you don’t forget to dedicate time to enjoy Korea outdoors. The great thing about visiting Korea in winter are the fewer crowds, cheaper prices and also there are a range of winter festivities and events happening around the country.

Where are the best places to see snow in South Korea?

If you’re visiting Korea during winter and want to experience the best snowfall I recommend exploring outside of Seoul particularly the mountainous areas of Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon-do. Note that about 70% of South Korea is covered with mountains so you can find lots of areas to catch some snowfall and explore gorgeous winter landscapes. For those who want to avoid freezing winter temperatures, I would recommend visiting areas such as Busan, Jeollanam-do, Jeju Island, and Gyeongsangnam-do where there is still cold weather but not too freezing.

20 Best Places to Visit in Korea in Winter

If you’re planning a trip to South Korea in winter make sure to add these winter destinations in Korea to your travel itinerary. I’ll be sharing some of the best places to visit in winter in Korea from the capital city of Seoul and other cities across the region that are less explored by tourists.

Yongdae Maebwai Ice Wall (용대매바위인공폭포)

Best time to visit: Early January to Early February

Address: 강원 인제군 북면 용대리 1719

Yongdae Maebwai Ice Wall has become a well-known spot for winter getaways in the Gangwon province. During the warmer months, you can find Yongdae Maebwai standing at 100m tall near the Yongdae three-way intersection. During the winter months, however, it transforms into a breathtaking wall of icicles and ice to marvel at. The best part of this spot is that this place is relatively undiscovered on social media so you’ll have a great chance to experience this area by yourself. If you’re heading to Seoraksan National Park make sure to dedicate some time to check out this spot for your itinerary.

Wondae-ri Birch Forest (원대리 자작나무 숲)

Admission: Free

Best time to visit: January

Opening hours: 9:00 to 14:00 (Winter)

Address: 760, Jajangnamusup-gil, Inje-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 인제군 인제읍 자작나무숲길 760)

Wondaeri Birch Forest is a gorgeous spot to visit all year round for its towering trees that stand as if they were to reach the sky. During the winter, however, it attracts visitors for its stunning winter serene beauty of thick pale-silver trees that line the white snowy landscape that shouldn’t be missed. The woodland features around 700,000 trees that stand so tall that you barely see any snow piled on the branches.

If you visit on a clear day the thick forest will protect you from the winter breeze as the sun’s rays fall through. Make sure to add this winter destination in Korea to your itinerary. The easiest way to reach this spot is through a local tour from Seoul. This local day trip tour from Seoul covers round-trip transfers and winter attractions of Mount Seorak, Wondae-ri Birch Forest and Inje Maebawi Ice Wall in one day.

Manhangjae Pass (만항재)

Admission: Free

Opening hours: Open 24 hours (all year round)

Address: 865, Hambaeksan-ro, Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 정선군 고한읍 함백산로 865)

The Manhangjae Pass is a valley way found along the boundaries of Taebaek, Yeongwol and Jeongseon in Gangwon-do and you can reach the highest point by car. To reach Manhangjae Pass you’ll need to find your way up multiple winding roads which will lead you to 1,330m above sea level. This driving course is popular in the winter to enjoy the natural winter scenery.

Upon arrival to the entrance, you’ll be greeted by a rock which acts as a sign to turn left uphill. You’ll want to follow the trail to pass wind turbines towering over the forest and clear winter skies. This spot is a well-known winter photography spot in Korea. If you visit you’ll also want to check out Sky Forest Path Park where towering trees are transformed into a snowy landscape. This forest also attracts visitors during summer and spring with its vibrant wildflowers.

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Ice Wall at Eobi Valley (어비계곡)

Admission: Free

Best Time to Visit: Early January to Early February

Address: 경기 가평군 설악면 어비산길 233 어비산장

About an hour’s drive from Seoul, lies Eobi Valley in Gapyeong-gun. Due to its close proximity to Seoul and tourist attractions including Nami Island and Garden of Morning Calm, Eobi Valley is a popular destination to visit in the colder months of Korea. During winter this spot transforms with glistening ice crystals and frosty formations making it an icy masterpiece to check out during the cold months. If you visit you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a magical winter wonderland with a backdrop of a stunning ice mountain.

To reach Eobi Valley you can either rent a car, take multiple public transport transfers or go through a local tour. The most convenient and easiest way to reach Eobi Valley is through a hassle-free day trip tour from Seoul with round-trip transfers. In addition to not worrying about organising transport, you’ll also get to see must-see winter destinations including Nami Island and the Garden of the Morning of Calm on this day trip.

Cheongsong Ice Valley (Cheongsong Eoreumgol) (청송 얼음골)

Admission: Free.

Best Time to Visit: Late December to Mid January

Address: 228, Palgaksan-ro, Juwangsan-myeon, Cheongsong-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경북 청송군 주왕산면 팔각산로 228)

Translating to ‘ice valley,’ ‘Eoreumgo (얼음골) has become more recognised by foreign ears, with images of Cheongsong Ice Valley attracting visitors during the winter months in Korea. Located in a remote area in North Gyeongsang this spot is a must-see winter destination to see the thousands of frozen icicles from top to bottom. The most convenient and easiest way to reach Cheongsong Ice Valley is by renting a car or through a local tour as a day trip from Seoul or Busan.

Deogyusan Mountain (Deogyusan National Park) (덕유산국립공원)

Admission: Free

Opening hours: Open 24 hours (all year round)

Address: 159, Gucheon-dong 1(il)-ro, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do (전라북도 무주군 설천면 구천동1로 159 덕유산국립공원관리사무소)

One of the top winter destinations in South Korea is Deogyusan Mountain in Muju, Jeollabuk-do. Due to the heavy annual snowfall this spot receives, the mountains are renowned for its winter scenery. This is owed to the trees making it a snowy winter wonderland with ice crystals adorning the branches. If you’re a winter trekking enthusiast you’ll want to add Deogyusan Mountain to your Korea travel bucket list. If you’re not an expert hiker you don’t have to worry as you can reach Seilcheonbong Peak by riding a gondola from Muju Resort. From there, you just follow a trail that leads to Hyangjeokbong Peak which is found 1,614m above sea level to enjoy a snowy vista. I recommend visiting Deogyusan Mountain through a local day trip tour which covers round-trip transfers, a local guide and a cable car ride.

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Anifore Yongpyong Resort (애니포레)

Best Time to Visit: January

Address: 강원 평창군 대관령면 올림픽로 715 애니포레

A recreational space found in Yongpyong Ski Resort in Gangwon-do, Anifore transforms during the winter months into a snowy wonderland. Boasting snow-covered spruce trees and adorable alpacas chilling at the Balwangsan Alpaca Ranch it’s a must-visit winter destination for photographers. You’ll be able to capture gorgeous winter landscapes at every turn you make, from the peaceful forest paths, charming hunts, cute alpacas and more.

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Pocheon Sanjeong Lake (포천 산정호수)

Address: 경기 포천시 영북면 산정호수로411번길 108

Best time to visit: Late December to Early February

Sanjeong Lake is a must-see winter destination nestled in the Gyeonggi Province of Korea. Meaning “lake as clear as a mountain well,” Sanjeong Lake was originally built as a reservoir to supply water to farmlands in 1925. Due to its surrounding attractions, the lake attracts visitors to the year to enjoy its scenery as well as its

In winter the lake is a well-known recreational area that transforms into an ice rink that glimmers amidst the snowy mountain backdrop. The most popular activity to enjoy on the lake includes enjoying the duck train ride or renting a duck tricycle (manual or automatic) on the big lake.

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Jiktang Waterfalls (직탕폭포)

Address: 335-1 Jangheung-ri, Dongsong-eup, Cheorwon-gun, Gangwon-do (강원 철원군 동송읍 직탕길 86)

Best time to visit: Late December to Late January

Jiktang Waterfalls is known as the ‘Korean Niagara Falls,’ and is found along the Hantan River in Cheorwon-gun in Gangwon-do. During winter, this spot is a magical spot to visit to explore the river areas, particularly the Jiktang Falls. In addition to enjoying the tranquil landscape, you’ll be treated to a rare sight – a dark, fine-grained volcanic rock situated by the river bank, adorned in a soft white blanket of powdery snow. The main highlight of this spot however is the frozen waterfalls that shouldn’t be missed on your Korea winter itinerary.

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Nijimori Studio (니지모리스튜디오)

Best time to visit: Late December to Mid February

Address: 경기 동두천시 천보산로 567-12 니지모리스튜디오

About an hour away from Seoul, found at the foothills of Chilbong Mountain lies the charming Japanese-themed village of Nijimori Studio. If you’re looking for a unique place to visit in Korea look no further than this picturesque village for your winter itinerary. This village boasts a series of buildings that allows you to be transported back into Japan’s Edo Era (1600 to 1860s) and has been used in several dramas.

If you visit during winter, you’ll find at the centre of the village a frozen pond and plenty of buildings to explore covered in snow including spots to enjoy a warm bowl of ramen. At Nijimori Studio it’s a unique place to explore all year round however during winter, it turns into a magical wonderland with the village adorned in powdery white snow.

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Ugeum Reservoir & Cafe PERR (우금저수지 | 카페퍼르)

Best time to visit: January

Address: 경기 포천시 가산면 포천로 582 1층

Found along the Hongcheon River bank, Magok Recreational Area is a must-see winter destination spot if you’re heading to Vivaldi Ski Area in Hongchoen City Korea. This spot is well beloved by Korean campers and is known for its kayaking experience in Gangwon-do due to its deep crystal clear river waters. During winter, the river’s surface is transformed into a frozen sheet dusted with powdery snow. This picturesque landscape begs an invitation for those wanting to enjoy a winter wonderland in Pocheon.

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Maewoldae Falls (매월대폭포)

Admission: Free

Opening hours: Open 24 hours (open all year round)

Address: 222-5, Jamgok-ri, Cheorwon-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 철원군 근남면 잠곡리 222-5)

Whilst waterfalls are often associated with summer destinations they shouldn’t be missed on your winter itinerary in South Korea. The winter scenery of Maewoldae Falls in Cheorwon, Gangwon-do will make you feel as if time has stopped with the waterfall frozen and featuring cascades of icicles and ice. In addition to the frozen waterfall, the surroundings remain tranquil and a gorgeous scene to visit in winter. Maewoldae Falls is a worthy winter destination for photographs of the frozen waterfall in the background.

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Seoul Grand Palaces

Admission: Paid or Free (last Wednesday of every month or wear a hanbok)

Opening hours: Different hours depending on individual palaces.

There’s something magical about seeing the palaces in Seoul during winter. Whilst the cherry blossoms and fall foliage in Korea are second to seeing these sites, seeing the grand palaces bathed in powdery snow is a magical sight. In Seoul, there are five palaces to explore with Gyeongbokgung Palace and Chandeokgung Palace the most popular attractions among tourists. If you’re heading to Gyeongbokgung Palace make sure to check out the guard changing ceremony at Gwanghwamun gate which is located in front of the palace. The ceremony usually takes place at 10:00 a.m. and 14:00 each day (except Tuesdays).

If you’re visiting one of the palaces in Seoul you can get free entry by either visiting on the last Wednesday of each month or you can rent a traditional Korean dress (hanbok). I personally recommend renting a hanbok as it’s a fun experience to try with friends and/or family to explore the cultural sites. Just make sure to wear layers underneath your clothing so you don’t get frozen in the cold weather in winter.

COEX Starfield Library (별마당도서관)

Admission: Free

Opening hours: 10:30 to 22:00

Address: 513, Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 강남구 영동대로 513)

One of the most well-known attractions in Seoul, Starfield COEX Library is a popular instagrammable spot all year round. During the winter months, especially near Christmas, the public space is adorned with festive decorations and light illuminations that are a must-see attraction in Seoul. The public library can be found in the centre of COEX Gangnam Mall and can be freely enjoyed after you’ve done some shopping or grabbed a bite to eat. If you’re planning a visit note that this spot does get crowded during the day. I recommend visiting early in the morning or later in the day to experience it with fewer crowds.

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Myeongdong Cathedral (명동성당)

Admission: Free

Opening hours: Church grounds (Open 24 hours) & Cathedral Building (7:00 to 20:00)

Address: 74, Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 중구 명동길 74)

Amidst the bustling city of Seoul where high-rise buildings take up the skyline, Myeongdong Cathedral has become a popular winter attraction to visit, especially around Christmas time. When the sun sets, the cathedral and the grounds are lit up with soft evening lights against the snow. Surrounding the cathedral, the neighbourhood of Myeongdong is also lined with restaurants and shops to check out for your Seoul itinerary.

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Myeongdong Shopping Street

Lotte Department Store: 81, Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

Shinsegae Department Store: 63, Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

If you’re visiting Seoul around Christmas, make sure to check out the famous shopping district of Myeongdong to see the decorative Christmas lights. Department stores including the Shinsegae Department Store and Lotte Department Store usually adorned Christmas decorations around their building each year. It’s the perfect winter photo spot for Instagrammable photos.

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Ganghwa Island (강화도)

Address: 16-1, Dongmunan-gil 21beon-gil, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon (인천광역시 강화군 강화읍 동문안길21번길 16-1)

If you’re looking for an underrated place to visit in South Korea look no further than Ganghwa Island. A few aways from Seoul lies the hidden gem of Ganghwado with rich history, diverse landscapes and unique attractions to explore without the crowds. It’s a destination that is not on the radar of tourists and during the winter transforms into a wintery wonderland full of aesthetic cafes, picturesque landscapes and cultural sites to explore.

My personal recommendations for visiting Ganghwado include Yongheunggung Palace (용흥궁) and Goryeogung Palace Site (고려궁지) so you can step back into Korea’s history. Around Christmas time, these spots are also decorated with light illuminations to enjoy after the sun goes down. You’ll also want to pay a visit to the unique Joyang Banjik Cafe which was once a textile factory and now a popular cafe boasting delicious pastries, drinks and spacious seating areas lined with antiques from Europe and China.

Nami Island (남이섬)

Opening hours: Open all year round.

Admission: Reserve your tickets in advance or book through a local tour.

Address:  1, Namiseom-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do (경기도 가평군 가평읍 북한강변로 1024)

Nami Island is a popular day trip from Seoul amongst locals and tourists alike. Beautiful to visit all year round, during the winter this spot comes alive with its winter charm. The island is known for its stunning tree-lined paths and peaceful ambience, especially when the trees are dusted with powdery snow. Stroll the island on its snow-lined paths or enjoy a warm drink at a cozy cafe while taking in the mesmerising winter landscape.

For first-time travelers to Korea reaching Nami Island as a day trip from Seoul isn’t the easiest trip. There are no direct bus or train connections from Seoul to Nami Island so you will have to organise multiple transfers. The most convenient and cheapest way to get to Nami Island is through a local tour which covers transport transfers and entrance fees. Often these local tours also cover other nearby attractions in Gangwon-do including Garden of the Morning Calm and Petite France. Below are recommendations for local day trip tours from Seoul to Nami Island and other attractions.

🚊 Nami Island Winter Day Trip Tours

Departs from	Activities & Attractions	Price	Booking
Seoul	🍓Strawberry Picking 🚲 Railbike Experience 🍃Nami Island & Morning Calm	~$100 AUD	Winter Day Trip Tour (From Seoul)
Seoul	🍃Nami Island & Vivaldi Park ⛷️ Skiing Lesson 🛷 Sledding (Snowy Land)	~$100 AUD	Winter Day Trip from Seoul
Seoul	🍃Nami Island & Elysian Gangchon Winter Ski ⛷️ Skiing Lesson 🛷 Sledding (Snowy Land)	~$90 AUD	Winter Day Trip from Seoul
Seoul	🍓Strawberry Picking 🍃Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm 🎏Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival ❄️ Eobi Ice Valley	~$80 AUD	Winter Day Trip From Seoul
Seoul	🍃Nami Island & Petite France 🚲 Gangchon Rail Park & Morning Calm ❄️ Eobi Ice Valley	~$90 AUD	Winter Day Trip Tour

The Garden of the Morning Calm (아침고요수목원)

Opening hours: 8:30 to (Illuminations start from 17:00)

Address: 432, Sumogwon-ro, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 가평군 상면 수목원로 432)

Located north of Seoul in Gapyeong, the Garden of the Morning Calm is beautiful to visit all year round however during winter transforms into a magical wonderland during its light festival. From the 1st of December 2023 to March 17th of 2024 the natural surroundings come alive with illuminations decorated all over the garden that shimmers at night. Throughout the garden, there are also artworks to enjoy including illuminated arch tunnels and glittering illuminations to take photos with. Add the Garden of the Morning Calm as a day trip from Seoul to your itinerary.

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How to get to Garden of Morning Calm

By Bus: From Dong Seoul Bus Terminal take an intercity bus ➝ Arrive at Cheongpyeong Bus Terminal in Gapyeong ➝ Take Gapyeong City Tour Bus or a local bus.

By Subway: Take the Gyeongchun Line from Seoul ➝ Arrive at Cheongpyeong Station in Gapyeong ➝ Take the Gapyeong City Tour Bus or a local bus.

By Train: From Yongsan Station or Cheongnyangni Station in Seoul take an ITX train ➝ Arrive at Cheongpyeong Station in Gapyeong ➝ Take a local bus or Gapyeong City Tour Bus.

A day trip to Garden of the Morning Calm isn’t the easiest day trip from Seoul. If you’re taking public transport it will require multiple transfers and if you want to visit to see the light festival it might be difficult to organise transport transfers later in the evening. I personally recommend taking a hassle-free local day tour from Seoul as it covers round-trip transfers as well as over-winter attractions in Gapyeong including Nami Island, Petite France and Gapyeong Rail Bike. Below I’ve included local day trips that include Garden of the Morning Calm and other attractions to add to your Korea itinerary.

❄️ The Garden of the Morning Calm Winter Day Trip Tours

Departs from	Activities & Attractions	Price	Booking
Seoul	🍃Garden of Morning Calm 🌿Nami Island 🚲 Gangchon Rail Park ❄️ Eobi Ice Valley	$135 AUD	Winter Day Trip Tour
Seoul	🍃Garden of Morning Calm 🌿 Nami Island & Petite France ❄️ Eobi Ice Valley	$129 AUD	Winter Day Trip Tour
Seoul	🍓Strawberry Picking 🌿 Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm ❄️ Eobi Ice Valley	$135 AUD	Winter Day Trip Tour
Seoul	🍃Garden of Morning Calm (Light Festival) 🌿 Nami Island ⛷️Ski Resort	$129 AUD	Winter Ski & Sightseeing Tour
Seoul	🌿Nami Island & Petite France 🏠 Italian Village 🍃Garden of Morning Calm	$106 AUD	Winter Sightseeing Tour

Gyeongju (경주)

Address: 757, Taejong-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 경주시 태종로 757)

Gyeongju, the historical city of South Korea, becomes even more charming in winter. This city was previously the capital of the kingdom of Silla (BCE 57-CE 935) and has been nicknamed the ‘museum without walls.’ A visit to Gyeongju and you’ll be treated to ancient temples, royal tombs, and the historic thatched-roof houses of the city. The serenity of winter also provides a unique perspective on Korea’s rich cultural heritage with the scenery covered in powdery snow. In addition to the gorgeous scenery, there are must-try aesthetic cafes and local eateries that serve the Korean and Western cuisine of Gyeongju’s historic sites and scenery.

Getting to Gyeongju

By Train: If you’re taking a train, consider getting the foreigner discount train pass to save money and get around numerous cities via train. From Seoul, the most convenient and easiest way to get to Gyeongju is via the high-speed train (KTX). Direct trains are available from Seoul Station usually every hour and should take about 2 to 2.5 hours. After you reach the KTX train station in Gyeongju you’ll have to take a bus or catch a taxi to the main attractions in Gyeongju because the station is located outside of the city centre.

By Bus: You can take a 3.5-hour express bus from Seoul to Gyeongju. You can often show up at the Express Bus Terminal and get tickets without an issue, otherwise, you can reserve your tickets online.

Join a Tour: The easiest way to reach Gyeongju from Seoul is by booking a local tour. There are some great options that will get you to Gyeongju and back in a day and let you see all the main attractions. This local tour covers Bulguksa Temple, Daereungwo, Gyochon Village (Woljeonggyo), and more and gets you back to Seoul all in one day.

Winter in Korea offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural richness. Whether you’re interested in snowy escapades, cultural exploration, or simply taking in the serene winter landscapes, these 20 places in Korea should be at the top of your list for an unforgettable winter adventure in South Korea.

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