If you’re looking for an unforgettable day trip from Seoul that combines breathtaking winter landscapes, delicious food, thrilling activities, and a dazzling light festival, then this tour is for you! We booked our adventure through Klook, which included bus transfers and entrance tickets—making the entire trip hassle-free. Our journey took us to Eobi Valley, Nami Island, Gangchon Rail Park, and the Garden of Morning Calm. Here’s how our day went!
Meetup at DDP Plaza, Dongdaemun
Our day started early at DDP Plaza in Dongdaemun, the designated meeting point for our tour. After checking in and boarding our comfortable bus, we were all set for our first stop—Eobi Valley!
Eobi Valley: A Frozen Wonderland
Travel time: 1.5 hours from Seoul
Best time to visit: Winter (for the ice formations)
During winter, Eobi Valley transforms into Eobi Ice Valley, a hidden gem with stunning natural ice formations. This place is still relatively undiscovered, making it the perfect spot for those who appreciate peaceful winter landscapes.
Highlights of Eobi Valley:
- Majestic ice walls – Naturally formed as water from the valley’s streams freezes over the rocky cliffs, creating breathtaking ice formations.
- Photography spots – The frozen waterfalls and icicles make for stunning backdrops. Perfect for a winter-themed photoshoot!
- Quick snack stop – There’s a small store nearby where you can enjoy warm treats like sausages and fish cakes before heading to the next destination.
After exploring for about 30 minutes, it was time to move on to our next stop—Nami Island!
Lunch Stop: Trying Chicken Dakgalbi
Before reaching Nami Island, we stopped for a delicious Korean lunch at a local restaurant. We had Chicken Dakgalbi, a spicy stir-fried chicken dish cooked with vegetables, rice cakes, and a rich gochujang sauce. It was our first time trying it, and we absolutely loved the balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors—a perfect meal for the chilly weather!
Nami Island: A Romantic Escape
How to get there: Zipline or Ferry
To get to Nami Island, you can either take a zipline (for adventure seekers) or hop on a ferry. We opted for the ferry, which provided a relaxing 5-minute ride with scenic views.
Things to Do in Nami Island:
- Explore iconic spots – The famous Metasequoia Tree Lane and the Nami Island sign make for postcard-worthy photos.
- Try local snacks – We grabbed crispy churros and juicy sausages—a perfect mid-day treat!
- Rent a bike – One of the best ways to explore the island! Cycling through the tree-lined paths was such a fun and peaceful experience.
We spent around two hours here, but honestly, we could have stayed longer. There’s just so much to see and experience on this beautiful island!
Gangchon Rail Park: A Scenic Rail Bike Adventure
History: This park was once part of the Gyeongchun Line, which connected Seoul and Chuncheon. Today, it offers a unique way to explore the countryside!
Riding a rail bike here was definitely a highlight of the trip. The experience is a mix of adventure, history, and breathtaking natural views.
What to Expect at Gangchon Rail Park:
- Easy and fun ride – The route is mostly downhill, so pedaling is light and effortless.
- Light tunnel displays – The tunnels along the route are illuminated with colorful lights, making the ride even more magical.
- Relaxing return trip – After reaching the endpoint, we hopped on a train that brought us back to the starting point. No need to pedal back!
Garden of Morning Calm: A Dazzling Light Festival
Our last stop was The Garden of Morning Calm, a breathtaking botanical garden that becomes even more magical at night during the Light Festival. This was truly the perfect way to end the day!
What Makes This Garden Special?
- Fairy-tale-like scenery – Millions of LED lights illuminate the gardens, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
- Endless photo opportunities – Whether you’re here with family, friends, or on a romantic date, every corner is picture-perfect.
- Peaceful ambiance – Despite being a popular attraction, the vast space allows for quiet moments to appreciate the beauty.
Final Thoughts
This day trip was truly one for the books! From the frozen beauty of Eobi Valley, to the romantic charm of Nami Island, the thrill of the rail bike ride, and the magical light festival, each stop had something unique to offer.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun and hassle-free way to explore Korea’s best attractions, this tour is highly recommended!
Tip: If you’re planning to visit, booking through Klook is a great option since it covers all transport and entrance fees, making your trip smooth and convenient.