The city of Chuncheon is the provincial capital of Gangwon-do, and it is also known as the “City of Lakes.” The abundance of lakes that can be seen in the area around the city is whence the city got its name. The main lakes that are situated to the west and north of the city are called Uiamho, Chuncheonho, and Soyangho respectively. To the south of Chuncheon is where you’ll find the Sinyeongang River. The presence of all of these different bodies of water contributes significantly to the overall allure of the area. It doesn’t matter whether you’re going to Chuncheon to see the lakes, the neighbouring mountains, or the shorelines; you’ll have a great time there no matter where you go.
Main Tourist Attractions of Chuncheon, South Korea
The Weird Waterfall at the Underground Mall
The Chuncheon Underground Mall has the Weird Waterfall as its main attraction, which was built specifically for this purpose. It is one of a kind due to the fact that it cradles a spinning ball that floats on top of the waterfall. This shopping centre often hosts light displays with a rainbow of colours. During these light displays, the mall’s other lights are turned down to a lower level. The shopping centre also functions as a gathering area for individuals.
Namiseon Islet
Because of the building of Cheongpyeong Dam, Namiseon Islet came into being. The islet is in the shape of a half moon, and it has wide stretches of green vegetation that are interspersed with chestnut trees and other kinds of plants. It is a picturesque beauty area. It is one of the often visited islands that attracts tourists and filmmakers to the natural beauty that can be seen there because of its proximity to the capital city of Seoul, which is just 63 kilometres away from the island.
Myeong-dong Street
The street known as Myeong-dong in Chuncheon serves as the epicentre of the city’s downtown activity. When you get there, you’ll find rows upon rows of food booths and restaurants, as well as theatres and nightclubs, and a whole lot more fun things to do. It was once known as Jayang-dong Street, but the name was changed to Myeong-dong Street in subsequent years. In the alley behind the street, there is a restaurant serving the world-famous Dakgalbi Chicken. This route has a lot of foot traffic, and among the most popular destinations are the Jungang market and the subterranean market.
General Nami Tomb
The General Nami Tomb may be found on the island of Namiseon. In point of fact, the islet got its name from the tomb that was constructed for General Nami, who lived from 1441 to 1449. General Nami was just 25 years old when he was appointed to the position of Minister of National Defense. In recognition of the role he played in putting down the rebellion led by Lee Si-ae, which occurred during the reign of King Sejo, he was awarded a medal. However, he was put to death not long after that at the age of 28.
Jungdo Island
The building of the Uiam Dam resulted in the formation of three islands, one of which is known as the Jungdo Island. It is located about one mile away from Chuncheon proper on the mainland. This island has yielded a significant number of archaeological findings, the most of which date back to the Bronze Age and the Iron Age. Another important finding made by archaeologists was the location of the burial sites and the dwelling area. Because of the island’s abundant natural beauty, it is an ideal location for visitors as well as residents to have picnics and spend time relaxing.
Takgalbi Alley
One of the most well-known dishes in Chuncheon is called Takgalbi, sometimes known as Dakgalbi chicken. Chicken, veggies, and noodles are stir-fried together in a dish that has a spicy flavour profile. This kind of chicken requires a unique approach to the cooking process. After adding the chicken that has been marinated, the ingredients are placed in a big iron pan and fried. This meal is a speciality of many of the restaurants and booths that line Takgalbi Alley, where it may be purchased at any one of a large number of these establishments.
Gongjicheon Area
The Chuncheon city neighbourhood of Gongjicheon may be found on the city’s periphery. The lovely scene that is formed at the location where Gongjicheon Lake and Uiamho Lake meet each other would be there to greet visitors as they arrived in the region. One may discover here lovely gardens, fountains, and boating amenities to enjoy their time here. The Dohojugyo Bridge is the most well-known destination in the area. It is a wonderful bridge that was built by stacking 25 wooden planks on boats to create a span that is around 188 metres long.
Soyangho Lake
It is the largest man-made lake in the whole of the nation. The lake is also referred to as the “sea inside the land.” Because it is home to a large fishing farm, it is often referred to as the freshwater fish museum. There are many different kinds of freshwater fish that may be found here, including trout, carp, eel, and many more.
Cheongpyeongsa Temple
The construction of this temple took place in the year 973 A.D. under the reign of King Gwang Jong, who was a member of the Goryeo dynasty. On the southern crest of Mount Bongsan, it was Monk Seung Hyeon who was responsible for laying the foundation stones of the temple. Within the temple is a rotating door, and some people think that this door symbolises the movement of spirits from life to life. The Goryeo period ruler who commissioned the construction of the temple included an ancient garden on the grounds known as the Jinrak gong.
Gangchon Recreational Area
Along the banks of the Bukan River is where you’ll find this quaint little settlement. Visitors may get a sense of the natural splendour that surrounds the hamlet thanks to its location on one side by the river and on the other side by the steep Bongwhasan and Samaksan mountains. Camping sites and other adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping, hiking, and mountain biking are some of the most well-known features of the recreation area. During the winter months, it is also home to skiing facilities.
Gangchon LG Resort
The Gangchon LG Resort has a picture-perfect setting on the slopes of the mountains that are in perfect balance with the Bukhangang River. This resort is kept in excellent condition and is ready to cater to any and all requirements that a family may have in order to have a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. The skiing facilities that are available to guests at this resort are without a doubt the most appealing aspect of this destination. On the mountain slopes, skiers of all skill levels, from novices to seasoned veterans, will find terrain that is suitable for their needs.
Gangwon Provincial Arboretum
The Gangwon Provincial Arboretum is a place that captivates visitors with its breathtaking scenery. The Gangwon Provincial Arboretum was established with the goal of showcasing and preserving the rich floral heritage of the Gangwon-do region. A Forest park, a Flower Museum, and several businesses that offer forest items are some of the sites that one may go to while their time in the forest.
Chuncheon Sculpture Park
Gongji Park was the previous name for what is now known as Chuncheon Sculpture Park. Since 1997, sculptures have been added to this park, and as of right now, there are around 29 different sculptures spread across the park. The intriguing artwork of a water clock was installed in its current location in 2001. The Spring Art Performance and Poetry Recital are only two of the annual activities that take place in this park.
