Seoul: Day Trip with Strawberry Farm and Nami Island

Exploring Korea in a Day: Nami Island, Strawberry Fields, and More

If you’re after a day that combines hands-on farm fun, stunning scenery, and iconic spots like Nami Island, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. For $95, you’ll spend a full day exploring Gangwon Province, starting with sweet strawberry picking and jam making, then moving on to the famous Nami Island—a favorite for lovers of nature, K-drama fans, and anyone wanting to experience Korea’s seasonal beauty. Depending on the season, you can also choose to visit the Garden of Morning Calm during its spectacular Lighting Festival or hop on a rail bike in Gangchon for a scenic pedal along old railway tracks.

What makes this tour special? First, the personal touch of harvesting and making your own strawberry jam gives a tangible taste of local life. And second, the stunning landscapes of Nami Island, often covered in snow or bursting with spring blooms, create picture-perfect moments. One standout detail from reviews is the excellent guide, who’s friendly, attentive, and adds a layer of genuine hospitality. A possible consideration? The tour’s pace can be quite packed, and if you prefer a leisurely, unhurried day, you might find it a little quick.

This experience suits travelers seeking authentic local activities combined with iconic sights, especially those interested in seasonal natural beauty, and families or couples looking for a mix of fun, scenery, and culture. If you cherish interactive experiences like jam making or scenic outdoor activities, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience with strawberry picking and jam making
• Iconic destination at Nami Island, famous for its scenery and K-drama fame
• Seasonal highlights include the Garden of Morning Calm’s Lighting Festival or Gangchon rail biking
• Expert guides enhance the experience with friendly, attentive service
• Value for money considering transportation, entry tickets, and hands-on activities
• Flexible options allow you to tailor the day to your interests and season

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Day Trip

Starting the Day: Pickup and Transportation
Most itineraries begin with a convenient meeting point, with transportation included. The tour is designed to cover a lot in one day—so expect a comfortable bus ride that whisks you from Seoul into the scenic Gangwon Province. The group size tends to be manageable, making it easier to ask questions or get personalized attention from your guide.

Strawberry Picking and Jam Making
One of the highlights is getting your hands dirty at a local strawberry farm. We loved the way the experience was both fun and rooted in local agriculture. You’ll pick around 400 grams of strawberries per person, selecting the ripest berries directly from the plant—an experience that truly connects you with Korean produce. Afterward, you’ll enjoy creating your own strawberry jam, which is packaged into a 250g bottle—a sweet souvenir to take home. As one reviewer put it, “We seen strawberry farm (pluck strawberry and did strawberry jam). The experience was fantastic.”

Exploring Nami Island
Next, you’ll cross the water to Nami Island, a place famous not just for its natural beauty but also for its appearances in popular Korean dramas. The island’s tree-lined pathways and scenic views are picture-perfect, whether in snow or spring bloom. The reviewer noted, “It was snowing at Nami Island. Fantastic! We enjoyed ourselves so much.” You’ll have time for leisurely walks, photography, or just soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The island’s popularity means it can get busy during peak seasons, but its charm remains undeniable.

Seasonal Choices: Garden of Morning Calm or Rail Biking
Depending on when you visit, your tour offers two distinct experiences. If you’re in winter (ending March 16), you’ll visit the Garden of Morning Calm, renowned for its Lighting Festival. The illuminated gardens and sculptures create a magical atmosphere, perfect for evening photos. Reviewers rave about this spectacle, noting it as a highlight of their trip.

In spring, the tour switches gears with a rail biking adventure in Gangchon. Pedaling along old railway tracks surrounded by blooming landscapes makes for a delightful outdoor activity. One traveler shared, “Pedal at your own pace, savoring the natural beauty of spring. It’s a perfect way to enjoy Korea’s springtime.”

Optional Add-Ons and Flexibility
The tour provides options, allowing you to tailor your day. You can choose to visit the Garden of Morning Calm or go rail biking, depending on your interests and the season. Tickets for both are included if you select those options, making it straightforward.

Practical Considerations
Lunch isn’t included, so if you have dietary restrictions, bringing your own snacks or planning a meal is wise. The guide can recommend restaurants in advance. Also, the tour demands some walking and outdoor time, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are key.

Authentic Experiences That Stand Out

Our review echoes other travelers’ sentiments about the friendly and attentive guide, who makes the day flow smoothly and provides interesting insights. One reviewer gushed, “Our tour guide is excellent! He is friendly, attentive, and helpful,” highlighting the value of good guidance.

The scenery at Nami Island—whether snow-covered or in spring bloom—is consistently praised. As one traveler said, “The views are fantastic, and the peaceful atmosphere makes you forget the busy city life.” The hands-on strawberry and jam experience adds a layer of authenticity many tours skip, giving you a tangible connection to Korean farming traditions.

The Lighting Festival at Garden of Morning Calm is a visual feast, transforming the gardens into a winter wonderland. If you happen to visit during winter, this spectacle is worth the extra effort. Conversely, spring’s rail biking offers a kinetic way to appreciate Korea’s lush landscapes, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Pickup and Travel

Most tours start early from Seoul, with a comfortable bus ride that takes you over scenic routes into Gangwon Province. The journey sets the tone for the day—relaxed but anticipation-building.

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Strawberry Farm & Jam Making

The first stop is a local farm where you’ll pick strawberries directly from the plant. Expect to handle ripe berries and learn a bit about local farming. The jam-making session is straightforward but rewarding, offering a hands-on activity that ends with a bottle of your own jam.

Nami Island

After the farm, you’ll cross by ferry to Nami Island, famous for its gorgeous tree-lined paths and cultural appeal. Expect some free time for photos, walks, and maybe a coffee at a lakeside cafe. During your visit, you’ll see why it’s a favorite spot for Koreans and travelers alike.

Seasonal Activity

In winter, you’ll explore the Garden of Morning Calm with its Lighting Festival. The gardens are decorated with thousands of lights, creating an almost fairy-tale atmosphere. In spring, you can opt for the Gangchon rail bike—pedaling along scenic routes surrounded by blooming flowers and lush greenery.

End of the Day

The tour wraps up with a return trip to Seoul, usually concluding at a central location like Hongik University Station. The entire day generally lasts about 8 hours, giving you a full but manageable experience.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rich blend of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and scenic beauty—all at a reasonable price considering the included tickets, transportation, and hands-on experiences. Travelers who enjoy interactive farm activities, stunning natural scenery, and seasonal festivals will find this tour especially rewarding. The presence of a knowledgeable, friendly guide significantly enhances the experience, making it feel more personal and engaging.

While it’s a full day—so be prepared for some early starts and a busy schedule—the variety of stops keeps it interesting. If you’re looking for a taste of authentic Korea away from the city crowds, this trip is a solid choice. It balances nature, culture, and fun activities, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see Korea’s countryside and iconic sights in one day.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, round-trip transportation from Seoul is included, making it easy to relax without worrying about logistics.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially since some activities involve walking outdoors. Bringing snacks is a good idea since lunch isn’t included.

Can I choose between the Garden of Morning Calm and rail biking? Yes, depending on the season, you can opt for the festival at the Garden of Morning Calm or the rail biking adventure in Gangchon.

How long is the entire tour? Expect about 8 hours, including travel time, activities, and free time at each site.

What is the cost of the tour? It’s priced at $95 per person, which covers transportation, tickets, and the activities.

Are children allowed? Yes, children under 24 months can join for free if they do not require a seat, but confirm with the provider if you have specific needs.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included. The guide will suggest restaurants, but you may want to bring your own if you have special dietary restrictions.

What is the group size? The tour usually involves a manageable group, making it easier to interact and ask questions.

What season is best for this tour? It’s great year-round. Winter offers stunning light displays, while spring showcases blossoming landscapes perfect for rail biking.

In short, if you’re looking to experience Korea’s natural beauty, farm life, and iconic scenery in a single day, this tour offers great value and memorable moments. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore deeper, it’s a well-rounded way to taste Korea’s seasonal charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: