Discover the Charm of Korean Winter on a Full-Day Tour from Seoul

Imagine spending a crisp winter day exploring two of South Korea’s most enchanting seasonal highlights: the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival and the Garden of Morning Calm Light Festival. For around $67 per person, this full-day trip offers a wonderful mix of outdoor adventure and tranquil beauty, all wrapped up in the winter scenery that makes Korea’s colder months so special. The tour runs from early morning to early evening, making it a practical choice for those eager to see as much as possible in a day.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines authentic local festivities with spectacular light displays. You get to try ice fishing, a distinctly Korean winter activity, and then walk through a garden that transforms into a glowing, fairy-tale scene at night. The day is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed — perfect for families, couples, and curious solo travelers alike.

One possible consideration is the travel time — about 3.5 hours on the bus each way — so patience with long drives is key. Also, note that weekend tours are unavailable due to heavy traffic, so planning on a weekday visit is best. Overall, if you want a fun, memorable, and beautifully curated winter experience, this tour is an excellent pick.

This tour suits travelers looking for a blend of outdoor activities and stunning visual spectacles, those interested in local Korean winter traditions, or anyone wanting to capture extraordinary photos of illuminated landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Korean winter festivals make this tour a memorable cultural experience.
Ice fishing on a frozen river provides a rare chance to try something very local and unique.
The Garden of Morning Calm Light Festival offers breathtaking photographs and peaceful evening strolls.
The tour is well-structured, allowing plenty of time at each site without feeling rushed.
Expect a long day of travel, so comfy shoes and patience with bus rides are recommended.
The tour offers flexible booking options (reserve now, pay later) with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.

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Starting Points and Transportation

The tour begins from one of three convenient locations in Seoul: near Namsan Yejang Park, at 156 or 306, depending on your choice. From there, you’ll spend about 3.5 hours on a comfortable coach heading northeast toward Gyeonggi Province. The bus ride is a key part of the experience — it gives you a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or enjoy scenic views en route. Expect scenic landscapes that hint at Korea’s rural charm, especially in winter when everything is coated in white.

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival: A Winter Highlight

Once at the Hwacheon Ice Festival, you’ll find yourself in one of CNN’s “7 Wonders of Winter of the World”. The festival itself is a lively hub of winter activities suited for all ages. The star attraction is ice fishing — a genuinely Korean pastime where you can try catching mountain trout, or “Sancheoneo,” with your bare hands or simple fishing gear. It’s a fun challenge, especially if you’re new to ice fishing, and there’s a sense of achievement when you finally land a fish.

The festival also offers other engaging activities: bobsledding, ice sled rides, and enjoying local street foods like freshly grilled fish or sashimi right on the ice. The food aspect is frequently praised in reviews: “We loved the delicious fish and tapas, which added a tasty local flavor to the experience,” one traveler shared. It’s a chance to taste the simple yet flavorful Korean winter fare in a lively outdoor setting, which adds to the authentic feel.

A common comment from visitors is how family-friendly and fun the festival is. Kids especially enjoy the snow-covered landscape and the chance to try something new. The scenic views on the way there also make for good photo opportunities, and guides often share interesting insights about local culture.

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Transition to the Garden of Morning Calm

After about 1.5 hours on the bus, you’ll arrive at the Garden of Morning Calm, a serene spot famous for its beautifully landscaped gardens and sculptures. But what makes this visit special is the Winter-Only Lighting Festival. As dusk falls, the garden transforms into a magical landscape of lights. You’ll walk among thousands of twinkling lights, taking photos that look like scenes from a fairy tale.

The guided tour here highlights the artistry behind each display, and many visitors mention how the lights create a peaceful yet mesmerizing atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to wind down after the outdoor festival and enjoy some tranquil, beautiful scenes. Evening walks through the illuminated gardens are often a highlight for couples and photography enthusiasts.

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Practical Details and Overall Experience

The tour ends back in Seoul at a convenient location, Hongik University Station, making it easy to continue exploring or head to your accommodation. The entire day lasts about 11 to 13 hours, so prepare for a long but rewarding adventure. The tour’s small group size (depending on the booking) ensures a more personal experience, and the trip is led by guides-speaking English, Chinese, or Korean.

Pricing at $67 is quite reasonable considering the transportation, entry fees, and food included. The booking process is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, plus free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Authenticity and Value

Many reviews highlight the value of this tour as a way to see Korea’s winter outside of Seoul’s urban bustle. The combination of mainly outdoor activities and the stunning light displays offers a balanced experience of adventure and tranquility. Participants often praise the local snacks and delicious grilled fish as memorable highlights, giving the tour extra flavor of Korean winter traditions.

Some mention the long bus rides but agree that the sights and experiences are well worth the time. The guides’ friendly service and insightful commentary add to a sense of authenticity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to experience Korea’s winter in an active, authentic way, this tour fits perfectly. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. Those interested in local customs, food, and seasonal traditions will find plenty to love.

However, if you prefer shorter outings or have difficulty with long bus rides, you might want to consider whether the travel time aligns with your comfort level. Also, plan your visit on a weekday, as weekends are blocked due to congestion.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic value for the price, delivering a memorable mix of adventure, cultural insight, and visual delight. You’ll come away with stories of trying ice fishing, tasting fresh local fish, and walking through a luminous garden that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale.

It’s a well-organized way to embrace Korea’s winter traditions without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Plus, it’s a great way to see two very different aspects of the Korean winter: the lively outdoor festival and the peaceful glow of beautifully lit gardens.

If you’re looking for an authentic, fun-filled winter day that’s both active and serene, this trip from Seoul hits the mark. Just remember to layer up, bring your camera, and get ready for a day that’s as chilly as it is charming.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $67 per person, which includes transportation, entry fees, and some local snacks or food.

How long does the tour last?
Expect an 11 to 13-hour day, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Where does the tour start?
You can choose from three meeting points in Seoul: near Namsan Yejang Park, or at locations 156 and 306, depending on your booking.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a comfortable bus or coach is part of the package, with scenic views en route.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children under 24 months who do not need a seat can join for free.

Can I cancel the tour?
Absolutely — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What activities are included at Hwacheon?
Ice fishing, sled rides, street food, sightseeing, and scenic views.

What makes the Garden of Morning Calm special at night?
The garden becomes a winter-only lighting festival, with thousands of lights creating a magical atmosphere.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s especially popular with families and children, thanks to its fun outdoor activities and beautiful scenery.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your camera to capture the stunning light displays.

This tour from Seoul is a fantastic way to experience Korea’s winter traditions, offering a blend of adventure, culture, and stunning sights in one well-organized day. Whether you’re a snow lover or a light display enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to enjoy and remember here.