Nami Island changes colorfully through the four seasons: Spring – Summer – Fall – Winter. Join Klook to discover seasonal Nami Island travel activities to enjoy the best trip through this Nami island blog on how to visit Nami island, when is the best time to visit Nami island and what to do as well!
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Nami Island not only attracts visitors with its romantic beauty but also thanks to its uniqueness when calling itself “Naminara Republic”, with its own distinct culture. Each season, Nami puts on a new coat, from the fresh green of spring to the brilliant yellow leaves of autumn, from the pure white snow of winter to the vibrant activities of summer. This guide to Nami island will reveal seasonal Nami Island travel activities so you can plan a perfect trip!
Where is Nami Island? (#Nami island blog)
Nami, a beautiful artificial island located about 63km northeast of Seoul, is a must-see destination for anyone who loves nature and Korean culture. Famous as the setting for the romantic drama “Winter Sonata”, Nami Island possesses a poetic and charming beauty that captivates visitors no matter what season of the year they visit.
Take a walk on the tree-lined paths, leisurely cycle around the island or simply sit by the lake, admiring the beautiful natural scenery. Nami is also home to many diverse cultural events such as concerts and exhibitions, giving you an interesting and new experience.
How to Get to Nami Island from Seoul, South Korea
Before going to Nami Island, you need to arrive in Seoul first because the island does not have its own airport. After you land in Seoul, there are several ways to get to Nami Island. Here are some options for getting to Nami Island by public transport:
Take the Korean Express Train from Seoul
One of the most popular and convenient ways to get to Nami Island is by train. Find the ITX-Cheongchun train line that connects Seoul to Gapyeong, the closest station to Nami Island, and follow these directions:
- Start at Cheongnyangni Station or Yongsan Station: Take the ITX-Cheongchun train from Cheongnyangni Station or Yongsan Station, depending on your departure point in Seoul. If you go from Myeongdong or Dongdaemun, you should go to the Cheongnyangni Station for a shorter traveling time. For Hongdae or Seoul Station, Yongsan Station is a better choice. This express train will take you to Gapyeong Station in about an hour.
- Transfer to a shuttle bus or taxi: Once you arrive at Gapyeong Station, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to Nami Island Ferry Terminal. The shuttle bus is cheaper, while taxis are more convenient if you are traveling in a group.
- Take a ferry: Your final way to get to Nami Island is by ferry to land on Nami Island.
Getting to Nami Island from Seoul by Korean Bus
Seoul – Nami Island Shuttle Bus
If you prefer a more direct route, taking a shuttle bus from Seoul to Nami Island is a great option. Shuttle buses depart from several locations in Seoul, including:
- Insadong: Shuttle buses depart from Insadong, a cultural hub in Seoul. This is a direct route to the Nami Island Ferry Terminal and takes about 90 minutes.
- Namdaemun: Another departure point is from the popular Namdaemun Market area, offering a scenic drive through the countryside.
Getting to Nami Island from Seoul by Private Vehicle
For those who prefer to driving by themselves, renting a car is also a good option. The trip from Seoul to Nami Island takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. You can rent a favorite car and then use GPS or a navigation app to guide you to the Nami Island Ferry Terminal. There is parking at the ferry terminal for about 600 cars!
Nami Island Ferry Terminal Operating Hours:
- Early morning (8:00am – 9:00am): Ferries depart every 30 minutes, allowing you to start your day on the island early to enjoy the fresh and peaceful air.
- Peak hours (9:00am – 6:00pm): Ferries run continuously with a frequency of 10-20 minutes/trip, meeting the travel needs of a large number of tourists.
- Evening (6:00pm – 9:00pm): Ferries return to the mainland every 30 minutes, allowing you to comfortably explore Nami Island until late at night.
(*) Note: Ferry schedules may change depending on weather and seasonal conditions. Please check the updated information on Nami Island’s official website or contact the ferry operator before departure.
When is the best time to visit Nami Island?
Spring: March, April, May
Eobi Ice Valley & Nami & Morning Calm & Railbike & Petite France
Spring is a great time to visit Nami Island, with beautiful natural scenery and fresh air with an average temperature of only about 4 – 11°C. Here are some interesting activities you can participate in:
Cherry blossom viewing on Nami Island
The end of March to the beginning of April is the best time to admire the romantic and poetic scenery of Nami Island. However, this time may change depending on the weather conditions on the island. Therefore, to have the most complete trip, you should update information about the flower season before going.
Stroll on Metasequoia Tree Lane
The road lined with tall dawn redwoods has become an indispensable symbol of Nami Island. Under the cool green canopy of cypress trees, you will feel an unusually peaceful and relaxed feeling. Walking with your lover on the sampan road, you will have some great “virtual life” photos!
KORAIL PASS – KTX Train Ticket
Try out the adventure rides on Nami Island
Adventure lovers will definitely not miss the opportunity to “playing hard “ with the thrilling rides on Nami Island! “Get to work” with the Zip-Wire slide from a height of 80m, enjoy the panoramic view of Bukhan River and Nami Island. Then, continue to challenge yourself with other games such as sliding down the treeCoaster, trampoline jumping, or swinging on the rope at Forest Adventure TreeGo & TreeCoaster.
Summer: June, July, August (#when is the best time to visit nami island)
Spring has cherry blossoms, so what is there on Nami Island in the summer? In the summer, the trees on Nami Island are emerald green and perfect for shade. Nami Island is an ideal destination for you to enjoy refreshing summer days with an ideal average temperature of 21-26°C.
Enjoy the space by Cheongpyeong Lake
Formed in 1994 after the construction of a dam on the Han River, Cheongpyeong Lake has become a symbol of natural beauty in Gapyeong. With a charming view of the surrounding mountains, this lake is an ideal place for you to relax and enjoy life. You can bring a towel, find a quiet corner and read a book, listen to music in a peaceful space.
Participate in water sports activities on Nami Island
Did you know that Nami Island is a paradise for those who love outdoor activities? What’s more fun than exploring Bukhan River by motorboat, participating in water games such as banana boat, donut boat, flying fish or water gun shooting to feel the ultimate excitement. In addition, fo those who prefer a gentle atmosphere can explore Cheongpyeong Lake by pedal boat or row boat.
Cycling to explore Nami Island – Korea
Cycling around Nami Island is also a way for you to see the poetic beauty of the island with your own eyes. It only takes about an hour to explore all the beautiful small roads on the island. The bicycle rental center is located right in the middle of the island, near the UNICEF Lounge and Unchi Garden, very convenient for you.
Eobi Ice Valley & Nami Island & Strawberry Picking Day Tour
Autumn: September, October, November
When autumn comes, Nami Island puts on a new coat with rows of golden ginkgo trees. And more! Let’s explore the interesting things waiting for you on Nami Island in the fall.
Take the UNICEF Charity Train & Gapyeong Rail Bike
After immersing yourself in the romantic scenery of Nami Island, continue your journey to explore Korea’s autumn with the Gapyeong Rail Bike experience. This is an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the poetic nature and relive the sweet moments of the movie “Love Letter”. For only 3,000 won, you can not only enjoy the beautiful scenery but also do your part in volunteering, as all the money will be donated to UNICEF.
In addition, head to Gapyeong Rail Park to experience a different autumn scene. The rail bike ride will take you through beautiful places such as Gapyeongcheon Iron Bridge, Bukhanggang Iron Bridge and Zelkova Tree Tunnel.
Take the Story Tour Bus and Stroll Through Hongcheon Ginkgo Forest
Nami Island / Alpaca / Railbike / Petite France / Morning Calm Tour
If you don’t have much time or want to get an overview of Nami Island before you start exploring, try joining the story tour bus. The bus will take you to visit the highlights of the island, helping you save time and get an overview of this beautiful island.
Next, you will be lost in a fairy tale world in Hongcheon Ginkgo Forest. Thousands of ginkgo trees with shimmering golden leaves stretch out as far as the eye can see, as beautiful as an oil painting. Hongcheon Ginkgo Forest is only open for one month a year in the fall, so you don’t miss this rare opportunity.
Explore Korean & Japanese culture at Nijimori
In addition to the beautiful natural scenery, Nami Island is also a rich cultural destination. You can enjoy traditional Korean music and dance performances, take part in pottery classes at Nami Island Handicraft Studio, or read books with your kids at Picture Book Lounge or Nami Island International Children’s Book Festival.
On your cultural exploration journey, you can stop at Nijimori – a perfect combination of Korean and Japanese culture. In the fall, when the leaves start to change color, Nijimori becomes even more attractive. You can find traditional Japanese wooden houses, restaurants serving fresh sushi, and unique souvenir shops.
Winter: November, December, February
Nami Island is still very beautiful in winter, with a snow-covered landscape and extremely cold temperatures down to -4°C. However, despite the cold snow, all activities on Nami Island are still very exciting. Check it out activities as follows.
Recreate the dream of white snow at the filming set of “Winter Sonata”
Are you a fan of the famous Korean drama “Winter Sonata”? Come to Nami Island to explore the filming locations and relive the romantic moments of this drama. From the road lined with frozen yew trees to the iconic bridge, every beautiful corner of Nami Island bears the mark of the drama.
Discover Nami,Alpaca,RailBike,Samaksan Cable,Petite&Morning Calm
Enjoy skiing and rail biking on Nami Island
In winter, Nami Island is quite bustling with skiing activities. Although it does not have professional ski slopes, the feeling of gliding lightly in the white sky will definitely bring you unforgettable experiences.
After skiing, sip hot drinks at cozy cafes by the lake and admire the beautiful scenery of Nami Island. Or you can also participate in other activities such as ice skating, making a snowman, or get on a rail bike and slide through the winter scenery of Nami Island. In addition, do not miss the opportunity to visit the towns of Petite France and Italian Village, which have unique architecture and a romantic atmosphere.
Experience sunrise and starry night on Nami Island
To fully enjoy Nami Island, plan to stay overnight at Jeonggwanru Hotel on the island. This is the ideal place to admire the starry night sky without having to go to the Nordic countries. Nami Island is not seriously polluted, so you can easily see countless stars in the night sky.
Nami Island Travel Seasonally, Don’t Forget to Explore Unique Cuisine!
Have fun and eat delicious food – only on Nami Island! Nami owns a system of super cute restaurants and cafes for you to visit and enjoy diverse cuisine. With many options from Europe to Asia, you will find dishes that suit your taste.
Nammoon Restaurant – Traditional Korean Food on Nami Island
- Location: 1, Namiseom-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do (Opposite Baplex)
Nammoon is an ideal destination for those who want to explore authentic Korean cuisine. This restaurant prides itself on serving traditional dishes made from the freshest local ingredients, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.
Try the colorful bibimbap with mixed rice, beef, vegetables and fried egg, or bulgogi – flavorful grilled beef, or kimchi jjigae – spicy kimchi soup, warming your stomach.
Dongmoon Restaurant – Nami Island
- Location: 1st Floor Baplex
Want to enjoy “everything” delicious food from around the world? Dongmoon is the “culinary paradise” for you. This restaurant serves a variety of Korean, international and especially halal dishes, meeting all the needs of diners.
Gomok Restaurant – Affordable Dining Options on Nami Island, South Korea
- Location: 1, Namiseom-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do
Gomok, an affordable restaurant located amidst the beautiful natural scenery of Nami Island, is the ideal place for you to start your day with a light breakfast.
Enjoy a cup of delicious coffee, sip a glass of fresh fruit juice, or “fill” your hungry stomach with simple dishes, you will feel the peace and relaxation in the green space of Nami Island.
Seomhyanggi – Enjoy Delicious Grilled Meat on Nami Island
- Location: 1 Namiseom-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do (opposite Unchi Garden)
Enjoy the grilled meat buffet at Seomhyanggi and experience authentic Korean cuisine. Choose from high-quality beef, chicken and pork, along with side dishes to enjoy a meal with friends and family.
Ddanji Pub – Destination for European Food Lovers
- Location: Baplex 1st Floor
European food lovers can find the unique taste of Neapolitan-style pizza baked in a traditional wood-fired oven at Ddanji Pub. Ddanji Pub offers a variety of pizzas and pastas – definitely an ideal destination for those who love Italian cuisine.
Yeongajjiga – Yummy Authentic Korean Cuisine
- Location: Baplex 1st Floor
Discover the charm of the classic Korean lunch box at Yeongajjiga. Enjoy crispy pork cutlets, delicious noodles and other dishes with traditional flavors. With a cozy and comfortable space, Yeongajjiga will bring you memorable culinary experiences.
Live Virtually At Nami Island Snow Cafe
- Location: 1024 Bukhangangbyeon-ro, Gapyeong-eup, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do
Snow Café is a unique cafe with a winter-themed interior. Enjoy gelato, specialty coffees, and other desserts in this cozy space. Don’t forget to order the shop’s famous snowman cake and shaved ice bingsu!
Swing Café & Bakery
- Location: Magical Hall, Song Museum
Sweethearts, come to Swing Café & Bakery on Nami Island! This cute little cafe will “capture” your heart at first sight with its cozy space, melodious music, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread.
Bite into a piece of hot, crispy bread, sip a cup of fragrant coffee, and admire the romantic scenery of Nami Island… what could be more “chill” than that? You will definitely want to “sit” here all day!
Don’t Miss BookCafé on Nami Island
- Location: 1st Floor Baplex
Tired of walking around Nami Island? Let’s “change the wind” at Book cafe, where you can sip delicious drinks and “chill” with interesting books! The space of the shop is surrounded by green trees, quiet and airy, ideal for you to “escape” from the noisy world and “get lost” in the pages of a book. What could be better than sipping a hot cup of coffee or a cup of fragrant tea, reading a favorite book and enjoying the fresh air of Nami Island?
Tea House Chadam
- Location: MICE Center
If you come to Nami Island and want to find a peaceful corner to “chill”, visit Tea House Chadam right away! This tea shop not only has a lovely space, a “superb” view, but also serves a variety of delicious teas, drinks and unique desserts.
Sipping a cup of hot tea, admiring the romantic scenery of Nami Island, what could be better? Don’t forget to “bring” home a few premium tea packages as gifts for friends and family.
Sonata Café
- Location: 1 Namiseom-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do (In front of Metasequoia Road)
Let’s make a trip to Sonata Cafe on Nami Island right away! This cafe not only has a “fancy” view in the middle of a poetic forest, but is also famous for its seasonal specialties, guaranteed to make you fall in love.
This winter, don’t miss the chance to enjoy Snowman Hotteok – a super cute snowman-shaped pancake, with a crispy outer layer, sweet red bean filling, melting in your mouth. What about summer? The “super product” Snowman Hotteok Bingsu is cool, combining hotteok and bingsu shaved ice, will be a “savior” for hot days.
Meta Lounge
- Location: 2nd Floor Meta Pier
Want to find a place to “live virtual” amidst the beautiful scenery of Nami Island? Visit Meta Lounge right away! This bar not only has a luxurious space, a “top of the top” view, but also serves a delicious drink menu.
Enjoy a cool cocktail, admire the picturesque natural scenery, what could be better? 10 points that are not available but, Meta Lounge deserves to be a “must-try” destination on Nami Island!
Islana Lounge
- Location: 1st Floor Jeonggwanru Jeonggwanjae Hotel (Main Building)
Want to start your day on Nami Island with a “luxurious” breakfast and a “million dollar” view? Come to Islana Lounge on the 1st floor of Jeonggwanru Jeonggwanjae Hotel. Enjoy a hearty breakfast while admiring the beautiful scenery of Nami Island, it will definitely be an unforgettable experience.
How to find a Hotel Room on Nami Island, South Korea
Booking a hotel room at Nami Island is easy with a variety of options at Klook, Agoda or Booking. You can easily search and compare prices and amenities of different hotels to choose the most suitable place to stay for your needs and budget. Let’s take a look at the “hot hit” hotels near Nami Island.
Jeonggwanru – The Only Hotel Choice Right on Nami Island
Jeonggwanru is the only hotel on Nami Island, where you can rest and enjoy the peaceful space. At Jeonggwanru, you can watch the starry night sky, feel the mist in the morning and take a relaxing walk around the island. The hotel consists of the main building and apartment-style villas, providing a variety of room options to suit your needs.
Reference price: from $103.92/night
Hotels near Nami Island – Gapyeong-gun
To have more hotel options near Nami Island, you can consider the Gapyeong-gun area. However, these accommodations are often fully booked, so you need to book 2-3 months before departure to get a satisfactory accommodation. Don’t forget to book on the Klook app to help you apply an exclusive discount code, saving more money.
- Gapyeong Rondavill Pension: Reference price: from $57.26/night
- Gapyeong Reve Pension: Reference price: from $68.53/night
- Nami Island Pig Dream Spa Pension: Reference price: from $103.92/night
- W Jiwoo Resort: Reference price: from $98.83/night
- SS RESORT: Reference price: from $98.83/night
Nami Island is beautiful in every season, fun in every season, right? With the suggestions that Klook has compiled for you, hopefully you have made your own choices for your upcoming trip to Nami Island, Korea.
The post first appeared on Klook Vietnam and was translated and edited by Living Nomads. If you find any images or text that belong to you, please contact us, so we can credit you or give us permission to use them. Thank you very much!
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