Traveling to Korea at half price
Korea Grand Sale: Shop, dine, travel with deep discounts By Chung Ah-young
Misaki Futamata, 21, has frequently visited Korea to attend K-pop shows and meet "hallyu" stars. But this time, she, along with her friend Mana Amano, 20, came here mainly to shop during the Korea Grand Sale, which offers unprecedented discounts for foreign tourists.
The annual sale event, which began on Aug. 14 earlier than scheduled and will be held through Oct. 31, was organized by the Visit Korea Committee to boost the nation's tourism industry, which was recently hit by the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) outbreak. Some 32,000 retail outlets owned by 320 companies, including department stores, duty-free shops, airlines, hotels, performance venues, transportation and theme parks have joined the sale event.
"I saw the Korea Grand Sale online and downloaded many coupons from its webpage. Then I came to Korea to shop with only almost half the money I usually spent in my past trips," Futamata said in an interview with The Korea Times. During their stay in Korea from Aug. 30 to Sept. 2, the two saved a total of 1.14 million won ($955) from their original budget of 2.5 million won. "It's incredible. I bought cosmetics and clothes at almost half the original prices during this visit," Futamata said. She and her friend traveled to Korea with two round-trip Asiana Airlines tickets from Haneda for 55,000 yen (536,800 won). After arriving at Gimpo International Airport, they had lunch at Jinjinbara, a traditional Korean restaurant, at 38,000 won each, including a 15 percent discount.
They checked in at Ibis Ambassador Hotel in Myeong-dong, which provides a free additional night in a junior suite to foreign travelers who book for a night. They paid only 174,900 won for two nights. On the second day, they went shopping at cosmetic stores, such as Olive Young, which offers a 50 percent discount. Some brands at Lotte Duty Free in Myeong-dong offer discounts of up to 80 percent. On the third day, they went to Everland, the nation's largest theme park, which provides a 50 percent discount.
"This is the first time for us to visit Everland. I think Everland is more exciting than Tokyo Disneyland because we could take both a safari tour and other rides here," Futamata said. Although the theme park in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province is quite a distance from Seoul, they said it was worth the visit. "Next time, I want to visit the Caribbean Bay (water park)," Amano said. On the third day, they joined giveaway events at the Korea Grand Sale's event center in front of Doota Plaza in Dongdaemun Market, which also provides tourism information and interpretation services to foreign tourists. The Japanese tourists watched the Original Drawing Show, a famous non-verbal performance, at 30,000 won a ticket, half the original price. They moved to Lotte City Hotel Mapo for their fourth night at 165,000 won, 44 percent lower than the original price.
They said some of their favorite items to shop for are clothes and Korean food. "I enjoyed visiting Gwangjang Market to taste various unique Korean dishes. I love Korean food," Futamata said. Futamata is a fan of K-pop band BTOB, while Amano is a fan of Bangtan Boys. They have actively participated in amateur K-pop dance contests and other events. "Before I came to Korea this time, I was slightly worried about whether Korea is really safe now from the MERS. But once I got here, my worries disappeared," Futamata said. She said now that Korea is free from the MERS, she can encourage friends and families who are still hesitant to visit Korea. "We don't need masks anymore. The Korea Grand Sale is also happening right now during this lovely season. We don't have to worry anymore," she said. Futamata and Amano said many Japanese tourists still think that tours in Korea are expensive owing to the weaker yen, but if they visit during the Korea Grand Sale, they can save money on shopping, dining and cultural activities. "Some 80 percent of our hotel rooms were occupied in August, double the 40 percent occupancy rate in July. Our accommodation packages for the Korea Grand Sale in September are almost sold out, so we are preparing a wide range of other promotional packages," said Ryu Hee-jung, a manager of Ibis Ambassador Hotel in Myeong-dong. Other events during the Korea Grand Sale include "Must-Eat Week" (Sept. 10-16), which will be held again following the success of a previous similar event; "Must-Do Week" (Oct. 15-21); "Must-Buy Week" (Oct. 1-7); and "Must-See Week" (Sept. 24-30). For more information on the Korea Grand Sale, visit www.koreagrandsale.co.kr. |
Showing posts with label Korea Tourism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Korea Tourism. Show all posts
Thursday, 10 September 2015
Tuesday, 8 September 2015
New trolley buses for tourists in Seoul had a trial run on Wednesday. The buses start their operation on Thursday and stop at the city's most popular points of interests.
The buses' classic design resembles a tram with an oak and brass interior. They alternate routes with the double-deckers which are currently in operation for travelers in Seoul.
On-board tour information is available in Korean, Chinese, Japanese and English.
Mt. Halla on Jeju Island boasts a majestic view which gets even better in the winter as the mountain gets covered with snow.
◆ Scenic Road
For those who want to look around Mt. Halla but prefer some comfortable climbing, there is a scenic road that leads to a rest area at 1,100 m above sea level, which is the highest point of the mountain travelers can get to by car.
The road is steep but offers rewarding views, and the observatory there is a great place to appreciate the scenery of Mt. Halla.
For those who want to look around Mt. Halla but prefer some comfortable climbing, there is a scenic road that leads to a rest area at 1,100 m above sea level, which is the highest point of the mountain travelers can get to by car.
The road is steep but offers rewarding views, and the observatory there is a great place to appreciate the scenery of Mt. Halla.
◆ Tangerine Fields
The tangerine fields in Seogwipo are especially beautiful during the winter as the snow-covered mountain contrasts with the color of the tangerine trees.
Many such fields offer a program for visitors to pick up and taste the island's staple fruit. It costs only W5,000 (US$1=W1,109) per person, and visitors can bring home the tangerines they picked.
The tangerine fields in Seogwipo are especially beautiful during the winter as the snow-covered mountain contrasts with the color of the tangerine trees.
Many such fields offer a program for visitors to pick up and taste the island's staple fruit. It costs only W5,000 (US$1=W1,109) per person, and visitors can bring home the tangerines they picked.
◆ Recreational Forest
A recreational forest in Seogwipo might be a great choice for families with children as its trails have gentle slopes and are moderate in length, taking only one and a half hours to take a walk.
The forest is thick with some 50-year-old trees and various plants which grow in various temperatures.
Another attraction is the natural mineral water which is extracted from 760 m above sea level. An observatory there commands a breathtaking view of Mt. Halla, downtown Seogwipo and the nation's southernmost island of Mara.
A recreational forest in Seogwipo might be a great choice for families with children as its trails have gentle slopes and are moderate in length, taking only one and a half hours to take a walk.
The forest is thick with some 50-year-old trees and various plants which grow in various temperatures.
Another attraction is the natural mineral water which is extracted from 760 m above sea level. An observatory there commands a breathtaking view of Mt. Halla, downtown Seogwipo and the nation's southernmost island of Mara.
◆ Bracken
Jeju is also known for bracken, or gosari in Korean, which is rich in protein, fiber and calcium. The vegetable is used in various local dishes and goes particularly well with the island's authentic pork dishes.
Jeju is also known for bracken, or gosari in Korean, which is rich in protein, fiber and calcium. The vegetable is used in various local dishes and goes particularly well with the island's authentic pork dishes.
Not to mention the natural landscape, Jeju offers a wide variety of attractions with arts and cultural heritage that should not be missed.
◆ Museum
Built to promote the island's unique culture and an artists' village nearby, Jeju Museum of Contemporary Art has exhibition halls, a sculpture park and an outdoor concert hall that can accommodate over 1,000 spectators.
◆ Museum
Built to promote the island's unique culture and an artists' village nearby, Jeju Museum of Contemporary Art has exhibition halls, a sculpture park and an outdoor concert hall that can accommodate over 1,000 spectators.
Its unique walls, finished with basalt, were built to resemble the porous rock. An artists' village nearby features more than 20 creative buildings constructed in harmony with nature. For more information, visit the museum's website athttp://www.jejumuseum.go.kr.
◆ Folk Village
Those interested in Jeju's traditional aspects are recommended to visit Seongeup Folk Village where they can get a glimpse of what the island might have looked like in the 15th century. The village has a number of cultural assets, a mountain at the back and an expansive field of pampas grass in front, adding to its natural beauty. Inside the village, ancient buildings from a fortress to a government office and thatched houses can be seen.
In addition, an intangible cultural asset -- four pieces of folk songs -- has been handed down in the village. They have been recognized for their value.
Those interested in Jeju's traditional aspects are recommended to visit Seongeup Folk Village where they can get a glimpse of what the island might have looked like in the 15th century. The village has a number of cultural assets, a mountain at the back and an expansive field of pampas grass in front, adding to its natural beauty. Inside the village, ancient buildings from a fortress to a government office and thatched houses can be seen.
In addition, an intangible cultural asset -- four pieces of folk songs -- has been handed down in the village. They have been recognized for their value.
◆ Theme Park
There is a theme park with the world's longest labyrinth, called Mazeland. It has three labyrinths, with the theme of Jeju's three things in abundance – wind, stones, and women represented by the island's female divers. The labyrinths consist of 36 paths each.
There is a theme park with the world's longest labyrinth, called Mazeland. It has three labyrinths, with the theme of Jeju's three things in abundance – wind, stones, and women represented by the island's female divers. The labyrinths consist of 36 paths each.
The park also has a number of other things to enjoy, including an exhibition hall, 3D gallery and an observatory. Visitors can learn about the labyrinth's origin and maze-related artifacts.
For more information, visit the theme park's website at http://mazeland.co.kr.
For more information, visit the theme park's website at http://mazeland.co.kr.
By day, Jeju is often crowded with tourists exploring beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery. But travelers might miss some of the island's hidden charms if they spend time inside at night. Some places are especially beautiful as night falls.
◆ Hyeopjae Beach
Hyeopjae Beach in the western part of the island offers a range of attractions. Its emerald seawater and white sand along the beach stretching about 200 m attract many visitors, as does a stone tower that creates picturesque scenery. A tiny island called "Biyang Island" is visible in the distance as if it is a mirage.
Hyeopjae Beach in the western part of the island offers a range of attractions. Its emerald seawater and white sand along the beach stretching about 200 m attract many visitors, as does a stone tower that creates picturesque scenery. A tiny island called "Biyang Island" is visible in the distance as if it is a mirage.
Though certainly beautiful during the day, at dusk the purple and scarlet hues from sunset come to life. Visitors experience a stunning combination of sky and sea.
◆ Observatory
Jeju Starlight World Park and Planetarium, an observatory, offers clear, close views of stars in the night sky, making it the best place to enjoy Jeju's nighttime views. It is open to everybody who is interested in astronomy. The three-story building has exhibition halls, a 4-D theater and some ride facilities.
◆ Observatory
Jeju Starlight World Park and Planetarium, an observatory, offers clear, close views of stars in the night sky, making it the best place to enjoy Jeju's nighttime views. It is open to everybody who is interested in astronomy. The three-story building has exhibition halls, a 4-D theater and some ride facilities.
Visitors also can identify constellations, watching them through a large dome screen on the ceiling. It is a perfect place to observe the sun during the day and beautiful stars at night.
◆ Saeyeon Bridge
Saeyeon Bridge, which connects Seogwipo with a tiny islet nearby, is the longest pedestrian bridge in the country.
Illuminated with lights of various colors along the bridge at night, it boasts spectacular nighttime views and recently emerged as a hot spot, especially among young couples who want to have romantic outings.
◆ Saeyeon Bridge
Saeyeon Bridge, which connects Seogwipo with a tiny islet nearby, is the longest pedestrian bridge in the country.
Illuminated with lights of various colors along the bridge at night, it boasts spectacular nighttime views and recently emerged as a hot spot, especially among young couples who want to have romantic outings.
The bridge leads to a park on the islet, which has a small trail perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Songdo in Incheon was underwater about a decade ago until a reclamation project in 2003 created a modern city designed for a free economic zone modeled after Dubai, Shanghai and Singapore. Today, a canal bisects the city, running along ultra-modern skyscrapers. The city becomes even more attractive at night, glowing from lit up buildings and street lamps. These are some of the best places to enjoy the city at night.
◆ G-Tower Observatory
To get to G-Tower, visitors can take the subway to Central Park Station on the Incheon Subway No. 1 Line and then take exit No. 4. They need to show their identification at the gate to reach the observatory on the 29th floor where they can enjoy the panoramic view of Songdo and the West Sea. The observatory closes at 7 p.m.
If time allows, visitors may visit the 33rd floor, where exhibition facilities opened on March 24, for a glimpse of the Incheon Free Economic Zone. Only 500 m away from G-Tower, OceanScope is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the West Sea and the Incheon Bridge.
To get to G-Tower, visitors can take the subway to Central Park Station on the Incheon Subway No. 1 Line and then take exit No. 4. They need to show their identification at the gate to reach the observatory on the 29th floor where they can enjoy the panoramic view of Songdo and the West Sea. The observatory closes at 7 p.m.
If time allows, visitors may visit the 33rd floor, where exhibition facilities opened on March 24, for a glimpse of the Incheon Free Economic Zone. Only 500 m away from G-Tower, OceanScope is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the West Sea and the Incheon Bridge.
◆ Songdo Central Park
Next to G-Tower is Songdo Central Park, a lake park created using seawater. Situated between the business and residential areas, the park is a great place to escape the busy city life. When the sun starts to dip, lamps are lit one by one to create a romantic ambience. The best way to enjoy the night view is by taking a water taxi. The 25-minute trip provides a leisurely cruise down the seawater canal that flows through the park.
Next to G-Tower is Songdo Central Park, a lake park created using seawater. Situated between the business and residential areas, the park is a great place to escape the busy city life. When the sun starts to dip, lamps are lit one by one to create a romantic ambience. The best way to enjoy the night view is by taking a water taxi. The 25-minute trip provides a leisurely cruise down the seawater canal that flows through the park.
◆ Tri-Bowl Complex
Tri-Bowl is another landmark of Songdo that is worth a visit. Without pillars inside, this UFO-shaped structure features three deep bowls representing the sky, sea and earth. The building houses various exhibition and performance halls, and is a great place to enjoy the glamorous view of Songdo at night.
Tri-Bowl is another landmark of Songdo that is worth a visit. Without pillars inside, this UFO-shaped structure features three deep bowls representing the sky, sea and earth. The building houses various exhibition and performance halls, and is a great place to enjoy the glamorous view of Songdo at night.
◆ Canal Walk
At Canal Walk visitors can warm up with hot drinks while taking in the nocturnal scenery. European-style buildings stand according to the themes of spring, summer, fall and winter along the central waterway. A mall there has plenty to offer, including shopping and a range of fountains situated along the waterway.
At Canal Walk visitors can warm up with hot drinks while taking in the nocturnal scenery. European-style buildings stand according to the themes of spring, summer, fall and winter along the central waterway. A mall there has plenty to offer, including shopping and a range of fountains situated along the waterway.
In the port city of Incheon, the past and present coexist in a fascinating way. It has the ultra-modern Songdo and the shopper's paradise Bupyeong, while its eastern and central districts are dotted with reminders of the past. Here are some places where people can discover the city's vibrant history.
◆ Sudoguksan Museum of Housing and Living
People started living in the hillside area of Mt. Sudoguk when refugees settled there after the 1950-53 Korean War. Now, the shantytown has been replaced by apartment complexes and a park. A visit to Sudoguksan Museum of Housing and Living takes visitors back to those times of hardship.
People started living in the hillside area of Mt. Sudoguk when refugees settled there after the 1950-53 Korean War. Now, the shantytown has been replaced by apartment complexes and a park. A visit to Sudoguksan Museum of Housing and Living takes visitors back to those times of hardship.
The museum recreates history with models of old streets lined with a barbershop and a charcoal briquette store. It also gives visitors a taste of the past with programs that involve activities such as carrying buckets of water on a yoke. At a photo studio on the second floor visitors can try on old school uniforms and pose for a photo.
◆ Cold Noodles
Walking downhill from the Sudoguksan museum, visitors reach a street in Hwapyeong-dong, right next to a railway connecting East Incheon Station to Incheon Station. The street is lined with restaurants serving surprisingly generous portions of naengmyeon, or cold noodles at shockingly low prices.
Walking downhill from the Sudoguksan museum, visitors reach a street in Hwapyeong-dong, right next to a railway connecting East Incheon Station to Incheon Station. The street is lined with restaurants serving surprisingly generous portions of naengmyeon, or cold noodles at shockingly low prices.
In fact, their bowls are three times larger than those used in other noodle restaurants. In the past, the area was home to many factories and thus the bowls grew larger to cater to the hungry workers.
Cold noodles sell for W3,000-5,000 and are particularly popular in summer due to their refreshing taste.
◆ Freedom Park
Freedom Park, built in 1888 in the city's central district, has served as an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Cold noodles sell for W3,000-5,000 and are particularly popular in summer due to their refreshing taste.
◆ Freedom Park
Freedom Park, built in 1888 in the city's central district, has served as an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The nation's first Western-style park features various sculptures including a statue honoring General Douglas MacArthur who led the amphibious Incheon Landing during the Korean War. It is also an ideal place for family outings as the park features a variety of wildlife.
At the top of the park, a panoramic view of the Incheon Port, Wolmi Island and the sea provides a romantic ambiance, especially at night.
At the top of the park, a panoramic view of the Incheon Port, Wolmi Island and the sea provides a romantic ambiance, especially at night.
Visitors will be able to tour Busan on amphibious buses starting next year, the city said on Tuesday.
It will be the second after Incheon which introduced such buses for a journey along its scenic waterway in May this year.
It will be the second after Incheon which introduced such buses for a journey along its scenic waterway in May this year.
An amphibious bus test rides along Gwangalli. /Courtesy of Busan City
Busan's amphibious buses will operate on a 15 km-long course, cruising along the river for five kilometers and then visiting tourist attractions on land such as Busan Cinema Center, the official venue of the Busan International Film Festival, and the shopping paradise of Shinsegae Centum City, finally arriving at Gwangalli.
"Gwangalli sits in an area where the river meets the sea and has scenic surroundings, making it the optimal place for amphibious bus tours," a spokesman for the southeastern port city said. "We hope Busan will become one of the world's most recognized tourist attractions."
"Gwangalli sits in an area where the river meets the sea and has scenic surroundings, making it the optimal place for amphibious bus tours," a spokesman for the southeastern port city said. "We hope Busan will become one of the world's most recognized tourist attractions."
A mountain range in Goseong, South Gyeongsang Province hides a flat mountain within its dense jungle. Among its beauty, Mt. Yeonhwa has an old temple preserving a number of historical relics and artifacts.
To get the full experience, a day trip is all it takes to reach the summit.
To get the full experience, a day trip is all it takes to reach the summit.
There are five trails to the top of the 528-m high mountain. The lush forest is so thick that sunlight or rain hardly reaches the ground.
The easiest trail takes about two hours to reach the top, making it an ideal choice for beginner-level climbers.
The easiest trail takes about two hours to reach the top, making it an ideal choice for beginner-level climbers.
The trail begins at Okcheon Temple and goes through a couple of rocky plains and a forest of hinoki cypress.
Once climbers start to leave the paved road onto the trail, the scenery quickly changes. The calming walk through the forest is a great place to relax and enjoy the fresh air.
Once climbers start to leave the paved road onto the trail, the scenery quickly changes. The calming walk through the forest is a great place to relax and enjoy the fresh air.
Half way up the mountain, bamboo trees rise upward toward the sky, creating a great natural ambience.
Before or after the hike, visitors can visit Okcheon Temple, meaning "jade spring" in Korean, named after the tasty mineral spring located nearby. The temple houses over 120 relics.
Before or after the hike, visitors can visit Okcheon Temple, meaning "jade spring" in Korean, named after the tasty mineral spring located nearby. The temple houses over 120 relics.
The two hermitages adjacent to the temple command a beautiful view of Mt. Yeonhwa and are not to be missed.
Saturday, 8 March 2014
Train goes to EVERLAND!
Seoul is known for many things: Gangnam Style, Korean Dramas, and technology just to name a few. This week on my ongoing series about Korea’s implementation of advanced technologies, I’m turning my attention to an old favorite of mine: trains. Seoul has, in my opinion, the best subway system in the world. One can virtually travel to just about every corner of the Seoul metro area via the subway and it’s dirt cheap. At end of April, the metro’s latest line finally opened: The Everline.
Image Credit: Yongin Everline
The newest route isn’t a subway per se, but technically a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system. The term “light rail” was devised in 1972 referring to a new age of street cars in the United States and Europe. Traditionally, light rail systems operate on the same roadways as other vehicles, which sometimes leads to collisions; however, the Everline is different. The Yongin Everline has its own tracks and operates autonomously.
The Yongin Everline begins at Giheung Station. It should be noted that this not the same Giheung Station on the Bundang subway line, but rather one with an identical name. They are located adjacent to one another and allow for T-Money card use, but it will require a short walk between terminals and another ticket purchase.
The Everline is an automated system. This means no one’s driving the train! Well not really. Currently only one car makes the journey at each interval. Because of the space limitations, no driver is on board and the train is controlled remotely. This is similar to Seoul’s other automated line, the Sinbundang, linking Bundang and Gangnam.
The purpose of the Yongin Everline was to link Yongin City with Everland Resort. After a long three-year delay, residents and commuters can now make use of the system. Riding the LRT from its origin to Everland takes between 20 and 30 minutes, far shorter than using other methods of public transportation from surrounding areas. Furthermore, Everline terminal station is located at the car park and shuttle bus depot. This means that passengers can easily transfer from the train to the shuttle bus and zoom away to the land of fun.
Some may think that operating a single car at a time is a waste, but when one looks at the numbers, they tell a different story. Each train accommodates a total of 226 passengers. It may be cramped at that capacity, but it would still be far more comfortable than riding Line 2 during rush hour. The LRT will operate at intervals between two and eight minutes, meaning 25,000 – 30,000 people can be transported per hour. With a speed of just short of 40kph, the Everline is actually faster than most Seoul subway lines.
The Yongin Everline operates between 5:30am and 11:30pm. Trains depart at each terminal at those times. Meaning that if you stay at Everland until closing, you can still get home with ease (and not have to fight traffic in the car park). During the morning rush hour (7-9am), the train operates at a 3 minute interval. This is especially helpful for students commuting from Bundang to Kangnam Universtity. In the evening (5-8pm) trains run at 5 minute intervals, making it one of the more convenient options if heading to or from the park.
Wednesday, 1 January 2014
Winter in Gyeongbokgung Palace. (Cultural Heritage Administration)
Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changgyeonggung Palace in Seoul will open until late at night in February, the Cultural Heritage Administration said Tuesday.
The Changgyeonggung Palace will remain open until 10 p.m. and Gyeongbokgung Palace until 9 p.m. from Feb. 12-17, as part of the CHA’s cultural programs to help citizens and visitors immerse themselves in the rich history of the Joseon period.
The CHA have set the quota for admission to 1,700 visitors a day at Changgyeonggung Palace and 1,500 at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Visitors are recommended to reserve tickets online at http://ticket.auction.co.kr, which opens ticket sales from Feb. 6 for Changgyeongung Palace and Feb. 7 for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Admission is 1,000 won and 3,000 won, respectively.
Ticket sales at each palace end an hour before closing.
Elderly citizens and foreign visitors can purchase tickets by phone (available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and at ticket kiosks.
Children accompanied by their parents can get in for free.
For more information, call (02) 3700-3900 (Gyeongbokgung Palace) and (02) 2172-0104 (Changgyeonggung Palace), or visit www.royalpalace.go.kr (Gyeongbokgung Palace’s official website), and http://cgg.cha.go.kr. (Changgyeonggung Palace‘s official website).
The Korea Grand Sale runs from Jan. 3 until Feb. 16 throughout Korea. The annual sales event offers discounts on shopping and special offers at hotels and department stores.
This year’s event includes the participation of 118 duty free shops, shopping malls, outlets, large supermarkets and theaters, along with 17 traditional markets. A total of 27,291 stores will provide discounts of up to 50 percent. During the sales period, 23 hotels in Korea will offer an extra one-night stay for foreign tourists staying more than two nights.
In advance, department stores are already offering discounts to foreign tourists as a pre-Korea Grand Sale event. Participating department stores include Lotte, Shinsegae, Hyundai, Galleria, Lotte Duty Free, Shilla Duty Free, Lotte Premium Outlet and Shinsegae Simon Premium Outlet.
For more information, visit www.koreagrandsale.co.kr.
For travelers looking to tough it out in the frigid winter temperatures, there are a number of worthwhile winter festivals where visitors can experience a wide range of snow and winter-fun activities whether it be ice-fishing, sledding or even ice soccer.
The Pyeongchang Trout Festival is one of the most popular winter festivals, and is held annually in Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province ― known for having one of the coldest, snowiest winters in Korea.
Because of the region’s frigid climate and clear waters, Pyeongchang has an endless number of trout farms, making trout fishing an ideal outdoor activity, but also the source of one of the region’s signature dishes.
Participants are given the opportunity to go trout fishing on a 25,000-square-meter frozen lake using lines and fish hooks. Anglers can set up a tent on the ice where they can fish to their heart’s content, and take their catch to a nearby restaurant, which will prepare their catch. The trout festival also allows visitors to enjoy other fun, unique winter activities such as four-wheel ATV riding, ice sledding, snow rafting and even ice biking. The festival will be held from Dec. 20 to Feb. 2 by the Oedaecheon Stream.
Also in Gangwon Province is the annual Hwacheon Sancheonoe Festival, where visitors can also partake in ice fishing in the scenic mountain town of Hwacheon. The festival will also offer sledding, ice sculpting and ice soccer. The town’s festivities will be held for three weeks from Jan. 4 to 26 at various venues near the Hwacheon stream.
Other winter festivities in Gangwon Province, which is to host the 2018 Winter Olympic Games, include the Mt. Taebaek Snow Festival and the Inje Icefish Festival. However, travel to these destinations can be quite difficult for international travelers or residents without cars. So there is a daily shuttle bus service from Seoul to the winter festivals with round-trip fares at 10,000 won. For more information on reservations and scheduling, visit www.gogangwon.com.
For those travelers looking for a less active and more scenic destination, the Boseong Green Tea Plantation Light Festival is a good bet. Taking place in South Jeolla Province in the picturesque green tea fields of Boseong ― the nation’s largest green tea field ― the festival has a large decorative Christmas tree as its centerpiece. The “Millennium Tree,” decorated with more than 100,000 lights, was inducted into the Guinness Book of World Records in 2000, and will surely make for a one-of-a-kind, Christmas holiday season travel adventure. The vast plantation will be decked out with thousands of colorful lights as well as featuring a number of cultural and decorative lighting displays.
The Boseong Green Tea Plantation Light Festival is being held through Feb. 2, with the lights turned on every day from 5:30 p.m. to midnight. For more information, call (061) 850-5211.
Sunday, 8 December 2013
 | Museums - Seoul |
Museums abound in Seoul and are generally inexpensive. Some of them are private, while many others are private. The latter feature things beloning to personnal collectors. More and more of them have information in languages other than Korea, including English, Chinese and Japanese. Some of the following museums also offer e-tours from their websites.
Bank of Korean Monetary Museum is all about money. Visitors can use the money checking machine to make sure that not of their cash is counterfeit. Admission is free. Open from 10 to 5, Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Mondays. Getting there: Take Subway line 4 to Heohyeon Station (Stop 425) and go out Exit 7. Tel: 02-759-4881
Baekje Museum focuses on Seoul's period as capital of the Baekje kingdom, between 18BC and 475AD. The museum introduces objects from Baekje, as well as Goguryeo and Silla, other kingdoms that later occupied the hotly contested Hangang River basin. The striking new museum building both echoes the contours of the Baekje-era Mongchontoseong Earthen Fortress and resembles a seaborne ship---a reference to the importance to Baekje of trade with neighboring China and Japan. Free admission except for some special exhibitions. Open from 9AM to 9PM weekdays/9AM to 7PM weekends & holidays. Closed Mondays. Address :71 Wiryeseongdaero(88-20, Bangi-dong), Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea,138-050. Getting there: Mongchontoseong Station, Line 8, Stop 813, Exit 1. Walk 650 m (10-15 min). Or, take Line 5 to Olympic Park station, Stop P550. Go out Exit 3, and walk down about 1000m towards Olympic Park 2nd South Gate (15-20 min walk). Tel: 02-2152-5800 or 5811.
Bukchon Museum Old Fragrance displays items that have been collected from Bukchon, a historical village that was once home to the nation’s nobility. Visitors are allowed to touch items on display to better be able to imagine life in Korea before industrialization. Groups of 10-15 people may be able to make old-fashioned toys or take part in making ssukgaetteok (mugwort rice cake). Admission: Adults W5,000/Teens W3,000/Children Free. Info/Group Reservations: 02-736-3957, 3968 (Korean only – same with website). Directions: Anguk Station, Seoul Subway line 3, Stop 328, Exit #1. Turn left at Pungmun Women\'s High School. Walk towards Jeongdok Library .Walk along the Silkroad Museum . Or from Gyeongbokgung Station, Seoul Subway line 3, Stop 327, Exit #5. Get on local bus #11 and get off at Samcheong-dong Office. You can also take bus #11 at Gwanghwamun Station, Seoul Subway line 5, Stop 533, Exit #2.
Cheong Wa Dae Sarangchae (Presidential Museum) opened to the public in January 2010. On the first floor of the ‘Cheong Wa Dae Sarangchae,’ are the National Public Information Hall and the Seoul Public Information Hall. Among the facilities on the second floor are the Presidential Hall, the National Administration Public Information Hall and G20 Rest Stop. Address: Hyoja-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea. Hours of operation: 9:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. (closed Mondays). Info: 02-723-0300 (may be Korean-only speaker).
Funique House (Museum) offers exhibitions visitors (children and adults) can touch and also guess at the science behind objects. Funique House has two locations: Seoul and Paju (Gyeonggi-do) Hours: Seoul 10:00-18:00 Tues-Sunday and in Paju 10:00-18:00 Weekdays and 9:30-18:00 Weekends. Last admission 17:00 in both locations. Closed Mondays. Info: 02-792-8500 (Seoul) and 031-956-2211 (Paju). Ask for English speaker. Website in Korean only. Admission: (Seoul) over 8 y-o-a W8,000 / 3-7 y-o-a W7,000 / under 36 months free – must be accompanied by an adult. (Paju) over 8 W6,000/ 5-7 W5,000 / under 4 free. Directions: (Seoul) Samgakji Station, Lines 4 & 6, Stops 428 & 628, Exit #12. Funique house is on the grounds of the Korea War Memorial. (Paju) Funique House is located in the Paju Camp, Gyueonggi English Village. To get there, you can catch a bus at either Hapjeong Station (Stop 238 or 622). Bus #200 (comes ~ every 40 minutes) or #2200 (comes every ~60 minutes). Get off at Paju English Village. Another option is bus #900 from Juyeop Station, Stop 311 (comes ~ every 15 minutes).
Kimchi Field Museum is all about kimchi and is located not far from the COEX Mall. The Kimchi Museum has reference rooms, kimchi-tasting rooms (two different kinds of kimchi each month), and a store where visitors can purchase quality kimchi. Hours: 10:00-18:00. Closed every Monday, Seollal, Chuseok, Christmas, New Year's Day. Admission: W3,000 Adults / W1,000 Children. Directions: Seoul Subway Line 2, Samseong Station, Stop 219, Exit #6, connected to COEX Mall. Walk through the mall towards COEX Aquarium and MegaBox Movie Theater, then take the escalator next to the ASEM Pharmacy down to the second basement level.
Museum of Natural History is located in Soedaemun-gu. The museum offers English Tours Saturday evenings - meet at 6:30 for one-hour tour beginning at 7PM - as well as other special programs for visitors and foreign residents. Hours: Mar - Oct 09:00 - 18:00/Nov - Feb 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Mondays - if Monday is a holiday, closed the next day. Also closed 1 January , Chuseok and Seollal. Admission: W3,000 Adults /W1,000 Children. Directions: From Sinchon Station, Line 2, Stop 240, Exit 1 (Donggyo-dong Direction); take Bus #110 or #7720 or Exit #3 (In front of Sincheon Rotary): take Seodaemun Bus #03. From Hongje Station, Line 3, Stop 324, Exit 3; take Bus # 7738 or #7739 and get off at Daelim APT.
National Folk Museum located inside Gyeongbbok Palace, the museum offers examples of the different periods of Korean history, from pre-history through the Japanese occupation. In addition to actual relics, replicas and paintings show various aspects of traditional life, including many ceremonies and festivals. Tours: A Volunteer's Your Guide for Visitors program has an English speaking guide available for tours every Thursday and Saturday at 10:00-11:10, 11:30-12:30, 14:00-15:10, and 15:40-16:50. Tape recorded guided tour can be rented for W2,000.
Hours: March - April and September-October : 09:00-18:00 / November - February: 09:00-17:00. Last admission one hour before closing. Closed Tuesdays and 1 January. Free admission (for admission to Gyeongok Palace tickets at the Palace ticket booth). Parking available only at Gyeongokgung (Palace) parking lot. Directions: Subway line 3, Anguk Station, Stop 328, Exit 1.
National Museum of Korea is located at 137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Korea 140-026 and provides information on Korea's 5000 years of history. The museum offers some guided tours in English. Hours: 9:00-18:00 (Tue-Thur-Fri) 9:00-21:00 (Wed-Sat) 9:00-17:00 (Sun). Closed Mondays except holidays. Admission free to main exhibition hall. Admission fee may be charged for some special exhibitions. Children's Museum, free admission, but ticket required. Directions: Take Line 4 or the Jungang line (Deokso-Yongsan) to Ichon Station. Go out Exit 2, and walk 150m towards Yongsan Family Park.
National Museum of Korean Contemporary History is located in downtown Seoul, next to the US Embassy - Sejong-ro 82-1 Jongno-gu, Seoul. Opened on 26 December 2012, this museum is the first national museum dedicated exclusively to Korea's contemporary history. It covers the period from the year 1876, when the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) opened its doors to the outer world, to present day. Visitors can view about 1,500 items that can give a glimpse of Korea's history of development in the political, social, economic and cultural fields. There are six exhibition rooms, storage facilities, a seminar room, a lecture room, a cafe and a shop in the eight-story museum building constructed through the remodeling of the former Culture Ministry building. Hours: 09:00 – 18:00 (No admission after 17:00.). Closed Mondays. Admission is free. Directions: Gwanghwamun Subway Station (Line 5, Stop 533), 250m from exit 2 - walk about 5 min. Website has information in English.
National Palace Museum of Korea is a royal museum exhibiting royal artifacts and related materials of the Joseon Dynasty (1392~1910). Hours: Weekdays 9:00-18:00 (Final admission at 17:00). Weekends & Holidays 9:00-19:00 (Final admission at 18:00). Closed on Mondays. English guided tours at 15:00 start at the Information Desk on the 2nd Floor. Free admission. Directions: Exit No. 5 of Gyeongbokgung Station, Line3, Stop 327 or Exit No. 1 of Gwanghwamun Station, Line 5, Stop 533.
Paper Museum - Jong Ie Nara offers visitors a glimpse into the history of paper art in Korea through its collection of works ranging from traditional artifacts made with rice paper to modern paper art. The Small Exhibition Hall features paper sculptures for children and students.The museum also runs various art programs for all age groups, such as the “origami class for children” and “rice paper craft,” and teacher training programs in various genres related to paper art.Getting there: Dongguk University, line 3, stop 332, exit 3. Info: 02-2264-4560. Hours: Mon. ~ Sat.: 9:30-18:00 (No admittance after 17:30). Closed Sundays and national holidays. Free admission except for some special exhibitions.
Seodaemun Prison History Hall is located near Dongnimmun (Independence Gate) and was created in the mid 1990's to pay tribute to those who gave their lives fighting for Independence during the Japanese Colonial period (1910-1945). Seodaemun Prison is one of the places where independence fighters were held, tortured and executed. Hours: 9:30 to 18:00 March to Oct / 9:30 to 17:00 Nov. to Feb. Admission: W1500 Adults/ W1000 Youth / W500 chldren 7-12 / Free for seniors and children under 7. Events to mark the anniversaries of the March 1, 1919 Independece Movement are held here.
Seodaemun Prison History Hall is located near Dongnimmun (Independence Gate) and was created in the mid 1990's to pay tribute to those who gave their lives fighting for Independence during the Japanese Colonial period (1910-1945). Seodaemun Prison is one of the places where independence fighters were held, tortured and executed. Hours: 9:30 to 18:00 March to Oct / 9:30 to 17:00 Nov. to Feb. Admission: W1500 Adults/ W1000 Youth / W500 chldren 7-12 / Free for seniors and children under 7. Events to mark the anniversaries of the March 1, 1919 Independece Movement are held here.
Seoul Museum of History displays exhibits from the prehistoric era to modern Seoul. The landscape of Seoul is recreated when it was the capital of the Joseon Dynasty while another exhibit showcases the daily life of Seoulites.The 1st floor offers a Kids Corner playroom. Hours: (Mar - Oct) Tue - Fri: 09:00 - 21:00 and Weekend & Holidays: 09:00 - 19:00 / ( Nov - Feb) Tue - Fri: 09:00 - 21:00, Weekend & Holidays: 09:00 - 18:00. Last admission is 1 hour before closing. Closed Jan 1st and Mondays. U-Exhibit rental in English available. Free admission. Directions: Take subway Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station, Stop 533. Go out Exit 7 and walk 7 min. The museum is on the opposite corner from the Man with Hammer sculpture. It is the building with the Streetcar with Mother and Children. Map.
Seoul National Science Museum is a an interesting place to visit for both adults and children. It offers regular programs for students and special exhibitions tailored for a wide range of age groups. It is located near exit 4 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4. Tel: 02-3668-2200. Map on website. The website offers information in English.
Green Science Experience Zone - Open from 10:00-16:00/Closed 12:00-13:00. Free of charge - participation by order of arrival. Activity: Making Rubber balls, Pinwheels, Toy ducks, Toy monkeys and Walking toys with easily found materials like papercups, wood chopsticks and straws.
Tea Museum (Beautiful Tea Museum) exhibits porcelain artwork by young ceramists. It also offers a large variety of world tea from Korea, China, Japan, Sri Lanka, India, Europe and more, totaling 130 types of tea. The museum not only exhibits tea, but it also provides a café for visitors to relax and enjoy the taste of their selected tea. Free admission. Hours 10:00 to 22:00. Info: 02-735-6678 (ask for English speaker). Directions: Jonggak Station, Line 1, Stop 131,Exit #3. Walk along Insadong. Right before the Insa crossroads, turn left at Yechon and walk towards Lee Cho Pil Bang (About a 10-minute walk). Website Korean only.
Totoman offers adults and children a view of life in Korea from the 1960’s and 1970’s. The museum focuses on objects of every day life that have gone out of fashion and/or been forgotten. Hours: 10:00-21:00. Admission W1,000. Info: 02-725-1756 (Korean). Directions: From Jonggak Station, subway line 1, Stop 131, Exit #3, walk down straight in the direction of Geumgang Shoes towards Insadong. Walk straight along Insadong . Totoman is across from Ssamzzigil on the 2nd Floor, a little before reaching the Foreign Tourists Information Center.
War & Women's Human Rights Museum is located in Mapo-gu. Opened in 2012, the museum exhibits the history of Korean Comfort Women who suffered during WWII. A display on sexual slavery in Africa and Asia is organized on the first floor as well. Directions: Exit 7 from Sinchon Station (green line 2, stop 240) and cross the street. Walk for 10 minutes and the museum is on your right on the second floor. Address: 20, World cup buk-ro 11 gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 121-843. Tel: 02-365-4016/ 02-392-5252. Hours: Tues-Thu-Fri-Sat 1pm-6pm and Wed 3pm-6pm (opens after protest in front of Japanese Embassy). Closed Sun/Mon. Admission: Adulsts W3,000 / Teens W2,000 / Children and Over 65 W1,000. There are audio tours available in English.
War Memorial of Korea located near Itaewon offers something of interest for everyone. This is the world’s largest war memorial displaying more than 8,000 war relic and weapons. Hours: 9:00 to 18:00. Closed Mondays (if Monday is a holiday, the museum will close the following day). Admission: free. Directions: 10 minutes walk from Namyong Station, Lline 1, Stop 134 or 5 minute walk from Samgakji Station, Line 4-6, Stop 428-628, Exit 12. Address: 29 Itaewon-ro Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Tel: 02-709-3139.
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