Go Venture Beyond.blog

If you’re looking a quick day trip from the bustling metropolis of Seoul, look no further than a brief 40 min train ride from one of several train station in the city, out east, to the town of Gapyeong. From there, jump in a taxi for a brief 5 minute drive to one of the most scenic spots you’ll most likely ever see, Nami Island. There are other options to get here, such as tour groups, and bus routes, though these may take a bit longer on road.

We took the ITX train from Cheongnyangni Station, on the north east side of town, to Gapyeong station. Tickets can be bought from the self service machines, but probably quicker to just use the booths! We managed to get reserved seats on the way out, but had to take the standing option on the return. So do book early if you would like a seat on the rush hour back into the city! The journey out into the countryside is a pleasant one, with dotted suburbs in between the vast rolling hills and rivers.

Gapyeong station is very straightforward, unlike the big stations of Seoul! You can quickly leave the station, and make your way down to the main road. Pop into the nearby tourist centre for some maps, and pose by the giant letters if you like! Nami Island is by far the most popular spot in town, jump into taxi, and they’ll know where exactly to drop you off! It’s about 5-10 minutes down to the river side, the cost, not so much!

The crescent shaped island is situated in the middle of the river, so you’ll need to hop onto one of the regulars ferries, you can buy a visa (ticket!) for a return journey. 16,000 won works out to around £13. Enjoy your trip to Naminara Republic as it has been dubbed (it’s just branding, not legally a republic…..)

The island itself offers several sights, the location rose to prominence after being featured in the 2002 K-drama Winter Sonata. Fans of the show can find signs and landmarks dedicated to scenes featured in the show. It’s clear to see why fans and tourists alike flock to the island, it’s specular.

How you make your way around the island is up to you, though the central ‘lane’ of the island is probably the place to start, with 2 flanking paths along either coastline. The Central Korean Pine Tree Lane is a magical sight, offering a range of colours depending on the time of year you are going! The relaxing ambient music playing in the background with the lanterns all strung up makes for a serene atmosphere! The lane in full autumnal conditions must be amazing.

Working your way down the pathway, you’ll find several other charming attractions, be it a pond filled with lily pads, or a cute water feature. The entire island has a mystical aura about it. If you’re looking for a spot to eat, there are several restaurants dotted around, and of course, loads of opportunities for some desserts! Make sure to pop by the gift store, for some unique, handmade, Nami themed treats.

Off the main corridor, is another wonderful sight, Metasequoia Lane. unlike the pine trees of earlier, this path is lined up with magnificent, giant redwood trees. the foliage here is truly stunning, and makes for some remarkable photos. Line up the green tea ice cream with this beautifully green backdrop for a perfect insta snap!

Heading past the redwoods will take you to the coast, the island nestled between ravines makes for a superb backdrop. Though be wary of the bugs! Take a walk around to the northern tip of the island for a lovely panoramic view of the river.

The eastern water front has some wooden walk walks over the water, these are somewhat uncomfortable if you are not wearing the best of trainers. but it does give another majestic opportunity for a great photo. One of the best things about the island is the sheer amount of wildlife you can observe living on the island, from groups of rabbits feeding away on chestnuts, to the elegant peacocks strolling along the pathways, the animals don’t mind getting close to people, just don’t touch them!

As we had a return train already booked, there wasn’t much time to explore the other side of the island (which is where the zipline, for the people who want to make a more thrilling entrance to the island, is found!) but even with a couple of hours, you can enjoy a fair portion of the island, and all the major attractions it has to offer. The ferry crossings are very 15 minutes, so if your early, enjoy a cool drink at the café nearby! Gapyeong station itself isn’t the most busy of stations, so I wouldn’t suggest getting back too early, as there isn’t too much to really do around there, apart from, well wait!