Exploring Culture in South Korea's Chuncheon City: Discovering Nami Island and Other Tourist Destinations
Stone Bodhisattva Statue at Hansongsa Temple
Hansongsa Stone Bodhisattva Statue was originally located at Hansongsa Temple Site in Gangneung, Gangwon Province. It was moved to Japan in 1912, but returned in 1965 under the ‘Korea-Japan Agreement.’ Although there are traces of the head being cut off and the white jade on the forehead falling off, the statue is almost in perfect form. Unlike most Korean stone statues made of granite, this Bodhisattva statue is made of white marble, giving it a unique appearance. The carving technique and texture from the material give it a more elegant and gentle grace. The slightly turned face and body exude richness, while the carving technique is sophisticated and refined. The cylindrical shape, plump face, and gentle smile seen in this statue are common traits also found in other treasured stone Bodhisattva statues in Gangneung and Pyeongchang, but this one showcases even more exquisite craftsmanship, estimated to have been created in the early 10th century during the Goryeo Dynasty. You can now admire this masterpiece at the permanent exhibition hall of the National Chuncheon Museum.
• Address (location): 70 Useok-ro, Seoksa-dong, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon Province
• Hours of use: 09:00~18:00 (Last admission at 17:30)
Lakefront Serenity
Discovered by chance during the construction of the new site for Hallym University (formerly Seongshim Women’s University) in Chuncheon City, Gangwon Province in 1962, this archaeological site was once a dwelling place of people in the late Neolithic era. Located on the eastern slope of Bonguisan Mountain, 150m above sea level, the site was artificially dug into the hillside, measuring 4m in diameter and reaching a height of 2.1m. Upon excavation, three sets of human bones were found laid out in the cave, covered by a layer of fine soil, with traces of smoke on the cave ceiling suggesting that it was inhabited before being repurposed as a tomb. This discovery provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of ancient inhabitants of the region.
• Address (location): 1 Hanrimdaehak-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon Province, South Korea
• Hours of use: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Chuncheon, Gangwon Province: Samunsa Temple
Samunsa is a temple located in Hupyeong-dong, Chuncheon City, Gangwon Province, and it is the main temple of Cheontaejong, a branch of Korean Buddhism in the Chuncheon area. Situated beneath the beautiful Bonguisan mountain in Chuncheon, Samunsa is conveniently located in the city center, making it easily accessible to everyone. Over the past 30 years, Samunsa has grown to become a central hub of Gangwon Buddhism, initiating new horizons. With a comprehensive Buddhist complex design, Samunsa consists of a 4-story building. The first floor houses a kindergarten, the second floor features the main hall, meditation room, and lecture hall, the third floor includes a tea room, main hall, choir room, and monks’ living quarters, and the fourth floor is a spacious main hall that can accommodate over 2,000 people. Samunsa offers a temple stay program for 1 night and 2 days, which can be applied for through the temple’s website. Additionally, in 1982, Chuncheon Geumgang Buddhist University was established to cultivate Buddhist talents, continuously recruiting new students from Buddhist practitioners and the general public. Samunsa also serves as a space for communication among local residents by hosting regular Buddhist ceremonies and cultural events. Its exotic architectural style blending tradition with modern sensibilities and a beautiful garden centered around a pond provide visitors with a unique and captivating experience.
• Address (location): 12 Huseok-ro 441beon-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do (Hupyeong-dong)
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Sangwonsa Temple
Located on Mt. Samak in Seo-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, Samhungsaji is the headquarters of the 3rd district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, believed to have been founded during the Silla Dynasty in the Three Kingdoms period. The exact founding date and founder are unknown, but it is said to have been established in the Silla era. To reach Sangwonsa, visitors must park at the entrance of the Samak Mountain hiking trail and walk up the steep path for about 30 minutes. The temple is not large in size, with only one stone pagoda remaining, along with buildings like the Daeungjeon Hall and Samseong-gak Hall that are difficult to recognize due to their original shapes. In front of the temple, there is a beautiful view of Ui-am Valley, while behind it lies a forest of cliffs and pine trees, creating a stunning natural landscape. Nearby attractions include the Deungseon Waterfall, the mystical Ongnyeotang hot spring surrounded by legends of woodcutters and fairies, and the Samak Mountain Fortress. Although there are no significant cultural relics, the scenic beauty surrounding the temple is exceptional. Additionally, within this mountain area, there is Heungguksa Temple, believed to have been built in the Silla era, where Gungye hid his body.
• Address (location): 169-47, Boksa-ro, Seo-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Discovering Gangwon Chuncheon: Cheongpyeongsa Temple
Cheongpyeongsa, designated as a national treasure, was home to the Geuknakjeon building and the famous calligrapher Tan Yeon’s masterpiece, the ‘Munsuweongi,’ which were lost during the Korean War but restored in 1975 and 2008 respectively. Other cultural heritages such as the revolving door (Treasure No. 164), the three-story stone pagoda (Gangwon Province Cultural Property No. 8), Jinrakgong and Jahaenggung sites, and Hwanjeokdang site have been well preserved. The temple also showcases the garden design of the Goryeo era, utilizing the natural terrain surrounding the temple. Many scholars and artists like Yi Je-hyeon and Kim Si-seup were drawn to the stunning scenery of the rectangular pond called Yeongji, the rocky cliffs, and waterfalls, where they stayed and left their mark.
• Address (location): 810, Obongsan-gil, Bongsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon Special Autonomous Province
• Hours of use: Open all year round
Gangwon Chuncheon City ‘Jetavana temple’
Jetavana temple is a temple in Chuncheon that was established in 2018 to perform the ritual of ancestral worship in Gangwon Province. The entire Jetavana temple compound in Chuncheon was built with brick buildings resembling the ancient Indian archaeological site to revive the original teachings of Buddha.
• Address (location): 53, Wipbakam-gil, Nam-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Wonju, Gangwon Province: ‘Jukrim Cathedral’
Jukrim Cathedral is the first cathedral in Chuncheon and the seat of the Chuncheon Catholic Diocese. At the entrance hill of Jukrim Cathedral, there is a bronze statue of Jesus Christ, standing 3.5m tall and 3m wide, making it the largest of its kind in Korea. Jesus is portrayed with outstretched arms, embracing the world. The central cross on the bell tower of the cathedral is identical to that of Myeongdong Cathedral, the seat of the Seoul Archdiocese, symbolizing the shared roots between Jukrim Cathedral and the Seoul Archdiocese. Jukrim Cathedral has had a significant influence on Korean cathedral architecture. During a major renovation in 1998, works by members of the Catholic Artists Association were displayed in the cathedral. This is why Jukrim Cathedral is often referred to as a showcase of Korean Catholic art.
• Address (location): 23 Yaksaogae-gil, Yaksa-dong, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon Province
• Hours of use: Open all year round
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Chuncheon City in Gangwon Province: ‘Nami Island’
Nami Island, known as the ‘Island of Fairy Tales and Songs,’ hosts a variety of cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions based on the concept of dreams and hope for children, love and memories for couples, and a creative hub for those in the cultural industry. It is a natural eco-cultural space that provides a platform for creation. Key facilities include a music museum, a picture book playground, a MICE center, Togethers Park, UNICEF lounge, as well as organic facilities such as bicycles, sharing trains, and story tour buses. Hotel Jeonggwanru, a lodging facility consisting of rooms with various themes and independent spaces by the river, offers diverse dining options. Although located in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, to access Nami Island, visitors must first go to the Nami Island Dock in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province. ◎ Discover the allure of Hallyu with travel information from the drama ‘Winter Sonata’ If you are familiar with the drama ‘Winter Sonata,’ you may have heard of Nami Island. Once renowned as a filming location for ‘Winter Sonata,’ it has now become a beloved destination for Koreans due to its natural beauty, various attractions, and activities. From concerts to cultural events and exhibitions, Nami Island always offers exciting memories. We recommend creating unforgettable memories at the delightful Nami Island!
• Address (location): 1 Namisum-gil, Nami Island, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon Province
• Hours of use: 08:00~09:00 / Every 30 minutes (Departure from Gapyeong Naru – operates every 30 minutes after the first boat) – 09:00~18:00 / Every 10~20 minutes (Operates every 10~20 minutes) – 18:00~21:00 / Every 30 minutes (Departure from Gapyeong Naru – operates every 30 minutes until the last boat)
※ Operating hours subject to change depending on the situation (extended operation during Spring Blossom Season / Vacation Season / Autumn Foliage Season)
Elysian Gangchon in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province
Elysian Gangchon Resort is a year-round destination combining skiing, golfing, and condos. Nestled in the pristine nature surrounded by Gulbongsan, Geombongsan, and Bukhangang, it offers a variety of facilities for relaxation and leisure. The ski resort at Elysian Gangchon is known for its accessibility from the metropolitan area and beginner-friendly slopes. With 10 slopes in total, 8 are suitable for beginners and intermediates, with ski schools available. There is also a snow sledding area perfect for families to enjoy. The golf course features a 27-hole layout, divided into Valley, Lake, and Hill courses. The Valley course boasts beautiful landscaping, while the Lake course follows along the lakes. The Hill course, located at the highest point, offers breathtaking views overlooking the Bukhangang River. The condos offer 222 rooms with sauna, game zone, restaurant, and more. Guests can enjoy refreshing views from the rooms, and themed cinema rooms are also available. Additionally, there are various facilities such as outdoor swimming pool, camping site, wedding venue, and a free shuttle bus between Baegyang-ri Station on the Gyeongchun Line and the resort for convenience.
• Address (location): 688 Bukhangangbyeon-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon Province, South Korea
Chuncheon City, Gangwon Province: ‘World Hot Springs 24’
World Oncheon 24 is a hot spring located in Shinbuk-eup, Chuncheon City. This 3-story building offers spacious and diverse facilities, with a highlight being the hot spring water with a PH level of 9.02. In addition to separate men’s and women’s baths, there are outdoor baths, jjimjilbang (Korean dry sauna), and a kiln sauna. With various amenities such as restaurants, convenience stores, beauty salons, and barber shops, it’s a great place for families to relax and enjoy a day of leisure. The beautiful pine tree-lined path at the entrance of the hot spring is famous as the filming location for the drama ‘Winter Sonata.’
• Address (location): 35, Jangbon-gil, Sinbuk-eup, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
• Hours of use: 00:00~24:00
Chuncheon City’s Dog Forest in Gangwon Province
Korea’s largest dog theme park, located in the Nam-san area of Chuncheon covering approximately 99,173㎡ (around 30,000 pyeong). The Dog Forest, where pets are in harmony with nature, provides a variety of facilities such as a museum, playground, and swimming pool (summer only) to create happy memories for both dogs and people. The museum hosts exhibitions on the theme of coexisting human-dog culture. In addition to the permanent exhibition, a special exhibition showcasing contemporary artists’ works related to dogs is also available for visitors to enjoy. To allow visitors to focus on the exhibitions, a waiting room for dog care is operated separately. The walking paths along the pond and oak tree forest offer various routes like Easy Course, Cheerful Course, and Exciting Course ranging from 5 to 30 minutes, suitable for dogs of different ages and health conditions. Spacious areas where dogs can play freely are provided as well. Among them, the meadow and playgrounds (large, small, nature pool) are designated as off-leash areas, managed based on the weight of the dogs for entrance. During the summer season, reservation-only Nature Pool, a dog-friendly swimming pool, is available for use. Other convenient facilities include Nature Food Terrace where you can dine with your dogs, cafes offering dog drinks (spring/summer/fall/winter), and a market selling dog-related products. Note that entry restrictions apply to certain dog breeds under the Animal Protection Act, including aggressive or intimidating dogs, so make sure to check before your visit.
• Address (location): 437 Chung Hyo-ro, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon Province, South Korea
• Hours of use: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Last admission at 5:00 PM)