[K-TRAVEL], week 1 of Sep - A Fairytale Autumn Escape to Nami Island!
📌 Table of Contents
👋 Introduction: Your Autumn Wonderland Awaits!
Hey K-Travelers! BonoHyung here, your go-to guide for exploring the hidden gems of Korea. This week, we're escaping the hustle and bustle and heading to a place straight out of a fairytale – Nami Island (남이섬). Famous for its stunning tree-lined paths that explode with color in the autumn, this half-moon-shaped island is the perfect romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat for any traveler. Get ready to be mesmerized by the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the season!
Located in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, Nami Island declared its cultural independence and calls itself the Naminara Republic. It has its own passport, currency, and flag! But don't worry, your Korean Won is still good here. The island's serene atmosphere and picturesque landscapes make it a beloved destination, especially during the fall.
🗺️ Suggested Itinerary for a Perfect Day
To make the most of your trip, here's a flexible itinerary. Remember, the beauty of Nami Island is in its leisurely pace, so feel free to wander!
Morning: Thrills and Scenic Views
Course 1: Arrive at Gapyeong Wharf & Choose Your Entrance. The most common way to get to the island is by a 5-10 minute ferry ride. For the more adventurous, I highly recommend the zip wire! It offers a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the island as you soar across the river.
Course 2: Stroll Down the Central Korean Pine Tree Lane. As you step onto the island, you'll be greeted by a majestic path lined with pine trees. It's the perfect introduction to the island's natural beauty.
Midday: Iconic Photo Spots and a Delicious Lunch
Course 3: Capture Memories at Metasequoia Lane and Ginkgo Tree Lane. These are the most iconic spots on the island, especially in autumn. The towering Metasequoia trees create a stunning canopy, while the Ginkgo trees turn a brilliant golden yellow. You'll feel like you're in a K-drama!
Course 4: Lunch with a View. There are several restaurants on the island. Find a spot with a nice view and enjoy a delicious meal. I'll give you some recommendations in the food section below!
Afternoon: Explore and Relax
Course 5: Rent a Bike. The best way to see the entire island is by renting a bicycle. They have single bikes, tandem bikes, and even electric bikes. It's a fun and efficient way to explore the various paths and art installations scattered around the island.
Course 6: Visit the Winter Sonata Statue. For K-drama fans, this is a must-see. The statue commemorates the famous drama that was filmed here and helped put Nami Island on the map.
Course 7: Relax by the Bukhangang River. Find a quiet bench along the riverside and just soak in the peaceful atmosphere. You might even spot some of the island's resident animals, like squirrels and rabbits.
🍜 Must-Try Foods & Restaurants
Chuncheon, the city where Nami Island is located, is famous for two dishes: Dakgalbi (닭갈비) and Makguksu (막국수). You can't leave without trying them!
Todam Sutbul Dakgalbi (토담숯불닭갈비)
This place is famous for its charcoal-grilled dakgalbi, which gives the chicken a delicious smoky flavor. They offer different marinades, so you can choose your spice level.
Seomhyanggi (섬향기)
Located on Nami Island itself, this restaurant offers a variety of Korean dishes, including a delicious dakgalbi set. It's a convenient option if you don't want to leave the island for lunch.
Samhalmeoni Makguksu (샘밭막국수)
A short taxi ride from Gapyeong Wharf, this restaurant is a local favorite for makguksu (buckwheat noodles). It's a refreshing and flavorful dish that perfectly complements the spicy dakgalbi.
💡 BonoHyung's Pro-Tips for Your Trip
- Visit on a weekday if possible. Nami Island is a popular destination and can get very crowded on weekends and holidays.
- Arrive early. To get the best photos without the crowds, try to catch one of the first ferries of the day.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking (or biking)!
- Consider a Gapyeong City Tour Bus. If you want to visit other nearby attractions like Petite France or the Garden of Morning Calm, this bus is a convenient and affordable option.
- Book in advance. For a hassle-free experience, you can book shuttle buses or tours to Nami Island online.
⭐ Key Points of Nami Island
🍂
Stunning Autumn Foliage
The main reason to visit in the fall. The colors are simply breathtaking.
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Variety of Activities
From zip-lining and biking to leisurely walks, there's something for everyone.
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K-Drama Filming Location
Relive your favorite scenes from "Winter Sonata" and other dramas.
That's it for this week's K-Travel adventure! I hope you get the chance to experience the magic of Nami Island this autumn. Until next time, happy travels!
- BonoHyung
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