Enjoy fresh air and beautiful mountain scenery in Dongducheon. The district is framed by forested peaks and feels world’s away from the buzz of Seoul. Hike to Buddhist temples and challenge yourself on summit trails. Attractions like a botanical-inspired theme park and children’s museum will keep the kids entertained.
Things to do in Dongducheon
Follow the walking trail through the forest to Jajaeam Temple. The Buddhist temple at the foot of Soyosan Mountain is surrounded by enormous maple trees. Along the way, you’ll pass tumbling waterfalls and crystalline streams and climb moss-covered stone steps. For a challenge, continue on the trail up Soyosan Mountain. From the summit, you’ll get sweeping views of the surrounding forests.
Visit Pocheon Herb Island and explore one of the quirkiest theme parks in South Korea. The park is set in an enormous botanical garden and packed with family-friendly attractions. Walk through a recreated South Korean village, try on traditional ceremonial clothing and enjoy a leisurely ride on the Venetian-inspired canal. A backdrop of forests and mountains adds to the picturesque setting.
Treat the kids to a day at the North Gyeonggi Children's Museum. Exhibits are designed to educate, inspire and capture the imagination. There’s a special focus on nature and kids love learning about native forests and ecosystems. Get up close with a brachiosaurus in the Dinosaur Zone and check out the marine-themed activities in the Sea Playground.
Dongducheon is dotted with street food stalls where you can try South Korean classics, like “tteokbokki” spicy rice cakes and “soondae” pork blood sausages. You’ll also see “mandu” dumplings stuffed with mincemeat, “dakgangjeong” stir-fried chicken and salty Korean fish cakes.
Getting around Dongducheon
Dongducheon is in Gyeonggi Province, a 40-minute drive from Seoul. Trains run between Dongducheon Jungang and Seoul in one hour. Incheon International Airport is a 1.5-hour drive away.