Downtown Chuncheon
Chuncheon City sits northeast of Seoul along the North Han River (Bukhangang). Known as the “Romantic City,” it blends urban life with historical and cultural highlights, from architectural landmarks like the Soyang River Skywalk to culinary experiences on Chuncheon Dakgalbi Street.
Soyang River Skywalk
The Soyang River Skywalk (소양강스카이워크; map) opened in 2016. This glass-bottom viewing platform offers a panorama over the Soyang River, a section of the North Han River. Located near the Soyang 2 Bridge (map) and the Soyanggang Maiden Statue (소양강처녀상; map), the 156-meter walkway gives the illusion of walking on air.
Stretching over the river, the skywalk leads to the “Sogari Statue” (쏘가리상), a detailed sculpture of a local fish species. Glass floor sections also offer views of the water below and a circular platform at the end is a prime photography spot with panoramic views of the river and surrounding mountains.
At night, LED lights illuminate the structure, making it a popular evening attraction. Seasonal events, including light shows and drone photography sessions, enhance its appeal.
Practical Information
- Hours: March–Oct: 10 AM–9 PM | Nov–Feb: 10 AM–6 PM | Closed in severe weather
- Fees: Adults: 2,000 KRW | Teenagers: 1,500 KRW | Children: 1,000 KRW | Free for seniors (65+) and children under six
- Notes: Protective shoe covers are required. Early mornings offer fewer crowds and softer light for photography. Parking and public transportation options are available nearby.
Chuncheon Dakgalbi Street
Chuncheon Dakgalbi Street (춘천 명동 닭갈비 골목; map), in the city’s Myeongdong area (명동; map), is a hub for the region’s signature dish: dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken; 닭갈비). Created in the 1960s as an affordable pork alternative, dakgalbi combines chicken, cabbage, sweet potatoes, rice cakes, and a gochujang sauce.
Restaurants here serve both pan-fried and charcoal-grilled versions, often alongside makguksu (cold buckwheat noodles). Many establishments offer variations like cheese dakgalbi and seafood dakgalbi. Informational plaques lining the street highlight the dish’s history.
The sizzling grills and bustling crowds makes dining on Dakgalbi Street a notable experience. For the best meal, opt for self-grilling restaurants where you can cook the dish to your liking. Many places also offer fried rice at the end of the meal to mix with the leftover dakgalbi sauce for a second course.
Practical Information
- Hours: Most restaurants open late morning and close around 10 PM.
- Tips: Prices vary by portion size and ingredients. Weekends and holidays can be crowded; weekday afternoons offer a more relaxed experience. Many restaurants provide takeout and English menus.
Chuncheon Myeongdong Street
Chuncheon Myeongdong Street (춘천 명동거리; map) is a bustling shopping and entertainment district. The area borrowed its name from the Myeongdong Neighborhood in Seoul, one of the busiest shopping hotspots in Korea.
Known for its connection to the Korean Wave (Hallyu), it features sculptures and plaques commemorating Winter Sonata (겨울연가), a 2002 K-drama that filmed on location in the area.
Let’s check out some of the main features of Myeongdong Street.
- Underground Shopping Mall: Over 350 stores selling fashion, cosmetics, and souvenirs.
- Dining: A mix of traditional Korean eateries and modern cafes. Food stalls offer snacks like tteokbokki and hotteok.
- Events: Weekend street performances, seasonal markets, and pop-up exhibitions create a dynamic atmosphere.
Myeongdong Street’s central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring nearby attractions, including Dakgalbi Street and Chuncheon’s central rotary.
- Hours: Most stores operate from 10 AM ~ 10 PM; restaurant hours vary.
- Notes: Easily accessible by public transportation. Parking is limited, so early arrival or public transit is recommended.
Chuncheon Puppet Theater
The Chuncheon Puppet Theater (춘천인형극장; map), near Uiam Lake, is South Korea’s first dedicated puppet theater. Opened in 2001, it hosts the annual Chuncheon Puppet Festival and features year-round performances and workshops.
The adjacent Chuncheon Puppet Museum (opened 2004) showcases puppets from around the world, including traditional Korean dugaksi noleum puppets, French Guignol puppets, and Chinese shadow puppets. Visitors can also observe puppet-making exhibits.
The venue offers family-friendly amenities, including a café, an outdoor playground, and a scenic lakeside path. Saturday workshops allow participants to create their own puppets.
Practical Information
- Hours: Performance and museum hours vary; typically 10 AM–6 PM. Closed Mondays.
- Fees: Free museum entry; performance fees depend on the show.
- Facilities: Free parking (120 spaces).
- Notes: Early arrival is recommended during festivals. Public transportation is advised during peak times.
National Chuncheon Museum
The National Chuncheon Museum (국립춘천박물관; map), part of the National Museum of Korea network, focuses on Gangwon State’s history. Opened in 2002, it houses artifacts from prehistoric to medieval periods.
The museum features six exhibition halls, showcasing prehistoric tools, Buddhist relics, and national treasures like the Gangneung Hansongsa Stone Seated Bodhisattva. Outdoor installations include the Dolmen Garden, while the Children’s Museum provides interactive learning. Special exhibitions rotate throughout the year.
Practical Information
- Hours: Weekdays: 9 AM–6 PM | Weekends & holidays: 9 AM–7 PM | Extended hours (Apr–Oct): Saturdays until 9 PM | Last Wednesday of each month until 9 PM
- Closed: Mondays, Jan 1, and major holidays (Lunar New Year, Chuseok)
- Fees: Free entry
- Facilities: Free parking (100 spaces), stroller rentals, wheelchair accessibility
Located near Uiam Lake, the museum is close to other attractions like Chuncheon’s Romantic Road and the Gangwon Provincial Arboretum, ideal for combining cultural exploration with nature walks.
Spring and fall offer the best outdoor views. Special exhibitions and family-oriented events are popular, so plan ahead for guided tours during peak seasons.
