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There are great many things to do in South Korea, and so are in Cheongju.
Welcome to Cheongju, the vibrant city that never sleeps!
With countless opportunities to explore and discover, Cheongju is a melting pot of cultures, sights, and experiences.
Whether you’re in the mood for historic monuments, stunning landscapes, or culinary delights, there’s something for everyone here.
So come, let’s dive into the endless list of things to do and see in Cheongju, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Cheongju:
1. Cheongju National Museum
The Cheongju National Museum is a museum located in Cheongju, South Korea. The museum is dedicated to the exhibition and preservation of the cultural heritage of the Chungcheongbuk-do region.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits that showcase the rich history and culture of the region. The museum’s permanent collection includes artifacts from prehistoric times to the modern era.
Some of the highlights include pottery, celadon, and metal artifacts, as well as Buddhist art and relics.
Don’t miss: The museum’s exhibition of the Geumgu-seok or the Golden Crown, a national treasure discovered in Cheongwon-gun, is a must-see attraction. The crown dates back to the Silla period and is made entirely out of gold.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during weekdays as weekends can be crowded. Guided tours are available in English, Japanese, and Chinese and are included with the price of admission.
The museum offers free Wi-Fi and a museum shop that sells various cultural items and souvenirs.
2. Sangdangsanseong Fortress
Sangdangsanseong Fortress is an ancient stone fortress located in Cheongju, South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the fortress and see the remaining walls, gates, and towers that once protected the city. There is also a museum on site with exhibits showcasing the history of the fortress.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the East Gate, which is the most well-preserved entrance to the fortress. Nearby, there is also a traditional temple and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: The fortress can be quite large to explore, so wear comfortable shoes and allow plenty of time. Also, visiting during the fall season offers stunning views of the autumn foliage.
3. Cheongju Art Center
Cheongju Art Center is a cultural complex that showcases various performing arts.
What to see or do: The center hosts a range of performances such as plays, musicals, operas, and concerts throughout the year. Visitors can also enjoy art exhibitions and participate in various cultural programs.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch a performance at the Art Center’s main theater, which has a 1,470-seat capacity and boasts state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems.
Also, don’t miss the Art Center’s outdoor stage, where open-air performances are held during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: – Check the Art Center’s schedule in advance and book your tickets early as popular performances tend to sell out quickly.
4. Tangeum Lake International Rowing Regatta
Tangeum Lake International Rowing Regatta is a world-class sporting event held in Cheongju, South Korea.
What to see or do: Watch top athletes from around the world compete in thrilling rowing races on the picturesque Tangeum Lake.
Don’t miss: The opening ceremony, which features vibrant performances by local artists, as well as the exciting medal ceremonies.
Insider travel tips: – Book your accommodation ahead of time as it tends to fill up quickly during the event.
5. Cheongju Early Printing Museum
The Cheongju Early Printing Museum is dedicated to the history of printing in Korea and displays a collection of printing equipment and materials.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the history and evolution of printing in Korea through various exhibits and displays, including a replica of the world’s first movable metal type printing press.
The museum also offers hands-on experiences where visitors can try printing their own bookmarks or postcards.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the exhibition hall showcasing the works of Jikji, the world’s oldest existing book printed with movable metal type.
Visitors can see pages from the original book, as well as a replica copy.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is open every day except Mondays, and admission is free.
6. Cheongju Craft Biennale
Cheongju Craft Biennale is a world-renowned international craft event held in Cheongju, South Korea. It brings together artists, designers, and craft collectors from around the world to showcase and exchange ideas on contemporary craft.
What to see or do: Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of craft exhibits, including ceramics, glassware, metalwork, jewelry, and textiles. You can also watch live craft demonstrations by expert artisans and participate in workshops to learn new skills.
There are also various lectures and talks on contemporary craft and design.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the unique opportunity to see the works of talented craft artists from different cultures and backgrounds in one place.
Also, don’t miss the opportunity to purchase exquisite handcrafted items to take back home.
Insider travel tips: Be prepared for large crowds, especially during the weekends. Try to visit during the weekdays to avoid the crowds.
It’s important to wear comfortable shoes, as you will be seeing a lot of exhibits and walking around. There are also food stalls and restaurants within the event, but you can also bring your own snacks.
Lastly, make sure to have your camera ready, as there will be plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.
7. Dosol Maeul
A quaint traditional village in Cheongju, South Korea.
What to see or do: Dosol Maeul offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Korean village life with its narrow alleys, thatched-roof houses, and old-style storefronts. Explore the village’s market, where you can find everything from traditional Korean food to handmade crafts.
Take a stroll through the village’s rice paddy fields and enjoy the peaceful rural scenery.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Dosol Maeul is its traditional Korean houses, which are over 200 years old. These houses have been meticulously preserved, offering visitors a fascinating insight into Korean architecture and design.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take a look inside and see how they’ve been furnished.
Insider travel tips: Dosol Maeul is most beautiful during the autumn months when the rice paddies turn golden-yellow.
For a more immersive experience, visit during one of the village’s many seasonal festivals, such as the Sungyo Harvest Festival or the Chilseong Nongak Festival.
In the evenings, head to one of the village’s warm and welcoming traditional Korean taverns and enjoy a drink with the locals.
8. Cheongju Downtown
Cheongju Downtown is the heart of the capital of North Chungcheong province in South Korea.
What to see or do: You can find a variety of local restaurants, cafes, and bars that offer a unique culinary scene. Shop for clothes, accessories, and souvenirs at trendy stores and street markets.
Other attractions include cultural sights such as the Cheongju National Museum and the Cheongju Early Printing Museum.
Don’t miss: Visit the Gyeonggiyan-gil Road, the oldest street in Cheonju, to get a glimpse of the city’s history and culture. Take a stroll at the Cheongnamdae Presidential Villa, the former residence of the South Korean presidents.
Insider travel tips: Try out traditional dishes such as makguksu (buckwheat noodles), kongnamul-gukbap (bean sprout rice soup), and sannakji (live octopus) at local restaurants.
Don’t forget to bargain at the street markets to get the best deals. Also, avoid coming here during the peak summer season as it can be extremely hot and crowded.
9. Sangdang-gu Office Street
A lively street lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, located in the Sangdang-gu district of Cheongju city.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the street. Admire the traditional Korean-style buildings, which have been preserved and repurposed as shops and restaurants.
Sample some of the local cuisine, including bibimbap, kalguksu, and makgeolli. Browse the eclectic mix of shops selling everything from handmade crafts to vintage records.
Don’t miss: The Sangdangsanseong Fortress, which is only a short walk away from the street. This historic fortress is perched atop a hill and offers stunning views of the city.
There are also several hiking trails in the area for those who are feeling more adventurous.
Insider travel tips: Visit the street in the evening, when it really comes alive with lights and bustling crowds. If you’re looking for a souvenir to take home, check out the local pottery shops for some unique pieces.
Additionally, there are several traditional Korean spas nearby where you can relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
10. Cheongnamdae Presidential Villa
Cheongnamdae Presidential Villa is a historic residence located in Cheongju, South Korea. It served as the presidential retreat for several affluent Korean leaders.
What to see or do: Tourists can take part in the 40-minute guided tour showcasing the luxurious life of former Presidents. One can see spacious halls, a banquet room, a presidential bedroom, and a Korean-style garden.
Don’t miss: The highlight of this place is the stunning view from the balcony towards the scenic mountains encircling the villa.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
11. Cheongju City Hall
Cheongju City Hall is a government building located in Cheongju, South Korea.
What to see or do: The building itself is an impressive architectural feat and worth admiring. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, which includes shops, restaurants, and museums.
Don’t miss: The nearby Korea Traditional Cultural Center, which offers hands-on experiences of traditional Korean culture, is a must-visit.
Insider travel tips: If possible, visit during one of the many festivals that take place in the area throughout the year. Also, take the time to try some of the delicious local cuisine, particularly the rice cakes and fried chicken.
12. Heungdeok-gu Office Street
Heungdeok-gu Office Street is a bustling area in Cheongju, South Korea, that’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses.
What to see or do: Take a stroll down the street and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, with plenty of shops selling everything from clothes to cosmetics, as well as restaurants serving up delicious Korean cuisine.
The area is also known for its abundance of cafes, perfect for taking a break and enjoying a cup of coffee.
Don’t miss: Check out the unique architecture of the buildings that line the street, with many featuring colorful murals and intricate details.
Stop by the Cheongju Traditional Alcohol Museum, where you can learn about the history of traditional Korean alcohol and even sample some of the local brews.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the evening to experience the nightlife of Heungdeok-gu Office Street, with lively bars and street performers adding to the festive atmosphere.
If you’re looking to do some shopping, head to the street on the 4th, 9th, or 14th day of every month when the Heungdeok Market is held, providing even more shopping opportunities.
13. Sangdangsanseong Themed Hanok Village
Sangdangsanseong Themed Hanok Village is a cultural and tourist attraction in Cheongju that takes visitors back in time to the Joseon Dynasty era.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the traditional hanok houses and learn about the daily life and customs of the 17th and 18th centuries.
You can also participate in various cultural activities, such as traditional handicrafts, archery, and tea ceremonies.
Don’t miss: The fortress wall, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and a glimpse into the history of Korea’s ancient fortress system.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the village and up to the fortress wall.
14. Cheongju Herb Land
Cheongju Herb Land is a beautiful garden in Cheongju, South Korea that is known for its vast collection of diverse herbs and flowers.
What to see or do: Visitors to Cheongju Herb Land can enjoy a stroll through the garden and marvel at the sights and smells of the various plants on display.
There are also several greenhouses that contain different varieties of herbs, flowers, and spices.
Guests can participate in various workshops to learn more about herbs and their uses, such as making herbal teas and cosmetics.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a ride on the Herb Train, which takes visitors on a tour around the garden while providing information about the different herbs and flowers on display.
Be sure to also visit the café and gift shop, which offer a variety of delicious herb-based snacks and souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the summer months when the garden is in full bloom.
15. Cheongju International Airport
Cheongju International Airport is an airport serving the city of Cheongju in South Korea.
What to see or do: As a small and regional airport, there are limited entertainment or shopping options within the airport terminal. However, travelers can enjoy a range of facilities such as restaurants, cafes, and duty-free shops.
Don’t miss: If you have some spare time, make sure to check out the Jikji Museum located just 15 minutes away from the airport.
It is home to the world’s oldest existing book printed with movable metal type, which was produced in Korea in 1377.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive at the airport early to avoid any potential delays or queues during check-in.