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There are great many things to do in South Korea, and so are in Wonju.
Welcome to a city that dances to its own beat and offers a plethora of experiences to indulge in.
Wonju, like a hidden gem, awaits to be unraveled, offering a tapestry of cultural and natural wonders that will leave you enthralled.
From the fascinating traditions and customs to the jaw-dropping landscapes, Wonju has something for everyone.
So fasten your seatbelt and embark on a journey to explore this charming land of endless possibilities.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Wonju:
1. Chiaksan National Park
Chiaksan National Park is a natural paradise located in the Gangwon Province of South Korea. The park covers an area of 181 square kilometers and has been designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore lush forests, scenic valleys, and pristine waterfalls by hiking on the well-maintained trails of Chiaksan.
The park is home to various plant and animal species, including endangered species such as Korean goral and Asiatic black bear.
Campsites are also available for overnight stays.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the spectacular view of Birobong Peak, the highest peak in the park, which rises 1,288 meters above sea level.
Another must-visit is the Chiaksan Seongmun Cliff, a rock formation that looks like a castle gate.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear appropriate hiking gear, bring plenty of water and snacks for the hike, and avoid littering. The park is particularly beautiful during autumn when the trees turn into a colorful display of red and gold.
It is recommended to visit on weekdays to avoid the crowds.
2. Wonju Hanji Theme Park
Wonju Hanji Theme Park is a cultural theme park dedicated to showcasing the traditional Korean paper-making process known as Hanji.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness the entire process of making Hanji paper by hand, starting with the bark of mulberry trees and going all the way to the finished product.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the park is the opportunity to make your own Hanji paper under the guidance of experienced paper-making instructors.
Insider travel tips: – Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting a bit wet or dirty during the paper-making process.
3. Mindungsan Mountain
Mindungsan Mountain is a popular mountain located near the city of Wonju in South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike the trails that lead up to the summit for some breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Along the way, there are various scenic spots, such as Mindungsan Waterfall and the Yeonhwajeong Pavilion.
Don’t miss: The summit of Mindungsan is the highlight of any visit. Here, visitors can take in panoramic views of the mountains and valleys below.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended that visitors wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water for the trek. The best time to visit is during the fall when the autumn leaves are at their peak.
4. Wonju Herb Village
Wonju Herb Village is a beautiful herbal garden located in the city of Wonju in South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk through the well-manicured garden, which is home to over 700 species of herbs, plants, and flowers.
The village also features a variety of themed gardens, such as the Tea Garden, Lavender Garden, and the Rose Garden.
There are also several charming cafes and restaurants where visitors can relax and sample herbal teas and dishes made with fresh herbs.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Wonju Herb Village is the annual Herb Festival, which takes place during the peak blooming season from May to June.
During the festival, visitors can participate in herb-related workshops, enjoy music and dance performances, and purchase herbal products produced by local artisans.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable walking shoes as the garden is quite expansive.
5. Hanji Museum
Hanji Museum is a museum dedicated to traditional Korean paper-making, located in Wonju, Gangwon province.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the history and production process of hanji, as well as try their hand at making their own paper.
The museum also features exhibitions showcasing the versatility and beauty of hanji, including art installations, fashion designs, and architectural models.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the outdoor garden, which features a wide variety of plants used in hanji production, including mulberry trees, bamboo, and paper flowers.
Additionally, be sure to check out the gift shop, which sells a variety of hanji products such as journals, wallets, and lampshades.
Insider travel tips: -If possible, try to visit during the summer months when the outdoor garden is in full bloom and visitors can participate in traditional Korean paper-making workshops.
6. Bangokjae Cultural Center
Bangokjae Cultural Center is a cultural hub located in Wonju, South Korea. It is a modern complex that features an art gallery, a performance hall, and a traditional Korean house.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various exhibits and artwork at the art gallery and attend cultural performances at the performance hall. The traditional Korean house offers a glimpse of how people used to live in Korea before modern times.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch a traditional Korean music performance which is a must-see at the Bangokjae Cultural Center. Also, take a tour of the traditional Korean house which offers a unique experience of traditional architecture.
Insider travel tips: Admission to the art gallery and traditional Korean house is free, but visitors will need to purchase tickets to attend performances at the performance hall.
It is best to arrive early to reserve your seat and to avoid crowds. Additionally, there is a small café on-site which serves delicious Korean snacks and refreshments.
7. Eorayeon Valley
Eorayeon Valley is a scenic natural attraction located in Wonju, South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking along the picturesque hillside trails and taking in the breathtaking views of the valley. During the summer months, the valley is a popular spot for swimming and other water-based activities.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Eorayeon Valley is the stunning waterfall that cascades down the rocks into a crystal-clear pool below. Make sure to also explore the nearby forests and rock formations.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit Eorayeon Valley during the weekdays to avoid large crowds and to fully appreciate the peaceful serenity of the area.
It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.
8. Seolcheon-myeon Gosu Cave
Seolcheon-myeon Gosu Cave is a natural cave located in Wonju, South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the cave with a guided tour and see stunning formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground waterfalls. The cave is also known for its beautiful lighting displays that add to its mystical ambiance.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the cave tour is a boat ride on an underground river that flows through the cave.
The boat ride takes visitors deep into the cave and allows them to see the stunning rock formations from a unique perspective.
Insider travel tips: The cave temperature can be quite cool, so it’s recommended to bring a jacket or sweater. Visitors should also wear comfortable shoes as there are some steep steps and uneven surfaces inside the cave.
Photography is allowed, but the use of flash is prohibited. It’s a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed while exploring Wonju.
9. Wonju Nambu Market
Wonju Nambu Market is a traditional Korean market located in Wonju city, Gangwon Province.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the winding alleys and rows of stalls selling a variety of goods, including fresh produce, seafood, traditional Korean snacks, handmade crafts, and clothing.
Don’t miss: Some must-try items include bindaetteok (mung bean pancake), tturundae (Korean blood sausage), and dakgangjeong (sweet and spicy fried chicken). You can also watch local artisans showcase their craft-making skills, such as hand-woven straw shoes and traditional pottery.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and get the best selection of fresh produce. Don’t hesitate to negotiate prices with the vendors, as it’s common practice in traditional Korean markets.
Lastly, bring cash as many vendors may not accept international credit cards.
10. Wonju City Hall
Wonju City Hall is the administrative hub of Wonju, a bustling city in the Gangwon Province of South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the City Hall building, which is an unmissable landmark due to its towering height and striking, modern architecture.
The tour includes a visit to the mayor’s office and the council chamber, as well as a comprehensive overview of the history and functions of the city government.
Don’t miss: The highlight of any visit to Wonju City Hall is the stunning observation deck on the 11th floor, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
On a clear day, visitors can see as far as Seoraksan, one of the most famous peaks in South Korea.
Insider travel tips: – Visitors should arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and long queues for the guided tour.
11. Wonju Museum of Art
Wonju Museum of Art is a museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art.
What to see or do: The museum features a collection of over 2,000 art pieces including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics by both Korean and international artists.
There are also temporary exhibitions held throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the works of renowned Korean artists such as Lee Jung-Seop, who is considered a pioneer of modern Korean art.
The museum also has a sculpture park with a collection of outdoor artworks.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the weekend when the museum offers free guided tours.
12. Wonju Yangtte Farm
A farm tourism destination located in Wonju, South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can experience various agricultural activities such as picking fruits and mushrooms, fishing, making kimchi, and trying traditional Korean costumes. There are also animal petting zones and outdoor barbecues available.
Don’t miss: The strawberry picking experience, where visitors can pick and eat fresh strawberries to their heart’s content.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to dress comfortably and be prepared for outdoor activities. It’s recommended to visit during the strawberry season (December to May) to fully enjoy the farm’s offerings.
Reservations are required for some activities, so be sure to check ahead of time.
13. Wonju Artrie Market
Wonju Artrie Market is a bustling flea market in the city of Wonju, located in Gangwon Province, South Korea. The market showcases a wide range of handmade craft items, antiques, and traditional Korean food.
What to see or do: Visitors to Wonju Artrie Market can browse through the various stalls selling unique crafts like pottery, textiles, handmade soaps, and jewelry.
There are also several street food vendors selling delicious Korean snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and mandu (dumplings).
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try out some of the local delicacies like makguksu (buckwheat noodles), which is a popular dish in Wonju.
You can also visit the pottery village located nearby, where you can see local artisans at work and even make your own pottery.
Insider travel tips: – It is best to visit the market during the weekends, as that is when it is fully operational.
14. Wonju Hot Springs Resort
Wonju Hot Springs Resort is a luxurious spa resort located in the scenic Wonju area of South Korea. The resort features natural hot spring baths, spa treatments, and various leisure and sports facilities.
What to see or do: Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot spring baths or enjoy a variety of spa treatments and massages. The resort also offers a range of sports facilities, including tennis courts, a golf driving range, and a fitness center.
For those interested in Korean culture, there is a traditional Korean-style sauna and a Korean restaurant serving authentic cuisine.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to soak in the natural hot spring baths, which are believed to have healing properties. Also, try out the outdoor swimming pool with hot spring water.
The surrounding mountains and forests also offer beautiful hiking trails for nature lovers.
Insider travel tips: For the ultimate indulgence, book a private hot spring suite and enjoy a private hot spring bath in the comfort of your own room.
The resort gets crowded during peak seasons, so it’s best to book in advance or visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Wonju is also known for its traditional Korean paper-making, so consider taking a workshop or exploring a local paper factory.