Dancing snowflakes above Korean traditional palaces, the white rolling hills of snow, and the snow-capped mountains. Yes, this beautiful winter wonderland we’re speaking of is South Korea.

Here are some of the best photo spots that’ll make you yearn to travel to South Korea this winter.


1. Snow-Capped Temples in Korea

snow-capped temple roofs at Naksansa Temple in south korea

Where you can find similar scenes: Eunpyeong Hanok Village, Naksansa Temple, Guinsa Temple

Despite the fast-paced environment and great advancements in technology, Korea has managed to maintain the balance between rapid urbanization and cultural traditions. That’s why you’ll be able to find hundreds of these centuries-old Buddhist architectures nestled up in the mountains.

sunrise over Naksansa Temple in south korea

Visiting Naksansa Temple is highly recommended for welcoming the new year by participating in the beloved Korean tradition of watching the first sunrise.


2. Cheongyang Alps Village & Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival

ice fountains at chilgapsan in south korea

Where you can find similar scenes: Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival (KakaoMaps)

Cheongyang Alps Village was named after its beautiful and clean lake and profound mountain scenery. During the winter season, the village is blanketed in snow, offering visitors the delightful experience of sledding down snowy hills. Take breathtaking pictures in front of gigantic icicles and ice sculptures!

Every winter, the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival takes place at the magical Alps Village in Cheongyang. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a frozen kingdom with massive ice fountains, ice sculptures, igloos, and more! It’s a great way to experience the winter atmosphere and snowy day activities to the fullest.


3. Eobi Ice Valley’s Frozen Waterfall

forzen waterfalls at eobi ice valley in south korea

Where you can find similar scenes: Eobi Ice Valley (KakaoMaps)

Eobi Ice Valley is a popular destination known for its magnificent frozen waterfall in Gapyeong. You can easily go there from Seoul in a day and stop by nearby popular destinations, such as Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and Gangchon Rail Bike.

Or, pick Starwberries & take in the sights:

snowboarder enjoys vivaldi slopes in south korea

You can also explore Eobi Ice Valley as an add-on to your Korean ski trip! It’s conveniently located near two of Korea’s most popular ski resorts: Vivaldi Park Ski Resort and Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort. Enjoy a variety of winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snow sledding, while capturing Instagram-worthy photos amidst the stunning scenery of Eobi Ice Valley!


4. Wondae-ri Birch Forest

iconic birch trees at Wondae-ri Birch Forest in south korea

Where you can find similar scenes: Wondae-ri Birch Forest (KakaoMaps)

Step into a winter fairytale at Wondae-ri Birch Forest and In-je Maebawi Icewall! On this tour, you will hike along a scenic hiking course and immerse in the tranquil forest with the tall white bark birch trees rising magnificently towards the blue sky.


5. Deogyusan National Park

Deogyusan National Park in south korea

Where you can find similar scenes: Deogyusan National Park (KakaoMaps)

A popular destination for its picturesque views and hidden temples, Mt Deokgyusan transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the Winter. Ride the gondola up to Seolchunbong, the second-highest peak there, or hike up the mountains to enjoy the stunning scenery unfolding before your very eyes.


6. Snow-covered Nami Island

snow covered trees in nami island

Where you can find similar scenes: Nami Island (KakaoMaps)

Take a stroll down Metasequoia Lane lined on both sides with these impressive deciduous trees donned in crystalline white snow. Ever since it was featured in the hit K-drama ‘Winter Sonata’, Nami Island has become a go-to winter destination. Star in your own romantic K-drama at Nami Island!

Ski Transfers & Private Tours:

Nami Island & Ski Packages:


7. Winter Festivals in Pocheon

visitor rides a bike pulling an ice sled at the Pocheon Baegun Ice Valley Festival in South Korea

Where you can find similar scenes: Pocheon Baekun Valley (KakaoMaps)

Embrace the winter season by visiting three of Pocheon’s exciting festivals in one day: the Baegun Winter Ice Valley Festival, the Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival, and the Herb Island Lighting Festival. Capture unforgettable moments and stunning sights, including a frozen lake, pink sand gardens, and impressive ice walls! Enjoy a variety of winter activities such as rubber duck rides, ice sledding, and many more fun options at each festival.


8. Yongpyong Ski Resort

view from the top of the Yongpyeong Ski Resort in South Korea

Where you can find similar scenes: Yongpyong Ski Resort (KakaoMaps)

You can’t have Winter in Korea without its awesome resorts. Make the most out of Winter in Korea by going to Yongpyong Ski Resort, one of the best ski resorts in Korea. With an average annual snowfall of about 250mm, many flock to Yongpyong Ski Resort to get the best skiing and snowboarding experience! Be sure to take the cable car to the summit of Balwangsan Mountain and experience the Balwangsan Skywalk, the highest skywalk in Korea, located at an elevation of 1,458 meters.

Find out more about Yongpyong Ski Resort here.


9. Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan Mountain covered in snow in South Korea

Where you can find similar scenes: Seoraksan National Park (KakaoMaps)

 Seoraksan National Park is most likely on everyone’s must-visit list. Home to the third-highest mountain in Korea, it is an all-time favorite destination for many hikers throughout the four seasons. Blessed with blankets of snow and exquisite views of Nature, spending a day at Seoraksan during the Winter will definitely be an unforgettable experience!


10. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

dad pulls kids across the ice at the hwacheon sancheoneo ice festival in south korea

Where you can find similar scenes: Hwacheon Sancheoneo Festival (KakaoMaps)

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is another one of Korea’s go-to Winter festivals. Selected as one of the 7 Winter Wonders of the World by CNN, the festival has a lot to offer everyone, from those looking for an action-packed experience to those looking to chill. Who needs fishing rods anymore when you can go bare-handed fishing instead?

Read more about the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival here.


11. Cheongsong Ice Valley

girl posed in front of ice formations at the Cheongyang Alps Village in south korea

Where you can find similar scenes: Cheongyang Alps Village (KakaoMaps)

If you are in Busan, visit the icy marvel of Cheongsong Ice Valley and witness its unique ice formations and breathtaking scenery! Situated at the foot of Mount Juwang, this valley is famous for its towering ice walls that become more prominent as temperatures rise, creating a fascinating natural phenomenon where thicker ice forms in warmer conditions.

couple rows on a frozen lake in gyeongju south korea

If you’re interested in exploring historic sites, consider visiting Gyeongju to discover its beautiful winter attractions, including Kookmin Healing Park, Gyeongju World Snow Park, Woljeonggyo Bridge, and more.


12. Mt. Hallasan’s Winter Hiking Trails, Jeju Island

snow covered bridge on mount hallasan in jeju south korea

Where you can find similar scenes: Mount Hallasan (KakaoMaps)

Mt. Hallasan is, of course, one of the more prominent destinations to visit in Jeju Island, especially in Winter. Though a hike up this sky-piercing snowy mountain should definitely be on your bucket list, Jeju Island offers many more sights and attractions to see and visit.

Find out more about Jeju Island here.


13. The Garden of Morning Calm

snow fall at night during the light festival at the garden of morning calm in south korea
Where you can find similar scenes: Garden of Morning Calm (KakaoMaps)

The Garden of Morning Calm is an all-time favorite destination for many throughout the year. From its beautiful cherry blossoms in Spring to the crimson yellow leaves in Autumn, this garden is somewhat of a utopia. What’s more, with Winter comes its own charms, especially with the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival starting in December. Take a walk through the garden lit in an array of colorful, dazzling lights!


Did you enjoy the photos? Now, if you want to visit South Korea, this is the perfect time for you.

Check out Trazy.com, Korea’s #1 Travel Shop to check out lots of fun and exciting things to do in Korea and places to visit!

 

[Photo Credits]

  • Gangwon Province Official Website

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