Best day trips from Seoul

If you've been to the city with its nonstop K-pop beat, top fashion and cutting-edge technology, you might want to check out other places.

South Korea's capital has some great day trips.

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

Paju is located between the two Koreas and is the closest city to theDMZ. South and North Korean soldiers face each other at Panmunjom. The signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement took place in this location, and the atmosphere is tense. Three of the four unfinished tunnels built by the North into South Korea are now accessible through guided tours. The third tunnel is very popular and unnerving because it is close to the capital city of South Korea.

The Imjingak park was built as a hope for unification and has many relics from the war on display.

You can visit the Dora Observatory if you join a DMZ tour, which gives you a clear view of North Korea. The propaganda village is an attempt to encourage South Koreans to defect so that they can live a better life. Dorasan Station is the northernmost train station in South Korea.

An official tour with military escort is required for a visit to Panmunjom. Imjingak can be visited by you alone.

The easiest way to get to the DMZ is by train from Yongsan Station. There are buses that run to Paju.

Suwon

Suwon is a popular day trip for its historic and cultural heritage sites. Janganmun is the largest gate in Korea and is one of the main gates of the Hwaseong fortress. This Unesco World Heritage site has a rich history and is a must visit.

The royal residential grounds are located within the fortress walls. They were once used by royalty as a temporary residence. It has largely been restored and offers a glimpse into the life of a royal.

Do you feel like you're hungry? Suwon is known for it's meat. One of the best places to sample galbi is at Kabojung, which is owned by a Korean Food Grand Master. Yuchi Hwoegwan serves up a dish called haejangguk. This soup is great after a big night out.

There is a way to get to Suwon. The journey between Yongsan Station and Suwon Station takes less than an hour.

Ganghwa-do

As Korea's fourth-largest island, Ganghwa-do is a great place to see. Many of Korea's important historic events have been held there.

The oldest Buddhist temple in Korea is called Jeondeung-sa. The temple grounds are located within the ancient Samnang Fortress walls, and the scenic surroundings are picture perfect all the time. The Templestay program is for people who want a more realistic experience.

The summit of Mani-san, Ganghwa-do's highest peak, is reached by a moderate hike up some steep steps. The Chamseongdan altar is said to have been used by Dangun, the founder of Korea. The Jeokseok-sa Buddhist temple is located on the western side of Mt Goryeo-san and is a high altitude sacred spot.

The Toga restaurant is located in the village of Heungwang-ri, which is close to the slopes of Mani-san. The tofu is lightly seasoned by the shrimp but still has a deep flavor in the soup.

The location of Ganghwa-do is west of the city. The buses leave from the Hapjeong Station in the west of the city in less than two hours.

Chuncheon

The capital of Gangwon Province is very popular with nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It has a small museum and a gallery. You can hire a bike or walk on the island. If you want to get to the island, catch the ferry or zip wire.

Water sports such as waterskiing, kayaking and rafting can be enjoyed in the summer season. Water sports activity centers can be found near the river. The largest artificial lake in Korea is known for its scenic trails. You can take a ferry across the lake.

A popular dish in which chicken isMarinated in a gochujang-based (red pepper paste) sauce and cooked with vegetables in a big pan is known as dakgalbi. The stir- fried chicken can be eaten on its own or in a lettuce wrap.

If you want to get to Chuncheon, you can either take a bus from the South Korean capital or take a train from the city.

Busan

Despite being located on the opposite side of the country, the coastal town of Busan can be reached by train in less than three hours, making it a great option for a day trip or weekend break from the city.

One of South Korea's most enjoyable cities to hang out in is Busan, which has mountains, coastlines and a cosmopolitan vibe. The Jagalchi Fish Market is the best place to buy and eat seafood.

The golden sands of Haeundae Beach, the largest outdoor screen in the country, and the local dessert bingsu are some of the highlights.

There is a way to get to Busan. The two cities can be reached in less than two and a half hours.

The article was first published in December of 2020.