Hi everyone, I’m planning a trip to South Korea from Feb 14 to 24 and want to focus on outdoor winter landscapes and unique experiences while limiting my stays to three main locations. I leave late in the afternoon on Feb 24, so I’ll have some time that day as well. Let me know what you think or if there’s anything I should tweak!
Feb 14 – Arrive in Seoul • Arrive and settle in. Staying in Myeongdong or Hongdae. • Explore Bukchon Hanok Village for traditional architecture and snowy vibes. • Evening stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream. • Dinner: Korean BBQ.
Feb 15 – DMZ Tour • Take a guided tour of the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), including spots like the Third Infiltration Tunnel and Dora Observatory. • Return to Seoul in the afternoon. • Evening: Explore Gwangjang Market for street food.
Feb 16 – Bukhansan National Park • Spend the day hiking Bukhansan National Park. Planning on the Baegundae Peak trail for great winter views. • Relax at a jjimjilbang (thinking Dragon Hill Spa) in the evening.
Feb 17 – Travel to Sokcho (Seoraksan National Park) • Morning: Take an express bus to Sokcho (about 2.5 hours). • Afternoon: Explore Sokcho town (Sokcho Lighthouse Observatory, Daepo Port for fresh seafood). • Overnight near Seoraksan National Park.
Feb 18 – Seoraksan National Park • Spend the day in Seoraksan National Park. Hike Ulsanbawi Rock or take a shorter trail like Biryong Falls. • Visit Sinheungsa Temple and the Bronze Buddha.
Feb 19 – Sokcho: Explore and Relax • Morning: Visit Abai Village for North Korean-style food and culture. • Afternoon: Walk along Sokcho Beach for some winter coastal vibes. • Chill evening before heading to the next destination.
Feb 20 – Travel to Gyeongju • Take a bus or train to Gyeongju (approx. 5 hours from Sokcho). • Explore Anapji Pond, beautifully lit up in the evening. • Stay in the Gyeongju historic area.
Feb 21 – Gyeongju: Outdoor History • Visit Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto (UNESCO World Heritage Sites). • Explore Tumuli Park, with its iconic burial mounds blanketed in snow. • Spend the evening wandering around the traditional streets of Gyeongju.
Feb 22 – Gyeongju: Day Trip to Haeinsa Temple • Take a day trip to Haeinsa Temple (2 hours one way) in Gayasan National Park, home to the Tripitaka Koreana, the oldest surviving Buddhist woodblock text. • Enjoy the peaceful, wintery surroundings before returning to Gyeongju.
Feb 23 – Travel Back to Seoul • Morning: Travel back to Seoul (approx. 2.5 hours by KTX). • Afternoon: Explore Ikseon-dong Hanok Village or shop in Insadong. • Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a traditional Korean restaurant.
Feb 24 – Departure from Seoul • Morning: Visit the Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden (if time allows). • Early afternoon: Head to the airport for your international flight.
What do you think? Is Gyeongju a good replacement for Jeju Island, or should I consider a different location? Any tips are appreciated!
submitted by /u/KenyanJesus69
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