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Seoul to Nami Island tours | Visitor information at a glance
- When do Seoul to Nami Island tours start?
Tours from Seoul to Nami Island generally start between 7am and 8:20am, depending on the package.
- What are the ways I can get from Seoul to Nami Island?
You can access Nami Island via ferry or opt for guided tours, including shuttle services from Seoul.
- How many number visitors does Nami Island see per year?
Nami Island attracts approximately 3 million visitors annually, especially during peak seasons.
Seoul to Nami Island tour timings
Nami Island tours vary based on the number of attractions included, with average durations ranging from 9 to 10 hours. Some tours extend up to 13 hours. For specific start times:
- From Seoul: Nami Island Guided Tour: 8:20am
- From Seoul: Nami Island & Alpaca World Guided Tour: 7am
- From Seoul: Nami Island, Petite France & Italian Village Guided Tour: 7am, 7:20am, 8am, and 8:20am
- From Seoul: Nami Island & The Garden of Morning Calm Guided Tour: 8:20am
Best time to go on a Nami Island tour
Weekends vs weekdays
The best time to visit Nami Island is during weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon, when the island is less crowded. Weekends often see a surge in tourists, leading to longer queues and busier attractions. For a more serene experience, consider arriving early the day to enjoy the surroundings.
High season vs low season
Seasonal variations also play a significant role in the island's appeal. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and beautiful natural scenery, making these the high tourist seasons. Conversely, summer and winter see fewer visitors, with winter's cold temperatures providing a quieter but equally charming experience.
Where is Nami Island Located?
Address: 1 Namisum-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do 24464, South Korea
Nami Island is situated in the Han River, northeast of Seoul, South Korea, and is accessible from Gapyeong County.
Closest town: Gapyeong (3.8 km)
How to get to Nami Island?
Tour transport options
Most visitors opt for guided tours that include round-trip transfers. Tours offer a straightforward and convenient way to reach Nami Island, typically covering transport from Seoul to Gapyeong, where you will transfer to a ferry. You’ll easily avoid switching several times and making more stops with tour transfers, scoring you more time to enjoy the attractions.
Traveling solo
By train:
Depart from Yongsan Station or Cheongnyangni Station and take the ITX-Cheongchun train to Gapyeong Station. The journey takes about 55-60 minutes. Once at Gapyeong Station, you can reach Nami Island Ferry Terminal by taxi or by taking bus No. 10-4, 33-5, or 33-36.
By shuttle bus:
Round-trip shuttle buses run from Hongik University Station Exit 4, Namsan Yejang Bus Parking Lot, or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station Exit 10 in Seoul directly to Nami Island Ferry Terminal, offering a convenient option.
By car:
Drive from Seoul to Gapyeong via Dongbu Expressway (No. 60). Once at Gapyeong Wharf, take a ferry to Nami Island, which is about a 5-minute ride. Ferries operate every 30 minutes between 7:30 and 9:00 and 18:00 and 21:30, with more frequent service between 9:00 and 18:00.
For a unique experience, you can opt for the Zip-wire to Nami Island, though you must return by ferry. Do check height and weight requirements before booking.
Know before you visit Nami Island
Facilities
Guided tours
Visiting with family
Rules
Tips
Shop
Dine
Stay
Nearby
- Air-conditioned Transportation: Tours include round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey from Seoul to Nami Island and back.
- Pick-ups & drop-off transfers: Convenient pick-ups and drop-offs from designated locations in Seoul are included, making travel hassle-free.
- Expert multi-lingual guide: An English-speaking and Chinese guide provides informative and engaging commentary, enhancing your visit.
- Activities pre-included: Entry to Nami Island and various pre-included activities allow you to bypass long queues and enjoy a smoother experience.
- Small-group tour: Tours are limited to 10 people, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
- Wheelchair & stroller accessibility: The experience is accessible by wheelchair and pram/stroller. Wheelchairs are available for rent free of charge, and strollers can be rented for KRW 3,000.
- ATM: Located at various points on the island for convenient cash withdrawals.
- Public toilets Available throughout the island for visitor convenience.
- AED: Automated External Defibrillators are accessible at key locations for emergencies.
- Storage lockers: Provided for secure storage of personal belongings.
- Infirmary: Medical assistance is available for any health-related concerns.
Tours of Nami Island often include expert guides fluent in English and Chinese. These guides provide valuable insights into the island's attractions, history, and culture, enhancing your overall experience. Their local knowledge helps you navigate the island more effectively, ensuring you don't miss key spots and have your questions answered. With personalized attention and the ability to communicate in multiple languages, these guides make the tour more engaging and informative for international visitors.
- Baby changing facilities: Convenient baby changing stations are available in designated areas on the island.
- Family toilets: Restrooms are equipped with family-friendly amenities, including facilities for young children.
- Kid-friendly restaurants: Several dining options cater to families, offering child-friendly menus and seating.
- Rental services: Strollers are available for rent at a nominal fee of KRW 3,000. Wheelchairs are also provided free of charge.
- Play areas: There are designated play areas where children can enjoy safe, interactive activities.
- Photography restrictions: Flash photography and the use of drones are not allowed on the island to preserve the natural environment and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
- Smoking policy: Smoking is only allowed in designated areas. Smoking is prohibited in all other parts of the island.
- Camping & cooking: Camping, cooking, and setting up tents are not allowed on the island.
- Bicycles & scooters: Personal bicycles and scooters are not permitted; however, rental bicycles are available.
- Pets: Pets under 15 kg are allowed on a leash and can enter select restaurants such as Gomok or Swing Cafe. Certain breeds, including Pit Bulls and Rottweilers, are not permitted.
- Respect wildlife: Do not disturb or feed the wildlife on the island to ensure their safety and well-being.
- Best time to visit: Nami Island is beautiful throughout the year, but to avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or early mornings.
- Weather preparation: Check the forecast before your visit and dress accordingly. We recommend dressing in layers. Bring sunscreen, hats, or rain gear as needed.
- Duration: Allocate 2-3 hours to explore the main attractions and activities.
- Comfortable footwear: Opt for comfortable shoes to navigate different terrains.
- Bring essentials: Carry essentials like water, a camera (without flash), and personal medications.
- Ticket Purchase: Purchase tickets in advance to skip long lines, especially on weekends.
- Navigation: Use a map or navigation app to locate key attractions and amenities.
- Accessibility: Notify the service provider about any wheelchair or stroller needs when booking to ensure appropriate arrangements.
- Winter Sonata photo opportunity: Visit the recreation bench on the island, where the Winter Sonata protagonists had their first kiss, complete with a fake snowman and snowballs.
- Photo booth: Nami Island has its own Korean photo booth shop called Four Cuts—perfect for capturing memories.
Here are some top spots to shop during your Seoul to Nami Island tour:
- Artshop Snowman: Features unique Nami Island snowman merchandise and pet-friendly products.
- Imagine Nami: A handmade crafts store showcasing Nami Island's nature-inspired designs, offering glass ornaments, fabric items, ceramics, and more. The Hanok-style building adds to the charm.
- Nammoon: Offers eco-friendly souvenirs and local crafts
While most tour options do not include meals, the various restaurants and cafes on Nami Island offer food and beverage options to suit your tastes and budget.
- Seomhyanggi: A BBQ restaurant in the woods, famous for Spicy Grilled Chicken (Dakgalbi) and buckwheat noodles, offering a scenic dining experience.
- Sonata Café: Known for seasonal treats like snowman-shaped hotteok and shaved ice with hotteok.
- Asian Family Restaurant Dongmoon: Ideal for families and couples, offering halal options for Muslim visitors.
- BookCafé in Baplex: A relaxing spot with fresh coffee, sandwiches, and desserts.
- Nammoon: Nami Island's top Korean restaurant, serving dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Nami Island has only one hotel to accommodate overnight guests. The main building of Hotel Jeonggwanru, Jeonggwanjae, is an art hotel showcasing illustrations by award-winning artists from the Nami Concours and other renowned artists. The Jeonggwanru Annex offers independent riverside accommodations, including several cottages, a condo villa with seasonal views and private barbecue options, and a two-to-two villa for a cozy getaway for two.
- Alpaca World: Interact with friendly alpacas and other animals in a scenic park setting. Enjoy a fun and relaxing experience with animal encounters and picturesque views.
- Petite France: A charming French-themed village offering quaint streets, cultural exhibits, and photo opportunities reminiscent of a French countryside.
- Gangchon Rail Park: Experience a unique ride on a rail bike along old railway tracks, providing stunning views of the countryside and a bit of outdoor adventure.
- Italian Village: Discover a picturesque village styled like an Italian town, featuring charming architecture, cafes, and shops.
- Garden of Morning Calm: Explore beautifully landscaped gardens with seasonal flowers and themed sections, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Nami Island
Where is Nami Island located?
Nami Island is located in Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea. However, to reach it, you must first go to the Namiseom Island Pier in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do.
How do I get to Nami Island from Seoul?
To get to Nami Island from Seoul, you can opt for guided tours for a worry-free experience. Alternatively, you can take the ITX-Cheongchun train from Yongsan or Cheongnyangni Station to Gapyeong Station, then proceed by taxi or bus to the ferry terminal for Nami Island.
What’s the distance from Seoul to Nami Island?
Nami Island is approximately 63 kilometers from Seoul, about a 1.5-hour journey by car or train.
Why should I tour Nami Island?
Nami Island offers beautiful landscapes, cultural experiences, and other attractions, making it a popular spot for nature lovers, families, and K-drama fans.
How long does a Seoul to Nami Island tour last?
A typical Seoul to Nami Island tour lasts about 9 to 13 hours, including travel time, giving you ample opportunity to explore.
How much does it cost to visit Seoul to Nami Island?
Costs vary depending on the mode of transportation and whether you choose a guided tour, with prices starting from ₩60,000.
What is the best time to visit Nami Island?
The best time to visit Nami Island is during spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) for vibrant seasonal colors. But do not worry if you plan to visit in the winter or summer. The island transforms with every season but remains just as unique and gorgeous. Having said that, it’s best to avoid visiting Nami Island during weekends if you do not like crowds.
What are the Seoul to Nami Island tour timings?
Tours from Seoul typically start in the early morning, around 7am, and end by late afternoon or evening.
Can I visit Nami Island in a group?
Yes, Nami Island is a popular group destination. Many tour packages offer small-group options, and the island’s facilities easily accommodate larger groups.
Can I take my kids to Nami Island?
Yes, Nami Island is child-friendly. It has been designated as a UNICEF Child-Friendly Park, the first in Korea to receive this honor. The island offers various activities and attractions tailored for children, such as the International Children’s Library, playgrounds, and seasonal events. The environment is safe and welcoming, with plenty of open spaces and scenic areas for families to enjoy together.
Is Nami Island wheelchair-friendly?
Yes, Nami Island is wheelchair accessible. The island has been designated an “Easy Place” by The Human Rights Forum of Persons with Disabilities in Korea due to its accessible facilities. Paths are well-maintained, and many attractions, including restaurants and restrooms, are equipped to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone.
Does Nami Island allow dogs or other pets inside?
Nami Island does not permit dogs or pets weighing over 15 kg or without a leash. However, on Big Dog Welcome Day, all dogs, regardless of weight, are welcome under Breed of the Month. Please note that breeds such as Tosa, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and Rottweiler are prohibited. This policy helps maintain the island's natural environment and ensures the comfort and safety of all visitors.
Is photography allowed inside Nami Island?
Photography is allowed on Nami Island, but be mindful that flash photography and drones are prohibited. Shutterbugs can capture the island's scenic beauty but must adhere to these restrictions to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Are there restaurants or cafes on Nami Island?
Yes, Nami Island has several restaurants and cafes offering a range of dining options. You can find Korean and international cuisine and cozy cafes for a relaxing break amidst the island's natural beauty.
Are there food and drinks served on Seoul to Nami Island tours?
Most tours from Seoul to Nami Island do not serve food or drinks. However, you can find several dining options to suit your preferences and diet on Nami Island.
How long does it take to complete exploring the whole of Nami Island?
It takes at least 3 hours to complete exploring the whole of Nami Island, but you can take your time depending on the tour option you select.
Are there any facilities available for visitors on Nami Island?
Yes, Nami Island offers facilities such as ATMs, public toilets, AEDs, storage lockers, and an infirmary for visitor convenience.
What are the popular activities on Nami Island?
Popular activities include exploring tree-lined lanes, visiting gardens, enjoying water rides, and participating in aerial adventures like Zipwire and TreeCoaster.
Can I visit Nami Island in winter?
Yes, winter visits offer a quieter experience with unique charm, though it can be cold. Winter is a low tourist season, making it less crowded.
What is the best way to experience Nami Island?
The best way to experience Nami Island is through guided tours. Start with a scenic ferry ride from Gapyeong Wharf, then explore the island by walking or biking. Enjoy picturesque tree-lined paths, gardens, and activities like zip-lining. Don't miss Metasequoia Lane and the Winter Sonata statue.
Is Nami Island budget-friendly?
Yes, Nami Island is budget-friendly. It has an admission fee but offers free activities like walking the tree-lined paths and exploring gardens. Affordable bike rentals and picnic areas also help keep costs low while enjoying the natural beauty.