The Ultimate Guide: A Perfect Day Trip from Seoul to Nami Island
Escape the vibrant hustle of Seoul and step into a real-life fairytale. Nami Island, a picturesque half-moon-shaped isle floating on the Bukhan River, is more than just a beautiful nature retreat—it’s a self-declared “micronation” called the Naminara Republic, complete with its own flag and “visa” (your entrance ticket!). Famous worldwide as the dreamy backdrop for the classic K-drama “Winter Sonata,” this island offers an enchanting experience in every season. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to plan the perfect day trip from Seoul to Nami Island, covering step-by-step transportation, costs, must-see attractions, and insider tips for an unforgettable adventure in 2025.
Nami Island Day Trip: Quick Facts
Get all the essential information at a glance to start planning your trip.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Seoul | Approx. 63 km (39 miles) |
| Total Travel Time | 1.5 – 2 hours (one way) |
| Average Cost (per person) | ₩45,000 – ₩75,000 (transport, entry, food) |
| Best Time to Visit | Autumn (Oct-Nov) for foliage, Spring (April) for blossoms |
| Time Needed on Island | 3-4 hours |
How to Get to Nami Island from Seoul: All Your Options
Getting to Nami Island is a two-part journey: first, you travel from Seoul to the nearby city of Gapyeong, and then you take a short ride from Gapyeong Station to the island’s ferry wharf. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to do it.
Step 1: Traveling from Seoul to Gapyeong Station
Choose the option that best fits your budget and schedule. The ITX train is highly recommended for its balance of speed and comfort.
| Method | Departure Stations | Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ITX-Cheongchun Train | Yongsan, Cheongnyangni | ~55-60 mins | ~₩6,900 | Speed and Comfort (Reserved Seating) |
| Subway (Gyeongchun Line) | Various (e.g., Sangbong) | ~80-90 mins | ~₩2,500 (T-money) | Budget Travelers (No Reserved Seating) |
| Official Shuttle Bus | Insadong, Namdaemun, Myeongdong | ~90-120 mins | ~₩18,000 (Round Trip) | Ultimate Convenience (Direct Route) |
Step 2: Getting from Gapyeong Station to the Nami Island Ferry Wharf
Once you arrive at Gapyeong Station, you’re just a few kilometers from the ferry wharf. Here’s how to cover the final leg of the journey.
- By Taxi: This is the fastest and most convenient option. The ride takes only 5-10 minutes and costs between ₩5,000 and ₩7,000. Simply head to the taxi stand outside the station.
- By Gapyeong City Tour Bus: If you plan to visit other nearby attractions like Petite France or The Garden of Morning Calm, this is your best bet. A day pass costs ₩8,000, allowing you to hop on and off at all the major sights in the area.
- By Local Bus: The cheapest but slowest choice. The local bus takes about 15 minutes but runs less frequently. Look for buses heading towards the Nami Island stop (남이섬 종합휴양지).
The Final Step: The Ferry Ride to Nami Island
The journey across the river is part of the experience! The ferry ride to Nami Island is a brief 5-6 minutes, offering lovely views as you approach. Ferries are frequent, departing every 10-30 minutes throughout the day. For thrill-seekers, there’s a more dramatic way to arrive: the Zipwire. For ₩49,900, you can soar across the river directly onto the island. This price includes your island entrance fee and the return ferry trip.
Nami Island Entrance Fee and Opening Hours (2025)
Your “Entrance VISA” to the Naminara Republic includes the round-trip ferry journey. You can purchase tickets at the booth right before the ferry dock.
| Nami Island “VISA” Fee (includes Ferry) | |
|---|---|
| Visitor Type | Price (KRW) |
| Adult | ₩16,000 |
| Youth (Middle/High School) & Senior (70+) | ₩13,000 |
| Child (36 months to Elementary) | ₩10,000 |
Ferry Operating Hours: 08:00 – 21:00 daily. Note that the first and last ferry times may vary slightly by season, so it’s always good to check the official site if you plan an early start or late departure.
Top 5 Things to Do on Nami Island
The island is a walker’s paradise, but there are plenty of specific sights and activities to fill your day. Here are the absolute must-dos:
- Stroll Down Metasequoia Lane: This is the iconic, majestic path you’ve seen in photos. Lined with towering dawn redwood trees, it’s breathtakingly beautiful in every season—lush green in summer, fiery orange in autumn, and blanketed in pristine white snow in winter.
- Rent a Bicycle: With its flat, well-paved roads, Nami Island is perfect for cycling. Rent a single bike, a tandem for two, or even an electric bike to effortlessly cruise around the entire island. It’s the best way to cover more ground and discover hidden corners.
- Find the “Winter Sonata” Filming Spots: K-drama fans, this is your pilgrimage! Recreate your favorite moments at the statue of the main characters, Bae Yong-joon and Choi Ji-woo, and find the romantic “First Kiss Glass Sequoia Bridge.”
- Explore Themed Gardens and Art Installations: Beyond the main avenues, the island is dotted with charming themed gardens, riverside walking paths, and unique art installations often made from recycled materials like soju bottles. Keep an eye out for curious ostriches and rabbits that roam freely!
- Ride the UNICEF Charity Train: For a charming and relaxing tour, hop on this little train that runs through the center of the island. It’s a great way to see the main sights, rest your feet, and know that your ride supports a good cause.
Sample Itinerary for a Nami Island Day Trip
Wondering how to structure your day? Here’s a sample schedule to maximize your time without feeling rushed.
- 8:00 AM: Depart from Seoul’s Yongsan Station via the ITX-Cheongchun train.
- 9:00 AM: Arrive at Gapyeong Station and take a quick taxi to the ferry wharf.
- 9:30 AM: Purchase your “visa” and take the ferry to Nami Island.
- 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM: Explore the island. Rent a bike, walk through Metasequoia and Ginkgo Tree Lanes, find the K-drama spots, and take countless photos.
- 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at one of the island’s restaurants. Try the local specialty, Dakgalbi!
- 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Do some final exploration, visit a riverside café, or browse the gift shops for unique souvenirs.
- 3:30 PM: Take the ferry back to the mainland.
- 4:00 PM: Catch the ITX train from Gapyeong Station back to Seoul.
- 5:00 PM: Arrive back in Seoul, just in time for dinner.
Where to Eat: Best Restaurants on Nami Island
You won’t go hungry on Nami Island. From traditional Korean fare to casual cafés, there’s something for every palate.
- Seomhyanggi (섬향기): The perfect place to try Chuncheon’s famous dish, Dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken). It’s cooked right at your table for a delicious and authentic experience. ($$)
- Yeonga Dosirak (연가도시락): For a fun and nostalgic meal, grab a dosirak (Korean lunch box). You shake the metal box to mix the rice, egg, and other ingredients before eating. It’s quick, affordable, and tasty. ($)
- Swing Cafe & Bakery: Need a break? This café offers excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and light meals with beautiful views of the Bukhan River. A great spot to relax and recharge. ($$)
Insider Tips for Your Visit
Make your trip even smoother with these pro tips.
- Go on a weekday. Weekends and public holidays can be extremely crowded. A weekday visit offers a much more serene experience.
- Arrive early. The first few hours of the morning are the quietest and best for photography before the crowds arrive.
- Rent a bike immediately. On busy days, bicycles can run out quickly. Make the rental shop your first stop after you get off the ferry.
- Book ITX tickets in advance. For weekend trips, ITX train seats can sell out. Book online a few days ahead to secure your spot.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking or cycling, so comfort is key!
- Check the weather forecast. The island is almost entirely outdoors, so dress in layers and be prepared for the day’s weather.
What to Pack for Your Nami Island Day Trip
Pack light but smart for a comfortable day out.
- T-money card for subway/bus travel
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Portable charger/power bank
- Camera and an extra battery
- Seasonal items: Sunscreen/hat (summer), gloves/scarf (winter)
- Refillable water bottle and some snacks
- Cash for smaller vendors or bike rentals
Budget Breakdown: How Much Does a Nami Island Trip Cost?
Here’s a look at the potential costs per person, depending on your travel style.
| Expense Item | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range | Comfort Seeker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport (Round Trip) | ~₩5,000 (Subway) | ~₩14,000 (ITX) | ~₩18,000 (Shuttle) |
| Gapyeong -> Wharf (RT) | ~₩3,000 (Bus) | ~₩12,000 (Taxi) | ~₩12,000 (Taxi) |
| Nami Island Entrance Fee | ₩16,000 | ₩16,000 | ₩16,000 |
| Food & Drinks | ₩10,000 | ₩25,000 | ₩40,000 |
| Activities (e.g., Bike) | ₩0 | ₩8,000 | ₩15,000 |
| TOTAL (Approx. per person) | ~₩34,000 | ~₩75,000 | ~₩101,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you do a day trip from Seoul to Nami Island?
Absolutely! A day trip is the most popular way to visit Nami Island. A total trip time of 7-9 hours (including travel) is perfect, giving you 3-4 hours to fully explore the island, have a meal, and soak in the atmosphere.
How do I get to Nami Island from Seoul?
The best way is a two-step process: First, take the ITX-Cheongchun train from Yongsan or Cheongnyangni station in Seoul to Gapyeong Station (about 1 hour). Second, from Gapyeong Station, take a 5-10 minute taxi or the Gapyeong City Tour Bus to the ferry wharf.
Is 1 day enough for Nami Island?
Yes, one day is more than enough. The island is compact and easy to navigate. In 3-4 hours, you can comfortably see all the main sights by foot or bike, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and head back to Seoul by evening. Our sample itinerary shows how easily it can be done.
How much is the train ticket from Seoul to Nami Island?
The fast and comfortable ITX-Cheongchun train costs approximately ₩6,900 one way. For a cheaper alternative, the all-stops Gyeongchun Line subway costs around ₩2,500 one way using a T-money card, but takes about 30 minutes longer.
TL;DR: Your Nami Island Day Trip Cheat Sheet
In a hurry? Here are the key takeaways for your trip.
- Best Way There: Take the ITX train from Yongsan/Cheongnyangni to Gapyeong Station, then a short taxi ride to the ferry wharf.
- Cost: Budget around ₩75,000 per person for a comfortable mid-range trip including transport, entry, food, and a bike rental.
- Must-Do: Walk the Metasequoia Lane, rent a bike, and find the “Winter Sonata” statue.
- Best Time: Visit on a weekday in Autumn (October-November) for stunning foliage and fewer crowds.
- Time Needed: Allow 3-4 hours on the island itself, plus 3-4 hours for round-trip travel from Seoul.
