Icheon Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Icheon, from cultural attractions and outdoor adventures to local cuisine and where to stay. Plan your trip with our week-long itinerary and transportation options guide.


Introduction to Icheon

Located in the Gyeonggi province of South Korea, Icheon is a picturesque city famous for its rich history, natural beauty, and culture. It is the birthplace of Korea’s first pottery, which dates back to the Bronze Age. Visitors to Icheon are treated to an exceptional view of the surrounding mountains and valleys, picturesque landscapes, and well-preserved tourist attractions. Whether you’re on a solo journey or traveling with family, Icheon has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Icheon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Icheon has several museums and historical sites that provide a glimpse into Korea’s rich culture and history. Here are some must-visit places:

  • Icheon Ceramics Village: This village provides an authentic experience of Korea’s ceramics culture through a variety of workshops, including wood-firing and hand-forming. Visitors can also enjoy exhibitions and purchase souvenirs at the on-site shops.

  • Haegang Ceramics Museum: This is a museum dedicated to Korean ceramics featuring over 2,000 pieces of pottery from various dynasties.

  • Seolbong Park: Located near the city center, Seolbong Park offers visitors the opportunity to explore ancient tombs of the Joseon Dynasty and other cultural relics.

Natural Attractions of Icheon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Icheon boasts exceptional natural beauty characterized by scenic views, lush forests, and mountains. Here are the natural attractions you should check out:

  • Mount Seolbongsan: A popular spot for hiking with a mesmerizing view of the city and surrounding mountains.

  • Jisan Forest Resort: A ski resort that offers world-class ski slopes, hiking trails, a water park, and an adventure park where visitors can try ziplining.

  • Unak Mountain: Known for its scenic views, Unak Mountain is a great destination for visitors looking for a peaceful, relaxing walk or hike around the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Icheon

Icheon has many hiking and biking routes that provide visitors with a chance to explore the city’s natural beauty. Here are our top picks:

  • Icheon Legenwoods Trail: This 7.4-kilometer trail offers visitors the chance to enjoy a relaxing walk around Legenwoods.

  • Jisan Forest Trail 1: At 10.7 kilometers long, this hiking trail is a great adventure for visitors to Icheon, offering stunning mountain views.

Best Things to Do in Icheon: Activities and Tours

Icheon offers various fun activities and tours that visitors can enjoy throughout the year. Here are our top picks:

  • Ceramic-making classes: Visit the Icheon Ceramics Village or Haegang Ceramics Museum and learn about Korean ceramics culture.

  • Hansori Music Experience: Visitors can experience traditional Korean music by playing various instruments at Hansori Music House.

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a hot-air balloon ride atop Jisan Resort and experience an unobstructed view of the surrounding area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Icheon

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a weeklong trip to Icheon:

  • Day 1: Visit Icheon Ceramics Village and Haegang Ceramics Museum
  • Day 2: Explore Seolbong Park and Unak Mountain
  • Day 3: Hike along the Jisan Forest Trail 1 and visit Hansori Music House
  • Day 4: Visit Seolbong Park and Legenwoods Trail
  • Day 5: Relax and ski at Jisan Forest Resort
  • Day 6: Hot air balloon ride at Jisan Resort and shop at a pottery market.
  • Day 7: Visit Mount Seolbongsan and learn about the city’s history at Icheon History Museum

Food and Drink Scene of Icheon

The city of Icheon boasts several local dishes and delicacies that visitors should try. Here’s a list:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Oxtail Soup: This savory soup is made by boiling oxtail in a savory broth.

  • Sujeonggwa: A sweet drink made from cinnamon sticks served cold.

  • Ssambap: Rice and an assortment of vegetables are wrapped in a lettuce leaf and eaten with sauces.

  • Icheon Rice cake: Icheon’s rice cake is made from glutinous rice flour, salt, and hot water.

Local Beverages

  • Bokbunja: A sweet, fruity drink made from crushed blackberries. It is said to have various health benefits.

  • Makgeolli: A milky colored Korean alcoholic drink made from rice and has a sweet and sour taste. It can be enjoyed with a variety of side dishes.

Where to Stay in Icheon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Icheon provides various types of accommodations, ranging from luxury resorts to inexpensive guesthouses. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Jisan Resort: A luxurious resort that provides comfortable rooms and world-class amenities with access to ski slopes, hiking trails, and water parks

  • Stay & Home: This guesthouse provides visitors affordable, comfortable accommodation with easy access to the city’s major attractions.

  • Sejong Hotel Icheon: A modern hotel in the heart of the city that features a rooftop pool and outstanding amenities.

What to Buy in Icheon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Icheon is famous for its pottery, and visitors can buy pottery products from several markets across the city. Besides pottery, here are some souvenirs you can consider buying:

  • Bokbunja Wine: Bokbunja is a Korean wine made from fructose corn syrup and black raspberry.

  • Hanchwa: Paper art made using paper that has been colored traditionally, known as hanji.

  • Traditional Korean sweets: Visitors can take home delicious and authentic Korean sweets made from rice and other grains.

Local Culture and Customs of Icheon

Icheon has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be aware of the following customs and behaviors:

  • Bow: Koreans bow as a form of greeting, thanking or apologizing. Visitors are encouraged to bow when meeting locals or receiving a gift.

  • Remove Shoes: Koreans usually remove shoes when entering a home or traditional Korean establishment. Visitors should note when to remove their shoes, and this information is provided at specific spots.

  • Respect the Elders: Koreans highly respect elderly people, and visitors are expected to be mindful of this tradition.

Best Time to Visit Icheon

The best times to visit Icheon are during the spring and autumn seasons, from March to May and September to November, respectively. The weather is mild, with fewer people, making it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city.

Do’s and Don’ts of Icheon

Here is a list of some do’s and don’ts to observe while in Icheon:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions

  • Remove shoes when entering specific establishments

  • Use both hands when giving or receiving items

Don’t:

  • Talk loudly in public areas or disturb others

  • Disrespect local customs or beliefs

  • Litter or throw trash on the streets

Safety and Health

Safety in Icheon

Icheon is famous for having a low crime rate, with very few instances of theft or robbery. Visitors are advised to take fundamental precautions such as being aware of their surroundings and traveling in groups at night.

Health in Icheon

Icheon has modern medical facilities and hospitals that provide care to both locals and tourists. It is essential to take precautions against illnesses by washing hands regularly, drinking clean water, and getting vaccinations if required.

Getting to Icheon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Icheon

  • Incheon International Airport: The airport is the closest to the city, only about an hour’s drive away.

Bus Stations Near Icheon

  • Icheon Intercity Bus Terminal: The bus terminal serves Icheon for intercity travels with access to several cities.

Other Options

  • Taxis: Taxis are prevalent in Icheon and operate by metered charges.

  • Rent a Car: Visitors have the option of renting a car to tour the city and its surroundings.

How to Get Around in Icheon

Icheon boasts a well-established public transportation system of buses and taxis, which makes it easy to explore the city’s attractions. Visitors can also rent bicycles or try the subway system.

Where to Go Next from Icheon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some destinations near Icheon that visitors can explore:

  • Suwon: A city famous for its beautiful traditional Hwaseong Fortress and Korean Folk Village

  • Seoul: Korea’s bustling capital, known for its ancient palaces, modern skyscrapers, and shopping streets.

  • Gapyeong: A beautiful town famous for its natural scenery, especially Nami Island

Conclusion

Icheon offers visitors endless opportunities to explore its rich culture, beautiful scenery, and natural attractions. Whether for adventure, relaxation, or culture, a trip to Icheon is a must for anyone visiting South Korea. Plan your trip in advance, include some must-see attractions, and create unforgettable memories.