Yongin Travel Guide (Gyeonggi/South Korea/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Yongin

Yongin is a city located in Gyeonggi, South Korea. It is a historic city with a mix of traditional and modern attractions. Yongin is renowned for its cultural significance, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. It serves as a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the charm of Gyeonggi.

List of Places to Visit in Yongin

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Korean Folk Village – The Korean Folk Village is an open-air museum in Yongin that showcases the traditional Korean way of life from the Joseon era. Visitors can experience traditional Korean culture, watch traditional performances, and try traditional Korean food.
Everland – Everland is South Korea’s largest theme park located in Yongin. The park is known for its thrilling roller coasters, a zoo, and a water park.
Yongin Central Park – Yongin Central Park is a beautiful park with lakes, gardens, and hiking trails. It is a popular destination for picnics and outdoor activities like horse riding.
Bosingak Pavillion – The Bosingak Pavilion is an iconic structure in Yongin that dates back to the Joseon era. It is a popular spot for tourists who want to experience the traditional Korean architecture.
Jeongja Park – Jeongja Park is a beautiful park with a traditional Korean garden and a lotus pond. It is a serene place to take a peaceful walk and capture beautiful photos.

Natural Attractions of Yongin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Gyeonggi Youth Park – The Gyeonggi Youth Park is a beautiful park that offers outdoor adventures for visitors. There are various activities like zip lining, bungee jumping, and rock climbing.
Avalanche Snow Park – Avalanche Snow Park is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Visitors can experience a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.
Yongin Recreational Forest – The Yongin Recreational Forest is a beautiful place for hiking and camping in Yongin. It is a great place to experience nature and relax surrounded by lush greenery.
Mt. Cheonggyesan – Mt. Cheonggyesan is a stunning mountain range located in Yongin. Visitors can hike the trails and enjoy the beautiful views of the city from the top of the mountain.
Korean Folk Village Countryside Experience – The Korean Folk Village Countryside Experience offers visitors a chance to experience the traditional Korean countryside. Visitors can learn traditional Korean farming techniques and try traditional farming tools.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yongin

Mt. Namhansan – Mt. Namhansan offers beautiful hiking routes and stunning views of the city from its peak. Visitors can bike the trails as well.
Gyeonggi Arboretum Trail – The Gyeonggi Arboretum Trail is an enjoyable walk that offers views of exotic plants and beautiful flowers.
Jukjeon Trail – The Jukjeon Trail is a biking trail that offers beautiful views of the city of Yongin.

Best Things to Do in Yongin: Activities and Tours

Yongin Tour with Korean Traditional Costume – The Yongin Tour with Korean Traditional Costume allows visitors to experience traditional Korean culture and try on traditional Korean clothes. The tour includes a visit to the Korean Folk Village.
Everland Theme Park Adventure – The Everland Theme Park Adventure offers visitors the chance to experience the thrill of the rides and enjoy a day out with friends and family.
Nanta Show – The Nanta Show is a traditional Korean performance that features acrobatic choreography and comedy skits. It is a must-see for visitors to Yongin.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yongin

Day	Activity
Day 1	Visit Korean Folk Village and learn traditional Korean culture
Day 2	Spend the day at Everland Theme Park
Day 3	Hike Mt. Namhansan and enjoy the beautiful views
Day 4	Try winter sports at Avalanche Snow Park
Day 5	Enjoy a scenic walk at Jeongja Park
Day 6	Visit Gyeonggi Youth Park and try outdoor adventures
Day 7	Take a tour of Yongin with traditional Korean costume

Food and Drink Scene of Yongin

Must-Try Dishes

Sundae – Sundae is a popular street food in Yongin made with pig’s blood, glass noodles, and vegetables.
Dak Galbi – Dak Galbi is a local favorite that is made with marinated chicken, vegetables, and chili paste, all stir-fried together.
Jajangmyeon – Jajangmyeon is a popular noodle dish in Yongin made with a thick black bean sauce.

Local Beverages

Soju – Soju is Korea’s most popular alcoholic drink, made from rice or wheat.
Makgeolli – Makgeolli is a traditional Korean rice wine with a milky texture.
Bokbunja-ju – Bokbunja-ju is a traditional Korean wine made from raspberries.

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

Q Hotel – Q Hotel is a budget-friendly option that offers clean rooms and is conveniently located near Everland and Korean Folk Village.
Ramada Yongin Hotel – The Ramada Yongin Hotel provides modern rooms with excellent amenities and a convenient location near Gyeonggi Youth Park.
Hotel Shin Young – Hotel Shin Young is a luxurious option that provides comfortable rooms and excellent amenities. It is conveniently located near Everland.

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

Hanji Sheet – Hanji Sheet is a traditional Korean paper used for various purposes, including decoration and crafts.
Omija Tea – Omija Tea is a fruit tea made from the five flavors: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and pungent. It is a traditional Korean drink famous in Yongin.
Yongin Handmade Soap – Yongin Handmade Soap is a special soap made in the city using the traditional Korean method.

Local Culture and Customs of Yongin

Bowing – Bowing is an essential aspect of Korean culture, and it is customary to bow when greeting others and showing respect.
Gift Giving – Gift-giving is a traditional practice in Korea, and it is customary to bring gifts for hosts or guests.
Chopsticks – In Korea, chopsticks are the primary utensil used for eating, and it is customary to hold them correctly and use them with care.

Best Time to Visit Yongin

The best time to visit Yongin is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is relatively mild, and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities without being subjected to harsh weather conditions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yongin

Do:

Learn basic Korean phrases – Learning basic Korean phrases can help you communicate better and interact with locals.
Try the local delicacies – Yongin boasts of excellent local cuisine, and visitors should try the local dishes.
Respect the culture – Korea has a rich and unique culture, and visitors should respect the culture and customs.

Don’t:

Disrespect elders – Koreans value respect for elders, and it is considered rude to disrespect them.
Use your cell phone in public transportation – Cell phone use in public transportation is prohibited in Korea.

Safety and Health

Safety in Yongin

Yongin is a safe city, and visitors can move around freely without worrying about their safety. However, it is advisable to exercise caution while travelling to unfamiliar places.

Health in Yongin

Yongin has excellent medical facilities, and visitors can access medical services from various hospitals and clinics located in the city.

Getting to Yongin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Yongin

The closest airport to Yongin is Incheon International Airport. Visitors can take a bus or train to reach Yongin from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Yongin

The Yongin Bus Terminal is the main bus station in the city. Visitors can take a bus from this station to various destinations in and around Yongin.

Other Options

Visitors can travel by train as well. The Yongin Everline is a rapid transit line that connects Yongin to Seoul.

How to Get Around in Yongin

The best way to get around Yongin is by public transportation. Yongin has an extensive network of buses and trains, making it easy for visitors to travel around the city.

Where to Go Next from Yongin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Seoul – Seoul is the capital city of South Korea and is just a short train ride away from Yongin. Visitors can experience the vibrant city, visit historical landmarks and learn more about Korean culture.
Suwon – Suwon is a historic city located near Yongin. Visitors can explore the famous Hwaseong Fortress and experience the local culture.

Conclusion

Yongin is a city that offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions making it an excellent travel destination for visitors who want to experience the charm of Gyeonggi. Plan your trip to Yongin with this comprehensive travel guide, and enjoy all the city has to offer!

Yongin Image Gallery

Dance performance at the Korean Folk Village

Tigers at the safari

Everland

View of Tan stream

Bojung Cafe street view in Spring