Suanbo Travel Guide

Get ready to explore the culturally rich and naturally diverse destination of Suanbo in South Korea. Discover the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, must-try activities, and more.


Introduction to Suanbo

Suanbo is a quaint town located in the North Chungcheong province of South Korea. Known for its hot springs and breathtaking natural beauty, it attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.

With a rich history dating back to the Joseon Dynasty era, the town is undoubtedly a treasure trove for history lovers. But that’s not all it has to offer. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in Suanbo.

In this ultimate travel guide to Suanbo, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to this charming town in South Korea.

List of Places to Visit in Suanbo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Suanbo Hot Springs Museum: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Suanbo’s hot springs at this museum.

  • Ssangseonam Rock: A breathtaking natural wonder, Ssangseonam Rock is believed to have been a sanctuary of the gods.

  • Suanbo Park: A beautiful park situated near the hot springs, this is a great place to relax and take a break from your sightseeing.

  • Eunhaesa Temple: A stunning temple located in the mountains near Suanbo that offers a peaceful atmosphere and magnificent views.

  • Oksunbong Peak: A popular hiking destination, Oksunbong Peak offers a challenging climb and spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Cheongnamdae: Formerly the country retreat for South Korea’s presidents, this palace-turned-museum offers a glimpse into the country’s political past.

Natural Attractions of Suanbo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Suanbo Hot Springs: The town’s biggest attraction, these hot springs offer therapeutic relaxation and health benefits.

  • Oksunbong Forest: A dense forest near the peak of Oksunbong Peak, featuring a variety of rare plant species and wildlife.

  • Hongcheon River: A stunningly clear river that runs through the town, offering a peaceful and natural oasis.

  • Hwayang Valley: A scenic valley with cascading waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Suanbo

Suanbo offers several hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy to difficult:

  • Oksunbong Peak hiking trail: A challenging trail for experienced hikers, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Hwayang Valley Trail: A moderate trail that follows the Hongcheon River and leads to the beautiful Hwayang Valley.

  • Jeonli Ridge Trail: A somewhat easy trail that starts at Suanbo Hot Springs and offers magnificent views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

  • Suanbo Mountain Bike Trail: A designated mountain biking trail that takes you through the forests and mountains of Suanbo.

Best Things to Do in Suanbo: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Springs Experience: Soak in the therapeutic waters of Suanbo’s hot springs and relax your sore muscles.

  • Temple Stay: Experience the unique lifestyle of Buddhist monks by staying in one of the many temples located near Suanbo.

  • River Rafting: Experience the thrill of river rafting in the clear waters of the Hongcheon River.

  • Paragliding: Get a bird’s-eye view of Suanbo and its surroundings with a paragliding tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Suanbo

Day 1: Visit Suanbo Hot Springs Museum and spend the day relaxing in the hot springs.

Day 2: Take the Ssangseonam Rock hiking trail and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 3: Head to the Eunhaesa Temple and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and magnificent views.

Day 4: Explore the Hwayang Valley and take a refreshing dip in the waterfalls.

Day 5: Visit the Oksunbong Forest and go for a leisurely hike.

Day 6: Take a day trip to Chungju Lake and enjoy water sports activities.

Day 7: Visit the Cheongnamdae museum and learn more about South Korea’s political history.

Food and Drink Scene of Suanbo

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pyeongchang makguksu: A local delicacy made from buckwheat noodles, served in a cold broth with vegetables and meat.

  • Suanbo salmon: Fresh salmon caught from the nearby Hongcheon River, known for its soft texture and flavorful taste.

  • Bindaetteok: A savory pancake made from ground mung beans, served with soy sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Makgeolli: A traditional Korean rice wine, often enjoyed with spicy dishes.

  • Soju: A clear, slightly sweet distilled liquor, similar to vodka.

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

Suanbo offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some popular options include:

  • Suanbo Saipan Spa Hotel: A luxurious hotel located near the hot springs that offers spa services and modern amenities.

  • Oksunbong Pension: A cozy guesthouse located near Oksunbong Peak that offers beautiful views and warm hospitality.

  • W Motel: A budget-friendly option that offers clean rooms and basic amenities.

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

  • Handmade pottery: Suanbo is known for its beautiful handmade pottery, made by skilled artisans.

  • Suanbo Salmon: Fresh salmon caught from the Hongcheon River, which can be vacuum-packed and transported home.

Local Culture and Customs of Suanbo

Suanbo is a conservative and traditional town, and visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully.

The town’s rich history and culture are deeply intertwined with Buddhism, and visitors are encouraged to show respect towards the religion and its practitioners.

Best Time to Visit Suanbo

The best time to visit Suanbo is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when the temperatures are mild and the landscapes are beautiful with blooming flowers or fall foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Suanbo

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respectfully

  • Show respect towards Buddhism and its practitioners

  • Try out the local delicacies

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing

  • Engage in loud or disruptive behavior

  • Disrespect the local traditions and customs

Safety and Health

Safety in Suanbo

Suanbo is a relatively safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors are advised to take normal precautions to ensure their safety, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Suanbo

Suanbo’s hot springs are known for their therapeutic properties and are safe to use. However, visitors with health concerns should consult their doctor before visiting the hot springs.

Getting to Suanbo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Suanbo

The nearest airport to Suanbo is Incheon International Airport, which is about 170 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Suanbo

There are several bus stations near Suanbo, including Cheongju Bus Terminal, Chungju Bus Terminal, and Jecheon Bus Terminal. Buses run frequently from these stations to Suanbo.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a taxi or rent a car to get to Suanbo.

How to Get Around in Suanbo

Suanbo is a small town that can easily be explored by foot or bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Suanbo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Chungju Lake: A popular recreational area located about 20 kilometers from Suanbo, offering water sports activities and beautiful views.

  • Danyang: A nearby town known for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures, including rock climbing and hiking.

Conclusion

Suanbo is a hidden gem that has something for everyone. With its hot springs, natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures, it’s a must-visit destination in South Korea. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of Suanbo.

Suanbo as seen from the Park Hotel's hot springs Suanbo as seen from the Park Hotel's hot springs Hanwha Resort Hanwha Resort