Nami Island Day Trip Guide: K-Drama Romance & Nature
Updated for March 2026
Take a break from the neon lights of Seoul and step into the whimsical world of Nami Island (Namiseom - 남이섬). This half-moon-shaped island, located in the middle of the Han River in Gapyeong, became a global sensation as the primary filming location for the legendary K-Drama Winter Sonata.
Whether you're a hardcore drama fan or just someone seeking a peaceful walk among towering trees, Nami Island is a must-visit day trip from Seoul.
🚉 How to Get to Nami Island
Getting to Nami Island is part of the adventure. You have three main options:
Note: All public transport leads to Gapyeong Station (가평역). From there, take a short taxi or the Gapyeong Tour Bus to the Gapyeong Wharf.
🛶 Entering the "Namimin Republic"
Nami Island declares itself an "imaginary country" called the Naminara Republic. You actually need a "Passport" (your ticket) to enter!
- The Ferry: The traditional way. It runs every 10-30 minutes and takes about 5-10 minutes to cross the river.
- The Zip Wire: For the thrill-seekers! You can "fly" into the island from an 80-meter high tower. It’s expensive (approx. 50,000 KRW), but the view is breathtaking.
📸 Top Photo Spots on the Island
🌲 Metasequoia Road (메타세쿼이아길)
The most iconic spot on the island. These giant, majestic trees line a long walking path that looks beautiful in every season. This is where the famous Winter Sonata posters were shot. * Pro Tip: If you want a photo without crowds, be on the very first ferry of the day!
🌲 Ginkgo Tree Lane (은행나무길)
In autumn, this path turns a brilliant, fiery gold. In spring and summer, it’s a lush, vibrant green. It’s perfect for a slow, romantic stroll.
🚲 Bike Center (바이크센터)
Rent a bicycle (single, tandem, or family bike) to explore the entire island in about an hour. Cycling along the riverside paths is the best way to see the hidden corners of Namiseom.
Don't just visit Nami Island! The Gapyeong Circle Tour Bus (8,000 KRW for a day pass) allows you to hop on and off at Nami Island, Petite France (쁘띠프랑스), and the Garden of Morning Calm (아침고요수목원). It’s the most efficient way to see three major attractions in one day.
🥘 What to Eat: Dakgalbi (닭갈비)
You cannot visit the Gapyeong/Chuncheon area without eating Dakgalbi (Spicy Stir-fried Chicken - 닭갈비).
While there are many restaurants on the island, the "real" experience is at the many restaurants just outside the ferry wharf. You choose between: * Classic Dakgalbi: Cooked on a large iron griddle with cabbage, rice cakes, and spicy sauce. * Charcoal-grilled (숯불) Dakgalbi: Grilled over hot coals for a smoky, tender flavor. * Pro Tip: Always order Fried Rice (Bokkeumbap - 볶음밥) at the end!
🏮 Culture & Tips (꿀팁)
- Muslim-Friendly: Nami Island is one of the most Muslim-friendly spots in Korea, featuring a dedicated prayer room and a Halal-certified restaurant (Dongmoon).
- Art & Workshops: The island is filled with glass-blowing workshops, pottery classes, and art galleries. It’s a great place to make your own souvenir.
- Peacocks and Rabbits: Don't be surprised if a peacock walks right past you! The island is home to various free-roaming animals. Please do not feed them human food.
- Weather Check: It's often a few degrees colder than Seoul, especially by the water. Bring an extra layer!
🎒 Suggested 1-Day Itinerary
- 09:00 AM: Depart Seoul via ITX-Cheongchun.
- 10:00 AM: Arrive at Gapyeong Wharf, take the Ferry.
- 10:30 AM - 01:00 PM: Explore Nami Island, rent a bike, take photos.
- 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM: Lunch (Dakgalbi near the wharf).
- 02:30 PM: Take the Tour Bus to Petite France or Garden of Morning Calm.
- 06:30 PM: Return to Gapyeong Station and head back to Seoul.
Nami Island is a place where time seems to slow down. It’s the perfect escape for couples, families, and photographers alike!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I get from Seoul to Nami Island using public transport? Take the ITX-Cheongchun train from Yongsan or Cheongnyangni Station to Gapyeong Station (가평역) — the journey takes about 55 minutes. From the station, take a short taxi ride or the Gapyeong Tour Bus to the wharf. From the wharf, board the ferry to the island (runs every 10–30 minutes). Budget about 90 minutes total travel time from central Seoul.
Q: How much does it cost to enter Nami Island? The entrance fee to Nami Island (which includes the ferry ticket) is approximately 16,000 KRW for adults. If you take the zipline entrance instead, expect to pay around 50,000 KRW. The Gapyeong Circle Tour Bus day pass costs an additional 8,000 KRW and allows hop-on hop-off access to Petite France and the Garden of Morning Calm on the same day.
Q: Which K-drama was filmed at Nami Island, and where are the filming locations? Nami Island became globally famous as the primary filming location for the iconic 2002 K-drama Winter Sonata (겨울연가), starring Bae Yong-joon and Choi Ji-woo. The most famous scene was filmed on the Metasequoia Road (메타세쿼이아길), the long tree-lined path now considered the island’s signature landmark. Many small markers and signs throughout the island indicate the original filming spots.
Q: What is the best season to visit Nami Island? Nami Island is beautiful in every season. Autumn (October–November) is most dramatic with fiery golden ginkgo trees and red maple foliage — peak photography season. Spring brings fresh green canopies. Winter is magical when snow blankets the trees, recreating the Winter Sonata atmosphere. Summer is lush but can be crowded and humid.
Q: Are there halal food options on Nami Island? Yes. Nami Island is notably Muslim-friendly — it has a dedicated prayer room and a Halal-certified restaurant called Dongmoon, making it one of the more accessible Korean tourist attractions for Muslim travelers. The island also has multiple general restaurants, cafes, and food carts with various options throughout the grounds.