Many expats would say there is nothing better than living in the bustling capital city of Seoul, South Korea. Public transport is a dream, restaurants are delicious and everything you could need is right at your fingertips. However, finding some peace and quiet here is not always easy. Escaping the city to a verdant countryside location is the best solution. Why not visit Danyang, North Chungcheong?
Understandably, the Korean countryside is not as well-connected as its busy metropolitan city. To travel freely, it is best to rent a car. However, if that isnโt available to you, there are other options. I recommend signing up for a tour, which typically include transportation in its fee. Whatโs more, the right tour will take you from the mountain tops to deep lakes and valleys, and even the beach if you head out far enough.
Danyang is the perfect weekend getaway as it is only 2h 30m from Seoul. Additionally, many of the must-see attractions are a short distance from each other. Need a fool-proof itinerary? Iโve got you covered. Here are the top things to do in Danyang, North Chungcheong Province.
How to Get There
You can get a direct bus to Danyang from the Dong Seoul Bus Terminal for 14,500 KRW. The bus goes every 4 hours, so its worth getting there early. The journey is 2h 30m.
Danyang Paragliding
There are several companies that you can book your paragliding experience in Danyang. One that I recommend is Danyang Paragliding. You can conveniently book them through the website by submitting a 10,000 KRW deposit to reserve your spot. One of the coordinators will also contact you via text to schedule a flight time. The best part about this company is that they will pick you up at the Danyang Intercity Bus Terminal when you arrive. This is because there are many winding roads to get to the flying site and some taxi drivers may be unwilling to drive.
So, for 100,000 KRW you receive:
- Bus terminal pickup
- An on-site instructor that will assist you with the paragliding
- Pictures and videos of your paragliding trip, which the instructor will be shooting with a Go Pro
Danyang Paragliding Address: 196-52 Dusan-gil, Gagok-myeon, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do Website: paraglidingkorea.kr
Cafe Sann
The coffee culture is huge in Korea and you really can find a cute cafe anywhere. Cafe Sann is located nearby Danyang paragliding, just a short walk up a dirt road. It is a 3-story cafe that serves coffee, lattes, lemonade and desserts. The best part of the cafe is the terrace seating that overlooks the mountain and valley. So sit back, relax and watch paragliders soar into the air. If you like what you see, you can even book tickets for paragliding at the cafe!
Cafe San Address: 196-86 Dusan-gil, Gagok-myeon, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do Operating Hours: 9:30am - 7:30pm weekdays, 8:30am - 7:30pm weekends
Mancheona Skywalk
Only 15 minutes from the paragliding site by taxi is the Mancheona Skywalk. When you arrive at the Skywalk, there is a ticket kiosk to purchase an entrance ticket (3,000 KRW) including shuttle bus that takes you up the mountain. At the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view overlooking the Namhan River. Additionally, zip line tickets are 30,000 KRW and can be purchased on site.
Mancheonha Sky Walk Address: 60-186 Osbawui-gil, Jeokseong-myeon, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do Operating Hours: 9:00am - 6:00pm everyday Website: mancheonha.com
Guinsa Temple
South Korea is well-known for its many temples, but Guinsa Temple in Danyang is definitely the most impressive. This 5-story temple is located at the peak of Sobaeksan Mountain. Unlike other temples that have existed 100s of years, Guinsa was built in 1945. Therefore, it is more accessible to visitors than others. This site is also easy to get to. Simply purchase a direct bus ticket for 3,500 KRW at the Danyang Intercity Bus Terminal and the bus ride takes about 30 minutes.
There is a museum and traditional restaurants located nearby to Guinsa, so it might be a good place to head to in late afternoon/early evening, as you can enjoy a nice meal afterwards. However, it is worth noting that the bus will only take you about halfway up the mountain and there is a bit of a hike required to reach the temple. The destination is definitely worth the extra cardio. Expect a stunning temple and another fantastic mountain view. Guinsa also offers a temple-stay experience, a one-of-a-kind activity that allows you to spend the night living as a Buddhist monk.
Guinsa Temple Address: 73 Guinsa-gil, Yeongchun-myeon, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do Website: eng.templestay.com
Dodamsambong Peaks
After exploring the temple, you can take a bus direct from the temple to the Dodamsambong peaks โ or taxi for 28,000 KRW. The Dodamsambong peaks are 3 jagged rock formations that emerge from the Namhan River. Together, the rocks tell the story of a love triangle between a husband, wife and mistress. If you hadnโt had enough beautiful views already, this one is sure to satisfy you. The landscape includes the stunning river and bridge against a mountainous back drop. You can also book a speed boat ride for 20,000 KRW. If you just feel like chilling out, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby.
Dodamsambong Peaks Address: 644 Sambong-ro, Maepo-eub, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do
Suyanggae Light Tunnel
Finally, the perfect place to end the day: the Suyanggae Light Tunnel. The tunnel is filled with a rainbow of colourful lights accompanied by techno music, reminiscent of an EDM concert. Youโll find plenty of photo zones and a beautiful garden filled with lights. The tunnel is a short taxi ride from the Dodamsambong peaks. When you arrive, you can purchase tickets at the booth for 9,000 KRW.
Suyanggae Light Tunnel Address: 390 Suyanggaeyujeok-ro, Jeokseong-myeon, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do Operating Hours: 5:00pm - 10:00pm everyday
