An Exotic Scenery by Subway, The Real Charm of Dongducheon (동두천) with a Population of 90,000
A record of a weekend spent in Dongducheon (동두천), where American sentiment and deep valleys coexist.
Introducing This City
Dongducheon (동두천), a cozy city with a population of about 95,000, is easily accessible from Seoul via Subway Line 1. With its unique harmony of exotic streetscapes and deep mountainous nature, it's the perfect destination when you want to escape the busy city center on the weekend and breathe some fresh air.
The Path This City Has Walked
Dongducheon (동두천) is a city that has experienced the flow of modern Korean history firsthand. As a strategic stronghold in northern Gyeonggi Province, U.S. military bases settled here, naturally allowing a unique exotic culture to blossom. The Bosan-dong area is transforming into a new cultural space where traces of the past join hands with modern youth artists, making wandering through the alleys a lot of fun.
Must-Visit Places
In Dongducheon (동두천), instead of a forest of skyscrapers, you can find exotic streets and cool valleys. Especially since there are many spots that make you stop with your camera in hand, it's great to explore like a leisurely walk.
한국관광공사Search →Welcomed by exotic signs and murals, you can capture unique proof-of-visit shots as if you've come to a small foreign village.
한국관광공사Search →Featuring well-maintained forest walking trails and clean accommodation facilities, it's a great healing retreat to quietly breathe in phytoncides.
한국관광공사Search →Clear water flows along a long-stretching valley, making it an endlessly wonderful place to dip your feet and rest during the summer.
한국관광공사Search →A charming bridge crossing Tapdong Valley, great for taking in the surrounding natural scenery at a glance and taking a short break.
A specialized pet-friendly space where you can run around a wide lawn with your dog and enjoy a picnic.
Nature Surrounding the City
Since a significant portion of Dongducheon's total area is surrounded by mountains, it embraces deep mountain nature that is hard to believe is near Seoul. In particular, Tapdong Valley shows a completely different face every season, with cool streams in summer and colorful autumn foliage in fall.
Soyosan Mountain (소요산)
A famous mountain with beautiful hermitages and bizarre rocks, often called the 'Geumgangsan of Gyeonggi', and especially renowned for autumn foliage hiking.
Cheonbosan Mountain (천보산)
An excellent mountain for enjoying a light and easy trekking experience, combining gentle hiking trails and clear valleys.
Taste and Style of This City
Influenced by the U.S. military base, Dongducheon (동두천) has long developed original Western-style culinary culture such as Budae-jjigae and steaks. From long-established eateries to hip cafes, it's full of culinary joys spanning generations, making it a regret-free choice for a food trip.
Restaurants Loved by Locals
Rather than places crowded only with tourists, we have selected true local favorites that the people of Dongducheon (동두천) have cherished for a long time.
한국관광공사Search →An American-style BBQ specialty restaurant hidden deep in the mountain, where you can fully enjoy thick BBQ and an exotic atmosphere.
A long-established Tteokgalbi (grilled short rib patties) specialty restaurant where you can taste tender Tteokgalbi steeped in deep seasoning.
A vintage Seolleongtang (ox bone soup) restaurant boasting a rich and milky broth, second to none for a hearty meal.
한국관광공사Search →A pretty cafe where you can rest while enjoying aromatic coffee and freshly baked desserts in a cozy atmosphere.
한국관광공사Search →A place where you can taste healthy and hearty Korean food filled with fresh wrap vegetables and neat side dishes.
Good to Know Before Traveling
Dongducheon (동두천) is located near the terminal of Subway Line 1, so you can easily travel with just a transportation card. However, relying solely on public transportation might be a bit disappointing for exploring every corner of the deep valleys or recreation forests, so if your schedule is tight, we recommend using a car or checking bus schedules in advance.