A Pocheon Travel Record Where the Air Feels Sweetest Near Seoul
A simple and warm record of a few days spent in Pocheon, a cozy city with a population of 150,000.
Let me introduce this city
It is surprisingly amazing that you can encounter such deep nature just by getting away a little bit from Seoul. Pocheon, home to about 152,000 residents, is the first place that comes to mind when you want to leave the busy downtown and fully enjoy a rest. When you roll down the car window, you can feel the air that cools all the way down to your nose, making it a favorite spot for weekend drives.
The path this city has walked
Pocheon has been a strategic stronghold and transportation hub in the northern Gyeonggi region since ancient times. Because fierce territorial battles took place here since the Three Kingdoms period, historical traces are deeply embedded everywhere. However, lush forests and clear water have now filled those places instead of that painful history, offering a generous resting place to travelers. The scenery is so deep and serene that you might think ancient ancestors also composed poems while looking at these beautiful mountain ranges.
Must-visit places
The true charm of Pocheon lies in the green scenery that unfolds wherever your footsteps reach. It is a lot of fun to choose and visit places ranging from famous tourist attractions to secret forests that only you want to know. We have carefully selected only the places that are great for taking pictures and comforting your mind.
한국관광공사Search →You can fully enjoy a forest bath while walking along forest paths densely filled with pine trees. Your chest opens up wide the entire time you walk.
한국관광공사Search →It is a great mountain to climb for both hiking beginners and intermediates. When you stand at the summit, Pocheon's wide embrace comes into view at a glance.
한국관광공사Search →With its cute gardens and animals, it is a great place to take a walk with children or have a quiet date.
한국관광공사Search →It is a serene temple located near Sanjeong Lake. It is great for quietly calming your mind with a temple stay vibe.
한국관광공사Search →You can experience a cozy rural village lifestyle as if you visited your grandmother's country home. You can also taste the deep flavor of homemade traditional paste.
한국관광공사Search →It is an old temple you encounter while hiking up along the Baegunsan Valley. It is perfect for deep contemplation while listening to the sound of valley water.
Nature surrounding the city
Nature is well-preserved in Pocheon, to the extent that mountains and valleys make up most of the terrain. Light green sprouts in spring, cool valley waters in summer, and burning autumn foliage greet us with different faces every season. In particular, the wind blowing from the forest completely washes away the fatigue gained from the city.
The taste and style of this city
When you think of Pocheon, sweet and salty Idong galbi will likely come to mind first. Although it is a local food developed for visitors meeting soldiers stationed in many military units, it has now become a nationwide favorite delicacy. Along with sundubu (soft tofu) or handmade dumplings made from beans grown in clean water, these rustic yet sincere local foods double the joy of traveling.
Restaurants loved by locals
Instead of tourist-trap prices, we have gathered only the hidden gem restaurants truly loved by locals. These are great places to fill your stomach and continue your trip.
The sweet seasoning is well-absorbed into the meat, so it melts in your mouth when grilled over charcoal. Around 30,000 to 40,000 KRW per serving.
A place where you can taste the savory and plain flavor of beans themselves. Since it is not stimulating, it is perfect for breakfast.
Refreshing dumpling hot pot containing handmade dumplings is the signature menu. The broth is spicy yet deep, thoroughly relieving your insides.
You can taste neat Korean cuisine and local food in a cozy atmosphere. It is especially popular among family customers.
Things to know before traveling
Pocheon can be reached within 1 to 2 hours from Seoul by intercity bus or car, making day trips or 1-night 2-day trips burden-free. However, since there are many nature recreation or hiking courses, comfortable sneakers are essential. Public transportation dispatch intervals are somewhat long, so we recommend using a car if you want to explore every corner at a leisurely pace.