Nami Island (Namiseom, 남이섬) is a small, tree-covered island in a river lake about 60 kilometres east of Seoul. It became famous across Asia as a filming location for the drama Winter Sonata, and it is still one of the easiest and prettiest day trips from the city, especially in autumn. This guide covers getting there, what to do and what else to see around Gapyeong.
Getting there
The island sits just off Gapyeong. You reach it by ferry (or zip line) from a wharf a short ride from Gapyeong Station.
By train
- ITX-Cheongchun: a fast train from Yongsan or Cheongnyangni to Gapyeong Station, taking roughly an hour. You need a ticket with a seat; book it on the Korail website or app, especially at weekends.
- Gyeongchun Line subway: slower but you can pay with your transit card. Expect about an hour and a half or more from central Seoul, with a change.
From Gapyeong Station, a taxi to the Nami Island wharf takes about five minutes, and the Gapyeong City Tour Bus also stops there. Check times and fares on Naver Map or KakaoMap on the day.
By shuttle bus or tour
A direct shuttle bus runs from central Seoul to the wharf once or twice in the morning; it is booked ahead, and pick-up points are listed on the island's official website. Many tour companies also sell day tours that combine Nami Island with nearby sights, which is the least effort if you do not mind a fixed schedule.
Tickets and the ferry
Your ticket covers the return ferry and entry to the island; you buy it at the wharf or online. The ferry ride takes only a few minutes and runs often through the day. For something faster and more fun, a zip line runs from a tower near the wharf straight onto the island (book separately, and note the weight and age limits). Prices change, so check the official site before you go.
On the island
The island is flat and you can walk around it in about two hours. Highlights are:
- The tree-lined avenues: rows of metasequoia, pine and ginkgo trees, the classic Nami Island photo.
- Bicycles: single and tandem bikes are for hire, an easy way to see the quieter edges of the island.
- Wildlife: squirrels, ostriches and rabbits wander freely in parts of the island.
- Cafés and restaurants: plenty of choice, including dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), the local speciality of the region.
Best time to go
- Autumn (late October to early November): the most beautiful and the busiest, when the ginkgo and maple leaves turn. See our autumn foliage guide.
- Spring: fresh green leaves and blossom, and fewer crowds than autumn.
- Winter: cold, but snowy days look like a film set, which is what made the island famous.
- Summer: green and shady but hot and humid, and the monsoon can bring heavy rain.
Around Gapyeong
If you have a full day, combine the island with one or two nearby places. Taxis or the Gapyeong City Tour Bus link them.
- The Garden of Morning Calm: a large garden in the hills, known for flowers in spring and summer and a big light festival on winter evenings.
- Petite France and the Italian village: themed villages with European-style houses, popular with drama fans.
- Gangchon Rail Park: pedal rail bikes along an old railway line near Gangchon, not far from Gapyeong.
- Chuncheon: a little further east, the home of dakgalbi and makguksu buckwheat noodles.
For more ideas, see our day trips from Seoul guide.
FAQ
How long does it take to get to Nami Island from Seoul?
About an hour to Gapyeong by ITX-Cheongchun train, plus a short taxi and ferry ride. The shuttle bus or a tour takes longer in traffic.
How much time do I need on Nami Island?
Two to three hours is enough to walk around, have a meal and take photos. Add a nearby sight for a full day.
When is Nami Island most beautiful?
Late October to early November, when the leaves change colour. It is also the busiest time, so go early or on a weekday.
