Your Handy Guide to Planning a Visit to Nami Island in South Korea

Seoul to Nami Island tours | Visitor information at a glance

Visit to Nami Island
  • When do Seoul to Nami Island tours start?

Tours from Seoul to Nami Island generally start between 7am and 8:20am, depending on the package.

  • What are the ways I can get from Seoul to Nami Island? 

You can access Nami Island via ferry or opt for guided tours, including shuttle services from Seoul.

  • How many number visitors does Nami Island see per year?

Nami Island attracts approximately 3 million visitors annually, especially during peak seasons.

Seoul to Nami Island tour timings

Visit to Nami Island

Nami Island tours vary based on the number of attractions included, with average durations ranging from 9 to 10 hours. Some tours extend up to 13 hours. For specific start times:

  • From Seoul: Nami Island Guided Tour: 8:20am
  • From Seoul: Nami Island & Alpaca World Guided Tour: 7am
  • From Seoul: Nami Island, Petite France & Italian Village Guided Tour: 7am, 7:20am, 8am, and 8:20am
  • From Seoul: Nami Island & The Garden of Morning Calm Guided Tour: 8:20am

Best time to go on a Nami Island tour

Weekends vs weekdays

The best time to visit Nami Island is during weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon, when the island is less crowded. Weekends often see a surge in tourists, leading to longer queues and busier attractions. For a more serene experience, consider arriving early the day to enjoy the surroundings.

High season vs low season

Seasonal variations also play a significant role in the island's appeal. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and beautiful natural scenery, making these the high tourist seasons. Conversely, summer and winter see fewer visitors, with winter's cold temperatures providing a quieter but equally charming experience.

Where is Nami Island Located?

Address: 1 Namisum-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do 24464, South Korea

Find On Maps

Nami Island is situated in the Han River, northeast of Seoul, South Korea, and is accessible from Gapyeong County.

Closest town: Gapyeong (3.8 km)

How to get to Nami Island?

Tour transport options

Most visitors opt for guided tours that include round-trip transfers. Tours offer a straightforward and convenient way to reach Nami Island, typically covering transport from Seoul to Gapyeong, where you will transfer to a ferry. You’ll easily avoid switching several times and making more stops with tour transfers, scoring you more time to enjoy the attractions.

Traveling solo

By train:
Depart from Yongsan Station or Cheongnyangni Station and take the ITX-Cheongchun train to Gapyeong Station. The journey takes about 55-60 minutes. Once at Gapyeong Station, you can reach Nami Island Ferry Terminal by taxi or by taking bus No. 10-4, 33-5, or 33-36.

By shuttle bus:
Round-trip shuttle buses run from Hongik University Station Exit 4, Namsan Yejang Bus Parking Lot, or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station Exit 10 in Seoul directly to Nami Island Ferry Terminal, offering a convenient option.

By car:
Drive from Seoul to Gapyeong via Dongbu Expressway (No. 60). Once at Gapyeong Wharf, take a ferry to Nami Island, which is about a 5-minute ride. Ferries operate every 30 minutes between 7:30 and 9:00 and 18:00 and 21:30, with more frequent service between 9:00 and 18:00.

For a unique experience, you can opt for the Zip-wire to Nami Island, though you must return by ferry. Do check height and weight requirements before booking.

Know before you visit Nami Island

Visit to Nami Island
  • Air-conditioned Transportation: Tours include round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey from Seoul to Nami Island and back.
  • Pick-ups & drop-off transfers: Convenient pick-ups and drop-offs from designated locations in Seoul are included, making travel hassle-free.
  • Expert multi-lingual guide: An English-speaking and Chinese guide provides informative and engaging commentary, enhancing your visit.
  • Activities pre-included: Entry to Nami Island and various pre-included activities allow you to bypass long queues and enjoy a smoother experience.
  • Small-group tour: Tours are limited to 10 people, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
  • Wheelchair & stroller accessibility: The experience is accessible by wheelchair and pram/stroller. Wheelchairs are available for rent free of charge, and strollers can be rented for KRW 3,000.
  • ATM: Located at various points on the island for convenient cash withdrawals.
  • Public toilets Available throughout the island for visitor convenience.
  • AED: Automated External Defibrillators are accessible at key locations for emergencies.
  • Storage lockers: Provided for secure storage of personal belongings.
  • Infirmary: Medical assistance is available for any health-related concerns.
Visit to Nami Island

Tours of Nami Island often include expert guides fluent in English and Chinese. These guides provide valuable insights into the island's attractions, history, and culture, enhancing your overall experience. Their local knowledge helps you navigate the island more effectively, ensuring you don't miss key spots and have your questions answered. With personalized attention and the ability to communicate in multiple languages, these guides make the tour more engaging and informative for international visitors.

Visit to Nami Island
  • Baby changing facilities: Convenient baby changing stations are available in designated areas on the island.
  • Family toilets: Restrooms are equipped with family-friendly amenities, including facilities for young children.
  • Kid-friendly restaurants: Several dining options cater to families, offering child-friendly menus and seating.
  • Rental services: Strollers are available for rent at a nominal fee of KRW 3,000. Wheelchairs are also provided free of charge.
  • Play areas: There are designated play areas where children can enjoy safe, interactive activities.
Visit to Nami Island
  • Photography restrictions: Flash photography and the use of drones are not allowed on the island to preserve the natural environment and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
  • Smoking policy: Smoking is only allowed in designated areas. Smoking is prohibited in all other parts of the island.
  • Camping & cooking: Camping, cooking, and setting up tents are not allowed on the island.
  • Bicycles & scooters: Personal bicycles and scooters are not permitted; however, rental bicycles are available.
  • Pets: Pets under 15 kg are allowed on a leash and can enter select restaurants such as Gomok or Swing Cafe. Certain breeds, including Pit Bulls and Rottweilers, are not permitted.
  • Respect wildlife: Do not disturb or feed the wildlife on the island to ensure their safety and well-being.
Visit to Nami Island
  • Best time to visit: Nami Island is beautiful throughout the year, but to avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or early mornings.
  • Weather preparation: Check the forecast before your visit and dress accordingly. We recommend dressing in layers. Bring sunscreen, hats, or rain gear as needed.
  • Duration: Allocate 2-3 hours to explore the main attractions and activities.
  • Comfortable footwear: Opt for comfortable shoes to navigate different terrains.
  • Bring essentials: Carry essentials like water, a camera (without flash), and personal medications.
  • Ticket Purchase: Purchase tickets in advance to skip long lines, especially on weekends.
  • Navigation: Use a map or navigation app to locate key attractions and amenities.
  • Accessibility: Notify the service provider about any wheelchair or stroller needs when booking to ensure appropriate arrangements.
  • Winter Sonata photo opportunity: Visit the recreation bench on the island, where the Winter Sonata protagonists had their first kiss, complete with a fake snowman and snowballs.
  • Photo booth: Nami Island has its own Korean photo booth shop called Four Cuts—perfect for capturing memories.
Visit to Nami Island

Here are some top spots to shop during your Seoul to Nami Island tour:

  • Artshop Snowman: Features unique Nami Island snowman merchandise and pet-friendly products.
  • Imagine Nami: A handmade crafts store showcasing Nami Island's nature-inspired designs, offering glass ornaments, fabric items, ceramics, and more. The Hanok-style building adds to the charm.
  • Nammoon: Offers eco-friendly souvenirs and local crafts
Visit to Nami Island

While most tour options do not include meals, the various restaurants and cafes on Nami Island offer food and beverage options to suit your tastes and budget.

  • Seomhyanggi: A BBQ restaurant in the woods, famous for Spicy Grilled Chicken (Dakgalbi) and buckwheat noodles, offering a scenic dining experience.
  • Sonata Café: Known for seasonal treats like snowman-shaped hotteok and shaved ice with hotteok.
  • Asian Family Restaurant Dongmoon: Ideal for families and couples, offering halal options for Muslim visitors.
  • BookCafé in Baplex: A relaxing spot with fresh coffee, sandwiches, and desserts.
  • Nammoon: Nami Island's top Korean restaurant, serving dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Visit to Nami Island

Nami Island has only one hotel to accommodate overnight guests. The main building of Hotel Jeonggwanru, Jeonggwanjae, is an art hotel showcasing illustrations by award-winning artists from the Nami Concours and other renowned artists. The Jeonggwanru Annex offers independent riverside accommodations, including several cottages, a condo villa with seasonal views and private barbecue options, and a two-to-two villa for a cozy getaway for two.

Visit to Nami Island
  • Alpaca World: Interact with friendly alpacas and other animals in a scenic park setting. Enjoy a fun and relaxing experience with animal encounters and picturesque views.
  • Petite France: A charming French-themed village offering quaint streets, cultural exhibits, and photo opportunities reminiscent of a French countryside.
  • Gangchon Rail Park: Experience a unique ride on a rail bike along old railway tracks, providing stunning views of the countryside and a bit of outdoor adventure.
  • Italian Village: Discover a picturesque village styled like an Italian town, featuring charming architecture, cafes, and shops.
  • Garden of Morning Calm: Explore beautifully landscaped gardens with seasonal flowers and themed sections, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Nami Island

Nami Island is located in Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea. However, to reach it, you must first go to the Namiseom Island Pier in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do.