I can tell you that Wonju is one of those destinations that completely surprised me. Located in Gangwon Province, just 1.5 hours from Seoul, this charming city offers an incredible mix of nature, culture, and unique experiences that most travelers never discover.
Wonju perfectly captures Korea’s natural beauty without the crowds you’ll find in more famous destinations. It’s where mountains meet modern art, ancient temples blend with cutting-edge museums, and you can experience authentic Korean mountain culture.
Top 7 Places to Visit in Wonju
1. Chiaksan National Park
This is hands down Wonju’s crown jewel. The park features dramatic granite peaks, crystal-clear streams, and some of the most rewarding hiking trails in Korea.
The autumn colors here are absolutely spectacular – think fiery reds and golden yellows painting the entire mountainside. Even if you’re not a serious hiker, the easier trails near the entrance offer stunning views and peaceful forest walks.
Pro tip: Visit early morning to catch the mountain mist and have the trails mostly to yourself.
2. Guryongsa Temple
Nestled within Chiaksan National Park, this ancient temple is a spiritual oasis that dates back over 1,300 years.
What makes Guryongsa special isn’t just its history – it’s the journey to get there through a gorgeous valley, and the temple’s unique position surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The temple buildings seem to emerge naturally from the rock formations.
Must-see: The temple’s main hall and the nearby Guryong Falls, especially beautiful after rain.
3. Hanji Theme Park
Here’s something you won’t find anywhere else in the world – an entire park dedicated to Korea’s traditional paper-making art.
Hanji (Korean paper) has been made for over 1,000 years, and this park lets you try making it yourself! The workshops are fun for all ages, and you’ll leave with a unique souvenir you actually created.
Fun fact: Korean hanji is so durable that some pieces have lasted over 1,000 years!
4. Museum SAN (Space Art Nature)
This architectural masterpiece by Tadao Ando is reason enough to visit Wonju. Set against mountain views, the museum seamlessly blends contemporary art with natural landscapes.
The building itself is a work of art, and the rotating exhibitions feature both Korean and international artists. The outdoor sculpture garden is perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots.
Insider tip: Visit during late afternoon for the best natural lighting in the galleries.
5. Wonju Sogeumsan Mountain Suspension Bridge
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush with incredible views, this is it. The 200-meter-long suspension bridge offers panoramic views of Wonju city and the surrounding mountains.
It’s especially magical during sunset when the city lights start twinkling below. Don’t worry if you’re afraid of heights – the views are worth the butterflies!
Best time: Golden hour (1 hour before sunset) for stunning photos and fewer crowds.
6. Ganhyeon Tourist Area
This scenic area along the South Han River is perfect for a relaxing afternoon. You can rent bikes, take leisurely walks along the riverbank, or enjoy a picnic with mountain views.
During summer, the area comes alive with festivals and outdoor activities. It’s also a great spot to experience local Korean riverside culture.
Local experience: Try the riverside cafes for coffee with a view that rivals any mountain resort.
7. Sonata of Light
Wonju’s most unique evening attraction combines music, lights, and nature in a spectacular multimedia show.
Set in various locations around the city depending on the season, this artistic light display transforms ordinary spaces into magical wonderlands. Each show tells a different story through synchronized lights and music.
Check ahead: Show times and locations change seasonally, so verify the current schedule.
Here are my must-visit places in Seoul and here you can visit and see the 10 famous temples of Seoul that are very close to you.
Getting to Wonju
From Seoul, take the KTX or regular train to Wonju Station (about 1.5 hours). The city has good local bus connections to all major attractions, and having a Wonju tourist map (available at the station) makes navigation super easy. Many attractions are also accessible by taxi if you prefer convenience.
Why Wonju Works for Every Traveler
Nature lovers: Chiaksan National Park and the suspension bridge offer incredible outdoor experiences.
Culture enthusiasts: Guryongsa Temple and Hanji Theme Park provide deep cultural insights.
Art fans: Museum SAN showcases world-class contemporary art in a stunning setting.
Instagram seekers: Every location offers unique photo opportunities you won’t find elsewhere in Korea.
Wonju might not be on every Korea travel list yet, but that’s exactly what makes it special. You’ll experience authentic Korean mountain culture without fighting crowds for photos. The combination of natural beauty, cultural sites, and unique attractions like the Hanji park makes it perfect for a 2-3 day trip from Seoul.