All The Scenic Train Rides In Korea That You Need To Know!

South Korea’s public transport system is among the best in the world. An ultra-efficient bus network shuttles passengers all over the country as planes fly between various cities, but the real gem of this desirable East Asian destination is the rail network. With the train rides in South Korea, you can get to most parts of the country within a matter of hours.

What’s more, the extensive rail network means that you get to see most of the gorgeous Korean landscape in comfort and style. With that said, let us show you some of the most scenic train rides in South Korea!

Also read: I Explored Gyeongnam & Jeju Island – Here Are 6 Things I Love Most

First of all, it is worth noting that South Korea’s rail network has modernised significantly. While the KTX remains the household name, the new years saw the widespread rollout of the KTX-Cheongryong (the fastest train yet) and the KTX-Eum. Most of the old, slower Mugunghwa trains have been phased out, replaced by the sleek and efficient ITX-Maum.

For international travellers, the KORAIL Pass is still the best way to save money. You can book it digitally and link it to the KORAIL Talk app, allowing you to reserve seats directly from your mobile phone.

1. Seoul to Gangneung

Getting from the capital to Korea’s stunning east coast has never been easier with the Gyeonggang line, running from Seoul to Gangneung in the Gangwon-do province. This line was opened only a few years ago, before South Korea hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang.

Speaking of PyeongChang, this line is great if you’re planning a winter getaway in South Korea. Many of the major winter resorts and ski slopes are easily accessible from the PyeongChang stop. The line terminates at Gangneung, a delightful beachside town which welcomes tourists all year round, and has become somewhat of a playground for South Korean residents looking to escape the busy city life.

Also read: 30 Fun Things to Do in Seoul on Your Very First Visit

2. Yeosu to Jeonju

You could travel this entire route all the way down from Seoul to the south coast, but then you’d miss out on the treats that lie between the capital and the charming port town of Yeosu. Starting in Yeosu, allow yourself some time to meander around the historic monuments and bask in the seaside atmosphere. The area around the Jinnamgwan Monument is a blend of old and new; think contemporary Korean cafés mixed with a vibrant plethora of street food stalls.

The route to Jeonju runs through the dramatic landscapes of the Jeollanamdo province. You’ll get to see majestic mountain passes and endless paddies, truly captivating, especially as the sun dips. When you get to Jeonju, be sure to pay a visit to the Hanok Village, a quintessential cultural Korean attraction.

3. Busan to Gyeongju

South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan, is laid back in comparison to the manic capital of Seoul. What’s more, it’s got some fantastic beaches and tons of hidden gems if you’re an avid explorer. Only 30 minutes away by train lies Gyeongju, a key historical site packed with relics and cultural artefacts. It only makes sense, then, that a day-trip to Gyeongju from Busan should be on your to-do list.

While you can take the high-speed KTX (which takes a mere 30 minutes), many travellers now opt for the Donghae Line for a more local, scenic experience. The old Gyeongju Station in the city centre has closed. All trains now arrive at Gyeongju Station (formerly Singyeongju), which is a short bus or taxi ride from the historic Daereungwon Burial Mounds.

TripZilla tip: If you visit during the cherry blossom season, the drive from the station into the city is a ‘blossom tunnel’ that is absolutely breathtaking.

4. The Donghae Santa Train

Replacing the O-Train, the Donghae Santa Train brings a festive, snowy atmosphere to the central inland region all year round.

It runs from Gangneung down through the mountains to Buncheon (the famous ‘Santa Village’). The carriages are brightly decorated with a Christmas theme, and the large windows are designed specifically for mountain-gazing. It is the best way to see the rugged, untouched peaks of the Taebaek Mountains.

5. V-Train

The “Valley Train” runs through the Baekdudaegan mountain range. The carriage and crew uniforms are distinctly retro, a nod to sites and stops that have remained largely untouched or altered since the 70s and 80s!

This particular train runs six times daily; three times from Buncheon Station in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province to Cheoram in Gangwon-do Province and three times in the opposite direction. The train trundles along at 30km/hr, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sights of the Korean countryside.

P.S. The windows actually open, allowing you to breathe in the fresh, pine-scented mountain air as you trundle along!

6. The West Gold Train / G-Train

The G-Train travels along the West Coast (Yellow Sea), stopping at historic sites like Gunsan and Boryeong.

This is the only train in the world with Ondol (heated floor) rooms. You can take off your shoes, sit on the heated floor in a private cabin, and watch the sunset over the mudflats. It even features a ‘Foot Bath Café’ carriage where you can soak your feet while watching the scenery fly by!

Also read: Viral Seoul Food Spots: Worth the Hype or Overrated?

After giving you a basic guide on the scenic train rides in South Korea, have we convinced you to book your next trip by rail? Let us know how your train adventures in Korea will turn out!