A Guide to Nami Island in 2026

Barely two hours from central Seoul, Nami Island feels far removed from the capital’s crowded streets and soaring buildings.

The small, forested island is best known for its beautifully arranged tree-lined avenues, riverside scenery and connection to the Korean drama Winter Sonata. Yet there is more to do here than recreate famous television scenes. Visitors can cycle beneath towering trees, browse exhibitions, enjoy outdoor activities and linger over a leisurely meal surrounded by nature.

The UNICEF Child-Friendly Park is definitely worth a trip out to explore its stunning gardens and gorgeous nature trails. To get you started on your adventure, here’s a simple guide to Nami Island. Before you go, remember to download a reliable VPN to protect your data while surfing the web using public WiFi in South Korea!

How to Get to Nami Island from Seoul

Most independent travellers reach Nami Island through Gapyeong Station, followed by a short journey to the Gapyeong ferry terminal.

Option 1: Take the ITX-Cheongchun

The fastest public-transport option is usually the ITX-Cheongchun train.

Trains depart from stations including Yongsan and Cheongnyangni in Seoul and travel directly to Gapyeong. The journey takes approximately one hour from Yongsan or around 40 minutes from Cheongnyangni, depending on the service.

Seats can sell out on weekends, during autumn and around public holidays, so book your train through KORAIL in advance when possible.

After arriving at Gapyeong Station, take a taxi or local bus to the Nami Island ferry terminal. The distance is approximately 1.5 kilometres, making the taxi ride only about five minutes.

Option 2: Take the Gyeongchun Line

Travellers looking for a more affordable alternative can use the Gyeongchun Line.

From central Seoul, travel to Sangbong Station and continue towards Gapyeong Station. This option takes longer than the ITX and may become crowded, but it does not require a separate intercity train reservation.

Allow additional time for transfers and check your route using Naver Map or KakaoMap before leaving.

Option 3: Book the direct shuttle bus

A direct round-trip shuttle bus also runs between Seoul and Nami Island.

Current departure points include Hongik University Station, the Namsan Yejang Bus Transfer Parking Lot near Myeongdong and Dongdaemun Design Plaza. The bus travels directly to the ferry-terminal area, removing the need to arrange a train and taxi separately.

However, the fixed return time leaves less flexibility than travelling independently. Confirm the latest pickup points, schedule and reservation conditions before booking.

Image credit: Minseong Kim

How to enter Nami Island

Most visitors enter the island aboard the short ferry from Gapyeong Wharf.

The ferry ride takes only a few minutes and is included in the Nami Island admission fee. Ferries generally run from 8am to 9pm, with departures every 10 to 20 minutes between 9am and 6pm and less frequently early in the morning and later in the evening.

Schedules may be extended during popular spring, summer and autumn periods or adjusted because of weather and operational conditions.

Nami Island refers to its entrance ticket as a “visa”, continuing the playful theme of the self-declared Naminara Republic.

Current admission categories include:

• Regular admission: ₩19,000

• Discount admission: ₩16,000

• Special admission: ₩13,000

The fee includes admission and the return ferry. Eligibility requirements apply to discounted and special tickets, so bring identification where relevant.

Enter by zip wire instead

For a more memorable arrival, take the zip wire from the tower beside Gapyeong Wharf.

The Family Course lands directly on Nami Island, while the Adventure Course lands on nearby Jaraseom before passengers continue by motorboat. The ride offers broad views of the Bukhangang River as you descend from the 80-metre tower.

Zip-wire tickets include the return ferry from Nami Island, since the zip wire can only be used for the journey into the island.

Operations are weather-dependent, and restrictions apply to height, weight and physical condition. Reserve ahead during busy periods and confirm whether your preferred course is operating.

Getting around Nami Island

Image credit: 2007Teresa

Nami Island is compact enough to explore comfortably on foot. Its main paths are mostly flat, and you can cross between many of the key attractions within a few hours.

Cycling is one of the most enjoyable alternatives. Standard bicycles, tandem bicycles and family bikes are typically available for rent, allowing you to cover more ground while enjoying the wooded scenery.

Other paid transport and recreation options may include the Story Tour Bus, UNICEF Charity Train, motorboats, rowing boats and seasonal water activities.

Operating hours and availability vary, so check the signs near the entrance or the island’s official website on the day of your visit.

The best time to visit Nami Island

There is no single best season for Nami Island. The scenery changes dramatically throughout the year, giving each visit a different atmosphere.

Spring

Image credit: Noel Teo

Spring introduces blossom-lined paths, fresh greenery and generally comfortable walking weather.

Cherry blossoms usually appear between late March and April, although exact blooming periods depend on yearly weather conditions. Other flowers continue appearing across the island as temperatures rise.

This is one of the prettiest times to visit, but it can also become extremely busy. Arrive early if you want photographs before the largest tour groups appear.

Summer

Summer transforms Nami Island into a thick green retreat.

The tall trees provide welcome shade, although conditions remain warm and humid. This is a good season for cycling, picnics and outdoor activities, while selected water attractions may operate when conditions permit.

Pack sun protection, insect repellent and plenty of water. Sudden rain is also possible during the summer months.

Fall

Image credit: Sabrinadai

Autumn is arguably Nami Island’s most famous season.

Ginkgo trees turn bright yellow, maples become red and orange, and fallen leaves cover the island’s long avenues. The peak foliage period usually falls between October and November, although timing varies each year.

Expect large crowds, particularly on weekends. Take an early train from Seoul and consider visiting on a weekday.

Winter

Image credit: Shinn

Snow can give Nami Island the romantic appearance many travellers associate with Winter Sonata.

Bare trees, frozen scenery and quieter paths create a completely different mood from the warmer seasons. Snowfall is not guaranteed on any specific date, but the island remains photogenic even without it.

Dress for prolonged time outdoors and wear shoes with good grip. Certain activities may close because of cold weather, ice or strong winds.

What to do on Nami Island

1. Take a zip line to the island

Image credit: ZipRider

For the adrenaline junkies, the first activity you should definitely try is the zip line from the zipwire tower at Gapyeong to the island itself! Instead of a ferry boat ride, you’ll certainly be travelling in a much more exciting and adventurous way right from the beginning of your island exploration!

2. Explore the riverside paths

Image credit: Richard Lee

There are numerous wooden boarded walks that allow you a closer look at the stunning crystal clear waters of Nami Island’s lakes. There, you’ll also be treated to awe-inspiring sights of the vast mountain ranges that stretch as far as the eye can see. It truly is a serene experience that’ll let you take in the beauty of nature.

3. Snack on a hotteok

Image credit: celine

This Korean red bean pancake is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, and is a must-try when visiting South Korea! It is served fresh and hot and makes for a great snack to take along while exploring the rest of Nami island.

4. Walk down Metasequoia Lane

Image credit: Thierry Hoppe

Metasequoia Lane is one of the most popular and iconic spots to visit on Nami Island. Lined with redwood trees affectionately called the living fossils of the island, the scene is a postcard-perfect image capturing the essence of natural beauty. As you walk through the gigantic lean trees, it’s as if you’ve been transported to another whimsical dimension — definitely a must-see experience!

5. Visit a Memorial Garden

Image credit: Namisum

The island also plays host to a couple of memorial gardens, testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage. The Sujaewon Garden remembers the founder of Nami Island with a stone statue of Minn Byeong-do, while the Champyeongwon Garden celebrates the spirit of sharing and creativity espoused by him. The memorial gardens offer a spectacular hideaway from the typical walking paths and are great for picnicking.

6. Butterfly-watch at Hampyeong Butterfly Park

Image credit: Katsujiro Maekawa

Because of the untouched nature on the island, the fields of nectar-producing flowers readily attract colourful butterflies! Visit the Hampyeong Butterfly to catch some pollination in action, and do check out the annual butterfly festival held around April and May.

7. Have a picnic at Dodamsambong Garden

Image credit: Namisum

Dodamsambong Garden is a miniature replica of the popular Dodamsambong Peak at the Namhangang River. Here, Nami Island’s very own peak is tucked away within a calm lotus pond away from the touristy crowd.

8. Spot some wild animals all around the island

Image credit: Ariel G!

Animals are commonly seen roaming freely around the whole Nami Island area. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot some exquisite species of deers, squirrels, rabbits, and plenty of birds.

9. Listen to some tunes at the Song Museum

Image credit: Namisum

The Song Museum traces the history of music in South Korea, dating back to traditional vernacular forms of music, to modern-day contemporary Korean music. Understanding this genealogy will definitely edify your appreciation of the K-Pop and how historic Korean musical practices have been transformed into the viral phenomenon it is today.

10. Visit Petite France

Image credit: Sheikh Izham

While not technically on Nami Island, Petite France is only a bus or taxi ride away and it’s often covered together by tourists making a day trip to the area. The park showcases a village of buildings designed in French-style architecture, and features iconic references to Le Petit Prince, the famous French children’s novella written by Antoine de Saint-Exupery.

With so many attraction to explore, a trip out of Seoul is definitely worth your time. Be sure to add Nami Island to your next South Korea travel itinerary!

Should you combine Nami Island with other attractions?

Nami Island can fill most of a day when explored slowly, but travellers with limited time often combine it with another attraction around Gapyeong.

Popular choices include:

The Garden of Morning Calm

This landscaped garden features themed sections, flower displays and forested walking routes. It is particularly popular during spring blooms, autumn foliage and its winter lighting festival.

Gangchon Rail Park

Pedal along a converted railway track while passing rivers, countryside and tunnels. The experience adds a more active element to a Gapyeong day trip.

Petite France and Italian Village

These neighbouring themed attractions feature European-inspired architecture, performance spaces and references to The Little Prince and Pinocchio.

They are visually distinctive but quite different from an authentic European village, so visit for the playful scenery and photo opportunities rather than cultural immersion.

Alpaca World

Located farther from Nami Island, Alpaca World allows visitors to meet alpacas and other animals in a spacious countryside setting. It is generally easier to combine with Nami Island through an organised tour or private transport.

Trying to fit three or four attractions into a single day can feel rushed. For a more relaxed experience, pair Nami Island with only one nearby stop.

Practical tips for visiting Nami Island

Arrive early, particularly during cherry-blossom and autumn-foliage seasons. The island receives many group tours from late morning onwards.

Book your return ITX train before travelling if you are visiting on a weekend. Leaving it until the end of the day could mean limited seat availability.

Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the island still involves considerable walking even when you rent a bicycle.

Check the weather immediately before visiting. Ferries, zip wires and outdoor attractions may be delayed or suspended during poor conditions.

Finally, allow at least three to four hours on the island itself. Rushing through the main photo spots misses much of what makes Nami Island enjoyable: the chance to step away from Seoul, wander beneath the trees and spend a few unhurried hours beside the river.