Experience the magic of winter at the 얼음나라화천 산천어축제 festival in Hwacheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea, perfect for an unforgettable one-day trip filled with fun and local flavors.
얼음나라화천 산천어축제 – Festival Overview
📍 Area: Hwacheon, Gangwon-do (강원 · 화천군)
🗓 Dates: January 10, 2026 (Sat) – February 01, 2026 (Sun)
⏱ Best trip length: one-day trip
🧭 Address: 강원특별자치도 화천군 화천읍 산천어길 137
137 Sancheoneo-gil, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, South Korea
🔎 Keywords: 얼음나라화천 산천어축제 festival, Hwacheon day trip, Korea travel
💳 Fees: 유료 (자세한 사항은 홈페이지 참조.)
📍 Festival Location (Google Map)
Welcome to the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival!
If you're looking for an extraordinary winter experience in South Korea, look no further than the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival (얼음나라화천 산천어축제). Nestled in the beautiful Gangwon-do province, this festival celebrates the chilly charm of winter with its unique blend of activities, natural attractions, and local flavors. Every year, visitors flock to Hwacheon to enjoy an unforgettable day filled with fun on the ice, delicious food, and exciting events.
Immerse Yourself in the Signature Fishing Experience
The highlight of the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is undoubtedly its signature ice fishing experience. Ice fishing for the sancheoneo, or mountain trout, is a must-try activity where you can drill a hole in the thick ice of the Hwacheon River and cast your line. The thrill of catching your very own fish is unparalleled, especially when you get to enjoy your fresh catch cooked right there on-site! Whether you are a fishing novice or an experienced angler, this unique experience allows you to connect with the winter landscape while participating in a beloved local tradition.
A Feast for the Senses
After a day of fishing, you won't want to miss the chance to sample some of Hwacheon’s delicious local cuisine. Don't forget to explore the nearby food market, which boasts a variety of delectable dishes. Try the grilled sancheoneo, where your freshly caught fish is expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection. The aroma wafting through the air is enough to make anyone's mouth water! Moreover, you can find other traditional Korean winter snacks, such as hotteok (sweet pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), served at local stalls. The vibrant atmosphere of the market, combined with the taste of local delicacies, creates a memorable dining experience that complements the festive spirit perfectly.
A Day of Fun and Adventure
With activities ranging from ice sledding to snow sculpture contests, the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is brimming with entertainment for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy tubing down the snowy slopes, while those seeking a bit of adventure can take part in ice soccer or ice skating. Each moment spent here adds to the joy of winter, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the usual routine. Whether you come with family, friends, or as a solo traveler, this festival promises an exhilarating and memorable day.
So, pack your warm clothes and gear up for a one-day trip to Hwacheon! The Sancheoneo Ice Festival is not just a celebration of winter; it’s an opportunity to participate in the local culture, enjoy nature, and create unforgettable memories. Don’t miss out on this unique experience that showcases the magic of winter in South Korea!
📅 얼음나라화천 산천어축제 Day Trip Itinerary in 화천군
Why this festival is special: Signature experience related to 얼음나라화천 산천어축제 / Local food/market moment near the venue
Festival highlights: Signature experience related to 얼음나라화천 산천어축제 / Local food/market moment near the venue
This one-day itinerary is designed around the 얼음나라화천 산천어축제 festival in 화천군, combining nearby attractions, restaurants, cafes and a comfortable place to stay (total travel distance: approx. 4.7 km). Spend the morning at the festival and nearby sights, enjoy a local lunch spot, then round off your day with scenic walks, cafes and night views.
Main travel segments throughout the day
얼음나라화천 산천어축제 festival venue → 낭천산림욕장: approx. 0.4 km
낭천산림욕장 → 선등거리: approx. 0.8 km
선등거리 → 산천정육식당: approx. 1.3 km
산천정육식당 → 서화산: approx. 1.2 km
서화산 → 서화산 전망대: approx. 0.0 km
서화산 전망대 → 커피보리: approx. 0.4 km
커피보리 → 강원나물밥 채원: approx. 0.4 km
강원나물밥 채원 → 호텔 아리: approx. 0.1 km
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얼음나라화천 산천어축제 festival venue (Ice Fishing Festival Venue in Hwacheon)
강원특별자치도 화천군 화천읍 산천어길 137
137 Sancheoneo-gil, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, South Korea
Google Map | Kakao Map -
낭천산림욕장 (Nangcheon's Forest Bathing Area)
강원특별자치도 화천군 화천읍 중리 221
221 Jung-ri, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Google Map | Kakao Map -
선등거리 (Seondeung Street)
강원특별자치도 화천군 화천읍 하리
Hari, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, South Korea
Google Map | Kakao Map
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산천정육식당 (Sancheonjeong Yuksikdang)
강원특별자치도 화천군 화천읍 중리 166-1
166-1 Jung-ri, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Google Map | Kakao Map
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서화산 (Seoha Mountain)
강원특별자치도 화천군 화천읍 상리 산 30
30 San, Sangri, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, South Korea
Google Map | Kakao Map -
서화산 전망대 (Seohwasan Observatory)
강원특별자치도 화천군 화천읍 상리 산 29
29 San, Sang-ri, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, South Korea
Google Map | Kakao Map -
커피보리 (Coffee Bori)
강원특별자치도 화천군 화천읍 상리 49-9
49-9 Sang-ri, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, South Korea
Google Map | Kakao Map
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강원나물밥 채원 (Gangwon Namulbap Chae Won)
강원특별자치도 화천군 화천읍 하리 66-42
66-42 Hari, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, South Korea
Google Map | Kakao Map
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호텔 아리 (Hotel Ari)
강원특별자치도 화천군 화천읍 하리 100-13
100-13 Hari, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Google Map | Kakao Map
❓ 얼음나라화천 산천어축제 FAQ for Travelers
The festival typically runs from late December to early February, with January being the peak time for activities and events.
You can reach the festival in Hwacheon by taking a bus from Seoul or by using the KTX train to Chuncheon, followed by a local bus to Hwacheon.
Expect cold temperatures, often below freezing; dress in layers and be prepared for snow; if rain is forecasted, waterproof clothing is advisable.
Yes, the festival offers activities for all ages, including ice fishing, sledding, and cultural performances, making it enjoyable for families, couples, and solo visitors alike.
💡 Travel Tips & Things to Know
- To make the most of your one-day trip to the 얼음나라화천 산천어축제, consider arriving early in the day to beat the crowds and secure good parking. The festival often attracts large numbers of visitors, so getting there around the opening time will enhance your experience.
- Bring warm clothing, gloves, and thermal layers, as temperatures can be quite chilly by the riverside, especially if you're planning to spend time outdoors participating in activities like ice fishing or sledding.
- Don't miss the opportunity to sample local delicacies at the festival’s food stalls, especially the famous sancheoneo (mountain trout) dishes and hotteok (sweet pancakes) that are perfect for warming up. These treats provide an authentic taste of the region.
- If rain is forecasted, consider bringing waterproof gear and check for any indoor or covered activities available at the festival, so you can still enjoy the experience without getting soaked.
- To avoid the heaviest crowds, try visiting on a weekday or plan your visit during the early morning hours or late afternoon. This will not only grant you better access to attractions but also a more enjoyable atmosphere.
- Make sure to stay hydrated and take breaks when necessary; the excitement of activities can be overwhelming, so be mindful of keeping your energy up while navigating the snowy landscape.
- Lastly, remember to practice safety while on-site, particularly near the ice areas, and keep an eye on your belongings as the festival may get busy with visitors.
🖼️ 얼음나라화천 산천어축제 photo gallery
Tip: Tap any photo to open the full image in a new tab.
As the sun sets over the sparkling ice at the 얼음나라화천 산천어축제, the warmth of freshly grilled sancheoneo fills the air, creating an unforgettable blend of taste and adventure. Your day spent in 화천군 offers a taste of local culture that will beckon you back, not just for the festivities, but also for the delicious flavors and the enchanting winter landscape. Until next time, keep your heart open to new adventures!
More to Explore
If you’re building a day trip around this area, these nearby festival guides may help.
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