Seoul: Cheongyang Ice Festival & Strawberry Picking

A Practical Look at the Seoul: Cheongyang Ice Festival & Strawberry Picking Tour

If you’re seeking a winter escape from Seoul that combines dazzling ice sculptures, snowy activities, and a taste of Korea’s beloved winter fruit, this tour offers a well-rounded day trip. While it’s not a chance to spend hours at each site, the mix of scenic views, cultural highlights, and hands-on fun makes it a compelling option for those wanting to explore beyond the city.

What I love about this experience is how seamlessly it combines spectacular ice art with active winter pursuits like sledding and bobsledding, plus the surprising delight of winter strawberry picking. The guide’s local knowledge and the scenic stops add depth, making it more than just a quick sightseeing run. One thing to keep in mind: the schedule is quite packed, which means some parts might feel rushed if you’re hoping for a leisurely day. This tour suits travelers eager to cover diverse winter attractions in one day, especially those who enjoy outdoor fun and cultural insights.

Good To Know

• Diverse activities including ice sculptures, sledding, and strawberry picking help create a memorable winter experience.
• Convenient transportation makes the long drive manageable and comfortable.
• Authentic interactions with local farms and scenic spots add value beyond the typical tourist trail.
• Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with stories and tips.
• Good value for money considering the variety of activities and sights included.
• Limited free time at each stop means you’ll need to stay flexible but gain a rundown.

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Exploring the Cheongyang Ice Festival & More

This tour offers a well-structured day out, packed with memorable sights and activities that highlight Korea’s winter charm. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just a quick glance at ice sculptures — it immerses you in the festive atmosphere and the natural beauty of South Chungcheong Province.

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

Starting early from Seoul, the tour offers three pickup points: Hongik University Station, Myeongdong Station, and Dongdaemun History & Culture Park. These central spots are convenient and familiar, making it easy to join without extra fuss. The bus ride, lasting about 2.33 hours, offers a chance to relax, enjoy scenic views, and get into the holiday mood.

On the way, the guide shares tidbits about the regions and the festival’s history — a nice touch that adds context. The relaxed bus ride makes it easier to connect with fellow travelers, and the scenic stops en route break the journey nicely.

Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival: The Heart of the Day

Once at the festival, you’re greeted by massive ice sculptures and an eye-catching ice wall perfect for photos. Despite some rainy weather on a reviewer’s day, the overall experience remained enjoyable, with the ice sculptures still impressive enough to warrant plenty of Instagram shots.

The festival features winter activities like ice sledding, snow sledding, and ice bobsledding. These are included in the pass, and you’ll find the sledding areas lively and fun — just remember, the scope of use for the activities depends on the festival’s rules, which can vary.

A notable detail from a traveler’s review: “The sledding was a highlight, and the staff was friendly and helpful.” It’s a lively scene, with enough action to get your adrenaline pumping. The ice wall backdrop makes for great photos, especially if you’re into capturing winter wonderland shots.

Scenic Stops: Cheonjang Lake & Eobi Ice Valley

Next, the tour visits Cheonjang Lake Suspension Bridge, offering a peaceful stroll with views of the snow-covered landscape. It’s a break from the festival’s busy scene and a moment to soak in the natural tranquility.

Then, at Eobi Ice Valley, you find a fascinating frozen landscape with waterfalls and scenic vistas. The combination of icy formations and serene views makes this a favorite among travelers seeking photos and quiet reflection.

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Hands-On Experiences: Strawberry Picking

One of the most surprising parts of the tour is the strawberry harvesting. Unlike many other fruit-picking experiences, this one emphasizes pesticide-free strawberries. You can pick and taste the berries, but tasting while picking is not allowed — a small rule that aims to protect the farm’s produce.

The strawberries are described as sweet and juicy, making the effort worthwhile. A traveler from Germany said, “The strawberry farm was the highlight for me. Picking and eating fresh strawberries in winter was so unexpected and delightful.”

Additional Activities & Optional Extras

While the main package includes most activities, some options like ziplining, a tiny train, or chestnut activities are available on-site with extra payment. The flexibility to purchase these adds some fun options, but they’re not included in the base price.

Timing & Pacing

The full day lasts about 11 hours, including travel and sightseeing. The schedule is quite full — from early morning pickups to late afternoon drop-offs. While efficient, some might find it a bit rushed, especially if they want to linger longer at certain spots.

Reviewers emphasize the value: “The guide kept things moving smoothly, and the day felt well-organized,” but be prepared for a busy pace.

The Value Proposition

Considering the price, the tour is a solid deal for access to multiple attractions in one day. It offers a mix of cultural highlights, scenic views, winter fun, and authentic farm experiences. The inclusion of transportation, guides, and most activities means you get a lot for your money — especially for those wanting a comprehensive winter taste of Korea without the hassle of planning each stop.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, love unique seasonal experiences, and want a balanced mix of fun and scenery. Families, couples, or solo adventurers will find it offers enough variety to keep everyone engaged.

If your priority is luxurious leisure time or long, relaxed stays at each site, this tour might feel a little rushed. But if you’re after a well-organized, activity-packed day that captures Korea’s winter spirit, it’s definitely worth considering.

Final Thoughts

This tour does a wonderful job of blending scenic beauty with interactive fun, making it a great way to experience Korea’s winter season firsthand. The transportation is convenient, the guide’s knowledge adds depth, and the variety of stops ensures you leave with plenty of photos and memories.

The ice sculptures and festival atmosphere are visually striking, while the strawberry picking offers a unique and tasty twist. While the schedule is packed, it’s an efficient way to see several highlights in one day without the stress of planning.

Overall, it’s a value-rich experience that balances spectacle, activity, and cultural insight — perfect for those craving a lively winter adventure with authentic touches.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and activities.

Are the winter activities included in the price?
Yes, activities like ice sledding, snow sledding, and ice bobsledding are included. Other activities like ziplining can be purchased on-site.

What should I wear for this tour?
Dress warmly in winter gear, including layers, waterproof clothes, gloves, and sturdy shoes suitable for snow and ice.

Can I take photos of the ice sculptures?
Absolutely. The ice wall and sculptures provide excellent photo opportunities, especially for Instagram-worthy shots.

Is there free time at each stop?
The schedule is quite packed, so while you’ll have some time at each location, it’s best to stay with the group and manage expectations for a quick look and photos.

Can I taste the strawberries while picking?
No, tasting during picking isn’t allowed to protect the farm’s produce. You can taste the strawberries after harvesting.

What is the guide like?
According to reviews, the guide is knowledgeable, friendly, and keeps the day moving smoothly. They share interesting stories and helpful tips.

Are there any extra costs I should know about?
Certain activities like ziplining and chestnut activities require additional payment if you choose to do them.

How is the weather?
Weather varies; some travelers noted rain during their visit, which can affect the experience. Be prepared for potentially wet or cold conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable in cold weather will likely enjoy the experience, especially sledding and strawberry picking.

This tour offers a lively, scenic winter day with plenty of opportunities for fun, photos, and authentic Korean farm experiences. It’s a well-organized way to enjoy Korea’s icy season with a mix of culture, scenery, and active pursuits.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby