Seoul: Cheongyang Ice Festival & Strawberry Picking

Traveling in Korea during winter often conjures images of snow-dusted palaces and steaming bowls of hot soup. But for those looking for a more playful, memorable escape from Seoul, the Cheongyang Ice Festival combined with strawberry picking offers a unique blend of icy artistry, outdoor fun, and sweet farm-fresh strawberries. While we haven’t been on the trip ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of an experience packed with impressive sights and authentic local flavors.

What we love about this tour is its diverse array of activities—from marveling at massive ice sculptures to racing down snowy slopes, all with the convenience of guided transport from Seoul. We also appreciate that it includes a hands-on strawberry harvesting experience—a true treat for anyone curious about Korea’s winter produce. However, a potential consideration is that winter activities like sledding and ice bobsleigh are purchased on-site, so they aren’t included in the standard package, which might surprise some travelers expecting everything to be bundled.

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a full-day, active outing that combines cultural sights, scenic outdoor activities, and farm-fresh treats. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy photography, outdoor sports, and authentic food experiences—just be ready for some variable weather and active outdoor pursuits.

Good To Know

Diverse winter activities including ice sledding, snow sledding, and ice bobsleigh offer excitement.
Guided transportation makes the trip seamless and comfortable from Seoul.
Authentic strawberry picking provides a taste of Korea’s winter produce, grown pesticide-free.
Scenic stops like Cheonjang Lake and Eobi Ice Valley deliver breathtaking views.
A mix of cultural storytelling and outdoor fun keeps the day engaging.
Good value for those wanting a full-day experience with varied highlights.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Cheongyang Ice Festival & Strawberry Picking Tour

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Korea’s winter charm. Starting early from Seoul, it takes you through scenic countryside en route to Cheongyang, a region famous for its ice sculptures and strawberry farms. The highlight for many is the Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival, where enormous ice sculptures and intricate ice walls create a stunning backdrop perfect for photos. For Instagram lovers, this is definitely a highlight—imagine framing a snow-laden sculpture with your own camera.

One unique feature is the handson strawberry picking, which brings a delightful contrast to the icy surroundings. You’ll get to harvest strawberries without pesticides or chemical fertilizers, enjoying their sweet flavor straight from the plant. This activity is particularly popular—it’s not just about seeing the strawberries but actively participating in their harvest.

Additional stops include the scenic Cheonjang Lake Suspension Bridge, offering peaceful walks and lovely views, and the Eobi Ice Valley, where frozen waterfalls and scenic vistas provide a quieter, more contemplative experience. This combination of outdoor activities and cultural storytelling makes the day feel diverse and well-paced.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with pick-up from three convenient locations in Seoul—Hongik University Station, Myeongdong Station, and Dongdaemun. Early mornings around 6:30 to 7:20 am mean you’ll need to be ready on time, but the effort pays off with a full day of sights. The journey to Cheongyang takes approximately 2.5 hours by coach, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy scenic views.

Once in Cheongyang, the focus shifts to the Ice Fountain Festival, where giant sculptures and intricate ice carvings dominate the landscape. Even if the weather is overcast or rainy—as one reviewer experienced—the impressive sculptures still stand out, especially when lit up at night or under the snow.

When it’s time for outdoor fun, you can try ice sledding, snow sledding, and ice bobsleigh. While these are paid activities on-site, they’re highly rated for fun and adrenaline. One reviewer noted, “The sledding was the highlight—it’s great fun and perfect for all ages.” Be prepared for some lines during peak times, but most find it worthwhile.

The strawberry farm comes next, where you can pick your own berries. Even in winter, the strawberries thrive, thanks to controlled environments. You can’t taste-test while harvesting, but once you’ve picked your berries, they’re yours to enjoy—a sweet reward after a morning of icy adventures. One traveler mentioned, “Strawberries in winter? Yes, and they’re delicious!”

The final stops at Cheonjang Lake and Eobi Ice Valley provide a peaceful, scenic conclusion. The lake’s suspension bridge offers panoramic views, and the frozen waterfalls in Eobi Ice Valley are a photographer’s dream.

Transportation and Duration

The tour’s 11-hour duration is designed for comfort and convenience. The coach picks up from central Seoul and drops you back at familiar locations. The total travel time includes scenic breaks, making the day feel relaxed rather than rushed. You’ll want to arrive 10 minutes early for pickup, and late arrivals aren’t eligible for refunds.

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Pricing and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the inclusion of transportation, guided commentary, and the main attractions suggests good value for a full-day experience. The optional winter activities, which require extra payment, add a layer of flexibility—allowing you to choose what suits your energy level and interests.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for curious explorers eager to see Korea’s winter spectacles beyond Seoul’s city limits. It suits families, couples, or groups who appreciate outdoor fun, cultural stories, and farm-fresh treats. Active travelers will enjoy sledding and scenic walks, while everyone can appreciate the beautiful ice sculptures and peaceful farm atmosphere.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers seeking a distinctive winter experience, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to explore Korea’s icy artistry and local farm life. The guided transport removes logistical worries, and the variety of stops keeps the day lively. Whether you’re into photography, outdoor activities, or simply tasting fresh strawberries in winter, this trip packs a punch.

The knowledgeable guides and authentic local experiences make this a worthwhile outing—especially considering the good value for money. The chance to try ice sledding and bobsledding adds excitement, while the scenic stops provide perfect moments to relax and reflect.

Keep in mind that winter activities are additional and may require on-site payments, so plan accordingly. It’s best suited for those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and are comfortable with early mornings and variable weather conditions. This tour doesn’t just showcase Korea’s winter aesthetics; it invites you into a lively, frosty world full of surprises.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
Transportation, guided commentary in English, visits to the Ice Fountain Festival, scenic stops, and the strawberry picking activity.

Are the winter activities included in the price?
No, sledding, snow sledding, and bobsleigh are purchased on-site separately.

What should I wear for the trip?
Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof outerwear, gloves, and sturdy shoes suitable for snow and ice.

How long is the coach journey from Seoul?
Approximately 2.33 hours to Cheongyang, with scenic breaks during the day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Where do I meet the guide?
Pickup is available at Hongik University Station, Myeongdong Station, and Dongdaemun. Arrive 10 minutes early.

Is this trip suitable for children?
Yes, especially if they enjoy outdoor activities like sledding, but adult supervision is recommended for younger kids.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival with its massive ice sculptures and scenic ice walls.

Can I taste the strawberries while picking?
No, tasting while harvesting is prohibited; you can enjoy your strawberries after.

How much free time is there?
There’s enough time to enjoy each stop comfortably, including scenic walks and photo opportunities.

Whether you’re after stunning winter visuals, outdoor fun, or farm-fresh strawberries, this tour offers a well-rounded day that highlights Korea’s wintry charm. It’s a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and authentic food, making it a memorable addition to your Korean itinerary.

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