Herb Island & Sanjung Lake & Bidulginang Water Falls & Strawberry

Exploring Pocheon: A Nature-Focused Day Trip from Seoul

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Seoul and experience some of South Korea’s most beautiful natural landscapes, this tour to Pocheon offers a fantastic option. It’s a full-day adventure that combines stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and cultural sights — all conveniently arranged so you don’t have to worry about transportation or planning.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll enjoy the lush autumn foliage at Sanjung Lake, which is especially photogenic in the right season. Second, Bidulginang Water Falls impress with their powerful cascades, frequently appearing on film sets for dramas and movies. Third, the chance to pick fresh Korean strawberries adds a delicious, hands-on element to the day. The only point to consider is that weather conditions can affect some activities like paddle boating, so flexibility may be necessary. This tour suits travelers who appreciate natural beauty, cultural experiences, and a well-organized day away from city chaos.

Good To Know

• Convenient full-day tour with round-trip transportation from Seoul
• Highlights include scenic lakes, waterfalls, and herb gardens
• Includes hands-on strawberry picking, a delightful local activity
• Flexible itinerary with options affected by weather
• Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking authentic local experiences
• Cost-effective at around $67, offering access to multiple attractions

An Honest Look at the Itinerary

The Pickup and Transfer: Starting Early and Comfortably

The tour kicks off bright and early, with pickups from three strategic spots in Seoul: Hongik University Station, Myeongdong Shinsegae Duty-Free, and Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station. The scheduled pick-up times, starting at 7:50 AM and ending around 8:40 AM, mean you’ll be on the road by 8:00 AM latest. The two-and-a-half-hour transfer to Pocheon might seem long, but it’s a good chance to relax, enjoy scenic views, or catch up on some sleep.

This part of the trip is crucial because it ensures you reach destinations that are challenging to access via public transport. The comfort of private or organized transport makes for a relaxed start, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.

Sanjung Lake: The Main Scenic Spot

Once arrived, Sanjung Lake is the first major stop, offering a stunning landscape that is particularly captivating during autumn when the foliage turns vivid shades of orange and red. The lake itself is a great spot for photos, and if the weather permits, paddle boats are available to add some fun to the scenery. However, reviewers note that if the lake isn’t frozen, boat rides may be unavailable for safety. Still, the views alone make this worth the visit.

Expect to spend about two hours here, giving you enough time to walk around, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and capture plenty of photos. The area is perfect for relaxing, and many visitors comment on how peaceful it feels compared to Seoul’s busy streets.

Strawberry Picking at Atal Strawberry Farm

A real highlight—and a tasty one—is the strawberry picking experience. For about an hour, you’ll get to go into a working farm and pick fresh, sweet strawberries. This part of the tour adds a personal touch, allowing you to enjoy a quintessential Korean activity and taste strawberries that are often described as incredibly delicious.

One reviewer noted, “Enjoyed picking strawberries; they were super sweet and fresh. It’s a fun, hands-on way to connect with Korean agriculture.” Plus, it’s a great break from sightseeing to do something interactive and delicious.

Bidulginang Waterfalls: Nature’s Movie Set

Next, the group heads to Bidulginang Waterfalls, one of South Korea’s most impressive natural landscapes. The waterfalls are a favorite filming location for dramas and movies, lending a cinematic quality to your visit. The sight of water cascading down rugged rocks offers a powerful visual and a refreshing break.

Expect about an hour here to soak in the views, take photos, and maybe even listen to the calming rush of the water. Many guests mention that this is a “must-see” for the natural beauty alone. It’s a great spot for nature photography and simply enjoying the fresh air.

Herb Island: Aromatic Gardens and Flower Fields

The final major stop is Herb Island, a fragrant paradise filled with beautifully maintained herb gardens, flower displays, and aromatic plants. The 1 hour and 15 minutes spent here allow you to stroll through the lush landscapes, admire the vibrant flowers, and learn about various herbs.

Guests often describe Herb Island as a delightful experience, with the fragrant air and picturesque scenery making it a memorable part of the day. It’s an ideal spot for those who love botanical beauty and want to take some peaceful, nature-inspired photos.

The Return Journey: Back to Seoul

After a full day exploring, the group departs Herb Island in the late afternoon. The return trip takes around two hours, with drop-off options at key Seoul locations like Dongdaemun, Myeongdong, and Hongik University stations. This makes it convenient for everyone to plan their evening plans afterward.

Overall Value and Practical Tips

At $67.87 per person, this tour offers a good balance between cost and experience. Your fee covers round-trip transportation, a professional guide, and access to all the attractions. Food and personal expenses are not included, so bringing some snacks or extra cash for souvenirs or drinks is advisable.

While the tour is well-organized, keep in mind that activities like paddle boating depend on the weather. If the lake isn’t frozen, you might miss out on that specific experience, but the scenery alone makes it worthwhile. The tour’s flexibility, combined with its scenic stops and interactive activities like strawberry picking, makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who want an immersive day in nature.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience is especially suited for those wanting a relaxing yet scenic escape from Seoul’s urban environment. The mix of sightseeing, outdoor activities, and cultural insights makes for a rounded day that caters to nature lovers and curious explorers alike.

If you’re a fan of waterfalls, lakes, floral landscapes, and fresh strawberries, this tour ticks all those boxes. Plus, the convenience of transportation and the small group size—max 40 travelers—ensure a comfortable, personalized experience.

While it’s not a full-fledged adventure for adrenaline junkies, it’s perfect for those who value natural beauty, authentic local activities, and well-organized day trips. This tour promises a peaceful yet invigorating day out, ideal for creating lasting memories without the hassle of planning.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Seoul is included, starting with pick-ups at designated locations and ending with drop-offs in central Seoul areas.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, with the main sightseeing and activities spread throughout the day.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, some cash or cards for snacks or souvenirs, and wear weather-appropriate clothing, especially if visiting during colder months when activities depend on weather conditions.

Are the attractions suitable for all ages?
Yes, the stops like lakes, waterfalls, and herb gardens are family-friendly. Strawberry picking is also a fun, hands-on activity suitable for children and adults alike.

Can activities be affected by weather?
Yes, paddle boat rides at Sanjung Lake depend on weather conditions and may not be available if the lake isn’t frozen or if safety concerns arise.

How much does the tour cost?
The tour costs $67.87 per person, which covers all transportation, a professional guide, and admission to the attractions.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You may want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the day.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Its small group size and engaging activities make it a good choice for solo travelers looking to meet others while exploring scenic spots.

In summary, this Pocheon tour offers a beautifully balanced mix of nature, culture, and fun activities, all at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for travelers craving a peaceful escape with plenty of picture-perfect moments, especially during the vibrant seasons when the scenery truly shines. Whether you’re into waterfalls, floral gardens, or sweet strawberries, this day trip will leave you with lasting memories of South Korea’s natural beauty.