Escape Seoul for a full day at the Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival, where frozen rivers, live-fire grilled trout and family-friendly ice activities form Korea’s liveliest winter scene. This guided day tour includes transport and festival admission—perfect for first-time ice fishers.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A crisp mountain light breaks across a river that has frozen solid, and a ribbon of visitors fan out over its surface, each squat beside a neat hole in the ice. On this full-day outing from Seoul you step off the bus into Gangwon-do winter: the air bites, steam rises from grilled fish stalls, and the frozen Hwacheon waterways dare you to try your hand at sancheoneo ice fishing.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10–11 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic balance for walking on packed snow and ice seating.
Wildlife
History
Hwacheon’s winter market and ice fishing traditions date to local agricultural cycles when frozen rivers were central to subsistence and seasonal trade.
Conservation
The festival emphasizes sustainable fishing limits and local waste management; visitors should avoid littering on ice and follow guide instructions to protect river health.
Reserve your spot on the Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival Day Tour from Seoul today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in insulated layers
Temperatures on the ice can be well below freezing; use baselayers, a warm midlayer and a windproof outer shell.
Bring waterproof boots and spare socks
Ice and snow mean wet feet are likely—dry feet keep you comfortable for the whole day.
Carry small cash
Local food stalls and some vendors prefer cash for grilled fish and snacks.
Watch your footing on ice
Even on packed festival ice, it’s easy to slip—microspikes or traction aids help stability.
Insulated waterproof boots
Keeps feet dry and warm while walking on snow and sitting on ice.
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Thermal base layers and midlayer
Layering traps heat and lets you adjust for changing wind and activity levels.
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Waterproof gloves and spare pair
Wet hands lose dexterity quickly; waterproof insulated gloves and a dry backup are useful.
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Compact camera or smartphone with spare battery
Cold drains batteries fast—bring extras to capture ice sculptures and catch photos.
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