Seoul: Cheongyang Ice Festival & Strawberry Picking

Introduction
If you’re looking to add a touch of winter wonder to your trip from Seoul, the Cheongyang Ice Festival & Strawberry Picking tour offers a compelling day out. We’ve come across this experience and found it packed with unique activities, scenic stops, and authentic moments that go beyond typical sightseeing.

What makes this tour stand out is its mix of spectacular ice sculptures, interactive winter activities, and the chance to harvest some of Korea’s sweetest strawberries—yes, even in winter. On top of that, it’s a well-organized trip that balances fun with practicality, making it a good pick for those wanting a full day of exploration without the hassle of planning.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the weather can be unpredictable, and heavy rain might dampen some outdoor parts of the experience. Still, the overall value and variety of activities make this perfect for travelers who love outdoor adventures, cultural insights, and tasty treats.

Who should consider this tour? It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who crave authentic winter sights, engaging activities, and easy logistics with guided support.

Key Points

• Versatile Experience: Combines ice sculptures, outdoor winter fun, and strawberry harvesting.
• Convenient Transport: Includes round-trip coach travel from Seoul with scenic stops along the way.
• Authentic Activities: Hands-on strawberry picking, ice sledding, and more, offering memorable moments.
• Photogenic Spots: Perfect backdrops like ice walls and scenic bridges for social media photos.
• Guided Support: Live English-speaking guide providing insights and assistance throughout the day.
• Good Value: All-day experience packed with diverse activities, ideal for a full day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Korea’s Winter Charm at Cheongyang

The tour kicks off early in the morning with convenient pickup points in Seoul—Hongik University, Myeongdong, and Dongdaemun—making it easy to join regardless of your central location. After a roughly two-and-a-half-hour coach ride, you’ll arrive at the scenic South Chungcheong Province, where the real fun begins.

The Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival

The heart of this trip is the Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival, a showcase of enormous, intricate ice sculptures. While the weather can impact your experience—particularly if it rains—most visitors find the sculptures awe-inspiring and photo-worthy. The highlight is the ice wall, which provides a perfect backdrop for selfies and memorable shots. In fact, some reviews mention that the sculpture viewing can be less enjoyable if the weather isn’t cooperative, but the vibrant ice displays often compensate for that.

At the festival, you can try ice sledding, snow sledding, and even bobsledding—activities that appeal to those seeking some adrenaline and family-friendly fun. The winter activities pass grants access to these features, though some options like ziplining or train rides are paid on-site, offering the flexibility to tailor your experience.

Scenic Stops and Cultural Insights

On the way, the tour includes scenic viewpoints and brief stops. One notable highlight is Nonsan-si, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk and a picnic amid scenic surroundings. Locals and guides alike appreciate the chance to stretch legs and soak in the countryside.

Another scenic gem is the Cheonjang Lake Suspension Bridge—a tranquil spot perfect for contemplative strolls and photos. This spot offers a refreshing break from the busy festival and showcases Korea’s scenic winter landscapes in a peaceful, calming setting.

Strawberry Picking in Winter? Yes, it’s True

Perhaps the most surprising part of this tour is the chance to harvest strawberries, a fruit often associated with summer. Korean farms grow strawberries without pesticides or chemical fertilizers, so they’re safe and naturally sweet. According to one review, the experience of picking and tasting strawberries in winter felt almost surreal—their flavor was intensely sweet, and the hands-on activity was a genuine highlight.

Note that tasting strawberries while picking is prohibited during the activity, to preserve the farm’s policies, but you can taste the fruits afterward or buy some to take home. This activity offers a rare opportunity to connect with local farming traditions and enjoy a fresh, seasonal treat.

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Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Transit

The tour starts early around 6:30-7:20 am, depending on your pickup point. The coach ride from Seoul takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes, giving you time to relax and enjoy scenic views en route. Most guides, like Lecirt, are praised for their knowledgeable commentary, sharing insights about Korea’s winter culture and local legends, such as the story of the dragon and tiger.

Scenic Sightseeing & Stops

Once off the bus, the tour includes about 4.5 hours of sightseeing, focusing on the Ice Fountain Festival and scenic spots. The festival itself is sizable, with enormous ice sculptures that captivate visitors. While weather conditions can affect visibility or comfort, most travelers find the sculptures impressive enough to warrant the visit.

The Ice Activities

Your ticket includes classic winter fun like sledding and bobsledding—great for adrenaline rushes or family entertainment. Some activities like ziplining and train rides are extra and can be purchased on-site, giving flexibility for different budgets and interests.

The Strawberry Farm and Scenic Walks

Post-festival, you’ll visit a strawberry farm for about an hour. Here, the emphasis is on hands-on harvesting of strawberries grown pesticide-free. The farm’s staff is often friendly and eager to show visitors how strawberries are cultivated. You might find, as one reviewer did, that the strawberries’ sweetness in winter is unexpectedly high.

A walk across the Cheonjang Lake Suspension Bridge offers a peaceful moment amidst Korea’s winter scenery. Expect scenic views, a sense of calm, and plenty of chances for photos.

Return to Seoul

The journey back lasts around 3 hours, with drop-offs in Seoul in the late afternoon. The guide typically shares stories and tips about local attractions, making the return trip informative and enjoyable.

The Experience’s Value and Practicality

This tour offers excellent value for a full day of diverse activities. The price covers transportation, entry to the ice festival, and the strawberry picking experience. Extra activities like ziplining or the Tin train are paid separately, but the core experience is comprehensive. With a live English guide, the trip also ensures you’re well-informed without feeling rushed or lost.

One of the key benefits is the balance of guided convenience and free time. While you don’t have to worry about logistics, you still get ample opportunities for independent exploration, especially during scenic stops and the farm visit.

The scenic stops like Cheonjang Lake and the suspension bridge add a peaceful dimension to the trip, making it more than just a festival visit. Plus, the opportunity to take photos of ice sculptures, snowy landscapes, and picturesque bridges makes this a memorable visual experience.

Weather Considerations and Tips

Since the tour is outdoors for most activities, dressing warmly is essential. Waterproof clothing and sturdy boots will make sledding and walking more comfortable. If rain is forecasted, be prepared for the possibility of less enjoyment during some parts, but the overall experience often remains worthwhile.

The Sum Up

This Seoul day trip to the Cheongyang Ice Festival and strawberry farm is a well-rounded adventure for those eager to experience Korea’s winter in an authentic, engaging way. It combines eye-catching ice sculptures, fun winter sports, scenic nature, and a taste of local farming traditions—all in one accessible package. The knowledgeable guides and flexible options make it especially appealing for travelers who appreciate guided support and a bit of spontaneity.

The experience is particularly suitable for families, couples, or anyone looking to add a unique winter activity to their Korea itinerary without the fuss of planning intricate logistics. The inclusion of strawberry picking offers an unusual twist, creating lasting memories of Korea’s seasonal bounty.

While weather can influence certain aspects, the overall package provides great value, variety, and the chance to see Korea’s winter landscape in a lively, scenic setting. If you want a full day of outdoor fun with cultural insights and Instagram-worthy moments, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes coach transportation from Seoul, with pickup options at Hongik University, Myeongdong, and Dongdaemun.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, including travel, sightseeing, activities, and return.

Are winter activities part of the package?
The core winter activities like ice sledding, snow sledding, and ice bobsled are included with the pass. Additional activities like ziplining can be purchased on-site.

Can I taste the strawberries while picking?
No, tasting strawberries during picking is prohibited, but you can enjoy them afterward or buy some to take home.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes, especially since you’ll be outdoors in winter weather.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the activities such as sledding and strawberry picking are family-friendly, making it a good outing for kids as well.

What if the weather is bad?
Rain or snow may affect certain outdoor activities or the viewing of ice sculptures, but most participants still find the experience enjoyable and scenic.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Korea’s winter charm—perfect for those wanting to experience seasonal traditions, captivating scenery, and a fun-filled day just outside Seoul.

You can check availability for your dates here: