Strawberry & Eobi Valley & Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm

Exploring Seoul’s Hidden Winter Charms: A Tour of Strawberry Fields, Icy Valleys, and Nami Island’s Winter Wonderland

This tour promises a full day of unique South Korean winter experiences, blending nature, scenic beauty, and a touch of local life. We’re reviewing an organized day trip that takes you out of Seoul to enjoy strawberry picking, marvel at Eobi Ice Valley, explore Nami Island’s iconic landscapes, and finish with a dazzling light festival at the Garden of Morning Calm.

What makes this experience stand out?

• The chance to pick fresh, sweet strawberries at a local farm—an authentic, hands-on activity.
• The stunning Eobi Ice Valley with its dramatic ice walls—perfect for memorable photos and a chilly thrill.
• The iconic Nami Island with its peaceful, wintery scenery and flexible sightseeing time.
• The Garden of Morning Calm’s light festival, which transforms the garden into a glowing wonderland at night.

A possible consideration?
The strawberry farm is quite brief—just about 20 minutes of picking—so those hoping for a lengthy farm experience might find it a bit underwhelming.

Ideal for travelers craving a mix of nature, cultural sights, and fun winter activities, especially if you want a well-organized day without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Comfortable, guided day trip with round-trip transport from Seoul.
• Authentic experiences like strawberry picking and exploring scenic winter spots.
• Flexible sightseeing with ample free time at Nami Island and at each stop.
• Affordable price point considering the included attractions and transportation.
• Beautiful photo opportunities at Eobi Valley and the Garden of Morning Calm.
• Suitable for most travelers, with good accessibility and a maximum of 999 participants.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins early, with pickups from Hongik University Station (7:30), Myeongdong (8:20), and Dongdaemun (8:30). The large group size (up to 999 travelers) is typical for organized tours, but the coach provides a comfortable setting, making the 12-hour trip manageable. Expect efficient, air-conditioned transport that gets you seamlessly from Seoul to each destination and back.

Strawberry Picking at Yangsu-ri Farm

The first stop is at a local strawberry farm, included in the tour for about 1 hour. Reviewers highlight that while the experience is enjoyable, it’s fairly quick—most visitors say they’re done within 20 minutes, leaving time for photos and sampling the strawberries. One reviewer mentioned it’s just a simple tent with low-lying rows, so don’t expect a sprawling farm tour, but rather a quick, sweet taste of local life.

The admission is free, and you’ll have the chance to pick and taste the famous Korean strawberries—an activity that’s both fun and delicious. Expect the strawberries to be juicy and sweet, a perfect snack or souvenir.

Exploring Eobi Ice Valley

Next is Eobi Ice Valley, a highlight for many. The guide leads the group to spot the impressive Ice Wall—a stunning natural formation that makes for fantastic photos. With about 1 hour and 15 minutes here, you’ll have ample time to wander, snap pictures, and listen to explanations about this icy marvel.

Based on reviews, the view is quite striking, and the icy walls evoke a sense of winter magic. It’s a great opportunity for landscape photos that will stand out on your social media or photo albums. Expect a cold but manageable environment, so dress warmly to fully enjoy the experience.

Nami Island: Scenic Serenity and Flexibility

Afterward, you’ll head to Nami Island, one of Korea’s most beloved spots, especially during winter. The guide provides ship tickets and explains the island’s highlights before giving you about three hours of free time to explore.

Reviewers appreciate the efficient ticket distribution and the chance to wander at your own pace. Whether you want to stroll along tree-lined paths, visit the iconic Metasequoia Lane, or just relax by the lake, you’ll find plenty of scenic spots to enjoy. It’s also a popular spot for winter photos, with breathtaking views of snow-covered scenery.

Lunch is at your own expense—so plan to indulge in some local snacks or bring a picnic to maximize your time on the island.

The Garden of Morning Calm’s Light Festival

The last major stop is the Garden of Morning Calm, renowned for its illuminated light festival during winter. As evening falls, the garden transforms into a glowing spectacle, perfect for capturing stunning photos.

Almost all reviewers mention how beautiful and atmospheric this part of the tour is, with many noting the fantastic lighting displays and the peaceful winter ambiance. You’ll have about an hour here to soak in the views, take photos, or simply enjoy the enchanting atmosphere.

Return to Seoul

After the light show, the bus heads back to Seoul, with drop-off points at Dongdaemun, Myeongdong, and Hongik University. Expect the return trip to take about 3 hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s the Value?

At $85.51 per person, this tour offers an accessible way to experience Seoul’s nearby winter gems without having to organize transportation or worry about language barriers. The all-inclusive admission tickets save hassle and extra costs, and having a knowledgeable guide helps enrich the experience with explanations you might miss exploring solo.

While the strawberry farm is brief, the inclusion of multiple scenic stops, plus the chance to enjoy a light festival, makes this a well-balanced day trip. Compared to doing each activity independently, this package provides a good value for those looking to combine nature, cultural sights, and festive fun in one day.

Highlights from Real Travelers

Guests loved the expert guide, Sabrina, who spoke four languages and kept the group engaged. One reviewer said, “The tour had just the right amount of stops and ample time to explore each stop,” emphasizing the well-paced nature of the schedule.

Another noted, “Eobi Valley is really impressive, with the Ice Wall making for stunning photos,” while the light festival at the Garden of Morning Calm was described as “a glowing wonderland.”

Practical Tips

• Dress warmly, especially for the ice valley and evening at the garden.
• Bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of battery, as there are many photo-worthy moments.
• Allocate some extra cash for lunch on Nami Island—food options are plentiful, but not included.
• Arrive early for pickup points to avoid missing the bus.
• This tour is suitable for most travelers but may be less ideal for those with mobility issues, given some walking and outdoor exposure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see a variety of winter landscapes and cultural sites in one organized day. It suits nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those eager to experience Korea’s winter traditions.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, hassle-free way to enjoy Seoul’s outskirts without renting a car or planning logistics, this tour provides a good balance of guided insights and free time.

However, if you’re after a lengthy farm experience or prefer more personalized, off-the-beaten-path adventures, it might feel a little rushed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a practical, engaging way to explore some of Korea’s most scenic winter destinations. The combination of strawberry picking, dramatic ice formations, Nami Island’s charm, and the illuminated garden makes for a memorable day trip.

With a very reasonable price point, strong reviews on guide quality, and diverse attractions, it’s a solid choice for visitors wanting a taste of Korea’s winter magic without the stress of planning.

Whether you’re capturing wintery photos or simply soaking up the peaceful landscapes, this experience offers genuine value and a chance to make special memories.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
The tour starts with pickups from 7:30 AM at Hongik University Station, so plan to be ready a little earlier to ensure you don’t miss the bus.

Are the attractions suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but some walking and outdoor exposure are involved. Young children and seniors should be prepared for the chilly weather and outdoor activity.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have about three hours at Nami Island to explore and find your own meal options.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 12 hours, from pickup in Seoul to returning in the evening.

Do I need to bring my own tickets?
No, the tour guide handles all the distribution of tickets for Nami Island and manages access to other attractions.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially for Eobi Valley and the evening at the Garden of Morning Calm—layered clothes, gloves, and a hat are recommended.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If weather causes cancellation, a full refund or reschedule will be offered.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group is large but friendly, and guides facilitate interaction. It’s a great way to meet fellow travelers.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $85.51 per person, which includes transportation, guide, and attraction admissions—offering good value for a full day of sightseeing.

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To sum it up, this tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into Korea’s winter scenery, blending fun activities with stunning landscapes and cultural highlights. Perfect for those wanting a hassle-free day with memorable photo opportunities and authentic experiences—just bundle up and get ready for a scenic adventure.