Gangchon Resort (Gangchon Yuwonji), where the romance of youth lingers, a walk along the Bukhan River (Bukhangang)

Stepping into the waters of memories, Gangchon

I boarded a train bound for Chuncheon (Chuncheon) for the first time in a while. The glistening sunlight on the Bukhan River (Bukhangang) outside the window sparkles like an old film. My destination this time is Gangchon Resort (Gangchon Yuwonji) in Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do. From the 1970s to the 90s, this place, where the youth of countless college students once lingered, evokes a sense of nostalgia just by its name. True to the meaning of its place name—a beautiful term meaning 'a village by the water'—the sound of the river winding around the entire village calmed my heart. The cool river breeze brushing against my nose and the air mixed with the scent of earth were enough to wash away the stuffiness of the city in an instant.

The first thing I did upon arriving in Gangchon (Gangchon) was walk along the river without a specific destination. Walking along the well-maintained trail, the faint sound of water makes one's steps feel light. Seeing the aged yet cozy accommodations and the small clusters of shops, I felt the warmth of the passing years held within this place.

Experiencing nature with all five senses in Gangchon

Gangchon Resort (Gangchon Yuwonji) is a massive natural playground in itself. It is filled with things to enjoy, not just by looking, but by actively experiencing them. Along the path created by the Bukhan River (Bukhangang), you can pedal a bicycle, or simply watching the peaceful backs of people casting fishing rods while gazing at the leisurely flowing water is enough for healing. For those who enjoy hiking, I recommend heading toward nearby Samaksan Mountain (Samaksan) or Gugok Falls (Gugokpokpo). In particular, Gugok Falls (Gugokpokpo), located 4km to the southwest, is famous for the magnificent sound of water falling through nine curves. Listening to the cool, rushing sound of the waterfall, it feels as if the stress piled up in my heart is being washed away.

Samaksan Mountain (Samaksan) is located about 2km to the east, making it a good course for a light hike. The view of the Bukhan River (Bukhangang) looking down from the summit is truly like a painting. Time in Gangchon (Gangchon) does not move fast. Rather, it feels as if it flows a bit slower, in rhythm with nature.

Travel tips for fully enjoying Gangchon

Gangchon Resort (Gangchon Yuwonji) has excellent accessibility by public transportation. There are few better choices for escaping the city using trains or buses heading to Chuncheon (Chuncheon). The best time to visit is at sunset. When the glow of the sunset paints the Bukhan River (Bukhangang) red, just sitting on a riverside bench and watching the scenery means half of your trip is already a success.

Don't be in too much of a hurry when looking around. The route connecting Gugok Falls (Gugokpokpo), Deungseon Falls (Deungseonpokpo), and Samaksan Mountain (Samaksan) is perfect for a day trip. However, comfortable sneakers are a must if you plan to climb the mountain. Gangchon (Gangchon) shows a completely different personality each season. A path of flowers awaits in spring, green forests in summer, colorful autumn foliage in autumn, and a quiet snowy field in winter. It is a place that will never disappoint regardless of when you visit. There are still many accommodations within the resort, so staying for two days and one night to enjoy the stars in the night sky would be a very special way to enjoy Gangchon (Gangchon).