Ganghwa Island Tour

Korea private tour-Tagytravelkorea, Jeondeungsa Temple

If you're seeking a unique destination close to Seoul, consider a one-day tour of Ganghwa Island.

Ganghwa Island is the fourth largest island in South Korea and is rich in historical sites, serving as a temporary capital during the Goryeo Dynasty and holding significant historical landmarks in Korean history. Located only a 1.5-hour drive from the center of Seoul, Ganghwa is a pretty, peaceful rural place, free from the ubiquitous skyscrapers and shops that you find across South Korea.
The island boasts many large cafes with unique interiors, making it a perfect destination for a personalized and enjoyable day trip. Enjoy your private tour from Seoul to Ganghwa Island, guided by an English-speaking guide, to experience beautiful nature, local culture, historical sites, and local cuisines.

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Jeondeungsa Temple

Jeondeungsa Temple, located on Ganghwa Island, is one of South Korea's oldest and most historically significant Buddhist temples. Originally built during the Goguryeo Dynasty, the temple features beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. It is renowned for its intricate wood carvings and ancient pagodas, offering visitors a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Korea's rich cultural heritage.

Gwangseongbo Fortress

Gwangseongbo Fortress was a stronghold that protected the Ganghwa Island. Dating back to the Goryeo Dynasty, it is famous for being a key site during the 1871 Battle of Ganghwa against American forces. Recently restored, the fortress offers a blend of nature, history, and culture, featuring old cannons and great views over the channel.

Ganghwa Pungmul Market

Visitors can find all of Ganghwa's specialty products at the Ganghwa Pungmul Market, including Ganghwa turnip, Ganghwa ginseng, Ganghwa wormwood, yellow sweet potatoes, dried seafood, and salted fish.

Joyang Bangjik Textile Cafe

Joyang Bangjik Textile Factory was built in 1933 as the first and largest textile factory on Ganghwa Island. Over time, it was abandoned for 20 to 30 years before being renovated into a café in 2017 and reopened in 2018. It has since become a famous spot for café tours. Here, you can find a wide array of memorabilia, antiques, and collectibles, along with various desserts and drinks.

Ganghwa Anglican Church

Ganghwa Anglican Church, completed on November 15, 1900, uniquely blends traditional Korean and Western architectural styles. Its interior resembles a Western basilica, while the exterior features Korean wood joinery and a tile roof.

Ganghwa Peace Observatory

Ganghwa Peace Observatory is a notable attraction on Ganghwa Island where visitors, including North Korean defectors and tourists, can observe the daily lives of North Korean residents from the closest distance within South Korea using binoculars to peek at North Korea.