Things To Do
in Anseong
Anseong is a small city in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, located just south of Seoul and accessible by road and rail. The city blends rural farmland with a growing urban edge, offering markets, traditional crafts, and local eateries. Its cultural calendar emphasizes traditional performances and farm-to-table experiences, making it easy to capture an authentic Korean countryside vibe.
Visitors are drawn to the relaxed pace, easy day trips to nearby hills and rivers, and the hospitality of local communities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Anseong Namsadang Training Center, where you can immerse yourself in traditional Korean culture. Enjoy a guided tour that showcases various performances and the rich history of this performing arts group. Afterward, stroll through the quaint streets of the historic center, taking in the charming architecture and local shops.
Indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, trying out Anseong's famous rice cakes and other traditional dishes. After your meal, head to the Anseong Art Museum to appreciate contemporary Korean art and perhaps catch a special exhibition. Spend some time exploring the nearby parks, where you can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
As the sun sets, find a cozy café to enjoy a cup of traditional Korean tea while reflecting on your adventures. Later, visit the Anseong Night Market, where you can sample street food and shop for local crafts. End your evening with a leisurely walk, soaking in the vibrant nightlife of the town.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the Anseong Folk Village, where you can step back in time. Explore the reconstructed traditional houses and witness artisans showcasing their crafts, from pottery to weaving. Engage with the friendly locals who share stories about their heritage and daily life.
After a morning full of cultural experiences, enjoy a picnic lunch in the village, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Participate in a hands-on workshop where you can learn traditional Korean crafts, such as calligraphy or making kimchi. Spend the afternoon wandering the picturesque paths and taking photos of the beautiful landscapes.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance held in the village, featuring traditional music and dance that will transport you to another era. After the show, enjoy a traditional Korean barbecue dinner at a nearby restaurant, savoring marinated meats grilled to perfection. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk under the stars, appreciating the tranquility of rural Korea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly local communities and accessible countryside near a major metro area
- Rural charm with markets, farms, and easy day trips to hills and rivers
- Limited nightlife and nightlife-focused amenities compared with bigger cities
- Smaller international flight options; some services only in Korean
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me
- "얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "화장실이 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "메뉴 추천해 주세요" - Please recommend a dish
Places to Visit in Anseong
Visit one of these nice places.
A calm riverside stretch that offers wide evening light, reflections on the water, and silhouettes of trees and boats; ideal for wide-angle landscapes and golden-hour portraits.
A vantage point overlooking the city and surrounding farmland, perfect for cityscape and panorama shots at blue hour.
Colorful stalls, hanging lanterns, and bustling vendors create dynamic street photography opportunities in soft evening light.
A traditional-style courtyard with stone paths and wooden features, suitable for architecture and candid cultural photography.
Food in Anseong
Anseong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A restorative chicken soup often enjoyed in warmer months and available at markets and specialty restaurants; look for a version with whole garlic cloves and ginseng.
Must-Try!
A fragrant, savory stew made with doenjang, vegetables, and tofu; commonly served with rice and a side of kimchi.
Crispy pancakes cooked with scallions and seasonal seafood; great for sharing at casual eateries or markets.
Sweet or savory seasonal pancakes made with homegrown flowers or edible petals; often enjoyed in springtime markets or cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market lanes offering fresh produce, hot street snacks, and regional specialties; a great place to try small bites and observe local life.
Casual stalls around the market area serving tempura, twigim, tteokbokki, and other quick bites ideal for a walking meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple bow or nod is common; when addressing strangers, use polite language and honorifics. In groups, avoid loud conversations in quiet spaces.
Shoes are typically removed when entering homes and traditional spaces; use slippers if provided.
It’s polite to wait for elders or the oldest person to begin eating first; small shared dishes are common, so use chopsticks and spoons to serve from communal bowls.
Safety
Tipping in Anseong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Korea and is generally not expected. Excellent service is typically included in the price, and staff do not rely on tips for income.
Card payments are widely accepted in restaurants, cafes, and shops. Mobile payments (KakaoPay, Naver Pay) are popular for quick transactions, and cash is handy for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms; ideal for outdoor markets, gardens, and early morning hikes.
Warm to hot and humid with occasional rain; stay hydrated, wear hats, and seek shaded walkways and cafes between activities.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; a peak season for photography along rural lanes and hill trails.
Cold and occasionally snowy; lower crowds, cozy eateries, and opportunities for atmospheric urban and landscape shots with frost or light dustings.
Anseong at Night
Hiking in Anseong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate ascent with scenic farmland and forest views; a good morning option for photos and a light workout.
Gentle loops through pine and deciduous trees; well-marked paths and several rest points along the way.
A short, family-friendly hike with a small waterfall, ideal for a relaxed afternoon and picnic opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Anseong by plane.
Main international gateway to the region; about 60-90 minutes by highway and rail from Anseong, depending on traffic and connection.
Domestic and short-haul international flights; convenient for quick connections to regional destinations and nearby markets; reachable in about 60-90 minutes by road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents work in agriculture, small businesses, or commute to nearby cities; family-friendly neighborhoods are common.
Presence of regional schools and work opportunities attracts a steady flow of younger residents looking for a quieter base near greater Seoul.
A sizable elderly population contributes to a calm, community-focused atmosphere and traditional cultural activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular nationwide; local clubs and schools often host games and leagues that visitors can watch.
Common in community centers and school fields; casual matches and local leagues are part of weekend activity.
Traditional Korean martial arts are widely practiced and sometimes featured in cultural events and demonstrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Anseong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Korean dishes include meat stock or fish sauce. Look for vegetable stews (jjigae), tofu dishes, tofu kimchi, and rice bowls with lots of vegetables. When in doubt, ask for no meat stock and request extra vegetables or tofu; many places can prepare a vegetarian version if you ask in advance.