Things To Do
in Asan

Asan, located in South Korea's Chungcheongnam-do province, is a vibrant city known for its rich historical heritage and natural beauty. The city is famous for its hot springs, which have been cherished since ancient times, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Asan is also home to various cultural sites, including the historic Oeam Folk Village, showcasing traditional Korean architecture and lifestyle.

With its convenient proximity to Seoul, Asan serves as a perfect getaway for both locals and international tourists.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Oeam Folk Village, where you can explore traditional Korean houses and learn about the local culture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Asan Spavis, a popular hot spring resort, to unwind in the therapeutic pools and enjoy a traditional Korean lunch at the onsite restaurant.

evening
:

Stroll around the beautiful Asan Lake Park, and enjoy a peaceful evening watching the sunset over the water.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Asan Arts Center for a glimpse into the local art scene, including exhibitions and performances.

afternoon
:

Take a hike at Mt. Kumsusan, where you can enjoy scenic views and fresh air while engaging in outdoor activities.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant followed by a visit to a nearby bar or pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Ramen$7
🍔Fast Food Meal$5
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$4
🚍Public Bus Fare$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Relaxing hot springs and spas
  • Limited English signage
  • Public transport may be less frequent in rural areas
  • Some attractions may be crowded during peak seasons
  • "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)" - Thank you
  • "화장실 어디에요? (Hwajangsil eodieyo?)" - Where is the restroom?
  • "메뉴 주세요 (Menyu juseyo)" - Please give me the menu.
  • "계산서 주세요 (Gyesanseo juseyo)" - Please bring the bill.

Places to Visit in Asan

Visit one of these nice places.

Oeam Folk Village

Capture stunning shots of traditional Korean architecture amidst serene landscapes.

Asan Lake Park

A picturesque spot for sunset photography with reflections on the water.

Mt. Kumsusan

Ideal for nature photography, featuring breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Culinary Guide

Food in Asan

Asan offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Korean flavors with local specialties. Visitors can savor a variety of dishes that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Asan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Asan Spicy Fish Stew (Maeuntang)

A hearty and spicy fish stew made with fresh catch from the nearby waters, seasoned with various spices and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Korean Fried Chicken

Crispy, flavorful fried chicken often served with a variety of sauces, perfect for sharing.

Bibimbap

A mixed rice dish topped with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg, usually served with gochujang (red chili paste).

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Asan Traditional Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food delicacies.

Street Food Alley

A vibrant area filled with food stalls offering tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and more.

Climate Guide

Weather

Asan experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December-February) can be cold with temperatures dropping below freezing, while summers (June-August) are hot and humid, averaging around 30°C (86°F). Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery, making them the most pleasant seasons for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, addressing them formally and following local customs.

Removing Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the oldest person to start eating before you begin, and use both hands when passing items.

Safety Guide

Safety

Asan is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should still be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places.

Tipping in Asan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash on hand is useful for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, perfect for enjoying water activities at local resorts and hot springs.

Autumn

The fall foliage transforms Asan into a colorful landscape, ideal for hiking and scenic walks.

Winter

Winter brings cold weather, but it’s a great time to enjoy hot springs and winter sports in nearby areas.

Nightlife Guide

Asan at Night

Asan's nightlife features a mix of traditional and modern experiences, including Korean BBQ restaurants, lively bars, and karaoke rooms. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with many places staying open late into the night.

Hiking in Asan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sangnok Park Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers easy access to beautiful views and is popular among families.

Mt. Odae Trail

A more challenging hike for experienced trekkers, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain range.

Airports

How to reach Asan by plane.

Incheon International Airport (ICN)

Located approximately 90 km from Asan, Incheon International Airport is the main international gateway to South Korea, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Asan is relatively walkable, especially in urban areas where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but caution is advised near busy roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Asan has a growing population of young professionals, especially those working in nearby tech hubs.

Families

Many families reside in Asan, attracted by the area's educational facilities and parks.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is one of the most popular sports in South Korea, with local teams and a passionate fan base.

Taekwondo

Asan is home to many taekwondo dojos, reflecting the country's national sport and martial arts heritage.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Asan is generally manageable, with public transportation options including buses and taxis. The city is well-connected to larger cities like Seoul via train services, making it easy to travel around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Asan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, especially bibimbap and various vegetable-based stews.

Gluten-Free

While traditional Korean cuisine includes many gluten-based products, rice and vegetable dishes are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Asan is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics offering quality medical services. The Asan Medical Center is among the largest and best-equipped facilities, catering to both locals and visitors.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide