Things To Do
in Ansan

Ansan is a vibrant city located in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, known for its diverse population and rich cultural heritage. It is situated just south of Seoul and is part of the Seoul Metropolitan Area, making it a popular residential area for those working in the capital. The city is characterized by its beautiful parks, modern infrastructure, and various educational institutions, including several universities.

Ansan also boasts a thriving arts scene and hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, showcasing its dynamic community spirit.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ansan Arts Center, where you can explore various exhibitions and performances.

afternoon
:

Head to the Ansan Botanical Garden for a serene experience filled with diverse plant species and beautiful landscapes.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local Korean BBQ restaurant, followed by a stroll through the vibrant streets of Sangnoksu.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike at Gwaneum Mountain, taking in the fresh air and stunning views of the city.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ansan Lake Park for a leisurely walk around the lake and enjoy the scenic beauty.

evening
:

End your trip with a traditional Korean meal at a local restaurant, followed by drinks at a nearby bar in the city center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$7
Coffee at a café$3
🚍Public transportation fare$1
🏨Hotel room per night$50
🍺Beer at a bar$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and diversity.
  • Proximity to Seoul for easy day trips.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Less touristy compared to other Korean cities.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Public transportation can be crowded during peak hours.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "도와주세요" - Please help me
  • "영어 할 수 있어요?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Ansan

Visit one of these nice places.

Ansan Lake Park

A picturesque lake surrounded by walking trails and cherry blossom trees, perfect for capturing nature shots.

Gwaneum Mountain

Offers panoramic views of the city and is great for sunset photography.

Sangnoksu Park

A vibrant park with sculptures and fountains, ideal for urban photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ansan

Ansan offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its cultural diversity, with a variety of local dishes influenced by traditional Korean flavors.

Ansan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kimchi Jjigae

A spicy stew made with kimchi, tofu, and pork, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Must-Try!

Bulgogi

Marinated beef grilled to perfection and often served with rice and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sangnoksu Market

A bustling market offering a variety of street food options including tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Climate Guide

Weather

Ansan experiences four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching above 30°C. Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures often dropping to -5°C and occasional snowfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, such as bowing slightly when greeting them.

Shoes Off Indoors

It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin your meal.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ansan is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, like any urban area, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 for police and 119 for fire or medical emergencies.

Tipping in Ansan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, and service charges are usually included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops and street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, particularly around late March to early April.

Summer

Hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 30°C; perfect for water activities and enjoying ice treats.

Autumn

Cool and pleasant, with stunning fall foliage making it a great time for hiking and outdoor activities.

Winter

Cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing; enjoy winter festivals and the occasional snowfall.

Nightlife Guide

Ansan at Night

Ansan has a lively nightlife scene, particularly in areas like Sangnoksu, where you can find various bars, pubs, and karaoke rooms. The city offers a mix of local and international options, catering to various tastes. You'll find establishments featuring live music, dance floors, and cozy lounges, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Ansan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gwaneum Mountain Trail

A scenic trail leading to the summit of Gwaneum Mountain, offering panoramic views of Ansan and the surrounding areas.

Daebudo Island Trail

A coastal trail on nearby Daebudo Island that features stunning sea views and is perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Ansan by plane.

Incheon International Airport

Located about 45 km from Ansan, this major international airport offers flights to various destinations worldwide and provides excellent transportation options to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ansan is quite walkable, especially in areas like the city center and parks. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it convenient for tourists. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, although some areas may have steep inclines due to the city's hilly terrain.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Korean Residents

The majority of the population consists of native Koreans, reflecting the traditional culture and lifestyle.

Foreign Workers

Ansan is home to a significant number of foreign workers, particularly from Southeast Asia, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Ansan, with local teams drawing large crowds during the season.

Soccer

Soccer is also favored, with various local teams and leagues, engaging both players and supporters.

Transportation

Traffic

Ansan's traffic can be busy, especially during rush hours when commuters travel to and from Seoul. Public transportation is well-developed, with buses and subways providing convenient access to various parts of the city and beyond. The subway system connects Ansan with Seoul, making it an excellent option for travelers.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ansan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it’s advisable to check for hidden meat ingredients in sauces.

Vegan

Finding strictly vegan options may be challenging, but some places can accommodate requests.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ansan has several hospitals and clinics that provide quality healthcare services. Emergency services are available, and many healthcare providers have English-speaking staff. Insurance is recommended, and it’s advisable to carry any necessary medical documents while traveling.

Discover Korea

Read more in our Korea 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea Travel Guide