Things To Do
in Tongjin
Tongjin is a coastal town in western Gyeonggi Province, conveniently reachable from Seoul. It blends agricultural countryside with a lively traditional market culture and tidal flats along the Yellow Sea. Visitors can wander markets, historic temples, and riverside paths for a relaxed, scenic experience.
The area serves as a quiet base for exploring the western coast and nearby islands without the bustle of bigger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Incheon International Airport and make your way to Tongjin. Check into your accommodation and freshen up while enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the local area by taking a leisurely stroll to acclimatize to the atmosphere.
Visit the Tongjin Traditional Market to experience the vibrant local culture and sample some traditional Korean street food. Engage with friendly vendors and immerse yourself in the scents and sounds of this lively market. Purchase some unique souvenirs to remember your trip.
Dine at a local restaurant where you can savor regional specialties such as grilled fish or galbi (Korean BBQ). Enjoy the warm and welcoming environment while interacting with locals. Finish your evening with a walk along the peaceful riverside, soaking in the sights and sounds of nature.
Start your day early with a visit to the Tongjin Cultural Center, where you can learn about the rich history and traditions of the area. Participate in a workshop where you might try your hand at traditional crafts. The engaging guides will provide insights into local customs.
Explore the nearby Tongjin Goryeo Historic Site, where ancient structures and artifacts showcase Korea’s past. Enjoy the serene surroundings and take in the scenic views as you wander the historic grounds. Capture beautiful photographs that reflect the region’s heritage.
Head to a local tea house to unwind after a busy day of exploration. Taste various types of traditional Korean tea while learning about their benefits. Engage in conversations with locals who gather at the tea house for a relaxing end to their day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚶One-way local transport | $1-2 |
| 🧺Groceries (basic items) | $20-40/week |
| 🏨Guesthouse / hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Short travel distance from Seoul
- Rich seafood and countryside flavors
- Relaxed pace with fewer crowds than major cities
- Good base for exploring western Gyeonggi coast
- Limited international dining options
- Less nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some areas have limited English signage
- Public transport less frequent outside peak times
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me
- "이거 얼마예요?" - How much is this?
- "도와주실 수 있나요?" - Can you help me?
- "맛있어요" - Delicious
Places to Visit in Tongjin
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning market scenes with colorful stalls, fishermen preparing boats, and soft light over the harbor.
Silhouettes of fishing boats against a warm sea horizon as the sun sinks behind the coast.
Wide, calm riverbanks perfect for long-exposure shots of water and passing boats.
Historic architecture and lantern-lit paths offering tranquil compositions and detail shots.
Food in Tongjin
Tongjin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Soy-marinated raw crab, a coastal specialty; best sought at Tongjin Market stalls or seafood restaurants near the harbor.
Must-Try!
Seafood pancake studded with seafood and scallions, popular as an accompaniment to beer or makgeolli at seaside eateries.
Simply seasoned, charcoal-grilled fish served with rice and kimchi at local fish houses.
A vegetarian-friendly bowl featuring tofu, seasonal vegetables, and gochujang on warm rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can sample street foods, pickled vegetables, fresh seafood, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use a polite title and bow slightly when meeting; address elders with respectful forms of language.
Remove shoes when entering traditional spaces or certain homes; sit modestly in public gatherings and avoid loud behavior.
Wait for the eldest to start eating; share dishes by taking from common plates with utensils or chopsticks.
Safety
Tipping in Tongjin
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Korean service contexts. If given, it is often politely declined or left as a small gesture in tourist-heavy spots. Instead, good service is expected to be included in the bill or rewarded with a thank-you.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming fields and migratory birds along the coast; great for outdoor markets and short coastal walks.
Warm to hot, humid days; expect afternoon showers and sea breezes. Seafood is plentiful and markets run late.
Cool, crisp air with clear skies; ideal for photography along the coast and hillside trails; harvest foods appear in markets.
Cold and relatively dry with a quiet, peaceful atmosphere; some outdoor sites may be windy; warm eateries are welcome.
Tongjin at Night
Hiking in Tongjin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal path offering tidal flats, sea views, and opportunities to see migratory birds.
Forest trail with moderate climbs and rewarding viewpoints overlooking the coast.
Airports
How to reach Tongjin by plane.
Major international gateway located about 40–70 minutes from Tongjin by car or rail-connected services.
Regional airport serving domestic and some international flights, closer to Tongjin for quick arrivals.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households are family-centered, combining farming or small business with commuting to larger cities.
A notable elderly demographic with traditional living patterns and community ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played across Korea, with local parks hosting games and casual leagues.
Popular among youth and adults; local fields and small stadiums host matches and training.
Coastal life includes fishing as both a pastime and livelihood; coastal communities often share tips and spots.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tongjin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for vegetable bibimbap, tofu dishes, and banchan (side dishes) made with tofu, mushrooms, and seasonal vegetables. English-speaking staff can guide you to vegetarian-friendly options; request no fish sauce in soups or broths.