Last Updated on July 30, 2025 by Jade and Deeshen

Have you ever wandered into a place that feels like it belongs in a storybook?

That’s exactly how we felt the moment we stepped onto Nami Island.

As South Korea travel writers—and lifelong fans of Korean dramas—visiting Nami was a dream decades in the making.

And we’re going to help you plan your Nami Island day trip from Seoul.

This tiny, half-moon-shaped island became famous from the beloved series Winter Sonata (aka Winter Love Song). I watched that show a gazillion times growing up with my mom. It’s one of those epic love stories that just stays with you.

Getting to relive those scenes in real life—hand in hand with my own prince charming (my husband) was a dream come true!

Now, here’s the thing—planning our visit wasn’t as easy as we expected. Between ferries, visa zones (yes, Nami has its own “immigration” gate!), and figuring out what to actually do once we arrived, we found that most guides were either outdated, or missing key info.

So after a few visits and a whole lot of questions from readers—we put together this complete guide to help you make the most of your Nami Island experience!

Here’s everything you need to know including how to get to Nami Island, what to see and do, tips for each season, where to eat, and how to plan a day trip.

Let’s plan your perfect Nami Island trip!

Related: Best Seoul 7 Day Itinerary

How to book a Nami Island Day Trip

Booking a Nami Island day trip is easier than you might think, but there are a few ways to do it depending on your travel style.

We’ve tried several and are happy to share what worked best for us—plus some insider tips to make your day smooth and stress-free.

Nami Island is a peaceful cultural retreat in the middle of the Bukhangang River where nature and art come together.

Sculptures tucked between trees, riverside walking paths, and cute cafes —it’s a beautiful place to slow down and just be.

How to get to Nami Island

Here are the best ways to get to Nami Island, including the best tours and exactly how to book each way from Seoul.

1. Book a Private Nami Island day trip from Seoul

For the easiest, most relaxed experience, booking a private Nami Island Day Tour from Seoul (with driver) is hands down the way to go.

If you have two or more people in your group, this option is totally worth it for the comfort, freedom and flexibility.

This 5 star rated tour includes Nami Island, Cable Car and entrance fee to Nami Island, and Garden of Morning Calm (or Petite France), and was an exceptional experience.

We loved having a private car and guide because it meant no worrying about bus schedules.

That gave us the freedom to explore Nami Island in private at our own pace (no tour groups!) and being able to tailor the day made the trip extra special!

Alternatively, if you wanted to do it all, you could also do a Mt Seoraksan, Nami Island and Garden of Morning Calm day trip from Seoul.

Seoraksan National Park and Nami Island are both easily our favorite places in South Korea, and we’ve raved about Seoraksan in Autumn as our favorite fall colors destination.

With a private tour, your driver takes care of buying all your attraction tickets for you so you don’t have to worry about trying to figure that out. (major time saver!)

Plus, Nami Island can get horribly crowded if you arrive anytime after 10:30 a.m. Having a private driver lets you get there early, bypass all that, so you can enjoy the island without the crowds.

2. Join a Nami Island Day Tour from Seoul

If you’re traveling solo and want to visit multiple spots in one day, joining this Nami Island group day tour is the best tour.

It’s super easy because transport and tickets are handled for you, and you get to see Nami Island along with nearby attractions like Garden of Morning Calm and Gangchon Rail bike Tour.

We especially loved how organized the tours were, and you get to see so much in one day. We recommend booking early since the best tours fill up fast during peak seasons.

If you’re visiting in the winter (December to February), book this winter Nami Island tour which includes Eobi Ice Valley, and Elysian Ski Resort. You can only see the Eobi Ice Valley in the winter, and its worth it!

That said, keep in mind you’ll be sticking with the tour guide’s schedule and group pace, which means less flexibility if you want to explore on your own.

3. Ride a Ferry or Zipline to Nami Island

On all the other options I mentioned, you’ll ride a ferry to Nami Island from the terminal (Gapyeong Wharf). The ferry is the best way to get to Nami Island.

The ride is about 5-10 minutes and is beautiful! The ferry had flags representing different countries, which we thought was so awesome as a way to bridge friendships with different countries!

The ferry ride to Nami Island is approximately 5 minutes. Ferries operate daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with departures every 10–20 minutes between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

During peak hours, especially on weekends, you might experience a wait of up to 30 minutes to board (which isn’t bad).

Another option for a unique and adventurous entrance, you can actually zipline into Nami Island! (Yes, really!)

It starts from the Gapyeong Wharf area and flies you across the Bukhangang River, offering a thrilling bird’s-eye view before you land on the island.

We’ve love long ziplines and to be honest, this one looked a very short for a zipline experience. So we decided to skip it and loved the ferry experience.

The zipline fee includes your entrance to Nami Island and return ferry ticket.

3. DIY: Bus + Ferry Tickets (If You Want to Explore Nami Island Only)

If spending a full day visiting only Nami and want to DIY your trip, there’s a option for that! You can book this roundtrip shuttle bus from Seoul and then book this Nami Island Admission Ticket (which includes your roundtrip ferry tickets).

The bus will pick you up from either Hongik University Station, Myeongdong Station or DDP Station.

Just make sure to book both the round-trip shuttle bus from Seoul and your ferry tickets in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

4. DIY: Train + Bus/Taxi (Our Least Favorite Option)

While taking the train + bus method is doable, it’s definitely the trickiest way if you don’t speak Korean. The ITX train from Seoul to Gapyeong Station is fast, but involves a few transfers.

The next leg involves a bus or taxi ride with transfers that can be confusing if you’re not familiar with Korean public transit.

If you want to maximize your time on Nami Island, we recommend hiring a private Nami Island tour with driver as the best way to go.

5. Where to Stay on Nami Island (Staying Overnight is Highly Recommended!)

One thing we wish we’d done was stay overnight or at least 2-3 days in Nami Island.

If you want to stay overnight, Hotel Jeonggwanru is the best hotel and the only hotel located directly on Nami Island.

Make sure you book in advance as the rooms are usually in high demand!

Staying overnight means you get to experience Nami Island in private in its most magical time, when the ferry boats aren’t open yet. Honestly, we’d gladly trade a few city days in Seoul for Nami Island.

Across the river at Gapyeong, you’ll also find charming hotels and guesthouses like Moonlight Blue Pension inn.

In fact, many Koreans do a honey moon, engagement proposal with photographer, or romantic weekend trip here!

There’s so much to explore nearby too—more on what to do in Nami Island later.

Best Time to Visit Nami Island

The best part about Nami Island is that it transforms with the seasons—so no matter when you go, you’re in for a different kind of magic. That said, the experience can feel completely different depending on the time of year, so here’s what to expect (and what we personally loved the most).

Nami Island Fall Foliage (September to November) — Our Top Pick

This is when Nami Island truly shines. We visited in peak fall, and the colors were absolutely unreal—golden ginkgo trees glowing in the sun, fiery red maples lining the paths. It felt like stepping into a watercolor painting.

We couldn’t resist recreating some of the iconic Winter Sonata scenes—especially the classic walk down Ginkgo Tree Lane.

Honestly, we loved every bit of it. The air was crisp, the atmosphere was cozy, and every turn of the path looked like a scene from a movie.

It’s also the most popular time to visit, so we definitely recommend booking a private driver and arriving early (before 11 a.m.) to avoid the tour crowds and enjoy a quieter, more mindful walk.

Winter in Nami Island (December to February)

If you don’t mind the cold, winter turns Nami Island into a peaceful, snow-covered world. Snow piles softly on tree branches and rooftops, making the whole island look like a postcard.

This season is much quieter than fall, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for stillness and fewer people. Just bundle up—it gets cold by the river, especially in the early morning.

Spring in Nami Island (March to May)

Spring is another beautiful time to visit, with cherry blossoms and fresh blooms popping up all over the island. The energy is light and uplifting, and the weather is pleasantly mild—great for long walks or bike rides without breaking a sweat.

If you prefer a bit of color and warmth without the fall crowds, spring is a wonderful choice.

Summer in Nami Island (June to August)

Since Nami Island is famous for its fall foliage and cherry blossom festival, you might be wondering is Nami Island worth visiting in summer?

Nami Island is at its greenest in summer, with leafy tree tunnels offering plenty of shade! It’s a great time for picnics by the river or casual bike rides under the canopy.

That said, it can get pretty hot and humid, so we recommend going early in the day and packing water, sunscreen, and a handheld fan.

But honestly, no matter when you visit, Nami Island’s beauty will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

Intro to Nami Island (Naminara Republic, Korea)

Nami Island, or the Naminara Republic, is one of the most unique and memorable places you can visit on a day trip from Seoul.

Located about 63 kilometers from the city, this small half-moon-shaped island sits in the middle of the Bukhangang River and offers something a little different from the usual tourist spots. For starters, it calls itself a self-declared “micronation”—with its own flag, currency, passport, and even a national anthem. When you arrive, you’ll even pass through a playful “immigration” gate, adding a fun twist to the experience.

Nami Island is known for its beautiful landscapes and carefully preserved environment. Telephone wires are buried underground to keep the views clean, and there’s a strong focus on eco-friendly practices and creative expression.

You’ll find sculptures tucked between trees, art installations, music, literature, and walking paths that change with the seasons.

Originally a flood-prone sandbank, Nami was developed in the 1960s and has grown into a destination people visit year-round for its natural beauty.

There’s even an ostrich farm on the island—which was honestly one of the most unexpected surprises during our visit!

Nami Island is also well known for its appearance in the hit K-drama Winter Sonata, which made it famous both in Korea and internationally. Even some of our South Korean friends said it’s like a national treasure!

If you’re planning your South Korea trip, don’t miss our other South Korea travel guides. Now on to the best things to do on Nami Island!

What to Do on Nami Island

Once you arrive on Nami Island—whether by ferry, private car, or zipline—you’ll immediately notice the peaceful energy, tree-lined roads, and creative atmosphere.

Despite being small, there’s a lot to see and do on this river island.

The best attractions on Nami island are Metasequoia Lane, General Nami’s tomb, Ginko Tree Lane, Dodamsambong Garden, and Baekpungmilwon Maple Garden just to name a few.

Here’s what we loved and recommend for your visit:

1. Walk or Bike Metasequoia Lane

This is what Nami Island Seoul is most famous for—and for good reason. The Metasequoia-lined road is postcard-perfect in every season. In autumn, the golden ginkgo trees steal the show; in winter, snow transforms the island into a quiet wonderland.

We rented bikes and absolutely loved riding around the island. There are single bikes, couple bikes, and even little family carts for rent at the bike center near the entrance. Walking is also peaceful if you want to take your time and stop for photos or coffee along the way.

2. Visit the Nami Island Winter Sonata Shooting Place

If you grew up watching Winter Sonata, walking through these locations will feel surreal. There are signs throughout the island marking the filming spots—like the famous bench, statue of the couple, and the path where they rode bikes together. It brought back so many memories for us and felt a little like stepping into a scene from the drama.

Even if you haven’t seen the show, these areas are still charming to visit.

3. Nami Island Ostrich and Animals

Yes, Nami Island has its own little ostrich enclosure—and they’re quite the characters.

You’ll also see animals like bunnies hopping around, squirrels in the trees, and even gorgeous peacocks!

It adds a playful touch, especially if you’re visiting as a couple or with kids (or if you’re just a big kid at heart like us!).

4. Stop by Art Installations and Sculptures

As you explore, you’ll notice that Nami Island isn’t just about nature—it’s also a celebration of art and creativity.
Sculptures, murals, and installations are scattered throughout the island, many of them created by Korean and international artists.

One of our favorites was the “Storybook Garden,” where you can find characters from Korean and global children’s literature tucked into the landscape.

5. Nami Island Food

There are a few lovely food options and cafes on the island, and we highly recommend taking a break at one of them.

We also loved eating Korean food on Nami Island! Here’s our sister with a feast of Korean food.

There’s no shortage of food options here—from hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes) to full meals like dak-galbi (spicy stir-fried chicken). We recommend trying some street food while strolling and saving a sit-down meal for later in the day.

Everything is walkable, and we were surprised by how many food choices there were—just keep in mind that popular spots can get crowded around lunchtime.

6. Zipline into the Island (or Watch Others Do It!)

If you want to zipline into Nami Island, you can at Skyline Zipline. It’s such a unique way to enter the island, and great for first timers looking for an easy zipline that’s not too high.

We’ve love long ziplines and to be honest, this one looked a very short for a zipline experience. So we decided to skip it and preferred the ferry experience.

If you didn’t already zipline in, you can still check out the launch tower near the ferry entrance. Even just watching others take off was exciting.

7. Visit the UNICEF Hall & Book Cafes

Our favorite cafe at Nami Island is Swing Cafe, the drinks and pastries were delicious and its right by the river. Another great cafe is Sonata Cafe.

Sitting by the water with a hot drink, warm pastry, especially in the cooler months, was one of our favorite moments.

Here’s some of our favorite drinks and pastries from Swing Cafe, including matcha latte, jujube tea (our favorite), and mocha. We also loved the chocolate croissants!

Nami Island is also home to a few small but meaningful cultural spots like the UNICEF Hall, which highlights global children’s rights through art and storytelling.

There are also cozy book cafes where you can curl up with a tea or browse local literature.

If you love great cafes, also check out our guide to Eunpyeong Hanok Village and Seoraksan National Park guide, where we found the best cafes and nature in South Korea.

8. Explore the Island’s Quieter Trails

Most visitors stick to the main roads—but if you wander off a bit, there are quieter forest trails, small lakeside paths, and tucked-away sculptures that feel almost hidden. These were some of our favorite finds—especially in the morning before the crowds arrived.

9. Catch a Concert or Cultural Event

Depending on when you visit, there may be live events concerts, performances, pop-up art shows, or cultural events happening on the island. We caught a small acoustic concert in one of the open spaces and loved the relaxed, artsy vibe.

10. Garden of Morning Calm

Although not located on Nami Island itself, the Garden of Morning Calm and Petite France are two popular nearby attractions that are often combined with a Nami Island visit because of their close proximity.

Nami Island is a beautifully designed botanical garden that features 5,000 plant species, arranged across 20 thoughtfully designed themed sections.

It includes both native Korean species and exotic ones—arranged thoughtfully into themed gardens and landscapes.

We loved exploring the winding paths, discovering quiet corners filled with vibrant flowers.

11. Petite France

Petite France is a charming cultural village filled with colorful French-style buildings, museums, cute restaurants, and cafes.

It is easily paired with a visit to Nami Island, making it a perfect combo for a day tour like this one.

What to Wear on Nami Island

Nami Island is one of those places where you’ll want to feel comfortable, warm, and photo-ready all at once.

Whether you’re strolling along the famous tree-lined paths, riding a bike through crunchy autumn leaves, or sipping a warm drink by the river, what you wear can really shape your experience.

Spring (March to May)

In spring, the weather can be a bit unpredictable but it’s also the best time to see cherry blossoms at Nami Island. Early mornings and evenings are often chilly, especially in March and April, while midday tends to warm up nicely.

We recommend wearing layers—a long-sleeved top, a light sweater, and a jacket you can take off as it warms up.

Sneakers or walking shoes are perfect for exploring, and a hat and light scarf came in handy for us on breezy days.

Summer (June to August)

If you’re visiting in summer, expect it to be warm, sometimes hot and humid, especially in July and August. Light, breathable clothes like cotton or linen are your best bet.

We wore loose tops and comfortable bottoms and were glad we packed a sunhat and sunscreen.

There’s not always a ton of shade when you’re walking around the open plazas, and having a small umbrella or foldable rain jacket in case of sudden showers made our day easier. Sandals or breathable sneakers worked well, especially when biking.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is our favorite time to visit. The air is crisp, the leaves are glowing in golds and reds, and the whole island feels like a storybook. That said, it gets chilly, especially in the morning and late afternoon.

We layered up with a thermal base, warm sweaters, and a jacket.

If you’re visiting in late October or November, gloves and a scarf make a big difference. We also recommend shoes with a bit more grip if you’re planning to walk on leaf-covered trails.

Winter (December to February)

In winter, Nami turns into a snow-covered wonderland, but it can be seriously cold. When we visited in January, we wore thick winter coats, thermal leggings under our pants, and warm socks inside insulated boots.

Beanies, scarves, and gloves were essential—especially near the river where the wind picks up. Hand warmers in our pockets made a huge difference too, especially when stopping to take photos.

All-Year Tips

Regardless of the season, comfy walking shoes are always a good idea since you’ll be on your feet most of the day.

We also recommend bringing a small backpack or tote to hold any layers you shed, snacks, or your camera.

FAQs about Nami Island

What is Nami Island?

Nami Island, or the Naminara Republic, is a beautiful half-moon-shaped island in the Bukhangang River. It’s famous for its stunning tree-lined paths, cultural art spaces, and peaceful atmosphere just outside of Seoul.

How do I get to Nami Island?

You can reach Nami Island by ferry, zipline, cable car, or as part of a private or group tour from Seoul. We recommend a private Nami Island tour with driver or group day tour if you want the most stress-free experience.

Is Nami Island in Seoul?

No, Nami Island isn’t in Seoul—but it’s a popular day trip from the city! It’s located in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, about 1.5 to 2 hours from Seoul by train and ferry.

Is Nami Island Part of Korea?

Yes, Nami Island is part of South Korea and an easy day trip from Seoul. It’s a well-known destination for its natural beauty, tree-lined paths, and cultural experiences.

Is Nami Island Part of Seoul?

No, it’s not part of Seoul, but it’s close enough that many visitors include it in their Seoul travel itinerary.

Is Nami Island a Country?

No, Nami Island is not a country. It playfully calls itself the “Naminara Republic” and even has a make-believe passport system—but it’s firmly within South Korea.

How long is the ferry ride to Nami Island? How often do ferries depart?

The ferry ride to Nami Island takes about 5 minutes. Ferries run daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, departing every 10–20 minutes during peak hours (9:00 AM to 6:00 PM). On busy weekends or holidays, you might wait up to 30 minutes to board.

Where to stay in Nami Island?

The only hotel located directly on Nami Island is the charming Hotel Jeonggwanru, which offers a unique boutique experience surrounded by nature.

Staying 2-3 nights on Nami Island itself is the best experience in our opinion.

If you prefer to stay nearby, you can find several accommodations across the river in Gapyeong, like Moonlight Blue Pension inn, just a short distance away.

Staying in Gapyeong gives you easy access to Nami Island as well as other nearby attractions, making it a convenient base for your visit.

What is the best month to visit Nami Island?

The best time to visit is during late October to early November, when the fall foliage is at its peak. The island’s trees glow with vibrant reds, oranges, and golds, making it a stunning season to explore.

Is Nami Island Crowded on Weekends?

Yes, weekends can be quite crowded, especially during cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons. If you prefer a quieter experience, it’s best to visit on a weekday.

Will Nami Island Snow in December?

Yes, there’s a good chance of snow in December, especially in the second half of the month. The snowy landscapes make it a beautiful time to visit.

Does Nami Island Have Cherry Blossoms?

Yes, Nami Island is famous for its cherry blossoms, which usually bloom in early to mid-April. It’s one of the best times to visit for spring scenery.

Is Nami Island Open Every Day?

Yes, Nami Island is open every day of the year, including weekends and public holidays.

Does Nami Island Have an Entrance Fee?

Yes, there’s an entrance fee of around 16,000 KRW for adults, which includes the round-trip ferry ride. Discounts are available for children, seniors, and groups.

Why is Nami Island so famous?

It became a must-visit destination after being featured in the beloved Korean drama Winter Sonata. Add to that its scenic landscapes, quirky “micronation” theme, and seasonal beauty—and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular!

How long does it take to get from Seoul to Nami Island?

It usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your mode of transport. The drive is smooth, and if you go early, you’ll avoid the crowds.

Is Nami Island worth visiting?

Absolutely! Yes, Nami Island is 100% worth visiting. It is one of the most peaceful, unique, and beautiful places we visited in South Korea, and our favorite day trip from Seoul.

Whether you’re into nature, photography, or K-drama nostalgia, it’s 100% worth the trip.

How long should you spend at Nami Island?

We recommend spending at least 3–4 hours, but honestly, you could easily spend the whole day there. If you have extra time, it’s worth exploring the nearby attractions too.

Can I bring food to Nami Island?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks or lunch! There are picnic spots all around the island, but there are also lots of cafés and food stalls if you prefer to buy something there.

Do I need a ticket to enter Nami Island?

Yes—everyone needs an “entry visa” which includes the roundtrip ferry and admission fee. If you zipline in, that ticket includes the entrance as well.

Are there any accommodations on Nami Island?

There aren’t any hotels on the island itself, but there are plenty of charming guesthouses and stays just across the river in Gapyeong. We highly recommend spending a night in the area if you can!

Are there souvenir shops on Nami Island?

Yes! There are several cute shops selling locally made goods, Winter Sonata merch, and fun Naminara Republic souvenirs. We picked up a handmade postcard and some adorable magnets!

Final Thoughts: Nami Island Day Trip from Seoul Guide

We hope this guide to visiting Nami Island has inspired you and helped you feel ready to explore this beautiful and unique spot just outside Seoul.

It’s a perfect mix of nature, art, and a little bit of magic.

If you’re planning your South Korea trip, don’t miss our other South Korea travel guides like our ultimate Seoul 7 day itinerary, or our detailed guide to Mount Sorak Korea if you’re up for some breathtaking mountain hikes.

We’d return to Nami Island in a heartbeat—and honestly, spending a few days in the nearby Gapyeong area is a perfect way to slow down and soak it all in.

If you have any questions or want more tips, just reach out—we’re always here to help make your trip unforgettable!