15 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN GANGHWADO [KOREA]

Ganghwado, also called Ganghwa island (강화도 in Korean) is Korea’s fifth largest island located 1 hour from Seoul.

Ganghwado has amazing prehistoric remains which makes the island very unique. Among its very rich heritage, you can visit many dolmens (part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage), many fortresses that were used to protect Korea from foreign invasions, stunning temples, a very cute Anglican church and so much more.

Ganghwado has amazing prehistoric remains

On Ganghwado, you can also taste many food specialties including Ganghwa ginseng and turnip. There are also many farms with fresh fruits and vegetables as well as lots of seafood of course.

In a Nutshell

– Some highlights of Ganghwado include the visit to Jeondongsa temple (one of our favorite temples in Korea).
– You can also visit Joyang Textile Cafe one of the most incredible cafes we ever visited in Korea.
– You can also go all the way north of the island where you can see North Korea from very close (the border is just 1.8 kilometers away).
– Of course, it is impossible to miss Dongmak Beach, one of the best beaches in Ganghwado.

We describe all you need to know for your visit to Ganghwado in this post. Enjoy the reading and enjoy your trip to this great island!

WHAT TO SEE IN GANGHWADO?

1. Visit Jeondeungsa temple

One of the highlights during our visit to Ganghwado, was our visit to Jeondeungsa (전등사), an ancient temple located on Mt. Jeongjoksan. The temple is located in the middle of a beautiful forest. Besides the peaceful atmosphere of the temple and the gorgeous location, you can enjoy a stunning view of the island. Watching the sunrise in Jeondeungsa is famous all over Korea.

To get there you will need to hike up (for about 20 ~ 30min) via a path inside the forest. The admission fee is 4,000w per person. During your visit, you can see many different pavilions and halls and enjoy a nice walk in nature. The temple is renowned for its magnificent architecture, especially with its main building, Daeungbojeon Hall decorated with sculptures.

Inside the building, you can see a statue of Buddha above which there is a beautifully crafted glass roof. On the columns of the hall, soldiers who fought against the French navy had written their names in prayer to Buddha.

RELAX AT JUKRIMDAWON TEA HOUSE INSIDE THE TEMPLE

Once you finish your visit to Jeondeungsa, make sure to enjoy a coffee or tea and a small Korean snack at one of our favorite tea houses on the island, located right in the middle of the temple in a magnificent setting. You can’t miss this place. We stayed there for a few hours just enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the temple, the fresh breeze from the mountain, and listening to the relaxing music played outside the cafe. A perfect moment on Ganghwado!

HISTORY OF JEONDEUNGSA

Founded in the 4th century, it is one of Korea’s oldest temples. Originally known as the Jinjongsa Temple during the Goryeo dynasty, it was renamed Jeondeugsa in 1282. Despite the “repression” of Buddhism during the Joseon Dynasty, it never lost its prominent position.

The monk Adohwasang of the Goguryeo era is known as the founder of the temple. This temple was later renamed under its current name following a donation of a jade lamp by Queen Jeonhwa during the reign of King Chungnyeol (reign: 1274 ~ 1308).

THE LEGEND OF JEONDEUNGSA

Under the roof of Daeungbojeon Hall are pillars decorated with statues representing in particular a naked woman with a face inspiring fear.

Legend says that the master carpenter responsible for the work fell under the spell of an employee of a tavern in the neighboring village. Completely in love, he trusted her with all his money so that they could settle down together after the temple was finally built. However, the woman decided to run away to live with another man. The architect fell ill for a while before recovering to be able to finally finish the work.

In revenge, he sculpted the woman on the columns of the main hall in order to make her bear the full weight of the temple’s roof on her shoulders.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT JEONDEUNGSA

Address: 37-41, Jeondeungsa-ro, Gilsang-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon-si (인천광역시 강화군 길상면 전등사로 37-41)
Admission fee: 4,000w for adults / 3000w for teenagers / 1,500w for kids
Website: http://www.jeondeungsa.org/

TEMPLE STAY PROGRAM IN JEONDEUNGSA

If you read some of the posts about Korea (all posts here), you may know that we always recommend doing a Temple Stay if you visit this country (more info here on Temple Stay). Temple Stay allows you to spend a night in the temple and share the monks’ life.

It is a really nice experience if you come to Korea. If you have to pick 1 temple during your time in Korea, we highly recommend Jeondeungsa Temple as it is one of the most beautiful temples we visited in Korea. To book, check out this link.

2. Relax at Dongmak Beach

When you think about visiting an island, obviously you think about going to the beach! Well, if you want to go to Gangwhado to unwind and relax from the busy city life of Seoul, then head to Dongmak Beach (강화 동막해변), the most popular beach on the island.

To be very upfront, it is not the most beautiful beach near Seoul. We much prefer Sugi Beach on Sido Island (full post here), or the beaches on Muuido (more info here). However, it is nice enough to stop for an afternoon and enjoy some sun.

What we liked the most about Dongmak Beach was to watch the sunset. It’s the perfect spot on Ganghwado. There are some restaurants right behind Dongmak Beach, which also makes it convenient. There are plenty of parking spots nearby if you drive with your car.

3. Enjoy a cup of coffee at the gorgeous Dore Dore Garden Cafe

Dore Dore (Mahogani Ganghwa Branch – instagram here) is actually much more than just a coffee shop. It’s a gorgeous garden full of camellias and comprised of 3 coffee shops. All of them are in a beautiful setting surrounded by nature. A trip to Ganghwado without stopping at Dore Dore wouldn’t be complete.

When you enter the park, enjoy a nice stroll through the garden. If you look out you can even see the sea not very far away. Take your time to explore the different parts of the garden. Then you can choose which coffee shops to by your coffee from out of the 3 stunning places. Then pick a spot in the garden and enjoy your cup of coffee with your yummy dessert!

If like us you like exploring new coffee shops in Korea, check out this post for the best outdoor cafes in Seoul and this one of the most incredible cafes all around South Korea.

Address: 1864-18 Haeannam-ro, Hwado-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon

4. Visit Yeonmijeong Pavilion

The Yeonmijeong Pavilion (연미정), was named Incheon Tangible Cultural Property No. 24 in 1995. While its date of construction is unknown, this pavilion was damaged and renovated several times after the Japanese Invasion of 1592, the Chinese Invasion of 1636 and the Korean War of 1950.

The impressive part of Yeonmijeong is that you can see North Korea from very close, which is just a few kilometers away. The pavilion itself is also very nice. You can sit at the top of the hill to enjoy the great sea view.

Admission to Yeonmijeong is free.

Address: 242 Wolgot-ri, Ganghwa-eup, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon

5. Visit the ancient Ganghwado Dolmen

Did you know? There are more than 30,000 dolmens in South Korea, or nearly 40% of the dolmens listed on the planet! Impressive right!?

Dolmen are stone tombs dating from prehistoric times in Korea. In Ganghwado remains some of the main dolmens in South Korea along with the Gochang dolmen and the Hwasun dolmen. Each of these sites is home to several hundred dolmens, which is unique in the world both for their density but also for the diversity and shape of the dolmens.

The remains of Gochang’s Dolmens, Hwasun, and Ganghwa were classified as World Heritage by Unesco in 2000 because of their contribution to research concerning the constructions of societies in the Bronze Age, the process of formation of dolmen cultures but also as evidence of cultural exchanges during the prehistoric age in Northeast Asia. The presence of quarries, which bear witness to the construction process of dolmens, is an important element for research on the evolution of dolmens and their history.

150 dolmens remain in Ganghwa. The representative Ganghwa Dolmen is called ‘Bugeulli Jiseokmyo’, it is located in Bugeun-ri. It is a table-shaped dolmen made of two supporting stones and the stone serves as a roof.

Address: 330-2 Bugeun-ri Hajeom-myeon Ganghwa-gun Incheon

6. Check out the very cute Anglican Church

This is the first time we have seen such a cute church in Korea and here is why:

In 1889, Charles John Cofre was consecrated at Westminster Cathedral as the first Anglican Bishop of Korea. He then led a mission to Korea bringing with him doctors, nurses, and nuns. He first arrived at Incheon Port following a long journey through Singapore and Hong Kong. The mission first carried out medical services in Incheon and then moved to a humble house on the seaside near Ganghwado. After seven years Corfe thought it was time to build an Anglican church in Korea.

Corfe hired the same carpenter who remodeled Gyeongbokgung Palace to design his church. The carpenter wanted 100-year-old Korean red pines from Baekdusan Mountain. They brought the pines into a raft and took them down the Amnokgang River, through the Yellow Sea and then to Ganghwado. The transport took as long as six months, and another six months was needed to dry the trees.

The layout of the cathedral resembled Noah’s ark. The main gate symbolizes the head of the ship. The construction is an interesting mix of Western architectural styles with the Korean Hanok Style. The church opened in 1900. The building is recognized by many as a masterpiece with a perfect harmony between Korean and Western cultures. We honestly fell in love with this gorgeous building.

Ganghwa Anglican Church is a must-see in Ganghwado.

Address: 10, Gwancheong-gil 27beon-gil Ganghwa-eup, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon

7. Visit one of the most awesome coffee shops in Korea: Joyang Bangjik

Alright, as you know already, Korea has tons of amazing coffee shops. In fact Korea has more coffee shops per capita than any other country in the world! Crazy right!?

If we were to make a list of the top 10 most impressive coffee shops in Korea, then Joyang Bangjik (조양방직) would for sure be on this list. It’s the kind of place that you “must see to believe”. The photos in this post can hardly describe how incredible this coffee shop is!

Joyang Bangjik is actually a very old textile factory transformed into a very cool cafe! Ganghwa was a city of textiles with more than 4,000 workers in the 70′. Founded in 1933, Joyang Textile was one of the most important factories in the region.

However, like most traditional textile factories, it went bankrupt after the development of more modern machines. 1 by 1 all factories closed down and workers left Ganghwado.

However, someone had the brilliant idea to preserve Joyang Bangjik and turned this place to a fantastic work of art. As soon as you enter this place you can feel the history of Korea and the Ganghwa textile industry. Many of machines and buildings remained as it is. This place is rather huge, spreading over 990㎡ ! It took us almost 1 hour to discover the whole place before we could even sit down and enjoy our coffee still amazed by the magic of this place.

READ: We also compiled a list of the most incredible cafes in South Korea

Address: 12 Hyangnamu-gil 5beon-gil, Ganghwa-eup, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon
Instagram: here

8. Discover Oepo Fishing Village and Oepo Fish Market

On our way to Seongmodo, another island accessible by a bridge from Ganghwado, we stopped by Oepo village and decided to visit the fish market.

We usually love visiting this kind of traditional place in Korea. We simply enjoy the atmosphere of an old town with its traditions and usually vibrant markets. Likewise, if you ever go to Busan, make sure to visit Jaglachi Market.

Oepo is of course much smaller than Jagalchi Market, but it’s a great stop in Ganghwado to see how locals live on the island. You can also buy some fresh seafood sashimi style, and eat just behind the markets. This seemed to be a great tradition with locals.

There is a very big parking lot right in front of the fish market, so it’s very convenient if you come by car.

Address: 899-2 Haeanseo-ro Naega-myeon Ganghwa-gun Incheon.

9. Visit Bomunsa Temple on Seongmodo island

If you decide to spend the night on Ganghwado, then continue your visit to the neighboring island of Seongmodo. You can easily get there by crossing the bridge a little further north from Oepo fishing village. The main attraction of Seongmodo is the impressive temple of Bomunsa.

Bomunsa Temple s said to have been built by Queen Seondeok of the Silla dynasty in 635. When you enter Bomunsa Temple, the first thing you see is the ancient Chinese juniper tree that is 600 years old. Behind this tree, there is a natural cave called Seokguramja, which was transformed into a Buddhist hall.

Another must-see at Bomunsa Temple is the Sitting Buddha Statue and the Nunsseop Rock. From Nunsseop Rock you can admire the beautiful West Sea.

To get to the temple from the parking lot there is a steep climb. Be prepared and bring enough water.

Admission fee: 2000w per adult
Address: 44, Samsannam-ro 828beon-gil, Samsan-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon

10. Check out North Korea from Ganghwa Peace Observatory

Ganghwa Peace Observatory (강화평화전망대), located north of the Civilian Passage Restriction Line in Ganghwado, was restricted for military equipment until September 2008. It now reopens for the public.

This site provides historical information about the Korean War (1950-1953) and its aftermath through various picture galleries but also offers the chance to see a beautiful natural environment and part of North Korea while watching through the high-performance telescope.

It is actually very impressive to see how close is North Korea, just a few kilometers from us. There is a special atmosphere to imagine other people living on the other side of the border completely closed off to the rest of the world.

When driving to the Ganghwa Peace observatory you will need to pass through some military gate. They took our personal details and gave us a pass to access this zone. This already made the visit so special, feeling that we entered a military zone…

Address: 797, Jeonmang-daero, Yangsa-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon-si
Website: www.ghss.or.kr (Korean only)

11. Visit some of the fortresses all around Ganghwado

Due to its location, Ganghwado was used as a place to defend Korea from foreign invasions. As such, it is possible to see many fortresses built along the island’s coastline.

While driving around Ganghwado you will see signs indicating the location of a fortress. You can normally park your car right in front of it.

The first fortress we saw was Huae Dondae Fortress, it was next to our lunch place on the southern part of the island. The fort is not very big, but the view to the sea is fantastic.

Another popular fort is Deokjinjin. This one is much bigger and better restored. We also enjoyed taking a look at this place. The military fortress was recognized as an outer lying post of strategic importance in terms of securing the command of the Ganghwa strait. The fortress was constructed in 1656 during the reign of King Hyojong of the Joseon dynasty.

Gwangseongbo Fortress is another interesting sight in Ganghwado. The fortress was built in 1656. Later in 1745, it was completely remodeled into a castle with gates. During the American invasion in 1871, Gwangseongbo was the place of a fierce battle with the Americans.

You will see many other fortresses around the island, however, these are the main ones which we spotted.

12. Have some fun at Ganghwa Seaside Resort Luge

If you are getting a bit tired of visiting historical sights, then take a break for some adrenaline rush at the Ganghwa Seaside Resort Luge (강화 씨사이드 리조트).

First, you need to take a gondola to reach the top of the hill, which already gives you a very nice view of the island. Then head down with a luge. Ganghwa Seaside Resort Luge is well known to have one of the best luge tracks in South Korea.

Although it may sound a bit scary to get down a mountain with a luge, the experience is actually very fun and suitable for all ages. You can also choose a different level of difficulty for your track down.

Address: 4-15, Seondu-ri, Gilsang-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon, Republic of Korea (or 인천광역시 강화군 길상면 선두리 4-15).
Opening time: from 10am-5pm from November to February and 10am-6pm from March to October.
Book your discounted ticket (available during weekday): here

13. Visit Goryeogung palace

The site of Goryeogung Palace on Ganghwado Island is the site of the royal palace where citizens of the Goryeo dynasty (918-1392) resisted the Mongol invasion for 39 years. In June 1232, King Gojong moved the capital to Ganghwa for its beauty but also for its advantages in terms of war strategy.

The construction of the royal palace was completed in 1234. After the signing of the peace treaty with the Mongolian armed forces in May 1270, the capital was moved again to Gaeseong (which to this day is located in North Korea under the name of Gaeseong), and the Royal Palace of Ganghwa was subsequently destroyed.

During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897), Haenggung (King’s Temporary Palace) was built on the same site as Goryeo Palace. During Byeongjahoran in 1637 (Chinese invasion), the palace was conquered by the forces of the Ching dynasty of China. After that, Ganghwa Yusubu (the office of the governor of Ganghwa) was built on the site of the palace. Today, the only structures that remain intact are the Dongheon Main Office (built in 1638) and the Ibangcheong Administrative Office (built in 1654). The palace and its annexes were restored in 1977.

Address: 394, Ganghwa-daero, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon
Website: here

Photo provided by the Korea Tourism Organization (link here)

14. Walk in the middle of rice fields

Ganghwado like most parts of South Korea’s countryside, is covered with rice fields.

Driving through the island, we found so many gorgeous places full of rice fields with the mountains on one side and the sea on the other side. Simply stunning!

At one point we decided to stop our car and just enjoy a walk in in the middle of the fields. This simple thing was actually one of our best memories during our trip to Ganghwado. It was very enjoyable and we had lots of fun taking many photos.

15. Hike Manisan Mountain

Manisan (마니산 (강화) is the highest mountain on Ganghwado with a height of 468m. At the top of this mountain, you can see the impressive Chamseongdan altar supposedly used to honor celestial ancestors. Put on good walking shoes and start the climb which takes about 1 hour. There are 918 stone steps that you need to conquer.

During the 1988 Paralympics in South Korea, the torch was lit at the top of the mountain. At the top, you will have a beautiful view of the west sea and Jeongsusa Temple. A great way to finish your visit to Ganghwado.

Address to the starting point: 18, Manisan-ro 675beon-gil, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon

Photo provided by the Korea Tourism Organization (link here)

HISTORY OF GANGHWADO

Knowing the history of the island, will make your trip even more exciting.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Korean peninsula started to be inhabited by humans at the same time as the rest of the world, meaning thousands of years ago during the Neolithic era. This can be observed in Ganghwa which has some of the oldest remains of this period.

Indeed, archaeologists found dolmens (as explained earlier in this post) which is estimated to date from the Neolithic era about 8,000 years BC. These dolmens are all classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.

GANGHWADO, A TRIP FROM NEOLITHIC TO THE PRESENT DAY

Discover this island during a trip to South Korea will transport you to the history of the country. The land of the morning calm from the Neolithic era to the present day. Ganghwado is not only an island with Neolithic remains, but the island has been a strategic location to prevent invasion from foreign troops. This island is a key point because of its location at the entrance of the Han River, which crosses Seoul. It is therefore a perfect outpost for the security of the city and as a result, many fortifications have been built there over the centuries.

During the 19th century, Western nations made several attempts to enter Korea via the Han River, but they were always blocked by the fortresses and protective barriers on Ganghwa Island.

Even today, the island, which seems to live in peace like the rest of the South Korean peninsula, is a strategic hotspot. Indeed, the north of the island is only 1.8 kilometers away from the border with North Korea.

HOW TO GET TO GANGHWADO?

Ganghwado is accessible via a Bridge from the mainland, so you do not need to cross with a ferry. There are actually 2 bridges going to the island, one in the south and one more north.

GETTING THERE BY CAR

By far the easiest way to get to Ganghwado and to explore the island. Without traffic it takes a little more than 1 hour to reach the island. There is usually a bit of traffic crossing the bridge but after that, it is very easy to drive on the island. There are also parking lots everywhere and the roads aren’t too narrow compared to other islands in Korea.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

It is also possible to take public transport to get to Ganghwado. From Seoul Station take bus M6117 until Hangangno near Gimpo and from there you can hop on bus #96 or #3000 depending on where you want to go on the island. Once you reach the island, there are a few public buses that can bring you to the main sights. To get to Ganghwado from Seoul, count at least 2 hours. We also saw a few taxis on the islands, so it should be possible to get them with the Kakao Taxi app too.

JOIN A TOUR

If you don’t want to bother with the organization of your trip to Ganghwado, you can join a day tour organized by Trazy. The tour departs from Myeong-dong and includes some of the main sights: Jeondeungsa temple, Chojijin Fortress, the luge ride, and a visit to a local blueberry farm. You can book the tour here.

Klook also offers a day tour to Ganghwado with similar activities as Trazy. You can check it out here and compare the prices.

HOW LONG TO STAY ON GANGHWADO?

We recommend spending at least 1 night on the island to see most of the main sights. If you stay 2 nights then you can spend some time at the beach or add the hike to Manisan mountain. All and all it’s perfect for a weekend trip if you are staying in Seoul.

Going for a day trip will give you some impressions of the island, but it will be difficult to squeeze in most sights without rushing too much. If you plan to visit the incredible Joyang Bangjik coffee shop (which is a must on Ganghwado) it will already take 1~2 hours.

You can also go there a few times a day targeting different sights. For example focus first on the southern part of the island, to see Dore Dore Coffee shop, some fortresses, Dongmak beach, Jeondeungsa, and Oepo Fish Market.

During another day trip focus on the northern part of the island with Joyang Bangjik cafe, Yeonmijeong Pavilion, Gangwha Peace Observatory, Ganghwa Dolmen, and Ganghwa Anglican Church.

WHERE TO STAY ON GANGHWADO?

There are many options in Ganghwado, from the family-style resort to pensions or even camping/glamping. Everything is possible.

We listed a few recommendations below, based on different budgets and what kind of experience you want to have if you stay in Ganghwado.

Ganghwado Dowoojae Pension – the most modern one

In terms of location, value for money, and quality of the facilities, our favorite hotel in Ganghwado is Dowoojae Pension. The hotel is located right by the sea, in one of the best parts of the island, in the South West. From the terrace, you can admire the gorgeous sunset. The hotel is fairly new and modern and the price is relatively affordable for what you get.

If this place is still available during your stay in Ganghwado, don’t hesitate, this place is our top recommendation!

You can check it out here.

Gangwado Nuri Pension C – best for families

If you are traveling with kids, then you may want to stay at Ganghwado Nuri Pension C, which has a pretty big swimming pool with fun slides. Each room is located in a windmill, which makes the whole experience very fun. Ganghwado Nuri Pension C is also conveniently located in the southern part of the island. Check it out here.

Gwanghawdo Toad’s Clayhouse Pension- the most unique one

This round-shaped pension is made out of clay. Located on a hill, the pension overlooks the whole island. The pension is very unique and really cute. The funny part is that you are only 1h away from one of the biggest metropolitan area in the world, but you can sleep in such an authentic place. You will feel completely disconnected from the city if you stay in Gwanghawdo Toad’s Clayhouse Pension.

For more information, check it out here.

OTHER THINGS TO SEE NEAR GANGHWADO

MUUIDO

If you are looking for a beachside escape near Seoul, search no longer, Muuido is the perfect island gateway. Muuido is located on the west coast near Incheon Airport. The island is well known for day trips from Seoul or weekend gateway to enjoy the various beaches, seafood, and many other activities on the island.

Here is our full post about Muuido

WOLMIDO

Wolmido Island (월미도) is located in Incheon and it’s a perfect place to escape the busy Seoul. Many people go there during the weekend because of its proximity to Seoul and its easy access. Many cafes and seafood restaurants can be found along the coast. There are approximately 50 seafood restaurants in the same street.

We wrote a full guide about Wolmido here

SINDO, SIDO AND MODO ISLANDS

Sindo (신도), Sido (시도) and Modo (모도) islands are the perfect gateway from the busy city life of Seoul. Located off the coast of Incheon, these 3 islands are easily accessible by ferry. All 3 islands are then connected by a bridge which makes it easy to visit them all within a day.

Expect sandy beaches, relaxing coastal roads, mountains, and delicious seafood on these 3 islands. Make sure to explore Sugi Beach and Baemikkumi Sculpture Park, the highlights of the 3 islands.

Here is our complete guide for visiting Sindo, Sido and Modo island

IN CONCLUSION – IS GANGHWADO WORTH VISITING?

Ganghwa Island or Ganghwado, is a very interesting place to visit in South Korea.

On this island, you will then be able to explore the history of the Korean peninsula, from prehistoric times to the present era, and better understand this special situation of fragile “peace” with North Korea.

You will be able to admire the Dolmens, visit beautiful temples, enjoy some relaxing time at the beach, see many fortresses witness the island’s important past.

We lived in Korea for 3 years and wrote many posts about things to do in this country. You can check them all here.