Complete guide to Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, named one of CNN's 7 Wonders of Winter.
Every winter, Korea's Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival transforms a quiet riverside town into a magical frozen playground. Recognized by CNN as one of the "7 Wonders of Winter," this unique celebration draws over a million visitors annually who come to experience ice fishing, winter sports, and Korean cultural traditions. If you are a foreign traveler planning to join this once-in-a-lifetime experience, here is everything you need to know.
When to Visit: Festival Dates and Best Timing
The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival typically runs from early to late January each year, spanning approximately three weeks when the Hwacheoncheon River freezes solid. The exact dates vary slightly by year, but the festival generally takes place during the coldest period of Korean winter.
Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, offering a more relaxed experience for those who want to avoid long lines at fishing spots and activity zones. However, weekends bring a livelier atmosphere with additional cultural performances and events. Night fishing sessions are also available from evening until late night, providing a unique experience under illuminated winter skies.
Getting There: Transportation from Seoul
Shuttle Bus Tours (Most Recommended for Foreigners)
The easiest option for international travelers is booking a round-trip shuttle bus package. These tours depart from convenient Seoul locations like Hongik University Station or Euljiro 1-ga Station and typically include transportation, ice fishing entrance tickets, fishing rod rental, one grilled fish, and an English-speaking guide. The journey takes around two to three hours depending on traffic conditions.
Multiple tour operators offer these packages, with prices generally ranging from moderate to affordable levels. Booking at least several days in advance is strongly recommended, especially for weekend dates when tours sell out quickly.
Public Transportation
For independent travelers, intercity buses depart regularly from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Hwacheon. The bus ride takes approximately two and a half to three hours. Upon arrival at Hwacheon Bus Terminal, the festival grounds are within walking distance. However, be aware that return buses can fill up quickly, particularly on weekend evenings, so arriving at the terminal well before departure time is advisable.
Alternatively, travelers can take a train or bus to nearby Chuncheon city and transfer to a local bus heading to Hwacheon, though this option takes longer overall.
Top Activities You Cannot Miss
Ice Fishing Experience
The festival's signature activity is ice fishing for sancheoneo, also known as mountain trout or cherry salmon. These fish live only in pristine, cold rivers and are celebrated for their delicate flavor and nutritional value. Visitors drill holes through thick ice and use provided fishing rods to catch fish. Each person typically has a catch limit, and the fish must be returned to staff after the experience, except for one complimentary grilled fish included with most packages.
Bare-Hand Fishing
For the truly adventurous, bare-hand fishing offers an unforgettable thrill. Participants wade into icy pools wearing provided shorts and t-shirts to catch slippery trout using only their hands. This activity attracts daring festival-goers looking for an adrenaline rush and memorable photos.
Winter Sports and Snow Activities
Beyond fishing, the festival features numerous winter activities including snow sledding, ice sledding, ice skating, curling, and bubble suit games on ice. Many of these activities are included free with festival entrance or available at minimal additional cost. Traditional Korean sleds offer a unique cultural twist compared to Western-style sledding equipment.
Ice Sculpture Plaza
The festival showcases elaborate ice sculptures created by artists from around the world. The indoor and outdoor sculpture zones display everything from mythical creatures to famous landmarks, all crafted from ice and illuminated with colorful lights. These installations create a magical atmosphere, especially after sunset.
Winter Cultural Village
Experience traditional Korean culture through interactive activities at the Winter Culture Village. Try your hand at Korean archery, traditional games featured in popular shows, fire fighting demonstrations, and crafts like making Dalgona (Korean sponge candy). This area provides excellent opportunities to learn about Korean heritage in an engaging way.
Food You Must Try
Grilled Sancheoneo
Freshly caught trout grilled on-site is the festival's culinary highlight. Most packages include one complimentary grilled fish, but additional fish can be purchased. The simple preparation—often just salt and fire—allows the fish's natural flavors to shine through.
Sashimi and Other Fish Preparations
For those wanting variety, professional slicing services are available at designated centers where fresh sancheoneo is prepared as sashimi. Some visitors recommend trying sashimi first while the fish is freshest, then grilling the remaining portions. Steamed fish preparations are also popular options.
Korean Street Food
The festival grounds feature numerous food stalls offering traditional Korean winter snacks. Popular items include hotteok (sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar and nuts), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), fish cake soup, roasted chestnuts, and various warm beverages perfect for cold weather. These affordable treats provide delicious ways to warm up between activities.
Essential Tips for Foreign Travelers
Dress for Extreme Cold
January temperatures in Hwacheon frequently drop well below freezing, especially near the frozen river. Layering is crucial—thermal underwear, insulated jackets, waterproof outer layers, warm gloves, thick socks, and waterproof boots are essential. Hand warmers or heat packs are highly recommended and can be purchased throughout the festival grounds.
For activities like bare-hand fishing or ice sledding, prepare to get wet. Bringing extra socks and gloves can make the experience more comfortable.
Language Considerations
While English signage has increased in recent years and foreigner-friendly zones exist with English and Chinese-speaking staff, basic Korean phrases can be helpful. Most tour packages include English-speaking guides who assist with navigating activities and facilities. Translation apps also prove useful for communication with vendors and local attendees.
Cash and Payment Options
Not all vendors accept credit cards, so carrying Korean won in small bills is recommended for food stalls and minor activities. Festival vouchers can be purchased at entrance points and used throughout the grounds for various activities and purchases, simplifying transactions.
Avoiding Crowds
Arriving early in the day, especially on weekdays, helps avoid peak crowds at popular fishing spots and activity zones. Night fishing sessions also tend to be less congested while offering a unique illuminated experience. If visiting on weekends, expect larger crowds and potentially longer wait times for activities.
Photo Opportunities
The festival offers countless photo opportunities from ice sculptures and traditional cultural displays to action shots of fishing and sledding. The Santa Village Photo Zone near the Winter Culture Village provides fun seasonal backdrops. Illuminated evening scenes create particularly magical photography moments.
Safety Considerations
Ice and snow surfaces can be slippery, so wearing appropriate footwear with good traction is important. Keep hands out of pockets while walking to maintain balance and prevent falls. Be mindful of hypothermia risks—take regular breaks in heated indoor areas and warm up with hot beverages.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Plan to spend a full day at the festival to experience the range of activities available. Most organized tours allocate sufficient time for ice fishing, winter sports, cultural experiences, and exploring food options. Independent visitors should consider the bus schedule when planning their return journey, particularly on busy weekend evenings when transportation fills quickly.
The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival offers foreign travelers an authentic glimpse into Korean winter culture combined with unique outdoor adventures. Whether catching your first trout through ice, speeding down snow slopes, or savoring freshly grilled fish, this festival creates memories that capture the magic of Korean winter. With proper preparation and an adventurous spirit, this winter wonderland experience becomes a highlight of any Korea visit.