π️ Spot #10: Visiting The Garden of Morning Calm: A Complete Guide for Travelers
The Garden of Morning Calm is a must-visit destination. Located in Gapyeong, this 330,000-square-meter botanical garden is one of the oldest and most beautiful private gardens in the country.
photo by vitgrimer
1. Why You Should Visit
The garden was founded by Professor Han Sang-kyung with the vision of creating a space that embodies the essence of Korean beauty. It features over 5,000 species of plants and is divided into 20 different themed sections, including the Sunken Garden and the Millennium Juniper.
photo by vitgrimer
2. Essential Visitor Information
Address - 432, Sumogwon-ro, Sang-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-doOperating Hours - 08:30 AM – 07:00 PM (Last entry 1 hour before closing)
Admission Fee - Adults: 11,000 KRW / Youth: 8,500 KRW / Children: 7,500 KRW
Best Time to Visit - Late Spring (Flowers) or Winter (Lighting Festival)
3. Seasonal Highlights
Spring (April – May): The Spring Flower Festival showcases a vibrant sea of tulips, azaleas, and cherry blossoms.
Summer (June – August): Famous for the Hydrangea and Iris exhibitions.
π The Garden has several stream spots that are equipped with benches and parasols. You can enjoy the pure nature with your feet in the water. Don't miss it!
Autumn (September – November): The surrounding mountains turn into a canvas of red and gold maple leaves.
Winter (December – March): The Lighting Festival transforms the garden into a magical wonderland with millions of LED lights.
4. How to Get There from Seoul
Most international tourists prefer using the Gapyeong City Tour Bus, which connects major attractions.
By Metro: Take the Gyeongchun Line or the ITX-Cheongchun train to Cheongpyeong Station.
By Bus: From Cheongpyeong Station (Exit 1), take the Gapyeong City Tour Bus (A-Course) or a local bus heading toward the garden.
By Shuttle: Direct tour shuttles from Myeongdong or Hongdae are available through various travel platforms.
Infopick's Bonus
πWhere to Stay, Eat, and Relax Near The Garden of Morning Calm
Exploring the vast grounds of the garden can be exhausting, so finding the right spot to recharge is essential. Here are the top-rated locations nearby, categorized for easy planning.
1. Recommended Accommodations
Staying overnight in Gapyeong allows you to experience the garden at opening or during the evening Lighting Festival without rushing back to Seoul.
The Morning Calm Pension: A cozy and traditional lodging option located near the main entrance, offering a peaceful atmosphere that mirrors the garden's serenity.
Seorak Log House: A rustic, cabin-style accommodation built with natural wood, perfect for those seeking a "forest retreat" experience.
Green Forest Lodge: Nestled deep within the greenery, this lodge provides spacious rooms with scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Riverside Pension: Situated along the Jocheoncheon Stream, this facility allows guests to enjoy the calming sound of flowing water and outdoor relaxation.
2. Must-Visit Restaurants (Local Cuisine)
Goryeo Bulgogi: A specialized eatery serving traditional Korean marinated beef (Bulgogi) grilled over charcoal for a rich, smoky flavor.
Morning Calm Tofu: A health-conscious restaurant focusing on fresh, handmade tofu dishes, including soft tofu stew and soybean-based specialties.
Jocheon Korean Food: A local favorite offering a variety of traditional Korean "Hansik" meals, featuring seasonal side dishes and local ingredients.
Stream Side BBQ: An outdoor-focused dining spot where visitors can enjoy a classic Korean barbecue experience right next to the refreshing stream.
3. Aesthetic Cafes
Gapyeong is a hotspot for "Insta-worthy" cafes with stunning architectural designs and nature views.
Garden Cafe: Located conveniently for a quick break, this cafe offers a variety of refreshments and light snacks with a view of the manicured landscapes.
Morning Terrace: A scenic cafe featuring an outdoor seating area (terrace) where guests can sip premium coffee while breathing in the fresh mountain air.
Pine Tree Cafe: Named after the iconic Korean pines, this spot provides a shaded, tranquil environment for those looking to escape the afternoon sun.
Forest Cafe: A cozy, nature-integrated cafe designed to make you feel as though you are having tea in the middle of a dense woodland.
Infopick's Tips for Travelers
Most restaurants near the garden close around 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM. If you are visiting during the Winter Lighting Festival (which stays open late), plan to eat dinner before entering or check the closing times of nearby eateries in advance.
References & Data Sources
1. The Garden of Morning Calm Official Data: Official Website - Verified for pricing and operating hours.2. Korea Tourism Organization (VisitKorea): Information Page - Verified for transportation routes and seasonal event dates.
3. Gapyeong-gun Official Travel Portal: Gapyeong Tour - Verified for City Tour Bus schedules and regional logistics.
4. Gapyeong-gun Official Travel Portal: gptour.go.kr - Verified for local restaurant specialties and accommodation categories.
5. Korea Tourism Organization: VisitKorea - Verified for regional food recommendations and transport accessibility.
6. The Garden of Morning Calm Map Data: - Verified for on-site cafe locations.
