I will be covering the 4 cities in the northern part of South Korea for this road trip.

Chuncheon, Sokcho and Wonju are within Gangwon Province, which is in the northeastern corner of the country while Suwon is in Gyeonggi Province, which is northwest of Seoul and therefore also in the northern region of South Korea.

With all accommodation and rental car booking settled, I am now ready to embark on this adventure.

Enjoying a nice lunch set at Terrace Chinese Kitchen at Terminal 1 before security check.

The journey officially commences after clearing security check. Yay!

Chilling out at SilverKris Lounge as usual.

Taking a quick power nap prior to boarding for my red-eye flight.

Sky breakfast prior to landing.

Lotus leaf rice with chicken, steamed pork pot sticker, scallop dumpling, and vegetarian beancurd roll.

Safe arrival into Incheon Airport as scheduled.

Statues of the mascots for AREX (Airport Railroad Express), a railway line in South Korea. AREX connects Incheon International Airport and Gimpo International Airport with Seoul Station.

Making my way to Seoul Station to store my luggage at R Guest House Seoul Station as I am still too early for the check-in at 4pm.

Thanks to the detailed instructions provided by the host, it certainly helps to take away the searching anxiety.

Here I am at the guesthouse.

Warming up my tummy at Connect Place Food Hall inside Seoul Station thereafter.

Spotted Hanjungsun (韓貞仙) Seongsu – their must try fresh fruit sticky rice cake.

Similar to Hong Kong version of Cheung Chau Mochi.

Snack break at Lotteria.

Trying out something new, kimchi bulgogi burger with fries and drink.

My abode for tonight. I really loved the big, clean and spacious room. This time round, the toilet is space friendly too unlike the last time I stayed. Also, they provide for decent bath towel instead of just hand towel previously.

Only complain is that I have to climb 3 flights of narrow stairwell (with 2 big luggages) as my room is located on the 3rd floor of the building as there is no elevator provided. 🤣

Picturesque view of Seoul Station, Lotte Outlets & Culture Station Seoul 284.

Caught a glimpse of Namsan Tower while enroute to Myeongdong.

The ever busy Myeongdong Street. Full of tourist traps! 😱

Savouring Puradak Chicken at Myeongdong Chicken Street.

Puradak’s one-and-only classic dish with extra crispiness.

A promotional display collaboration between Netflix and the brand 8 seconds featuring the animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters. The film is about an all-female K-pop group, named Huntr/x, who are also secret demon hunters.

Morning breakfast at Marizzang (basic comfort food in South Korea) before check out.

Chanced upon Blue Bottle Coffee inside Seoul Station. Had a great experience during my last Japan trip.

Most value for money large iced drip coffee from McDonald’s at ₩2,000. What a steal! 👍

Headed over to Lotte Rent A Car to pick up the rental car for the next 6 days road trip.

Got myself a Kia K3 for this trip. With all visual checks completed, I am now ready to start the road trip. 😉

Headed first to SS Resort in Gapyeong for my check in.

I loved the vibe of this hotel. Very retro furnished with a nice river view.

Direct facing, unblocked river view as seen from the room.

Afternoon treat at Namiseom-gil Starbucks.

Visited The Garden of Morning Calm, an arboretum and botanical garden located at the foot of Mount Chukryeong. I did not manage to finish off this attraction when I last visited as I only managed to cover Nami Island and Petite France back then.

This visit coincides with the chrysanthemum exhibition which happens to run from 18 Oct to 9 Nov 2025.

Enjoying the different varieties of the chrysanthemum flowers.

Strolling through the Bonsai Garden.

Admiring the beautiful bonsai trees in the garden.

There is also a suspension bridge within the garden.

Scenic views from the suspension bridge.

You may also get to see some small, whimsical cottage with a thatched roof here too.

Taking in the colourful views as I stroll along the garden.

Follow the road to heaven and you will arrive at the Heaven Garden.

Here, you will find the small white church.

Close up view of the small white church.

Simple, quaint and beautifully constructed church interior.

Glad that I am able to make it up on this trip of mine. 😊

Having dinner at the resort Cafe & Grill restaurant.

Waking up to a beautiful, relaxing and calming morning misty view.

Enjoying a bowl of self-made kimchi ramyeon with red crab meat in the comfort of my room while taking in the serene view. This is certainly what life should be all about! ❤️

Checking out of SS Resort and driving off to Gangneung this morning to look for the BTS Bus Stop before heading off to Sokcho.

Spending time to explore the various shops at Gapyeong Rest Area.

Pit stop for recharging at Hongcheon Rest Area.

Dokkaebi Hot Bar, a type of Korean street food.

This was followed by a quick lunch at Naerincheon Rest Area.

This bus stop is located on Jumunjin Beach, offering scenic views of the East Sea.

The bus stop was originally a temporary set for the album cover photoshoot of BTS’s album “You Never Walk Alone”.

Due to the album’s popularity, the city reinstalled the bus stop as a permanent photo spot and tourist attraction.

You can easily spend a good amount of time here just by chilling out at the beach and enjoying the breeze too.

It has since become a popular pilgrimage site for BTS fans, known as ARMY, who visit to take photos and connect with the group’s music.

Taking refuge at Suerte Coffee & Bread Cafe while waiting for the rain to stop.

Proceeded to check in at The Hotel Sokcho thereafter.

My humble abode for the next 3 nights.

The room comes with an ocean view too. 🤗

Spending the rest of the evening shopping at the big eMart which is located right behind the hotel.

This was followed by a dinner at Jaws Topokki restaurant, a popular Korean franchise specializing in tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

Loved the simplicity vibe and decor of the restaurant.

Waking up to a super wet morning and it is forecasted to rain for the next 2 days as well. 🤣

As such, plans will need to be adjusted accordingly due to unforeseen weather. Well, that’s part of travel. Embrace what we have.

Made a visit to Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market, a main market selling both fresh produce, cooked food and other merchandise in Sokcho.

Street food stall selling “Makgeolli Sulppang”. This stall is known for its “Sokcho-style Makgeolli Sulppang” and has been featured on various Korean television programs, including SBS, KBS, and MBC.

Makgeolli Sulppang is a type of steamed bread made with makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine, which gives it a slightly sour and tangy flavor.

This other stall is named “Sokcho Myeongmul Jeongyeonseon Ok-su-su Sulppang” selling Sokcho Specialty Jeongyeonseon Corn Steamed Bread.

This is really good stuff. Best consume when piping hot. We tried this as it is a much smaller piece compared to the Makgeolli Sulppang where it only sells in a big piece.

Moving on next to Aruna, renowned for its stunning ocean views and rooftop area.

The first floor of the café features a large window wall on one side, offering expansive views of the sky and the East Sea.

Look at all the ajummas chopeing the hotly coveted spots. 😱

The roof top offers another magnificent view of the East Sea.

A lovely local port where there are lots of seafood restaurants lining along the street.

Standing at the pavilion, you will get to see an astonishing view of the East Sea.

Adjourning for lunch thereafter at Dining Oknam, an Italian Bistro.

Oil pasta flavored with fresh seafood (shrimp, mussels, crab, clam, squid). The seafood portion served is certainly generous and tastefully delicious too.

With raw wasabi, holgrain mustard and various vegetables.

OMG! This steak is really well executed. One of the better ones that I have had. Highly recommended. 👍👍👍

Chilling out at Café Chung Cho Dam next. The cafe specializes in coffee, dessert, and roastery items.

Artistically and beautifully decorated café interior. The wall is filled with lots of old LP records.

Went over to Bakery Garoo which is right beside Café Chung Cho Dam in search of their signature butt bread.

Soft and chewy bread filled with sweet milk cream.

Visited Naksansa next, a coastal temple, renowned as one of the country’s most beautiful temples.

A Buddhist statue of the Bodhisattva of Mercy, also known as the goddess Gwanseum-Bosal.

Lotus pond with a smiley Budhha holding a bowl where one can attempt to throw in a coin and hopefully land it inside the bowl to signify good luck.

Mesmerising sea view with the red lighthouse.

Big giant bell where one can strike for good luck.

View of Sea Guanyin Statue from Uisangdae Pavilion.

View of Hongnyeonam Hermitage from Uisangdae Pavilion.

You can even take a stroll along Naksan Beach (one of the most famous beaches in Yangyang) if the weather permits.

Decided on dinner at Sibling Gukbap, a local restaurant offering homely feel food.

Chanced upon No Brand Burger and felt the urge to try it out.

Oh my! The burger is stunningly delicious. Comparable to that of Burger King but at a fraction of the price. 😋😋😋

Starting the day at McDonald’s for my morning brekkie.

Visitors can enjoy a complete view of Sokcho area from the observatory platform.

Thankfully the weather holds up this morning, so I am able to take the opportunity to go up to Mount Seorak.

Seoraksan, or Mount Seorak, is the highest mountain in the Taebaek mountain range in the Gangwon Province in eastern South Korea.

There are various hiking courses to different mountain points catering to beginners, intermediate and professional hikers with the associated time for completion.

Due to the large crowds this morning, we will need to purchase advance ticket for the cable car ride up to Seoraksan.

The earliest available slot that I can catch hold of is at 09:52 hrs (about half an hour wait).

The ride will take about 10 mins for each way.

Did some sightseeing near the station while waiting for the ride.

Queueing up for my scheduled departure ride.

Waiting patiently at the platform to board for my ride.

Ascending up to Mount Seorak.

Ulsanbawi Rock is a prominent granite formation in Seoraksan National Park, South Korea, known for its six jagged peaks and scenic views.

Scenic views from Seoraksan Observatory Deck.

Serene views from the temple compound.

Went over to Chowon Sundubu for a nice sundubu lunch.

Spending time relaxing at Sokcho Beach.

A popular beach in South Korea known for its clear water.

Nearby Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the sea, city and Mount Seorak.

Beautiful city skyline seen from Sokcho Beach where you get to see the Geumgang Bridge (blue bridge) and Seorak Bridge (red bridge) near Dongmyeong Port.

Afternoon tea at Café Cheonghodong, another ocean view fronting café with a rooftop area.

Level 2 seating area offering a theatre-feel viewing platform.

Rooftop view gallery which offers a scenic view of the ocean too.

Rooftop mirror view, certainly great for photo spot and insta-worthy.

Beautiful rainbow being captured while sipping my drinks. 👍

Tonight’s dinner will be at HoNe Italian Bistro.

Thin crust biscuit pizza with mozzarella cheese, olive, onions and pepperoni.

This is what good soup pasta is all about. You are bound to get the kick from the spice. Heavenly….😋😋😋

One for the road breakfast in Sokcho at No Brand Burger after a nice experience the other night.

Checking out Seorak Strawberry Mochi before leaving Sokcho. This store specializes in handmade strawberry mochi. A must eat in Sokcho.

Love the cosy interior setting.

An advertisement for “Seorak Strawberry Mochi” showcasing a dessert made with fresh strawberries and glutinous rice cake.

This is heavenly without a doubt, the freshness of the fresh strawberries is out of this world.

This is so good that I needed to encore another Black Sesame Paste Strawberry Mochi. FYI. The above 3 types of mochi are the best selling items.

After a satisfying dessert, time to leave Sokcho for Wonju.

Stopping by Naerincheon Rest Area for a quick lunch fix.

Cute and adorable figurine at the rest area overlooking the highway.

Made another stop at Wonju Service Area for a light snack break.

I was supposed to be checking in at Hotel Amiang Wonju. However, when I reached the hotel, I was informed by the staff that they are not accepting reservation as their hotel is currently undergoing renovation due to a recent fire broke out. 😱

As such, I have to make last minute reservation booking for my night stay here in Wonju. Thankfully I managed to find one and this new one is also centrally located in the city (a much better location than the previous one).

Finally, here I am. Checking in to Benikea Hotel Bizinn for my overnight stay in Wonju.

A nice, clean and spacious room for my stay.

Spending the rest of the day shopping at Lotte Mart.

Light dinner at Yeokjeon Udon 0410.

Followed up by Mom’s Touch.

Enjoying complimentary breakfast with courtesy from the hotel.

A simple and decent spread of food menu items offered.

Preparing to check out from the hotel after a hearty breakfast. This morning, I will be travelling up from Wonju to Suwon.

Before that, I will make a trip to Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge. It is one of the main attractions of Wonju, known for its scenic views and thrilling experience.

Arriving at Sogeumsan Cable Car Lower Station to take the ride up to the Upper Station.

With the cable car tickets in place, we are now good to go.

Long queues forming to board the cable car. 🤣

Finally it’s my turn to board. 🤗

Leaving the lower station for the upper station.

Mesmerising scenic views from the ride.

View of Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge from the upper station.

A short walk from the upper station will lead you to the Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge.

Photo spot prior to start of bridge crossing.

Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge is the longest and largest pedestrian bridge in Korea with a length of 200 meters, a height of 100 meters and a width of 1.5 metres.

OMG! Look at the number of people rushing to cross the bridge.

I am almost there too. 😅

View of Sky Tower from across Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge.

View of Sogeumsan Ulleong Suspension Bridge from across Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge.

Pursuing along the sky walk deck trail to Sky Tower.

Captivating view of the Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge from the deck trail.

Hang on! Almost there soon! 😅

The deck trail actually skirts round Sogeumsan Mountain.

It’s so amazing that I literally walked over from the start of the Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge to where I am now. Wow!

Sogeumsan Ulleong Bridge is approximately twice as long as the original Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge, stretching 404 metres long and 2 metres wide.

At long last, I am here to cross the Sogeumsan Ulleong Suspension Bridge.

Half way there……

Looking back with Sky Tower at the backdrop.

A nice photo spot after bridge completion.

Descending will be a breeze as there will be escalators that will bring you down in just minutes.

Another final momento shot before descending via escalator. There will be no turning back once you step on the escalator.

Snacking along the shops in Sogeumsan Mountain Grand Valley.

A theatre seat layout for visitors to enjoy the musical fountain show.

Enjoying the show while overlooking Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge.

You can also catch some of the interesting structures while strolling back to the main entrance.

It is definitely an enjoyable and thrilling experience for today. I would highly recommend you to make a trip to this place if you happen to be in Wonju. All you need is 3 to 4 hours to enjoy and experience the full walking trail with photo stops when you are here. Definitely worth your while to do so. 👍

Continuing my journey to Suwon next. Stopping over at Munmak Service Area for a quick lunch.

Making another pitstop at Deokpyeong Eco-Service Area, a popular rest stop in South Korea.

There is even a big shopping mall in this service area.

Colpop chicken is a Korean-style snack served in a single cup that combines a soft drink with popcorn chicken, allowing for one-handed eating.

The drink is at the bottom of the cup, with the chicken placed in a tray on top.

You can also find a Robot Café here too.

I will be staying over at Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Suwon for the night before departing for Seoul tomorrow.

I was given a complimentary room upgrade to Deluxe Double Room from Superior Double Room. ☺️

The room faces a nice city view.

After settling down, headed off to Starfield Suwon Shopping Mall and spend the rest of the evening exploring the mall.

Starfield Library Suwon is a beautiful library in Korea located inside Starfield Suwon shopping mall.

At the same time, had a late dinner at the food court here as well.

Spotted Bbawoo Donut inside the food court, famed for its soft and chewy fried donut.

Their donuts can certainly blows you off.

Time really flies. Today marks the last day of my 6 days road trip. It has been a fun road trip thus far.

Chilling out at Starbucks prior to hotel check out.

Spending the day doing more retail therapy at Starfield Suwon before heading back to Seoul.

It happens that there is an ongoing event collaboration between Brooks Brothers & KT Wiz at the mall.

The KT Wiz are a South Korean professional baseball team based in Suwon. They are a member of the KBO League.

Fans eagerly queueing up to have their autograph signing on their new purchased jersey and jacket.

Encoring lunch again at the food court.

Taking a leisure walk after lunch at the Star Garden.

I am now back to Seoul. 👍

Did a final check in at Pacific Hotel in Myeongdong for this trip.

My humble abode for the last 2 nights stay in Korea.

The newly revamped Namdaemun Market. It’s so brightly litted compared to before and it looks cleaner too.

Finally, I get to try Tim Hortons.

Cold brew latte blended with maple syrup for soft and sweet flavor.

A sweet latte with red chocolate cream and caramelised nut pecan praline.

Having dinner at Kim’s Family Restaurant.

As usual, clearing up the laundry for the past week’s load.

Had an early morning start to Soha Salt Pond Ikseon-dong to avoid the long snaking queue as there are limited seating capacity inside the café.

How to go Soha Salt Pond Ikseon-dong?

Take a train to Jongno3(sam)-ga. Use Exit 4, turn left and it is a mere short walk straight. If in doubt, use Naver map for navigation.

Soha Salt Pond is a charming and picturesque hanok cafe located in Ikseondong, Seoul. It’s a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a moment of tranquility. The cafe is adorned with stunning traditional Korean architecture.

OMG! Look at the early queue even before the café opening hour. 😱

A matcha saltpond spanner is a popular salted cream-based drink that features a combination of matcha, a sweet & salty cream and a “spanner” of cream on top. It’s a type of salted cream latte or spanner drink that includes matcha powder for a distinct flavour and colour.

Few steps ahead will be Jayeondo Salt Bread.

It only comes in a pack of 4 salt bread at ₩12,000.

What a salt bread feast morning! 😋

Enjoying a carefree and relaxing stroll along the 10.84 km long stream that flows through downtown Seoul, separating Jongno-gu and Jung-gu.

Recharging at Ediya Coffee for both myself and phone. ☺️

Took a short walk to Insadong in search of dumpling for lunch.

Bukchon Son Mandu, a popular Korean restaurant specializing in handmade dumplings, or mandu.

The restaurant offers a variety of steamed and fried dumplings, as well as noodle dishes. The dumplings are made fresh on-site, and customers can often see them being prepared outside the restaurant.

Collections of Bukchon Son Mandu’s signature dumplings in one dish.

Another option for supermarket shopping will be No Brand instead of Lotte Mart where you can find value for money groceries ranging from fresh fruits, frozen foods, toiletries, beverage, liquor, snacks, etc…

Be sure to check it out if you have the chance to do so. 😉

Found an interesting 2D Matte Black café in Hyundai Department Store Sinchon U-PLEX.

Eating eomuk during cold weather is the best comfort food ever. A must eat without fail especially in my final night in Korea.

One for the road dinner at Gimbap Cheonguk restaurant, a popular chain of eateries in South Korea known for its affordable Korean cuisine.

Time to leave for airport to catch my early afternoon flight home.

Since the airport bus stop is conveniently located right across the hotel, I decided to take the airport limousine bus to the airport instead.

Hassle and fuss free point-to-point travel without the need to lug the luggages though it costs slightly more (₩17,000 per pax). A small price to pay for convenience. 😊

Enjoying a great meal at SilverKris prior to boarding.

Dry Gin, Campari, Sweet Vermouth.

White Rum, Blue Curaco, Pineapple Juice, Lemon Juice.

Orange Juice, Pineapple Juice, Lime Juice, Cranberry Juice.

Freshening up before homecoming.

Bye Seoul and hope to Seoul you soon.

Cheers to another trip completion.

Start of sky dining.

With onion, cucumber and spicy peanut sauce.

Had the Hansik meal on board, specially curated to commemorate 50 years of service in Korea.

Savour Suranchae, a royal court dish with delicately poached egg, tender abalone, prawn, crisp seasonal vegetables, and the nutty richness of autumn chestnuts and pine nuts, finished with tangy mustard dressing. Mix before eating for a harmonious blend of flavours and textures.

Juicy, tender Hanwoo beef patties, prized for their rich marbling and deep, savoury flavour, are hand-formed and glazed with sweet-savoury soy before grilling to perfection. Garnished with autumn harvest Cham-sot pine mushrooms, roasted garlic, and fragrant ginkgo nut rice. Served alongside gochujang-glazed deodeok root, chwi namul mountain herbs, and a comforting bean paste soup.

Silky green tea pudding with a semi-dried persimmon compote at its center, balancing earthy tea notes with mellow sweetness. Garnished with pumpkin seeds and dried jujube. Served alongside with Dasik, a traditional Korean pressed cookie for a delicate sweet crunch.

Garnished with vanilla sauce and granola with nuts.

It has been a great, relaxing trip as always. Creating new found memories as well as bringing back fond memories.