How to Get to Nami Island from Seoul (And Get Back)

When traveling from Seoul to Nami Island, you have various options to suit any time or transport limitations you have. The most convenient and efficient way to get to Nami Island is via the ITX-Cheongchun train to Gapyeong Station. From there, a shuttle bus directly transports you to Nami Island, eliminating the need for multiple transfers and ensuring a smooth journey.

There are other options, however, and traveling from Seoul to Nami Island is a fantastic day trip if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in nature. Below we cover various transportation options for how to get from Seoul to Nami Island whether you seek convenience, speed, or a leisurely scenic route.

Nami Island is renowned for its stunning tree-lined paths, charming spring or autumn vistas, and serene atmosphere. The island's location, surrounded by the Han River, adds to the breathtaking views. It's a popular spot among locals and tourists alike, especially for fans of the famous 2002 Korean drama Winter Sonata.

When planning your travel from Seoul to Nami Island, you have several ways to get there and back. We'll look at 4 options in this post: taking the train, using the shuttle bus, hiring a taxi, or driving your own car. Though for those looking for an adventure, the zipline to Nami Island is the best way to go!

The most popular way to get there is by taking the ITX-Cheongchun train to Gapyeong Station, though if you prefer a leisurely and scenic experience, taking a ferry to Nami Island is the way to go.

Riding the ferry lets you take your time and soak in the beauty of the vast countryside landscape as you make your way to Nami Island. This option is perfect for travelers who enjoy a more relaxed and immersive journey, though it's definitely more time-consuming.

Before you ride the train or use public transportation in Seoul, you need to get a special card called “T-Money.” It's a smart card that you can recharge with money to pay for your train, bus, and subway rides. You can buy the T-Money card whne you arrive at Incheon Airport, and add money to it at machines in the airport or subway stations.

Or you can go to a convenience store and ask the cashier to help you add money to your card; it's truly that easy. Having a T-Money card is easy and convenient, as you can just tap it to pay for your rides without buying separate tickets each time you travel— a handy way to get around the city & the rest of the country.

To get to Gapyeong Station from Yongsan Station, you can take the Gyeongchun Line train, the cheapest option, costing only ₩2,350 (~$1.75USD) using your T-Money card. The journey takes around 2 hours, and on holidays, the train might be crowded with both locals and tourists, so finding a seat might take some time once you board the train.

But it's a budget-friendly way to travel, and you can still enjoy the scenic views during the ride. Just be prepared for a bit of a wait if it's a busy day!

Foreigners can also use a Korail Pass, allowing them to enjoy perks like free seat reservations in any Korail transportation like the ITX. You can buy ITX tickets on the KTX website if you want to ride the ITX-Cheongchun train.

Taking the ITX-Cheongchun train from either Cheongnyangni Station or Yongsan Station to Nami Island is a smart choice for budget travelers, offering an affordable and efficient way to reach the beautiful island. Once you arrive at Gapyeong Station, you'll find 2 cost-effective options to continue your journey: a shuttle bus or a taxi.

Another convenient option is to take the Nami Island Direct Shuttle Bus from Seoul. This service offers pickup points at Insadong, Namdaemun, and Myeongdong. The round-trip adult ticket costs ₩30,000 (~$24USD). The shuttle bus is an excellent option for those who prefer a hassle-free and direct mode of transportation.

The Gapyeong City Tour Bus, priced at ₩8,000 (~$6USD) per ticket, lets you explore the area at a reasonable cost. This bus is also designed to take you to various attractions in the region, making it a hassle-free way to experience the area’s beauty and charm. 

For an even more budget-friendly option, you can take city buses 33-5 or 33-36 from Gapyeong Station to Nami Island Ferry Terminal. These buses run approximately every 30 minutes, providing a convenient and affordable way to reach the island.

Using your T-Money card, you can board the bus for just ₩1,250 (~$1USD). The bus ride takes around 10 minutes to arrive at Nami Island, making it a quick and cost-effective choice. 

Taxis are comfy and easy, but they cost more than trains or shuttle buses. If you take the ITX train to Gapyeong Station, you can hire a local taxi to go straight to Nami Island Ferry Terminal.

This is a good choice if you have luggage or want a ride to the island's entrance. Taking a taxi to Nami Island should be around ₩18,000 (~$13USD), which is not too bad for the convenience it offers. 

If you want flexibility, rent a car to travel from Seoul to Nami Island Ferry Terminal. Note that no cars are allowed on Nami Island, so you’ll have to travel early to secure a spot in the limited car park by the island dock before riding a ferry or the zip line.

Driving lets you explore at your own pace and stop at other attractions. Remember to get directions and consider using a GPS, though you can also hire a driving service for more privacy. Rent a small car for up to 4 people, or a van for larger groups; the cost varies based on the vehicle and group size.

For example, a 7-seater van from Indiway might cost around ₩120,000 (~$90USD), which is still cheaper than a taxi or even train for the same number of people. This private car service offers a comfortable and personalized travel experience to Nami Island.

You may be surprised to see Nami Island called ‘Naminara Republic’ the moment you arrive at Nami Island Ferry Terminal. This is actually something their marketing team whipped up to enhance the visitor experience and create a sense of uniqueness that sets them apart from other prime things to do in Seoul.

They even have pamphlets explaining this fictional identity, immersing visitors in the fantasy of Nami Island being a “separate country” with its own flag, currency, passport, and even citizenship.

You can get a Naminarian Passport worth ₩58,000 (~$45USD), but additional rates apply if you have children and pets. Having the passport also waives the need to pay the entrance fee of ₩16,000 (~$12USD), and comes with a few other rotating perks. 

Ferry Schedule and Tickets

The Nami Island Ferry operates from the Gapyeong Wharf and features a range of departure times throughout the day. The ferry schedule is as follows: from 8:00 am-9:00 am, departing every 30 minutes; from 9:00 am-6:00 pm, departing every 10-20 minutes; and from 6:00 pm-7:00 pm, departing every 30 minutes.

Notably, during the fall season (September-November), the ferries adjust their schedule on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, departing half an hour earlier, commencing at 7:30 am, and concluding with the last trip at 9:00 pm.

Additionally, it's important to be aware that on the day before a holiday, the final ferry departs from Gapyeong Wharf at exactly 9:30 pm. To ensure timely planning, I recommend consulting the ferry schedule slip issued upon ticket purchase.

This useful schedule is ruled by the ticketing office, factoring in the anticipated weather conditions for the day.

On-Site Ticket Prices

If you prefer to purchase tickets on-site, please refer to the list below:

• Regular: ₩16,000 (~$12USD)
• Seniors (70+ years) and Students (Middle to High School Age): ₩13,000 (~$10USD)
• Children (36 months to Elementary School Age): ₩10,000 (~$7.50USD)
• Early Bird Discount (tickets purchased before 8:00 A.M.): ₩10,000 
• Other Special Conditions: ₩10,000 (see conditions in Naminara Republic website)

If you prefer to secure tickets beforehand to avoid long lines and wait times, visit third-party sites like Klook, Trazy, and Seoul Pass to purchase your ticket ahead of time.

Nami Island Zipline Option

For thrill-seekers, it’s always a fun option to zipline to the island. Visitors are strapped into a harness and launched along a long zipline, allowing them to glide over the vast, panoramic view of the Han River and the surrounding countryside. 

At 940 meters, the Nami Island Ziprider is widely known as the largest in Asia. Those who dare to climb the 80-meter-high tower at the start must also be prepared to pay ₩44,000 (~$34USD), which includes the island’s entrance fee and tickets to the return ferry.  For the same price, you can also go for a shorter zipline from Jara Island, just 640 meters long.

The Ziprider is open from 11:30 am-3:30 pm on weekdays and 9:00 am-6:00 pm on weekends.

Shuttle Bus Option

The most straightforward way to get to Nami Island is by using a shuttle bus service. Daily shuttle buses leave from Seoul (Namdaemun, Myeongdong, or Insadong) and go directly to Nami Island.

The bus ride takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes and leaves every morning at 9:30 am (8:30 am on Saturdays and Sundays). I recommend booking the service online to make sure you don’t run out of seats. Prices start from ₩25,000 (~$19USD) if you book through Klook or Trazy.

Metro Option

If you’d rather save money and don’t mind riding the Seoul Metro, follow this route: From Ride Line 1 in Seoul Station, get off Cheongnyangni Station, and transfer to the Gyeongchun Line until you reach Gapyeong Station. The whole trip takes around 1 hour and 35 minutes, according to Kakao Map and Naver Map.

After getting to Gapyeong Station, cross the road and find the bus stop 가평역 정류장(44789) and ride the bus 10-4. After 6 stops, the bus will indicate that you have arrived the Namiseom (남이섬총점 정류장(44884)). Once you have disembarked at the bus stop, follow the signs that take you to the Nami Island Ferry Terminal. 

Alpaca World

Tourists who love fluffy animals can look forward to a unique and interactive experience (particularly popular with kiddos!). Alpaca World features several of these cuddly friends, that visitors can feed and walk with.

The theme park also offers a chance to observe the animals' daily lifestyle, as well as take photos with these friendly creatures, making it a delightful memory for animal lovers and families looking for something new.

The serene surroundings of Nami Island also provide the perfect backdrop to capture your moments with the alpacas. This day tour provides a relaxing trip to Alpaca World that’s fit for families or big groups.

Petite France

Petite France is a charming French village and theme park near Nami Island in Gapyeong, South Korea. It's famous for its European-style architecture, charming houses, and French cultural elements like romantic cuisine and crafts.

The place is a true cultural experience, and has been featured in innumerable Korean dramas and variety shows. To get there, take the Gapyeong City Tour Bus from Gapyeong Station, offering convenient transportation to Petite France, Nami Island, and other attractions in the area.

It's a cost-effective and hassle-free way to explore these beautiful destinations. Alternatively, you can opt for an all-in-one day tour package that includes Petite France, Nami Island, and nearby attractions for added flexibility and convenience.

Garden of Morning Calm

The Garden of Morning Calm in Gapyeong, South Korea, is a stunning botanical garden known for its serene landscapes and variety of Korean plants. It's a popular spot for nature lovers and offers a peaceful escape. 

The garden also features cafes, art installations, and seasonal events like spring flower festivals and autumn foliage festivals. Visitors can purchase plants and souvenirs at the garden's shop. It's a peaceful and visually captivating destination, perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a serene escape from city life. 

To get there, take the Gapyeong City Tour Bus from Gapyeong Station, which also stops at other popular spots. For a hassle-free journey, consider booking a combined tour package that includes the garden and other nearby attractions. 

Gangchon Rail Bike

The Gangchon Rail Bike offers an exciting activity where you can pedal along an old railway track while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Specially designed for visitors to explore the stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and forests, the rail bikes provide a unique and enjoyable experience.

The leisurely ride usually lasts about 40 minutes, making it suitable for individuals, couples, and families. 

To get to the Gangchon Rail Bike, take the Gapyeong City Tour Bus from Gapyeong Station. Once you arrive at the Gangchon Rail Bike entrance, you can purchase your tickets and embark on a leisurely ride along the old railway track - it's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty.

If you choose to make reservations beforehand, you can book tickets online. Depending on the seat type, a single ticket costs ₩32,900 (~$25USD) to ₩40,800 (~$31USD) if you use third-party services like Trazy or Klook.

LEGOLAND

Legoland Korea is a fun place with lots of stuff to do, all centered around Lego. It's good for kids and grown-ups who are fans of these colorful building blocks (like ME)!

If you like exciting rides, try the Dizzy Disco Spin or the Water Maze; both of these rides make you feel like you're on an adventure. And if you like making things, there's a special place called the Robotic Play Centre where you can build your own robots using Lego.

But if you just want to watch something cool, there are shows, too. You can pick between a show where police characters do exciting things or a show about ninja adventures with Lego characters.

The park is open from 10 am-6 pm. To get in, tickets cost ₩40,000 (~$31USD) for kids and ₩50,000 (~$38USD) for grown-ups. Coming to Legoland is a nice respite for those seeking to unwind with their family, having fun and exploring everything Lego has to offer.

Gapyeong City Tour Bus

Exploring the popular attractions near Nami Island is made easy with the Gapyeong City Tour Bus. This convenient bus operates from Gapyeong Station and stops at key destinations like Nami Island, Petite France, Garden of Morning Calm, and the rail bike parks.

You have the freedom to hop on and off the bus at your leisure, giving you the flexibility to explore each site at your own pace. For your planning convenience, here's a breakdown of the bus fares: ₩6,000 (~$4.50USD) for adults, ₩3,600 (~$2.50USD) for children aged 4-12, and free for infants under 4 years old.

With the Gapyeong City Tour Bus, you're all set to make the most of your day trip from Seoul and discover the excitement of these nearby attractions.

Spring (March to May)

Spring lets you enjoy the mesmerizing cherry blossom as a part of your view, as well as the gorgeous flowers that bloom all throughout the island. The pleasant weather also makes it easier for people to spot animals roaming around the island, and do outdoor activities like cycling, rowing- and simply enjoy the island’s beauty, of course.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn paints Nami Island with an awe-inspiring palette of colors, captivating the hearts of both local and international visitors alike. As the air turns crisp and the leaves transform into a vivid symphony of hues, the island becomes a haven for leisurely strolls and captivating photography.

This enchanting backdrop sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. Moreover, the steamed buns sold near the gift shop taste twice as good, thanks to the splendid weather. 

Summer (June to August)

Amidst the summer’s hot and humid climate, Nami Island still has an irresistible allure that continues to attract many visitors. Families visit the island to engage in exciting water activities, as well as appreciate that flourishing expanse of greenery, while festivals continue to provide entertaining music and games to the public.

Since there are plenty of trees, Nami Island can be a cool destination to hide yourself away from the heat of the sun, still making it a popular summer destination.

Winter (December to February)

Winter unveils a truly enchanting realm adorned with snow-draped landscapes, inviting visitors into a world of wonder. The season offers the delightful opportunity to engage in a medley of winter pursuits, from the exhilaration of sledding to the grace of ice skating.

It’s important, however, to bundle up snugly and shield yourself from the biting cold of the relentless Korean winter.

Moreover, note that during this period, certain transportation options (like the ferry and the zipline) might be somewhat limited. Sometimes, there are also weather-induced closures that could momentarily temper your winter escapades, so always check the weather beforehand.

1. Plan Ahead and Create Your Itinerary

The first thing to do is find time to research Nami Island’s attractions, activities, and opening hours before your visit. The best way to do this is to check the Nami Island website or VisitKorea’s Namiseom page. When you plan ahead like this, you'll be ready to make the most of your trip. 

When planning your trip from Seoul to Nami Island, preparing a proper itinerary is important to remain organized and maximize your time. Knowing what to do and planning ahead lets you know how much money you might need for things like transportation, entertainment, and food. Plus, having a plan just makes it easier to get around.

Planning and creating your itinerary for Seoul and beyond helps you decide where to start your trip. For example, I suggest beginning in Myeongdong because it has currency exchange centers with good rates in Korea, and you can shop for supplies at the market and grab food before getting on the bus to Nami Island.

In addition to transportation fees and admission tickets, consider other additional expenses like souvenirs or guided tours. Before booking your trip and accommodations, it's wise to consult a trusted travel guide or website like Agoda or Booking for hotel recommendations and discounted rates.

Finally, always remember to follow more general travel advice: check visa requirements, keep your passport in a safe place, and be respectful of local customs and culture.

2. Buy Tickets in Advance

You don’t want to miss opportunities because you didn’t buy tickets ahead of time - always book online by checking sites like Klook or Trazy to find discounted deals that could also help you save tons of money in advance.

Also note that there are ways to make your visits cheaper, like securing a Naminara Passport if you want to keep returning to Nami to experience all 4 seasons. 

3. Bring a Translator

Papago is a fantastic way to communicate with the locals, considering that most of the older generation Koreans are not that well-versed in English. Most of the Nami Island staff are a bit on the older side, but they are friendly, kind, and helpful.

4. Respect the Environment

Remember that most of the beings on Nami Island are animals. Walking around the paths and trails, you'll likely see lots of different animals. There are cute squirrels running among the trees and birds making beautiful sounds in the air, all of which make the island even more special.

People who like taking pictures and nature understandably enjoy watching and taking photos of these animals; it helps them feel closer to how nature works on the island. But when you explore Nami Island, remember to be aware and respectful of the animals that live there. 

5. Be Mindful of Time

It’s essential to keep track of time during your exploration of Nami Island to make sure you can catch the last ferry back to the mainland. The ferry schedule is an important aspect to consider, as missing the final departure could potentially lead to challenges in returning to your hotel in Seoul. 

Therefore, as you lose yourself in the island's charm and myriad attractions, be sure to check the time every now and then and remember the departure time schedule. This ensures a smooth and stress-free overall visit, allowing you to reflect on the day's adventures as you journey back across the water to the mainland.

6. Follow Necessary Safety Protocols 

When traveling to Nami Island from Seoul, it’s crucial to stay safe and follow COVID-19 guidelines. Check the VisitKorea website for more information on any current travel restrictions.

Consider wearing a mask, especially in crowded places like bus stations, ferry terminals, and popular spots on the island, and carrying extra ifn case your mask gets wet.