A Day in Suncheon: Nature, History, and Tea Culture
Suncheon is a hidden gem on South Korea’s southern coast, offering an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and rich tea culture. Whether you're an adventurer or a seeker of serenity, this city has it all. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to spend a perfect day in Suncheon, from where to stay to the top must-see attractions, based on our visit to the city in September 2023.
What to See in Suncheon
1. Naganeupseong Folk Village (낙안읍성)
Start your day with a visit to Naganeupseong Folk Village, a beautifully preserved fortified town dating back to 1397. You can easily get there by catching bus number 63 or 68 from the city centre of Suncheon.
This village is a living piece of Korean history, where about 100 households still live within the ancient stone walls. As you wander through the narrow lanes, you'll see well-preserved buildings, including a fortress, government offices, and traditional private houses. The town’s unique architecture and layout remain mostly unchanged since the Joseon Dynasty, giving you a vivid look into Korea’s past.
Walking through the town feels like stepping back in time. The fortress walls, traditional thatched-roof houses, and serene atmosphere make this a perfect spot for history buffs and photographers alike. There are several lunch options in the area, both within the fortified town itself and as well as right outside the fortress walls. We opted for some pajeon in the heart of the folk village.
2. Seonamsa Temple (선암사)
Next, get on bus number 16 or grab a taxi and head to Seonamsa Temple, a peaceful sanctuary hidden deep in the mountains, surrounded by lush forests. Founded in 861, this Korean Buddhist temple is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Seonamsa is one of Korea’s most scenic temples, offering both spiritual and natural beauty. The temple's elegant stone bridges and tranquil walkways blend harmoniously with the surrounding nature, making the hike up to the temple as enjoyable as the destination itself.
For tea lovers, Seonamsa is home to a centuries-old wild tea field, with tea plants as old as 300 to 400 years. No fertilizers or chemicals have ever been used in this wild tea field, making it a truly unique experience for those interested in sustainable agriculture and traditional tea culture. After wandering through the temple grounds, visit the Suncheon Traditional Wild Tea House (순천전통야생차체험관) to participate in a traditional Korean tea ceremony. You’ll have the opportunity to sample several local teas grown right in the area—a peaceful and reflective way to end your visit to the temple.
3. Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve (순천만습지)
End your day with a visit to Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve, one of the most stunning natural habitats in South Korea. It’s a bit of a trek to get there using public transportation, as you first need to make your way back to the city centre. You can catch bus number 1 from Seonamsa Temple to Suncheon Station (1 hour and 29 minutes), and from there bus number 66 to Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve (30 minutes). Another option is to take a taxi. Taking approximately 43 minutes, this will save you a lot of time. The fare should be around KRW 34 000.
Known for its vast fields of reeds, Suncheon Bay is a haven for migratory birds, including rare species like the hooded crane and black-faced spoonbill. The wetlands are also home to a diverse range of plants and wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and bird watchers.
For the best experience, visit the reserve in the late afternoon, so you can stay for sunset. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting golden hues across the vast fields of reeds, is an unforgettable sight. There are also well-maintained walkways and observation decks that make it easy to explore the wetlands while keeping the environment protected.
There are several dinner options in the area. I recommend Daesupgol Nongwon (대숲골농원) for some incredible chicken BBQ. The restaurant itself is set in a beautiful bamboo forest, a 7 minute bus ride from Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve.
Address: 54 Hakdong-gil, Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-do
How to Get to Suncheon
By KTX from Seoul
The most convenient way to travel to Suncheon from Seoul is by the KTX Jeolla Line, which departs from Yongsan Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, making it a quick and comfortable option for long-distance travel. Upon arriving at Suncheon Station, you can easily take a local bus or taxi to your accommodation or any of Suncheon’s main attractions.
To make your trip smoother, consider booking your KTX tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. The KTX Jeolla service is known for its comfort and speed, offering a scenic route as you head toward the southern coast of Korea.
By Express Bus
If you prefer to travel by bus, Suncheon is also accessible via express buses from major cities across Korea. From Seoul Express Bus Terminal, express buses to Suncheon take around 3.5 to 4 hours. While the journey is longer than by train, the buses are modern and comfortable, often equipped with reclining seats and entertainment options. Once you arrive at the Suncheon Bus Terminal, you’ll find it easy to catch a local bus or taxi to your final destination.
Where to Stay: Four Seasons Pension
Our stay at Four Seasons Pension was one of the highlights of our trip to Suncheon last September. Located within walking distance of the famous Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve, this charming pension was the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring. It’s easily accessible from the city center by bus or taxi, and the surroundings are peaceful.
The rooms were clean, spacious, and incredibly comfortable. Our host truly made the stay memorable—she did our laundry, drove us to her favorite local restaurant, and provided fantastic recommendations for things to do and see in Suncheon. If you’re looking for warm hospitality and a great location, I can’t recommend Four Seasons Pension enough.
Final Thoughts
Suncheon offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and culture for travelers seeking an authentic South Korean experience. With its well-preserved historical sites like Naganeupseong Folk Village, the serene beauty of Seonamsa Temple, and the incredible biodiversity of Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve, a day spent in this peaceful city will leave you refreshed and inspired.
