Train Travel Amidst Beautiful Nature
Hello, this is durumis! Everyone, don't you feel like traveling? How about a train trip where you can enjoy the beautiful nature?
Introducing the Charm of the Baekdudaegan Gorge Train Trip
V-TRAIN
Train travel always offers a unique experience, but the Baekdudaegan Gorge Train trip is one of the best ways to enjoy the most beautiful natural scenery. This train trip traverses the Baekdudaegan mid-continental region, considered one of the most beautiful areas in Korea. It creates unforgettable memories with natural landscapes that showcase different charms depending on the season.
The special aspect of the gorge train is that its windows are open, allowing passengers to directly experience nature. While enjoying the beautiful scenery unfolding before your eyes, breathing in the fresh air from the moving train, you feel as if time has stopped.
Another attractive point is the stations where the train stops along the way. At each station, you can get off and enjoy a walk in the surrounding area or purchase local specialties. Tasting local food at small cafes or restaurants run by villagers will also be a special experience.
Route and Major Stops Along the Gorge
The Baekdudaegan Gorge Train operates along the Cheoram Line, connecting Bonghwa-gun in the northern part of Gyeongsangbuk-do and Taebaek-si in the southern part of Gangwon-do. This route is approximately 80 km long and follows rugged gorges and beautiful valleys.
Major stops include Bunchun Station, Yangwon Station, Seungbu Station, and Cheoram Station. Each station has its own unique charm and serves as a place to experience history and culture.
Bunchun Station is sister-city to Zermatt Station in Switzerland, offering a foreign atmosphere. A Santa Village operates here, providing even more spectacular sights during the Christmas season.
Yangwon Station is one of the smallest stations in Korea, a makeshift station built by the villagers themselves. Here, you can savor freshwater fish dishes caught in the pristine streams.
Seungbu Station is famous for the phrase, 'Even the sky is three pyeong (a traditional Korean unit of area), and the flower garden is three pyeong.' It's a place where you can appreciate nature in a tranquil atmosphere.
Cheoram Station retains the past image of a coal mining hub. You can visit the coal mine museum and learn about its history.
Things to Know Before Boarding
First, you need to check the train's operating hours and route. Operating times may vary depending on the season, so it's best to make a reservation in advance through the Korail website or mobile app. While on-site ticketing is also available, it's advisable to make a reservation in advance as weekends often see tickets sell out.
Also, operations can be canceled due to weather conditions, so be sure to check before departure. In cases of heavy rain or strong winds, operations may be suspended for safety reasons.
Furthermore, unlike regular trains, the gorge train has large, open windows for a great sense of openness. However, during the cold winter months, be sure to prepare warm clothing, gloves, and scarves. While bringing a tripod for photography is possible, be mindful not to cause inconvenience to other passengers.
Special Services Available on Board
First, there are events hosted by the crew. While the train is running, the crew members conduct various games and quizzes, allowing passengers to enjoy a fun time together. There is also a commemorative photo service. If you request it from the crew, you can take commemorative photos inside the train, and the photos can be sent to your email address.
In addition, photo zones are set up in each carriage for creating memories. You can take stunning photos with the scenery that unfolds outside the large windows, and there's a postcard service where you can write a postcard and have it mailed, so don't miss out.
Photography Tips Blending with the Surrounding Nature
The most basic tip is to utilize light. In the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is low, shadows lengthen, allowing you to capture the texture of rocks and trees more vividly. Using backlighting can also capture the beautiful scenery behind the subject, resulting in impressive photos.
Next, pay attention to the composition of your frame. Instead of focusing solely on the subject in the center, it's beneficial to include surrounding natural elements. This adds depth and vibrancy to your photos. When taking portraits, positioning the person off-center and filling the empty space with natural scenery can create a more polished photo.
Local Food Encounters During Your Train Trip
Unique local delicacies enhance the joy of travel. Let me introduce some of the representative local foods.
First, we can't overlook Chuncheon Dakgalbi in Gangwon-do. The tender chicken, spicy sauce, and fresh vegetables create a delicious combination. It's even better when enjoyed with makguksu (Korean cold noodles).
Jeonju Bibimbap is famous in Jeolla-do. It's a traditional dish made with fresh vegetables, meat, and eggs mixed with gochujang (Korean chili paste). It's highly nutritious and a fulfilling meal. Street food like baguette burgers and Choco Pies are also popular.
In Gyeongsang-do Andong, jjimdak (braised chicken) and gan-godeungeo (salted and grilled mackerel) are renowned. Jjimdak is a dish made with chicken, potatoes, carrots, onions, and soy sauce, sugar, and minced garlic. It features a spicy and sweet flavor. Gan-godeungeo is grilled mackerel that has been salted, offering a savory and salty taste.
Nearby Tourist Attractions Along the Baekdudaegan
A trip aboard the Baekdudaegan Gorge Train (V-train) provides a wonderful opportunity to admire beautiful natural scenery. Various tourist attractions are located around the train stations, adding to the joy of your journey.
Bunchun Station Santa Village hosts various Santa-themed events and festivals during winter, making it popular among families. In summer, areas for water play are available.
Yangwon Station is Korea's first privately funded station, where you can savor local specialties made by the villagers. You can also enjoy trekking along the Nakdonggang Sepeong Skyway.
Cheoram Station Coal Mining History Village preserves the history and culture of Cheoram-dong, which was once the heart of the coal industry. With a museum and exhibition halls, it's a great place to visit with children.
Sharing Trip Reviews and Tips
After your train trip, sharing your experiences with others is a great way to connect. You can write a travel review or post photos on social media.
When writing a travel review, be honest about your experience, both good and bad, and provide information that others can find useful. Detailed information about transportation, accommodation, and restaurants will be a valuable resource for others.
When posting photos, it's a good idea to share various anecdotes from your experience, not just scenic photos. This will help others visualize and immerse themselves in your journey.
Finally, if you have any questions while preparing for your trip, using internet searches or travel communities is also a good option. Referencing other people's experiences can help you enjoy a more fulfilling trip.
Today, we've introduced Jeongseon Rail Bike and other must-visit spots in Gangwon-do as great options for a domestic day trip. How about taking a trip there this weekend with family, a lover, or friends?