Cheongju - Discovering South Korea

Travelling to Cheongju

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Cheongju, a pretty good destination in South Korea (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Cheongju and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Cheongju, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through South Korea, here's everything to know about Cheongju for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Cheongju

Cheongju is a city located in the central region of South Korea. It is a bustling city with a population of over 800,000 people. The city is known for its historical and cultural significance, as well as for its modern amenities and vibrant nightlife. Some popular attractions in Cheongju include the Sangdangsanseong Fortress, the Cheongnamdae Presidential Villa, and the Cheongju National Museum. The city is also famous for its agricultural and industrial sectors, with many traditional markets and modern shopping centers. Cheongju has convenient transportation options, with an international airport, expressways, and a high-speed train connecting it to other parts of the country.

What to visit in Cheongju

Here are some of the tourist attractions in Cheongju, South Korea along with some information about them: 1. Cheongju National Museum - The museum showcases the cultural and historical heritage of the Cheongju region. It is also famous for its collection of ancient bronze bells, including the Cheongju Bangudae Petroglyphs.
2. Cheongnamdae Presidential Villa - This is the official country retreat of past South Korean presidents. The site features a beautiful natural landscape and well-preserved traditional buildings that provide a glimpse of Korea's history.
3. Sangdangsanseong Fortress - The ancient walls surrounding the fortress offer breathtaking and panoramic mountain views. It is also recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site due to its historical significance.
4. Cheongju Early Printing Museum - This museum exhibits the history of printing in Korea with a focus on the famous Jikji, the world's oldest metal print book.
5. Cheongju International Craft Biennale - This event showcases traditional and modern Korean craft from contemporary artists around the world. The Biennale occurs every two years.
6. Cheongju Ossuary - This is a collection of over 2000 years of human skeletal remains excavated from a nearby burial site.
7. Chungjang-ro Street - The shopping street is significantly commercialized with street vendors, stylish shops, and gourmet restaurants.
I hope this gives you an idea of what Cheongju has to offer!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in South Korea, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Cheongju.

When to go on holiday to Cheongju

The best time to visit Cheongju is during the months of April, May, September or October. During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable with temperatures averaging from 14°C to 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In April, you can see the beautiful cherry blossoms in bloom, and in September and October, the autumn foliage is stunning. However, it is important to note that Cheongju can be quite crowded during those months, so planning ahead and booking accommodations and activities in advance is recommended.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Cheongju

The easiest way to get to Cheongju is by air. The nearest airport is Cheongju International Airport, which is located about 7 kilometers northwest of the city center. This airport is served by several domestic and international airlines, including Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and China Eastern Airlines. Alternatively, you can take a train to Cheongju. The city is served by the Korea Train Express (KTX) high-speed railway, which connects it to major cities in South Korea. You can take a train from Seoul to Cheongju, which takes about an hour and a half.
Lastly, you can also take a bus to Cheongju. The city has a bus terminal that serves both local and long-distance buses. Buses from Seoul to Cheongju run regularly and take approximately two hours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Cheongju, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Cheongju

Cheongju is a beautiful historical city located in South Korea. Here are some of the typical foods of Cheongju, along with their descriptions: 1. Kongbiji Jjigae: This is a nutritious and delicious soup made from ground soybeans. It's usually served with an assortment of vegetables, including mushrooms, zucchinis, and onions.
2. Cheongju Makgeolli: This is a traditional Korean rice wine made from fermented rice. It has a slightly sweet taste, and it's a popular beverage in Cheongju.
3. Kongnamul Guk: This is a simple yet flavorful soup made from soybean sprouts. It's usually seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, and other spices.
4. Cheongju Baekseju: This is another type of rice wine that's popular in Cheongju. It has a sweet and slightly fruity taste, and it's often served chilled.
5. Jangsu Gui: This is a grilled eel dish that's seasoned with a sweet and savory sauce. It's a popular dish in Cheongju because of the region's close proximity to the Geum River, which is known for its eel population.
6. Dangmyeon: This is a type of sweet potato noodle that's often used in traditional Korean dishes. It has a slightly chewy texture, and it's often served cold in salads or as a side dish.
7. Cheongju Bibimbap: This is a traditional Korean dish made from rice, vegetables, and often meat or seafood. In Cheongju, the dish is often served with a spicy sauce made from gochujang (a chili paste) and sesame oil.
You can find general info about typical foods in South Korea here.

Is Cheongju an expensive destination for tourists?

Cheongju (South Korea) is not particularly an expensive destination for tourists. The cost of traveling to Cheongju depends on various factors such as the time of year you plan to visit, the types of activities that you want to do, and the accommodations you prefer. However, compared to some other major destinations in Korea, such as Seoul or Busan, Cheongju tends to be more affordable. On average, you can expect to spend around 50-100 USD per day on food, accommodations, and activities in Cheongju. Prices for transportation like taxis, buses, and trains are also relatively cheap in Cheongju.

Where to find accomodation in Cheongju

It is best to look for accommodations in downtown Cheongju, specifically around Cheongju Station or Sangdang-gu. These areas have many hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb options. They are also conveniently located near major transportation hubs, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Other areas to consider include Heungdeok-gu and Cheongwon-gu, which are also popular among travelers visiting Cheongju.
You can check hotel prices at Cheongju here:
Booking.com

Is Cheongju a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Cheongju is considered a safe place for tourists. South Korea has a low crime rate, and Cheongju is no exception. Tourists can generally feel safe walking around the city and exploring its attractions. However, it is always best to take basic safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping your valuables secure, and following local laws and customs.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in South Korea here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Cheongju.

What type of travelers will enjoy Cheongju the most?

Cheongju in South Korea is a great destination for a wide variety of travelers. It is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway, as it offers picturesque scenery like the beautiful Tangeum Lake and several cultural sites such as the UNESCO World Heritage listed fortress of Sangdangsanseong. Young people looking for fun can enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene as well as the city's numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
Families can also enjoy a trip to Cheongju, as it boasts several parks, museums, and family-friendly activities. The city is also known for its delicious food scene which includes traditional Korean dishes and international cuisine.
Overall, Cheongju has something to offer for everyone, making it an ideal destination for a variety of travelers.

How to get around Cheongju

In Cheongju, one can use various modes of transportation such as buses, taxis, and rental cars to move around the city. The local bus system is quite efficient, affordable, and covers much of the city. Taxis are also readily available and are a convenient option, especially for short trips or when traveling in groups. Finally, rental cars are an option for those who prefer to explore the city at their own pace. However, it's worth noting that traffic in the city can be quite congested, especially during rush hour.

What to see around Cheongju

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Cheongju: 1. Gongju: Gongju is a historic city located about 35 km southeast of Cheongju. It is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Gongsanseong Fortress, which dates back to the Baekje Dynasty. Other attractions include the Tomb of King Muryeong and the Gongju National Museum.
2. Daejeon: Daejeon is a modern city located about 45 km south of Cheongju. It is home to many scientific and technological institutions, including the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). Visitors can also explore attractions such as the Expo Science Park, Daejeon Museum of Art, and Yuseong Hot Springs.
3. Chungju: Chungju is a city located about 30 km northwest of Cheongju. It is home to the Chungjuho Lake, which is the third largest man-made lake in Korea. The Chungju Dam and the Suanbo Hot Springs are also popular attractions in the area.
4. Jecheon: Jecheon is a small town located about 30 km east of Cheongju. It is known for its picturesque scenery and traditional Korean culture. Some popular attractions include the Cheongpung Cultural Heritage Complex, the Cheongpung Lake, and the Jecheon National Museum.
5. Buyeo: Buyeo is a historic city located about 70 km south of Cheongju. It was once the capital of the Baekje Dynasty, and visitors can explore the Buyeo National Museum, the Jeongnimsaji Temple, and the Nakhwaam Rock. The scenic Seodong Park is also a popular attraction in the area.
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