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Getting Around Goyang-si

Getting Around Goyang-si

Goyang-si Gyeonggi-do, South Korea Travel Guide

Comprehensive Public Transit

Seoul Subway Line 3 (the Orange Line) extends into Goyang-si, connecting it directly to central Seoul and other parts of Gyeonggi-do. Stations within Goyang-si include Daehwa, Juyeop, Jeongbalsan, Ilsan, Samsong, Wonheung, and Hwajeong. The subway is clean, efficient, and reliable.

Goyang-si has a comprehensive bus network, offering several types of services: City Buses (간선버스, 지선버스), Express/Red Buses (광역버스) for faster routes to Seoul, and Village Buses (마을버스) for local feeder routes.

Transit Systems at a Glance

  • Metro (Subway): Seoul Subway Line 3 for regional connectivity.
  • Buses: Comprehensive network for city and Seoul routes.
  • Route Maps: Available at depots and via apps like Naver Map, KakaoMap.
  • Ticketing: T-Money Card is the most practical for discounted fares and transfers.

Jeongbalsan Station

Central hub for Ilsan Lake Park, La Festa, Western Dom, and KINTEX.

Daehwa Station

Located in far western Ilsan, near KINTEX and major event venues.

Hwajeong Station

A major economic and residential center within Deogyang-gu, with various amenities.

Operating Hours & Frequency

Subway Operations
  • Operates from ~05:30 AM to ~00:00 (midnight) or 01:00 AM on weekdays.
  • Weekend and holiday hours are slightly reduced.
  • Runs frequently during peak hours.
Bus Operations
  • Most run from early morning (~05:00 AM) until late evening (~23:00-00:00).
  • Some major routes offer late-night operations.
  • Frequency reduces late at night.

Accessibility & Navigation Tips

Accessibility Improvements

Many subway stations feature elevators and escalators for mobility needs. Newer stations are generally well-equipped for accessibility. Low-floor buses are increasingly common. Check apps for station-specific accessibility.

Smart Navigation

Airalo eSim for data. Download Naver Map or KakaoMap for real-time routes. Avoid peak rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) for smoother rides. Stand to the right on escalators.

Ticketing Systems

T-Money Card (or Cashbee Card) is the most convenient way of public transportation. It is a reloadable smart card usable on subways, buses, and even for taxis and acquisitions at convenience stores.

Fares & Transfers

T-Money cards offer discounted fares and free transfers within a set time (usually 30 minutes) between subway and bus, or between different bus lines. Fares are mainly distance-based.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis offer a convenient alternative to public transport, especially for shorter distances, late-night travel, or when carrying luggage.

Taxi Identification & Hailing

  • Licensed taxis are silver, orange, white, or black with 'TAXI' sign.
  • Hailing possible on street or at designated stands.
  • International Taxis have English-speaking drivers.
  • Deluxe Taxis are more spacious and have higher fares.

Fares & Payment

  • Basic fare for regular taxi (daytime): ₩4,800.
  • Late-night surcharge (22:00-04:00): 20-30%.
  • Accepts cash, credit cards, and T-Money cards.
  • Kakao T is the dominant ride-hailing app.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing Safety

  • Licensed taxis are very safe, drivers follow regulations.
  • Ensure the driver uses the meter.
  • Professional and licensed drivers.
  • Kakao T provides driver info and trip sharing.
  • Provides driver and vehicle information.
  • In-app emergency contact option.

Airport & Station Taxis

Airport Taxi Stands

Designated stands at Incheon and Gimpo airports. International taxi desks for pre-booking.

Train Station Taxis

Taxi stands at major train stations (Seoul, Yongsan). Easy connections to Goyang-si after KTX.

Availability

Taxis are available 24/7 for various schedules.

Rental Options

For greater flexibility, especially for exploring areas beyond central Goyang-si, rental options are available.

Car Rental Information

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) and national license.
  • Minimum age 21 (some companies 26), 1 year driving experience.
  • Major companies: Lotte Rent-a-Car, SK Rent-a-Car, Hertz, Avis.
  • Book in advance, particularly in high season.

Driving & Parking

  • Drive on the right side of the road, well-maintained roads.
  • Parking can be challenging and expensive in urban areas.
  • GPS devices or apps like Naver Map are recommended.
  • Comprehensive insurance is highly recommended.

Bicycle Rentals & Sharing

Public Bike Sharing

Goyang-si operates 'Ddabokring' public bicycle rental service.

  • Registration via mobile app
  • Korean phone number or specific payment
  • Convenient for short distances
Lake Park Rentals

Bicycle rental shops available around Ilsan Lake Park.

  • Hourly or daily rentals
  • Easy access for park exploration
  • Family-friendly options
Han River Connections

Paths connect to Seoul's extensive Han River bicycle network.

  • Scenic routes
  • Long-distance cycling
  • Connects multiple cities

Motorcycle & Specialty Vehicles

Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals
  • Less common for tourists, often requires specific license.
  • Not generally recommended due to urban traffic conditions.
  • Unsuitable for short-term visitors.
Other Specialty Transport
  • Tuk-tuks, jeepneys, or similar are not used in Goyang-si.
  • No dedicated hop-on-hop-off tour bus in Goyang-si.
  • Seoul-based tour operators may offer day trips.

Walking & Cycling

Goyang-si offers a range of pedestrian-friendly areas and bike routes, perfect for leisurely exploration.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Ilsan Lake Park: Excellent dedicated paths for walking and jogging.
  • La Festa and Western Dom: Pedestrian-friendly shopping and entertainment streets.
  • Haengjusanseong Fortress: Walking tracks in the walls, historical discovery.
  • Neighborhood Streets: Many where people live and commercial areas have good sidewalks.

Cycling Infrastructure

  • Dedicated cycling paths around Ilsan Lake Park and Han River areas.
  • Helmets are recommended for safety.
  • Road cycling can be challenging due to urban traffic.
  • Exercise caution on busy roads without designated paths.

Tour Services

No dedicated hop-on-hop-off tour bus in Goyang-si. Some private Seoul-based operators offer day excursions including Goyang-si attractions. Self-guided tours are easy.

Water Transport

No boat taxis or water transportation for public use in Goyang-si. No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport in the city.

Accessibility Services

Public transportation accessibility is improving, with more elevators in subway stations and increasing low-floor buses. Modern facilities are generally wheelchair-friendly.

Specialized Accessibility Details

Public Transit Access
  • More elevators in subway stations.
  • Increasing number of low-floor buses.
  • Modern facilities are generally wheelchair-friendly.
Specialized Services
  • Specialized taxi services available via welfare centers.
  • Often requires advance booking for specialized transport.
  • Check community resources for specific needs.

Seamless City Exploration

Embrace Goyang-si's efficient public transportation for cost-effective and wide-ranging exploration. The subway and networks of buses connect all major attractions.

Utilize navigation apps for real-time information and smooth transfers, making your trip through the city stress-free.