Cheongju-si North Chungcheong, South Korea Travel Guide
Cheongju's natural surroundings have several outdoor activities.
Offers easy to moderate walking trails along its 4.2 km loop perimeter. Enjoy history and views simultaneously. Mt. Uam provides various trails, from easy to strenuous hikes.
Features dedicated flat cycling paths, making it a popular spot for cyclists. Utilize Cheongju's public bike-sharing system (Onda) to see the city.
For more challenging hikes, consider day trips to Songnisan National Park or Woraksan National Park, both within reasonable driving distance.
Always carry water, wear appropriate footwear, and check weather conditions before engaging in outdoor activities. For advanced hiking, inform someone of your route.
Deepen your understanding of Korean culture through hands-on experiences and shows.
Cheongju Performing Arts center hosts traditional Korean music and dance. Local temples hold special ceremonies during Buddhist holidays.
Cheongju International Craft Biennale, Jikji Korea International Festival, Cheongju Eupseong Cultural Festival, local harvest and food festivals. Check city's official website for dates.
Visiting neighborhood markets like Yukgeori Traditional Market offers informal interaction with local communities.
Discover local artistry and unique craft items, especially during the Craft Biennale. Opportunities for hands-on creation.
Engage in the serene atmosphere of local places of worship and witness classic Buddhist practices and ceremonies during special occasions.
Interact with local vendors and residents at traditional markets for an authentic glimpse into daily Korean lifestyle and culture.
Find opportunities for rest and rejuvenation in Cheongju and nearby areas.
Located approximately one hour's drive from Cheongju, Suanbo is a well-known hot spring resort area, providing a relaxing day trip for natural therapy.
Limited directly in Cheongju. For dedicated retreats, consider a Templestay program at nearby temples, like Beopjusa Temple in Boeun.
Cheongju is not on the coast, so no beaches are available. Some accommodations or public facilities may have swimming pools.
Learn about proper etiquette for Korean bathhouses to fully enjoy the experience. Separate facilities for men and women.
Templestays offer an unique opportunity for quiet reflection, meditation, and cultural learning in a tranquil setting.
Explore local clinics for a glimpse into traditional Korean healing arts. Consult with a translator for clarity.
Cheongju offers a range of entertainment options, especially in its university and downtown areas.
Find nightclubs and dancing establishments mainly in the university areas (Sancheon-dong) and downtown Seongnanggil.
Seongnanggil (downtown) features bars and pubs. No guided pub tours typically cater to international tourists.
Noraebang (private karaoke rooms), PC Bang (internet cafes, often 24 hours), Jjimjilbang (bathhouses, many 24 hours), Convenience Stores (24/7 for snacks and drinks).
Experience Noraebang, a popular Korean pastime, with private rooms perfect for singing with friends into the late hours.
PC Bangs offer an unique insight into Korean gaming culture, providing high-speed internet and popular games, often 24/7.
Explore the different taverns and bars in Seongnanggil and the university district for a relaxed evening drink and social atmosphere.
The legal drinking age in South Korea is 19. Always carry identification for age verification.
Cheongju has diverse shopping experiences, from traditional markets to modern department stores.
Jikji-related items (Early Printing Museum), local crops (ginseng, apples), Korean traditional crafts (ceramics, paper goods, decorative items).
Hyundai Department Store (Gagyeong-dong) offers luxury brands, fashion, and cosmetics. Seongnanggil features various boutiques and cosmetic shops.
Lotte Mart/E-Mart/Homeplus: Extensive selections of groceries, household goods, and some clothing.
Keep your receipts for purchases over ₩30,000 if you plan to claim VAT refunds at the airport.
