Nami Island

Have you been wondering what to do or visit over the weekend or just in your spare time?

If you are tired from the ever buzzing and busy streets of Seoul, here is my suggestion to you – Nami Island or Namisum (남이섬 in Korean).

This is a small, half-moon shaped island, located in Chuncheon, South Korea, named after General Nami, a notable figure in Korean History. It only takes around an hour and a half to get there and believe me it’s worth it.

I visited this beautiful place last Sunday. I felt so peaceful and in harmony with nature and humanity.

All you need is, make sure you have sufficient funds in your T-money card and also 10,000W for the entrance fee. Actually, 8,000W if you show them your student ID or any other form of identification document.

An interesting fact about this place, which you’d definitely notice once you are there, you will need to go through immigration before reaching the island itself.

Namisun is an imaginary country, but a “pass” is required in order to enter the place. In addition, it has even invented its own currency, stamp and telephone card and has been promoting the establishment of Naminara Republic in other countries.

The island itself was purchased by Min Byungdo in 1965 and started to be reforest. Later on he developed it as a resort town. It wasn’t until 2001 when they started investing a lot of money in the island’s environment, art and culture-related events. Only after this the place has gained popularity through Korean dramas, increasing the number of first Korean and later on international tourists.

A five-minute ferry ride is what will link and bring you to this popular destination. First impressions are as if you are entering a magical place. A huge forest of verdant trees, reaching up the sky welcomes you. There are plenty of chestnut trees all over the place as well as huge sequoias, forming the so famous metasequoia path. It is known to have been a filming location of the Korean drama series Winter Sonata.

Another thing to catch your attention is the wildlife living on the island. Republic of Naminara is a home to squirrels, rabbits, ducks, peacocks, ostriches that will warmly welcome you. Well, be aware when you get close to the ostriches.

The place is covered with greenery and flowers making it look like oasis. While there you could rent a bike, an electric tour car or hop on a train that will give you a ride through the island.

Visitors could enjoy fishing, having a piquenique or simply take a rest and feel the harmony that comes all over the place.

There are plenty of theme gardens and exhibition halls as well as a museum.

Artists from all over the world show their talents, so don’t be surprised if you hear some music playing or witness a dance performance.

Cultural events usually take place over the weekend so do not hesitate much. You will be pleasantly surprised by this little island and the things it hold and has to show to you.

By Jani from Bulgaria