Most people who travel to Korea pass through Incheon, but many do not know much about the city. Where Incheon International Airport located, the city of Incheon is a gateway to a vibrant city brimming with culture, history, and seaside charm.
Even if you’re on a tight layover or have a few hours before departure, Incheon offers a numrous of attractions within an hour’s reach by public transportation. Here’s how to make the most of your short stay in Incheon.
1. Incheon Chinatown: A Taste of China in Korea
Established about 150 years ago, Incheon’s Chinatown is the largest and oldest Chinatown in South Korea. Its history is deeply intertwined with the opening of Incheon Port, which ushered in an era of trade and cultural exchange. As you stroll through its colorful streets, you’re walking through a living museum where each alleyway narrates stories of immigrants and traders who shaped this vibrant community.
Visitors can explore the Jajangmyeon(black bean noodle) Museum, housed in the former site of the historic Chinese restaurant Gonghwachun, considered the birthplace of Korea’s beloved Jajangmyeon. The area also features traditional Chinese architecture, various eateries serving authentic Chinese-Korean cuisine, and cultural sites that offer insights into Korea’s early port-opening era.
Tip : Don’t miss the street food vendors offering a fusion of traditional Chinese snacks and Korean flavors. Treat yourself to delights like hoddeok (sweet pancakes), tanghulu (candied fruit skewers), and xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).
Travel Time from Incheon International Airport: Approximately 1 hour
How to Get There:
- Take bus 306 from the airport and ride to Dongincheon Stn.
- Transfer to Subway Line 1 and ride to Incheon Station.
- You can see the Chinatown gate at the subway exit.
2. Wolmido Island: Seaside Leisure and Thrills
Wolmido Island has long been a favorite weekend getaway for Koreans. The island boasts an amusement park with exhilarating rides, a scenic boardwalk perfect for leisurely strolls, and numerous seafood restaurants offering fresh catches.
Along side the Wolmi Culture Street, you can see lively performances, arcade game stations, and cafes that welcome you for a short time amusement. You can also ride a 30 minutes cruise which especially offers beautiful sunset in the evening.
Tip : For an adrenaline rush, try the Viking ride and Disco Pang Pang(Tagada). The Viking offers a thrilling swing with ocean views, while tagada-style ride is where the DJ’s playful banter adds to the excitement.
Travel Time from Incheon International Airport: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
How to Get There:
- Take bus 306 from the airport and ride to Dongincheon Station.
- Walk to the bus station at exit 3.
- Transfer to a bus 45 and ride to Wolmi Culture Street.
3. Eurwangni and Masian Beaches: Coastal Relaxation Near the Airport
Located on Yeongjongdo Island, where the airport resides, these beaches offer a quick escape to the sea. Eurwangni Beach is known for its shallow waters and beautiful sunsets, while Masian Beach provides a quieter atmosphere with opportunities for mudflat experiences. Both are ideal for a brief respite from travel.
Visitors can bask in the sun, take leisurely strolls along the shore, or engage in various water sports such as paddleboarding and jet skiing. The beaches are also surrounded by seafood restaurants where guests can taste local delicacies.
Tip: Warm up with a bowl of seafood kalguksu (hand-cut noodles). It’s a local favorite that captures the essence of Korean coastal cuisine.
Travel Time from Incheon International Airport: Approximately 30 minutes
How to Get There
- Take a bus 111 or 306 from the airport to Eurwangni Beach.
4. Songdo Central Park: A Glimpse into the Future
Songdo in Incheon is South Korea’s model “smart city,” purpose-built on reclaimed land as a forward-thinking international business hub. Sleek skyscrapers, eco-conscious designs, and global institutions all coexist in a well-structured. Songdo is also a shopping and dining paradise for visitors.
Surrounded by modern skyscrapers, Songdo Central Park is a cornerstone of the Songdo International Business District, showcasing South Korea’s journey to becoming a leader in technology and innovation. The park features man-made waterways, where visitors can kayak or take boat rides, and pedestrian-friendly paths perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling.
Tip: Explore Gyeongwonjae Ambassador Incheon, a traditional hanok-style hotel within the park. Even if you’re not staying overnight, the architecture and serene ambiance offer a unique cultural experience.
Travel Time from Incheon International Airport: Approximately 30-40 minutes
How to Get There
- (Faster but pricy) Take a bus 6777 at the airport and ride to Central Park.
- (Slower but cheap) Take a bus 303 or 330 at the airport and ride to Songdo The Sharp First World. Then walk to the park.
5. Inspire Entertainment Resort: Entertainment at Your Fingertips
Located adjacent to the airport, Inspire Entertainment Resort is a recent addition to Incheon’s attractions. The resort features a casino, immersive media art exhibitions, a shopping mall, and various dining options. It’s an ideal spot for travelers seeking entertainment without venturing far from the airport.
The resort also boasts Korea’s first-ever 15,000-seat performance arena, an indoor water park roofed with a glass dome, and a banquet hall consisting of cutting-edge equipment and the largest hotel ballroom in Korea.
Tip: Spend rest of the Korean Won and fill yourself with a noble appetite at the Chef’s Kitchen buffet. The restaurant offers a diverse array of international cuisines prepared at live stations. It’s a culinary experience that caters to a variety of palates.
Travel Time from Incheon International Airport: Approximately 20 minutes.
How to Get There:
- Take the resort shuttle bus from the airport(every 1 hour)
