Day 12: Exploring Nami Island and Beyond: A Memorable Tour with a Few Surprises
- wanderingazuki
- 3 days ago
- 13 min read
Table of Content:
🌺 Introduction 🫘
“Life is a journey best measured in moments, not miles.” – Unknown
Day 12 of our Korea trip was one for the books. We ventured out on a tour that took us from the serene Garden of Morning Calm to the picturesque Nami Island and even wrapped up with an adventurous rail bike experience. Along the way, we encountered a few surprises, but all in all, it was a day filled with exploration, beautiful scenery, and fun moments with my mum. Here’s how the day unfolded.
🥐 Of Bread Crumbs and Bus Stops: A Calm Start Before the Chaos 🚏
The day began bright and early as we made our way to the Namsan Yejang Public Parking Lot, the meeting point for our Nami Island tour. With an 8:00 a.m. check-in time, there was no room for sleeping in — it was up and out the door before the city had fully stirred.
Breakfast was light but satisfying: a warm drink and some of the bread we’d picked up from yesterday’s bakery run. Just enough fuel to kick start what was bound to be a full day of adventure.
Thankfully, I was armed with Naver Maps to help guide us on the 30-minute walk from our hotel. The morning air was crisp, and I found myself savouring the rare calm of an early Seoul stroll.
Funnily enough, this wasn’t our first time here — it was the same spot where we’d previously caught the bus to Namsan Tower. That familiar feeling, combined with the detailed instructions from our tour guide the night before (bless them for including directions from Myeongdong Station), gave me a little boost of confidence.
But of course, no travel story is complete without a twist — and things were about to get a little chaotic once we arrived.
🔍Tour Group Tango: The Chaotic Meeting Point 🤝
Imagine a lively square packed with travellers, all buzzing with anticipation for their day trips. That’s exactly what we walked into at the Namsan Yejang Public Lot — a whirlwind of suitcases, selfie sticks, and slightly confused faces. Multiple tour groups were gathering at once, and let’s just say, organisation wasn’t exactly the star of the show.
The staff on-site weren’t the friendliest, and trying to figure out which tour was ours felt a bit like playing “Where’s Waldo” — except we were the Waldos. With so many groups clustered together, it was hard to know where to stand or who to follow.
Thankfully, a timely message from our tour guide let us know we were in Group 3. At last — a label to cling to! We found a spot to wait, huddled with others who looked just as unsure but equally hopeful.
Our guide was still en route from another departure point, so there was a short wait before she arrived. But once she did, we hopped on the coach and were officially off to our first destination. Despite the slightly chaotic start, the sense of adventure kicked in quickly — and the promise of Nami Island made it easy to shake off the morning muddle.
🍂Serenity in Bloom: A Stroll Through the Garden of Morning Calm ☘️
As we neared our first stop, our tour guide shared some background on the place and a few helpful instructions. What really stood out was how she delivered everything first in English, then seamlessly in Chinese — something I’d never experienced before on a group tour. It made the experience feel more thoughtful and welcoming, and I really appreciated the extra effort.
Our first destination: The Garden of Morning Calm — and it absolutely lived up to its poetic name. The moment we stepped in, I felt like I’d walked straight into a Korean fairy tale. A gentle stillness hung in the air, with soft autumn light filtering through colourful foliage. It was the perfect blend of natural beauty and human creativity.
The garden is incredibly vast, but not in an overwhelming way — more like an endless treasure map waiting to be explored. Every path seemed to lead to a new scene: quiet ponds framed by maple trees, delicate bridges arching over water, flower beds bursting with vibrant chrysanthemums and marigolds, and themed garden sections inspired by traditional Korean design. It felt like nature had been painted by hand — every colour, curve, and corner so beautifully arranged that I couldn’t help but stop and admire it all.
I found myself snapping photo after photo — of winding trails lined with fiery autumn leaves, clusters of wildflowers I couldn’t even name, whimsical wooden structures tucked between trees, and hidden spots that looked like secret gardens within the garden. Each view felt better than the last, and honestly, my phone camera didn’t do it justice. I could have spent hours just photographing the details.
One unexpected highlight was the on-site museum, which showcased stunning seasonal photos of the garden throughout the year. It was fascinating to see how the entire landscape transforms — from springtime cherry blossoms to serene, snow-covered winters. It made me want to return in every season to witness it all in person.
Our guide shared a few historical facts and design insights that helped frame the experience — though I would’ve loved to hear even more about the history or symbolism behind some of the themed areas. Still, it was easy to get swept up in the sheer beauty of it all. For me, this stop was a standout — peaceful, picturesque, and packed with wow moments at every turn.
The only thing that didn’t quite live up to expectations? The weather. This was officially the coldest day of our trip, and I had only packed a thin chiffon blouse and a light autumn jacket. Not my finest planning moment! I was absolutely freezing. Thankfully, my mum — forever the heroine — was bundled up in a thick jumper and a leather jacket. Seeing me shiver, she insisted on swapping tops stating “This jacket warm enough,”. Mums are the best.
🍗Sizzling Flavours: A Dakgalbi Feast to Remember🥘
After our peaceful stroll through the Garden of Morning Calm, it was time to warm up with lunch at Dagi Lang Dakgalbi. As a first-time Dakgalbi eater, I was genuinely excited — especially knowing it’s a beloved comfort dish in Korea. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint.
For those unfamiliar, Dakgalbi is a spicy stir-fried chicken dish cooked right at your table in a large pan, mixed with an assortment of vegetables like cabbage, sweet potato, onion, and chewy rice cakes. There’s something so comforting about the communal cooking experience — the sizzling sounds, the rising steam, the shared anticipation. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, whether you know them or not.
We went all in and added noodles and cheese to our pan — and I think that may have saved me! I’m not great with spicy food, but to my relief, the heat in this dish was quite manageable — more of a gentle kick than a fiery punch. The melted cheese and soft, springy noodles definitely helped mellow things out, creating a creamy, rich texture that balanced the spice beautifully.
The flavours were incredible — a perfect harmony of spicy, savoury, and slightly sweet. The tender chicken soaked up the gochujang-based sauce, and the gooey cheese made every bite extra indulgent. And yes, we absolutely took a moment to admire (and attempt) the perfect cheese pull — those glorious, stretchy strings of cheese always feel like a small victory when caught on camera.
Note📝: If you’re sensitive to spice like me, adding cheese and noodles makes a huge difference — it softens the heat while making the dish even more delicious.
The only downside? We didn’t get to linger. A delay earlier in the day meant the lunch stop was cut a bit short, so we had to eat rather quickly to stay on schedule. It was a shame, as the restaurant had a cozy, inviting vibe — the kind of place where I’d happily sit for a while and just enjoy the meal (maybe even with a glass of makgeolli if I was feeling brave).
Still, even in a rush, it was a fantastic introduction to Dakgalbi — tasty, warming, and absolutely worth repeating. Next time, I’ll be back with time to savour every bite properly.
👸 A Fairytale Escape to Nami Island 🏝️
Our next stop was the enchanting Nami Island, a place famous for its dreamy tree-lined paths, sweeping natural landscapes, and romantic charm. Often featured in Korean dramas (most famously Winter Sonata), Nami has become a must-visit for locals and tourists alike — and I could instantly see why.
To get there, we took a short 5-minute ferry ride, which runs regularly every 15 minutes during peak season (every 30 minutes in the off-season). It was quick but surprisingly scenic, with views of the water shimmering beneath the autumn light and the tree-covered island gradually drawing closer.
For the brave-hearted, there’s also a zip line that launches you straight onto the island — a thrilling alternative if you're more adventurous than I am! As someone who’s not great with heights, I happily opted for the calm ferry ride, grateful for the moment to slow down and take in the peaceful surroundings.
Note📝: The zipline is one-way only.
Once we arrived, we had about an hour to explore — and while that might not sound like much, it was just enough to soak in the atmosphere and visit some of the island’s most iconic spots without feeling rushed. The moment we stepped off the boat, we were greeted by rows of tall, majestic metasequoia trees — their golden-orange leaves glowing in the sunlight like something out of a fairytale.
Tip✨: The tree-lined avenues are especially breathtaking in autumn, but every season transforms the island — from cherry blossoms in spring to a snowy wonderland in winter.
As we wandered along the peaceful walking paths, the air was crisp and cool, and the gentle rustling of leaves gave everything a tranquil, almost cinematic feel. Sculptures, art installations, and love-themed photo spots were dotted throughout the island, adding unexpected bursts of creativity and charm to the natural setting.
We passed cozy cafés, a few restaurants, and even a steamed bun stall — though a heads-up, the buns take around 30 minutes to make! There were delightful surprises around every corner, from quirky gardens and interactive displays to a small ostrich enclosure (yes, really!).
Some areas, especially those linked to Winter Sonata, were quite busy, with people lining up to recreate scenes — so be mindful if you’re after quiet photos or just want to take in the view.
I didn’t make it to every corner of the island, but I was more than content just soaking in the stillness and beauty of the areas I did explore.
📸Note💫: If you're a photography enthusiast, Nami Island is an absolute dream — the way the light filters through the trees makes every shot look like a postcard.
Although our visit was short, it left a lasting impression. The blend of nature, creativity, and calm made Nami Island feel like a whimsical retreat — one I’d love to revisit and wander through more slowly next time.
🚲 Pedal Power: The Wild Ride of the Rail Bike 🧢
After our time on Nami Island, we made our way to the Gapyeong Rail Bike experience — a quirky and fun activity where you pedal along old railway tracks while taking in scenic countryside views. It’s a popular attraction in the area and offers a refreshing way to experience nature from a different perspective.
You can upgrade to a private 2-seater bike for an additional fee, but our tour package included a 4-seater rail bike, so we were paired up with another couple. It turned out to be more enjoyable than expected — sharing the experience with others added to the charm (and the laughs). The surrounding area was surprisingly cute too, with a book-themed café, decorative giant books, and a small bookshop that gave the place a whimsical vibe.
Note📝: There are no toilets along the rail route, so it’s best to use the facilities beforehand.
We were grouped by our tour guide, which I appreciated — after a full day, trying to make small talk and coordinate seating would’ve been awkward. My mum and I took the back seats while our companions, a friendly couple who spoke Cantonese, took the front and helped guide the way. It was lovely connecting through the language — we exchanged a few jokes and shared the occasional struggle pedalling uphill!
Tip✨: Be careful with loose items — the wind can really pick up speed during the ride. One of our companions nearly lost their cap, and we were lucky to catch it just in time!
The ride itself lasted about 30 minutes, though it did feel a bit longer because the bike in front of us was going very slowly. I totally understand wanting to stop for photos and videos — the views were gorgeous — but it did disrupt the pace and caused some traffic on the tracks. Once the path cleared, it was a much smoother ride, and we could really enjoy the moment.
One of the highlights was passing through four themed tunnels, each with its own quirky vibe:
🎶 A lively K-pop tunnel blasting upbeat music
✨ A magical light tunnel with glowing displays
🫧 A bubbly tunnel filled with floating bubbles
💫 A dreamy atmosphere tunnel with soft lighting and whimsical decor
Each one added a bit of surprise and kept the ride from feeling monotonous — it was like cycling through a mini theme park! I was too scared to take out my phone so this will leave in my memory.
After the ride, we had to wait for everyone in the group to finish before catching the train back. Unfortunately, this part felt a bit disorganised. The cold weather didn’t help, and the wait for the train felt longer than it needed to be. When the train finally pulled up, it was a bit of a free-for-all for seats — a less-than-ideal end to an otherwise fun activity.
Still, I’m glad we got to try it — it was a unique and memorable way to end the day, and I can see why it’s such a hit with families and couples. I just wish the timing and logistics were a bit smoother, especially in colder seasons.
🚃 The Cold Wait and the Rush for Seats 🥶
After the rail bike experience, we made our way back to the station — but that’s when the cold really hit us. The wait for the train back felt like it dragged on forever, with biting wind cutting through every layer of clothing. Standing there, shivering and trying to stay warm, made the delay feel even more frustrating.
While waiting, we noticed there was only a small food cart and a tiny convenience store at the platform. Considering how many people end up waiting around, it would have been so much better if there were more food stalls or even a cosy little café. I wasn’t too keen on grabbing a snack from the food cart, so having the option to buy a hot drink or something warm would have made all the difference in that chilly moment.
When the train finally arrived, there was a mad rush for the limited seats inside the closed carriages. We were lucky enough to snag spots inside one of the enclosed carriages, which was an enormous relief from the icy air outside. Once everyone had gathered, we finally set off on the 20-minute ride back. The warmth inside the carriage was a welcome comfort, giving us a chance to thaw out and reflect on the day’s adventures.
When we disembarked, we braced ourselves for a long walk back to the bus — but to our surprise, our tour guide was already there, waiting to escort us. Seeing her was such a relief; we were all grateful not to have to trudge through the cold any further. It was the perfect end to a chilly, somewhat chaotic but memorable day.
🚦Traffic, Hunger, and a Disappointing End to the Day 🍣🍜
Unfortunately, the traffic on the way back to Myeongdong made our return much later than planned, and we didn’t get back until around 8–8:30 p.m., well past the time we expected. We had been looking forward to a proper meal at the Lotte Food Court — the perfect way to unwind after such a long, busy day. But to our disappointment, the food court had already closed by the time we arrived. It was such a letdown, especially after a day of exploring with hardly any snacks in between. By then, we were both exhausted, starving, and definitely feeling “hangry.”
With no tempting food stalls or cafés nearby, we had to make do with what was available. I ended up picking up some discounted sashimi from a nearby supermarket, hoping it would be a quick and satisfying fix. My mum went for ramen — which, ironically, was something I hadn’t tried yet during our Korea trip, and now I really regretted missing out on it. The sashimi turned out to be underwhelming, lacking freshness, and the vegetable noodles I grabbed were a mystery — I’m still not sure if they were meant to be eaten raw or cooked! It was hardly the comforting meal we’d hoped for, and certainly didn’t hit the spot after such a long day.
After discovering just how amazing Shine Muscat grapes were, I couldn’t resist picking up a Shine Muscat cake from the food court—and wow, it was absolutely delicious.
Despite the less-than-ideal dinner, I’m still eager to try proper ramen in Korea someday — preferably in a bustling little ramen shop with piping hot broth and all the delicious toppings. For now, this meal was a reminder that sometimes travel throws unexpected curveballs, and you just have to roll with it.
🌕 Day’s reflection 🫶
Day 12 was truly packed with unforgettable experiences, even if a few hiccups crept in along the way. From wandering through the breathtaking Garden of Morning Calm to soaking up the charm and peacefulness of Nami Island, the day offered so many beautiful, memorable moments. Sure, the chilly weather and evening traffic made the finale a bit more taxing than expected, but those minor setbacks didn’t overshadow the magic of the day. I’d still wholeheartedly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Korea — it’s a wonderful way to connect with nature and local culture all in one go. I’m already looking forward to returning someday, hopefully with warmer weather and a deeper appetite for exploring Korea’s incredible cuisine.
🧳Your Turn to Wander In 🧋
Have you ever visited a place that felt like stepping into a fairytale? What was it, and what made it so magical for you?
Nami Island and Garden of Morning Calm are famous for their seasonal beauty — which season do you think you’d love to visit most, and why?
Have you ever tried a dish for the first time that surprised you (like my first time with Dakgalbi)? What was it?
If you had the choice, would you try the zipline to Nami Island or stick to a more relaxed ferry ride?
What’s your go-to strategy for keeping warm during chilly travels? Any tips or essentials you swear by?
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories and experiences!
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