Korea Travel: A Photo Journey to Seoul's Han River and Nami Island

During the reporter's second solo trip to Korea, besides exploring the cultural landmarks of Seoul, another important part was sightseeing Seoul's natural beauty. So in the limited time, visiting Seoul's Han River and Nami Island became the choice, leaving an unforgettable memory over two days.

By the Han River in Seoul (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

On the afternoon of June 14, 2010, the reporter and companions arrived at the picturesque banks of the Han River, strolling along the riverside and admiring the scenery where water and sky merged into one.

Photo by the Han River in Seoul (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

The term "Han River" originates from the Korean word "hangaram," where "han" means "big, wide, long," and "garam" in ancient language meant "a big and wide river." During the Joseon Dynasty, the Han River was also called "Gyeonggang," and foreign literature referred to it as "Seoul River."

Lawn by the Han River (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

The Han River is long and vast; the Goryeo people once called it "Yeolsu." Because the river carries much sand, it was also called "Sapyeong Ferry" or "Sarijin." The Han River has a total length of 497.5 kilometers, ranking fourth on the Korean Peninsula after the Yalu River, Tumen River, and Nakdong River.

Swinging by the Han River (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

The Han River is formed by the confluence of the South Han River and the North Han River. The South Han River is 394.25 kilometers long, originating from Daedeok Mountain in Samcheok, Gangwon Province; the North Han River is 325.5 kilometers long, originating from Geumgang Mountain. The entire Han River basin covers about 26,219 square kilometers, accounting for about 27% of South Korea's total area.

Cyclist exercising (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

The Han River, the mother river of the Korean people, has carried five thousand years of Korean joys, sorrows, and partings. Since ancient times, the Han River basin has nurtured countless living creatures, bringing endless hope and legends to the Korean people, and serving as a paradise for countless animals and plants.

Photo by the Han River (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

580 species of plants and 54 species of aquatic insects live here, and every winter about 35 species of migratory birds come to settle on the Han River, including rare birds such as mallards, spot-billed ducks, white-tailed eagles, mandarin ducks, swans, and kestrels.

Waterskier on the Han River (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

Looking from the roadside near the river, the water flows gently. Occasionally passing boats and even waterskiers speeding on the river come into view. Trailed by a fast motorboat, a white line of spray follows, and the agile waterskier rides the wind and waves, a thrilling scene pleasing to the eye.

Wildflowers by the Han River (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

Along the banks of the Han River are vast green lawns, and by the riverside are countless patches of blooming wildflowers. The edge of the lawn is a flat asphalt path, where cyclists occasionally whiz by. Along the river are open parks and some fitness facilities for visitors to enjoy.

View of Han River Bridge (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

There are many bridges over the Han River. Every few kilometers, a road bridge spans the river connecting both sides. Even in storms, the roads remain bustling with orderly traffic.

Joy of swinging by the river (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

As the major transportation artery of South Korea, the South and North Han Rivers play an important role in the country's economic development. Moreover, the Han River basin preserves many ancient relics, serving as the lifeline for the growth of ancient kingdoms and the people along the river.

Nami Island Ferry Terminal (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

At night, the neon lights on both sides of the Han River and in the city, along with vehicle lights, make the parks by the river very charming. The murmuring river reflects in this beautiful night scene, adding extraordinary charm. Leaning on the railing in the gentle evening breeze, one can take in all the beauty along the Han River.

Ferry at Nami Island (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

On the morning of June 15, 2010, the reporter and companions took a dedicated tour bus from outside Tapgol Park in Seoul to Nami Island. Nami Island is located 63 kilometers from Seoul towards Chuncheon, known for its narrow, horizontal water flow. After a journey of over an hour, our bus arrived at the pier for Nami Island.

Arriving at Nami Island (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

At the pier, ferries to and from Nami Island run every ten minutes or so. Each ferry is decorated with colorful national flags from various countries. On the bow of our ferry, two large national flags of China and South Korea fluttered in the wind. Boarding the ferry, we reached Nami Island in just about ten minutes.

General Nami's Tomb (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

Actually, Nami Island was originally a deserted island with a few thousand trees. It was formed when the Cheongpyeong Dam was built, creating a crescent-shaped island submerged by the river. The island covers an area of 462,809 square meters. On the island lies the tomb of General Nami, who rendered meritorious service in suppressing a rebellion during the reign of the seventh king of Joseon (1392-1910), hence the island's name.

Photo with the Little Mermaid (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

Upon landing, the first thing visitors see is a Korean signboard reading "Welcome and Farewell" at the pier. To the right are blue flags of Nami Island Resort fluttering in all directions, and to the left is a group of stone figures spraying water and a commemorative stone. Walking left along the water, you see the Nami Island Little Mermaid statue standing by the shore. This nude mermaid statue gazes affectionately at the water, attracting many visitors to take photos with her.

Lovers' Gate filming location (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

It is said that the reason Nami Island attracts so many visitors is entirely due to the film "Winter Sonata." Posters of "Winter Sonata" and handprints of the male lead Bae Yong-joon (playing Joon-sang) and female lead Choi Ji-woo fill the narrow streets, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere even on cold autumn nights.

Photo at the filming location (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

Especially female visitors, whether fans of Bae or not, all reach out to grasp "Yong-joon's" hand, eagerly taking photos after holding it. Some even shout passionately, "Joon-sang, I love you." Turning around, one sees Bae Yong-joon's gentle smile everywhere, making it feel as if you are truly meeting his eyes.

Baekpung Milwon (Maple Garden) on Nami Island (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

The island has lush vegetation. Amid the greenery, a grove of red maple leaves, named "Baekpung Milwon" (Hundred Maples Secret Garden), is a unique scenic spot on Nami Island.

Common squirrel (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

In addition, the tall tree-lined avenues are also magnificent. Humans and animals coexist harmoniously on the island; you can often see squirrels scurrying about and ostriches striding with heads held high.

Ostrich and people coexisting (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

All power lines on Nami Island are buried underground; there are no visible utility poles. The natural landscape is presented completely and authentically to visitors. The entire island is surrounded by lush chestnut and other trees, and in the center lies a vast grassland of over 80,000 pyeong (about 264,000 square meters), full of verdant greenery.

Photo with little girl statue (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

The island features facilities for training camps, camping grounds, a swimming pool, water sports like motorboats and surfing. In addition, there are amusement rides such as a carousel, shooting range, and roller skating rink.

Quiet lakeside path (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

Nami Island also has Western-style villas, Indian-style small houses, parking lots, and other amenities. Whether walking or cycling along the tranquil lakeside paths, various unique buildings come into view one after another.

Colorful photo display (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

Because of "Winter Sonata" starring Bae Yong-joon and Choi Ji-woo, two rows of birch trees on the island have become South Korea's most romantic love sanctuary. Photos from the filming site and signatures of the cast are visible everywhere; props and benches in the woods are naturally favorites among fans.

Photo on Nami Island (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

Visitors imitate the characters in the drama, seeking romantic love. This once little-known island attracted 70 million visitors in the year the drama aired, with tourism revenue reaching 300 million USD—fifty times the production cost of the drama. Souvenirs printed with scenes from "Winter Sonata" saw price increases of about 30%.

Beautiful scenery of Nami Island (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

Due to the "Korean drama fever" heating up on Asian screens, many Korean stars have become hot attractions for Korean tourism. Among them, the "golden signboard" is undoubtedly "Glasses Prince" Bae Yong-joon. Thanks to the filming of "Winter Sonata," Bae not only earned Gangwon Province the reputation of "Korean Film Capital" but also made Nami Island a romantic destination.

Fire-prevention puppet (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

The island's owner, CEO Kang Woo-hyun, proudly calls Nami Island the "Nami Republic" and even issues "passports" (equivalent to annual passes). Each time visitors come, they get an "entry stamp" of the "Nami Republic" on their passport. CEO Kang says that film culture brings him substantial profits.

Cycling photo on the island (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

To see more of the island in limited time, we rented bicycles and started cycling around. Following a dirt road near the water, we suddenly saw patches of rice paddies—a beautiful pastoral scene.

Pastoral scenery of Nami Island (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

Through the trees, we saw speedboats racing across the water, leaving white spray. By the water stood unique wooden buildings, connected by long wooden boardwalks. One after another, these natural beauties came into our view.

Photo on the island (Photo: Chen Hao)

At noon, we had an authentic Korean meal at "Maei Hawoo Water" restaurant on the island, with grilled meat, ginseng soup, rice, and everything. The bill was only about 40,000 Korean won (roughly over 200 RMB). The price was almost the same as dining in downtown Seoul, contrary to the common belief that eating in tourist areas is expensive.

"Maei Hawoo Water" restaurant (Photo: Feng Ganyong)

After finishing the day's trip to Nami Island, we felt reluctant to leave. An article evaluating Nami Island put it well: The beauty of Nami Island is both natural and artificial. The island is lush with green grass and trees everywhere—a gift of nature. But the island itself was formed due to dam construction, and it gained fame through a Korean drama, so it is also man-made. Nami Island is beautiful in nature, culture, and romance! (Text & Photos: Feng Ganyong)