Nami Island

남이섬

A picturesque crescent-shaped island in the Han River famous for tree-lined avenues and as the filming location for the Korean drama Winter Sonata. It's a peaceful escape with walking trails, cultural attractions, and seasonal beauty.

Things to do

• Walk the Tree-Lined Avenues — Stroll beneath rows of metasequoia and birch trees that frame the island's most iconic pathways, especially stunning during autumn when leaves turn golden.
• Visit Winter Sonata Filming Locations — Explore the exact spots where scenes from the beloved 2002 Korean drama were filmed, including the forest paths and lakeside areas recognizable to fans worldwide.
• Rent a Bicycle — Cycle around the island's 5.5-kilometer perimeter on dedicated paths to experience the crescent-shaped landscape and riverside views at your own pace.
• Explore Nami Art Museum — Browse contemporary Korean art and exhibitions in this modern museum space, offering cultural context beyond the island's natural attractions.
• Admire Seasonal Flowers — Visit during spring for cherry blossoms, summer for green canopies, or autumn for vibrant foliage that transform the island throughout the year.
• Relax at Han River Viewpoints — Find peaceful spots along the riverbanks to sit, photograph, and enjoy the serene water views and surrounding landscape.

Food to try

• Dakgangjeung (Sweet Soy Chicken) — Tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory soy sauce, a popular Korean dish available at island restaurants offering comfort and authentic flavor.
• Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang) — A nourishing whole chicken stuffed with ginseng, jujubes, and chestnuts, traditionally believed to boost energy and widely served at local eateries.
• Freshwater Fish Grilled Over Charcoal — River-caught fish grilled simply with salt and served with banchan, taking advantage of Nami's location on the Han River.
• Korean Bibimbap — Mixed rice with seasonal vegetables, egg, and gochujang sauce, a versatile meal found at most restaurants and cafes on the island.
• Sweet Rice Cakes and Hotteok — Vendor stands sell freshly made Korean snacks including hotteok (pan-fried sweet dough filled with brown sugar and cinnamon) and rice-based sweets.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Drama Legacy — Many visitors come specifically for Winter Sonata nostalgia, so the island embraces its filming-location identity; photos at iconic spots are expected and welcomed.
• Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes — The island is best experienced on foot via winding trails and dirt paths, so sturdy footwear is essential despite the peaceful, leisurely atmosphere.
• Peak Times and Seasons Matter — Weekends and autumn are extremely crowded; visit on weekdays or in off-seasons (late winter, early summer) for a quieter, more meditative experience.
• Bring Cash for Small Vendors — While larger restaurants accept cards, small cafes and snack stands throughout the island operate primarily on cash transactions, so plan accordingly.