Hwacheon Sancheoneo Frozen River

About this spectacle

Each winter, the Hwacheon River in South Korea's Gangwon Province freezes solid enough to walk on, drawing visitors to one of Asia's most beloved winter festivals. The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival transforms the frozen river into a spectacle of drilled ice holes where anglers crouch over the current below, hoping to pull up mountain trout (sancheoneo) bare-handed or by rod. The ice stretches wide and white under a pale winter sky, dotted with brightly colored tents and the laughter of families. Children slide across the surface, ice sculptures glitter in the cold sun, and the crunch of boots on snow fills the air. The surrounding hills and pine forests frame the scene in muted greys and greens, while the subzero air bites at exposed skin. It is a rare blend of folk festival energy and raw winter landscape.

When to go

Jan — Feb

Getting there

Nearest airport: ICN. Nearest city: Chuncheon.

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