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City in North Gyeongsang, South Korea
Photo: hyolee2, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Gimcheon, or Kimcheon (김천시), is a city in North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. The official brand slogan of Gimcheon is “The Center of Korea, Gimcheon—Connected in All Directions.” The phrase Satongpaldal (四通八達), literally meaning “open and connected in all directions,” is used to highlight the city’s role as a major transportation hub. Located on the boundary between Gyeongsang and Chungcheong provinces, Gimcheon is where the Gyeongbu and Gyeongbuk railway lines, as well as the Gyeongbu and Jungbu Inland Expressways, intersect. Its well-developed transport network has long defined the city as a key crossroads in Korea.
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직지사
Constructed in the year 418 at the foot of Mount Hwangaksan, Jikjisa temple claims to be the oldest in Korea. Temple stays are offered. Within the temple grounds are cultural properties such as the Gilt-bronze Reliquary from the Stupa of the Three Honored Ones at Dorisa Temple (National Treasure No. 208), the Painting of the Assembly of Sakyamuni Buddha and Two Bodhisattvas at Jikjisa Temple, Gimcheon (National Treasure), the Seated Stone Medicine Buddha of Jikjisa Temple, Gimcheon (Treasure No. 319), the East and West Three-story Stone Pagodas at Docheonsa Temple Site, Mungyeong (Treasure Nos. 606 and 607), the Three-story Stone Pagoda from the Site of Gangnaksa Temple, formerly in Gumi (Treasure No. 1186), the Main Buddha Hall (Daeungjeon) of Jikjisa Temple, Gimcheon (Treasure No. 1576), the Sumidan Altar in the Main Hall of Jikjisa Temple (Treasure No. 1859), and the Large Buddhist Hanging Scroll (Gwaebul) of Jikjisa Temple (Treasure No. 2026). Among the cultural properties housed at Jikjisa Temple, there are several artifacts that were relocated from other sites such as former temple ruins. These include the Gilt-bronze Reliquary from the Stupa of the Three Honored Ones at Dorisa Temple, the East and West Three-story Stone Pagodas at Docheonsa Temple Site, Mungyeong, and the Three-story Stone Pagoda from the Site of Gangnaksa Temple, formerly in Gumi.
김천예술회관
The Gimcheon Culture & Art Center was established in 2000 in Gimcheon, Gyeongsangbuk-do, with the aim of contributing to the development of local culture and the arts.
연화지
Yeonhwaji Pond is an artificial pond located in Gyodong, Gimcheon. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom around the pond and along the walking trail, and in summer the water is covered with lotus flowers. The pond is open year-round with no admission fee, and a walking path with benches and rest areas makes it suitable for light exercise and family visits. At night, the area is illuminated, and seasonal events are sometimes held on the lakeside. One of the representative events is the Yeonhwaji Cherry Blossom Festa, held every spring. The festival features busking performances, traditional Korean music concerts, recreational programs, and interactive activities. During the event, night lights enhance the cherry blossom scenery. Traffic control is implemented during the festival period. On weekdays, vehicle access is restricted from 17:00 to midnight, and on weekends from 10:00 to midnight. Visitors are advised to use nearby parking areas such as the Gimcheon Sports Complex and the Kim Ho-joong Sound Road parking lot, from which the festival site can be accessed on foot.
국립 김천 치유의 숲
The National Center for Forest Therapy in Gimcheon is located in a dense birch forest on the slopes of Sudosan Mountain in North Gyeongsang Province. It offers a variety of forest therapy programs that make use of the rich natural environment along scenic forest trails. One of the main programs is the thermal therapy course designed to promote blood circulation. It consists of a half-bath and herbal tea tasting, can accommodate up to six participants of all ages, and takes about one hour.
김천녹색미래과학관
The Gimcheon Green Future Science Museum is a science exhibition and experience facility themed around climate change, renewable energy, and the green future. The exhibitions are organized into the Climate Change Hall, Green Energy Hall, and Green Future Hall, featuring interactive displays related to these topics. The 4D Full-Dome Theater offers stereoscopic video screenings, and outdoor experience facilities and the "Infinite Imagination Room" host science programs such as building solar-powered cars and wind generators. In addition to exhibitions, the museum regularly conducts various educational programs and events, serving as a space for science and environmental education.
방초정
A historic pavilion built during the Joseon Dynasty, located near Jikjisa Temple. Surrounded by a landscaped garden with lotus ponds and stone walls, it offers a glimpse into traditional Korean architecture and a tranquil place to rest.
부항댐
A large multipurpose dam completed in 2011, surrounded by scenic mountains. The area features a suspension bridge, observatory, and eco-park, making it a popular spot for walking, cycling, and enjoying views of the reservoir and nature.
김천세계도자기박물관
A museum dedicated to traditional and contemporary ceramics from Korea and around the world. The collection includes Korean celadon, porcelain, and folk pottery, as well as international works. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and hands-on programs for visitors.
강변공원
A riverside park along the Gamcheon River, popular with locals for walking, jogging, and family outings. The park features landscaped trails, seasonal flowerbeds, and open spaces for relaxation. Festivals and cultural events are occasionally held here.
김천종합운동장
A multi-purpose stadium mainly used for football matches and home to Gimcheon Sangmu FC of the K League. The venue hosts domestic league games as well as athletic events and other public gatherings.
증산수도계곡캠핑장
A scenic valley campground set along a clear mountain stream, offering 27 deck-style auto-camping sites. Surrounded by forested hills and near natural attractions like Muhul Gugo (Nine Bends), it’s ideal for campers seeking tranquility, water play, and nature walking.
김천 스카이 파크
An adventure and leisure complex near Buhang Dam featuring Korea’s longest glass skywalk, zipline, and paragliding experience. Offers panoramic views of surrounding mountains and the dam lake. Great spot for photography and outdoor activities.
부항댐 출렁다리
A suspension footbridge crossing above the surface of Buhang Dam reservoir, offering visitors a thrilling walk with scenic views of the lake and surrounding hills. At 256 m in length, it is one of the longest suspension bridges on water in Korea.
김천 자두체험
Experience picking fresh plums in the orchards of Gimcheon during summer. Participating farms offer guided picking, tasting, and sometimes crafts or puzzles (e.g. plum-clay activities) as part of the program. The city also organizes a plum distribution / picking event around mid-July using agricultural and theme-park venues.
김천 가곡제
An annual choral and art song concert mostly organized by the Gimcheon City Choir. The program often revolves around “Gimcheon” as a theme: local poets’ works set to music by Korean composers. The festival aims to promote community spirit and regional cultural identity.
김천김밥축제
An annual food festival held at Jikji Culture Park and Samyeongdaesa Park. It features gimbap-themed food stalls, performances, exhibitions, games, and hands-on activities such as making and tasting gimbap.
부일산채식당
A long-standing Korean restaurant near Jikjisa Temple, Buil Sanchae Restaurant specializes in traditional mountain vegetable dishes such as sanchae set meals, deodeok-gui (grilled deodeok root), and acorn jelly salad. Popular with temple visitors and hikers, the restaurant is known for its fresh seasonal ingredients, generous portions, and welcoming service. Free parking is available nearby.
울산식당
Ulsan Restaurant is a well-known traditional Korean restaurant near Jikjisa Temple, specializing in mountain vegetable set meals, doenjang stew, and various side dishes made with local produce. The restaurant is appreciated for its homestyle cooking, hearty portions, and friendly service, making it a popular stop for temple visitors and families traveling in the area. Parking is available near the entrance.
청산고을
Cheongsan Goeul is a traditional Korean restaurant famous for grilled deodeok, bulgogi, and mountain herb set meals. Featured on national television programs such as KBS 6 O’Clock My Hometown, it is known for its rustic interior and authentic countryside flavors. Visitors enjoy locally sourced ingredients, neatly presented side dishes, and outdoor seating with scenic views of Mount Hwangak. Free parking is available on-site.
단산가든
Dansan Garden is a countryside-style restaurant specializing in Korean dishes such as bulgogi, soybean paste stew, and freshwater snails with vegetables (ureong ssambap). Known for its spacious interior and group seating, the restaurant is a popular stop for families and hiking groups visiting Jikjisa Temple. Customers appreciate its clean setting, generous portions, and traditional side dishes prepared with locally grown ingredients.
기와집쌈밥전문점
Giwajip Ssambap is a traditional Korean restaurant offering ssambap (rice wrapped in leafy vegetables) served with grilled pork and soybean paste. The restaurant emphasizes healthy home-style dishes prepared with local produce and fermented sauces. With its tiled roof design and rustic ambiance, it provides an authentic countryside dining experience for temple visitors and hikers. Parking space is available nearby.
모란회관
Moran Hoegwan is a Korean barbecue restaurant in the Innovation City area specializing in frozen samgyeopsal (pork belly). The menu is quite focused, with the main dish being 냉동삼겹살 (frozen pork belly), supplemented by side items like ramen, fried rice, and sauces. The place has a retro aesthetic and is popular among local residents and visitors seeking a relaxed grill-style meal. According to listings, the restaurant is operating in normal status (not closed) as of the latest data.
안동황소식육식당
Andong Hwangso Sikyuk Restaurant is a beef specialty restaurant in Gimcheon’s Innovation City. They serve premium Korean beef including various cuts like ribeye, sirloin, and tenderloin, along with dishes like beef soup and yukhoe bibimbap. The restaurant is known for its spacious layout with private rooms, a children’s play area, and a large parking lot (capacity ~200 cars)
하루면옥
Haru Myeonok is a noodle restaurant in Gimcheon’s Innovation City known for its Pyeongyang cold noodles and stir-fried noodles. The restaurant has been featured on TV programs and is popular locally for its clean flavors and generous portions.
우리반상 시월
Uri Bansang Siwol is a Korean set-meal (bansang) restaurant located in the Innovation City area.
쑈진즈 마라탕 혁신점
This is a malatang / mala xiang guo style restaurant (spicy Chinese hotpot / spicy soup) popular in Innovation City. You pick ingredients, then they cook with your choice of heat level. It’s noted for being accessible to students and locals, offering a variety of vegetables, meats, and side options. It has a self-service sauce bar and uses a kiosk ordering system for convenience. Parking is available in the same building complex (Yulgok Square 6)
경성맥주 김천부곡점
It’s a beer pub serving a variety of beers (including ice-cold beer), casual pub food and snacks (e.g. fried shrimp, sausages, pizza, anju style dishes). The interior is described as clean, with retro decor and comfortable seating.
펀비어킹 경북 김천부곡점
A spacious family-friendly beer pub chain location with a broad snack menu (e.g., chicken, spicy soups, salads, pizzas) and seating suited for groups; on-site or adjacent parking is commonly available in the complex.
안주가 김천부곡점
Anjuga Gimcheon Bugok Branch is a local Korean-style pub located in the Bugok district, serving a variety of traditional bar snacks and drinks. It’s categorized in local listings as a “hof”-type establishment popular with nearby residents for evening gatherings. The atmosphere is relaxed and typical of Korean neighborhood pubs.
크라운호프 김천신음점
Crown Hof is a local hof / beer pub chain with locations in various cities. The Sin-eum branch is known for beer, draft service, and casual pub food (fried dishes, anju). It’s a recognizable brand name in the area.
79대포 김천신음점
79 Daepo Gimcheon Sin-eum Branch is a modern Korean-style pub that specializes in crispy pancakes, street-food-inspired snacks, and traditional liquors. The menu features dishes such as kimchi and seafood pancakes, fish-cake soup, cheese tteokbokki, and stir-fried spicy chicken. It has a bright, casual atmosphere with group tables and warm lighting, making it a popular spot for after-work gatherings and late-night drinks. The interior is modern yet relaxed, often filled with locals enjoying beer and soju with shared snack plates. Parking is available nearby.
위드
With is a stylish wine & bar in Sin-eum neighborhood, popular for date nights and small gatherings. They offer wine, cocktails, and bar snacks including cheese plates, fruit & cheese platters, shrimp tapas, and pizzas. The interior is clean, modern, and cozy with subdued lighting, ideal for a relaxed evening.
생활맥주 김천혁신도시점
A popular craft beer pub offering a selection of Korean and imported beers alongside modern bar snacks such as fried chicken, french fries, and spicy stir-fried dishes. The interior is trendy and comfortable, attracting young professionals and office workers after hours. Prices are moderate, and the pub has a lively but friendly atmosphere.
역전할머니맥주 김천혁신도시점
A well-known Korean-style beer pub chain popular for its nostalgic retro decor and casual drinking atmosphere. The Gimcheon Innovation City branch offers a wide selection of draft beer, soju, and signature snacks like fried chicken, spicy rice cakes, and grilled skewers. It’s lively in the evenings with young professionals and groups of friends. Prices are moderate, and seating is both indoor and outdoor.
한신포차 김천혁신도시점
A lively Korean-style pub franchise serving a variety of soju-based dishes and late-night snacks such as spicy octopus stir-fry, cheese egg rolls, and fried chicken. The atmosphere is energetic yet clean, popular among young professionals and local residents. Prices are moderate, and it’s one of the busiest night spots in Gimcheon Innovation City on weekends.
호텔 로제니아
Hotel Logenir is a modern business hotel located in the Innovation City area of Gimcheon, very close to the KTX Gimcheon–Gumi Station. The hotel offers 93 rooms of various types, free Wi-Fi, on-site restaurant(s), fitness center, and free parking. There is a Japanese restaurant “Miso” on the property for dining options.
브라운도트 김천역점
Brown Dot Gimcheon Station Branch is a modern boutique-style lodging located close to Kimcheon Station and the Bu-gok Market district. It features 50 rooms with amenities including free WiFi, OTT streaming services (Netflix, etc.), in-room stylers for some room types, and simple complimentary breakfast (cereal, milk, bread) from 06:00 to 09:00.
부항댐 생태휴양펜션
Buhangdam Ecological Recreation Pension offers pension-style lodging (A/B/C type) and caravan accommodations near the scenic Buhang Dam. The lodging units include kitchens, bathrooms, and decks for barbecue. It is operated seasonally year-round (spring through winter) and linked with local nature and water activities around the dam area. Usage and reservation are managed by Gimcheon city. In 2025, a “Gimcheon Citizen Priority Reservation” policy was introduced, allocating about 30% of rooms preferentially to residents of Gimcheon.
하이디 펜션
Heidi Pension is a single detached “독채” style lodging located in a peaceful mountain rural area at approximately 300 m elevation. It’s about 5 minutes from Nam-Gimcheon IC and about 10 minutes from KTX Gimcheon–Gumi Station. Facilities include free Wi-Fi, karaoke equipment in the living room, outdoor barbecue facilities, and private kitchen & living spaces.
평화시장
Gimcheon’s main traditional market, Pyeonghwa Market, offers a glimpse of everyday local life. It features stalls selling fresh produce, handmade snacks, clothing, and kitchenware. Visitors can try local street foods such as hotteok and tteokbokki while browsing through the lively aisles.
중앙시장
Jungang Market is one of Gimcheon’s oldest traditional markets, located right next to Pyeonghwa Market. It features various small shops selling fruits, vegetables, seafood, and household items. The narrow alleys and local vendors offer a lively and authentic glimpse into everyday life in a Korean provincial city.
황금시장
A small neighborhood market located in Hwanggeum-dong, south of downtown Gimcheon. Hwanggeum Market mainly serves local residents, offering fresh produce, side dishes, and daily essentials. Its friendly vendors and relaxed atmosphere make it a good stop for travelers wanting a look at local life outside the city center.
이마트 김천점
A large supermarket operated by Shinsegae Group, E-Mart Gimcheon offers groceries, Korean snacks, cosmetics, electronics, and travel necessities all in one place. It is a convenient stop for travelers to pick up local products and daily goods before leaving the city. Tax-refund service is available for foreign visitors.
롯데마트 김천점
A large retail store operated by Lotte Group, offering groceries, fashion items, cosmetics, and household goods. The mart also has a food court and bakery. It is a convenient one-stop shopping destination for both locals and travelers. Tax-refund service is available for foreign visitors.
하나로마트 김천점
Operated by the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation (Nonghyup), Hanaro Mart offers locally sourced produce, Korean food products, and household goods. It is a convenient stop to buy regional specialties such as Gimcheon plums, rice, and honey at fair prices.
김천농협 하나로마트 로컬푸드 직매장
Operated by the Gimcheon Agricultural Cooperative (Nonghyup), this local food store directly connects local farmers with consumers. It offers fresh agricultural products from the Gimcheon region, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and processed goods. The store aims to promote regional produce and provide reliable, locally sourced foods to residents and visitors.
By bus
By car
By plane
Gimcheon has no airport. The nearest one is Daegu International Airport, about 60 km away, or roughly 1 hour by car. It has domestic flights and some international connections to East Asia.
Gimcheon is small enough to get around by bus or taxi. City buses connect major areas but run infrequently, while taxis are easy to find at the train station and bus terminal and are reasonably priced.
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