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County in South Korea
Photo: WaffenSS, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Cheorwon (철원) is a district in Gangwon in South Korea. Known as the vertex of the "Iron Triangle" during the Korean War, it preserves the scars of modern history alongside breathtaking geological wonders. Today, it is a prominent destination for security tourism and a UNESCO Global Geopark featuring unique basalt gorges formed by ancient volcanic activity.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
철의 삼각지 전적지 / 철원 평화전망대
Located inside the DMZ Civilian Control Zone, this observatory offers panoramic views of the Pyeonggang highlands, a North Korean propaganda village, and Kim Il Sung's former vacation home through high-powered binoculars. Entry is only permitted via the official DMZ Peace Tour departing from Goseokjeong.
철원 평화전망대
Located at the northernmost point of the central front, this observatory offers a panoramic view of the DMZ and North Korean territory. Visitors can use a monorail to reach the summit and observe the Pyeonggang Plateau and North Korean propaganda villages through high-powered binoculars. Entry is only permitted via the official DMZ Peace Tour.
제2땅굴
Discovered on March 19, 1975, the Second Underground Tunnel is wide enough to pass 30,000 soldiers an hour and even large armored vehicles. The tunnel has been developed into a tourist site so that visitors can tour the tunnel.
월정리역 폐역
This was a through-station before the division of the two Koreas, but now is the northernmost terminal station near the southern boundary of the DMZ. A large sign says The train wants to run, symbolizing the tragedy of national division.
철원 노동 당사
Built in 1946 under fund-raising and labor forced by the North Korean government, the shelled-out carcass of a building is in Soviet-type architecture with concrete building. For security reasons, only devoted communist partisans were allowed to work within the building.
백마고지 전적비
A memorial site dedicated to the fierce Battle of White Horse, one of the bloodiest high-altitude conflicts of the Korean War. The site includes a birch forest path leading to a memorial tower and a museum honoring the fallen soldiers.
고석정
A scenic 15 m granite rock rising from the middle of the Hantan River, featuring a pavilion first built during the Silla dynasty. The site is part of the Hantan River UNESCO Global Geopark and is famously linked to the legend of the outlaw Im Kkeok-jeong.
샘통 철새도래지
A 5,000-square-meter natural spring pond that remains unfrozen throughout the winter. Located within the DMZ buffer zone, it serves as a critical winter sanctuary for endangered red-crowned and white-naped cranes.
삼부연폭포
A stunning 20-meter waterfall on Myeongseongsan Mountain that cascades through three distinct rocky basins. It was famously captured in paintings by the renowned Joseon artist Jeong Seon. The falls maintain a powerful flow even during dry seasons.
직탕폭포
Known as the "Niagara of Korea," this waterfall spans 80 meters across the entire width of the Hantan River. Although only 3 meters high, the sight of water pouring over the basalt columnar joints is unique and impressive.
순담계곡
A picturesque valley featuring white sands, clear water, and dramatic rock formations. It serves as the main hub for white-water rafting in summer and is the starting point for various winter trekking courses.
한탄강 은하수교
An asymmetric suspension bridge opened in 2020, stretching 180 meters over the basalt gorge. The center of the bridge features a glass floor for a thrilling view of the river below. It is a popular spot for night photography when the bridge is illuminated.
철원 한탄강 주상절리길
A 3.6-km cliffside walkway (Zando) suspended high over the Hantan River. It offers an unparalleled close-up view of the basalt columnar joints and the canyon's geological diversity.
도피안사
Founded in 865 during the Unified Silla period, this quiet temple houses the Iron Seated Vairocana Buddha (National Treasure No. 63). The temple's name literally means "Reaching the Other Shore (Enlightenment)."
승일교
A bridge that North and South Korea built together - the North completed the basic construction and two piers while the remaining parts were completely by the South. The name of the bridge is Seungilgyo after 'Seung' of the late President Rhee Seung Man, and 'Il' of President Kim Il Sung so as to commemorate the ironic construction process.
고석정
This two-story tower was established under King Jinpyeong of the Silla Kingdom. Goseokjeong Pavilion was built above a valley, surrounded by cliffs and clear, blue waters. The battlefield conservation office here is the starting point for DMZ tours.
한탄강 주상절리길 (잔도)
A 3.6 km cliffside boardwalk built along the dramatic basalt gorge of the Hantan River. It features skywalks and suspension bridges with stunning geological views. Shuttle buses run between Sundam and Deureuni gates on weekends.
철원 한탄강 수상 래프팅
Hantangang River, the Grand Canyon of Korea, takes pride in the mysterious cliffs and huge valleys and one-after-the-other scenic stretches that appear to be blessed by the heavens. The rafting course is 15 km long, divided according to the level of difficulty from beginner to advance.
한탄리버스파호텔
Cheorwon Hot Spring is located at Goseokjeong Pavilion. The hot spring is a germanium-content volcanic spa with natural waters springing from 850 m deep. Known to be exceptionally effective for skin care for women, Cheorwon Hot Spring has sauna facilities and swimming pools. Visitors can enjoy the first-class pure natural waters while gazing at the beautiful vista of Hantangang River.
한탄강 얼음 트레킹 축제
A unique winter event where you can walk directly on the frozen river. The course stretches from Taebongdaegyo Bridge to Sundam Valley, offering close-up views of frozen waterfalls and columnar joints. Various snow-related activities and pop-up playgrounds are also available.
고석정 꽃밭
A former military firing range transformed into a sprawling garden. Depending on the season, you can find fields of poppies, rapeseed, zinnia, and pink muhly. The "Can Train" tour around the fields is a popular family activity.
소이산 모노레일
Take a monorail to the summit of Soyisan Mountain (362m) for an expansive view of the Cheorwon Plain and the DMZ. The peak features a former US military radar base and bunkers, reflecting the region's military history.
DMZ 피스트레인 뮤직 페스티벌
A unique music festival promoting peace through song and dance. Performances take place at symbolic locations like Goseokjeong and near the Labor Party Office, featuring both domestic and international indie musicians.
삼교리동치미막국수 철원점
Specializes in buckwheat noodles served with chilled radish kimchi broth (dongchimi) and savory potato pancakes, a popular local meal after trekking along the Hantan River.
철원막국수
A local legend with over 60 years of history. This restaurant, housed in a cozy traditional Hanok, serves handmade buckwheat noodles pressed to order. Their cold noodles (Mul-makguksu) and spicy mixed noodles (Bibim-makguksu) are both highly recommended.
솔향기
Specializes in handmade dumpling hotpot (Mandu-jeongol). The dumplings are generously filled with kimchi, meat, and tofu, served in a rich beef bone broth. It is an ideal meal for warming up during Cheorwon's cold winters.
내대리 막국수
A hidden gem favored by locals and gourmets. Known for its rougher, more rustic buckwheat noodle texture and flavorful noodle water (myeon-su). The wait times can be long, but the authentic taste is worth the patience.
탕수육
A local Chinese restaurant named after its specialty dish, sweet and sour pork (tangsuyuk). Also serves classic black bean noodles (jjajangmyeon) and spicy noodle soup (jjamppong).
은하수 카페
Located right next to the Hantangang Milky Way Bridge, this cafe features large glass windows that provide panoramic views of the basalt canyon. Their signature "Kissing" bread made with local Odae rice is a must-try.
카페 논에
A trendy cafe offering a tranquil "paddy field view" that changes beautifully with the seasons. It specializes in unique desserts utilizing Cheorwon rice, providing a modern take on local flavors.
카페 고석정
Conveniently located within the Goseokjeong National Tourist Area. It serves as an excellent resting spot before or after taking the DMZ Peace Tour or exploring the riverside trails.
우정싸롱
A popular "cooking pub" (yori-jujeom) in the Sincheorwon area. It is well-regarded by locals for its creative appetizers and trendy interior. It is an excellent spot to experience the contemporary nightlife of Cheorwon's administrative center.
함지
A cozy, rustic tavern specializing in traditional Korean liquors. This is the place to go for a bowl of Makgeolli (rice wine) paired with savory pancakes (pajeon). The interior, decorated with traditional motifs, provides a warm and nostalgic drinking environment.
First Class, 84 rooms
한탄리버스파호텔
The only tourist-class hotel in Cheorwon, located right next to Goseokjeong. It features a germanium hot spring sauna which is highly regarded for its healing properties. Many rooms offer excellent views of the Hantan River.
모닝캄 빌리지
A boutique pension hotel perched on a cliff edge. It is known for its modern, sophisticated interior design and stunning views of the Hantan River canyon directly from the guest rooms.
핀란드 하우스
A unique pension featuring Finnish-style log cabins nestled in a birch forest. It offers a private and exotic atmosphere, making it a popular choice for families and couples seeking a quiet retreat in nature.
동송전통시장
The largest permanent market in the region and host to a five-day market on dates ending in 5 and 0. It is the best place to find fresh local produce such as paprika, tomatoes, and corn directly from farmers.
오늘의 농부
A specialized shop featuring certified agricultural products and processed foods produced by local farmers. You can find unique items like Odae rice noodles, local rice bread, and high-quality packaged grains.
농협 하나로마트 동송점
A reliable supermarket for purchasing certified Cheorwon Odae Rice in various sizes. It is also a good spot to stock up on basic supplies before heading to campsites or pensions.
By bus
Local transportation is provided by rural buses (Nong-eochon bus) that radiate from the two primary hubs: Dongsong and Sincheorwon.
By taxi
Taxis are a highly practical option for reaching trailheads or remote sites not frequently served by buses.
By bicycle
Cycling is an excellent way to experience the Hantan River up close, though the hilly landscape can be physically demanding.
On foot and hiking
Walking is feasible within the small town centers of Dongsong and Sincheorwon, but the county’s true beauty is found on its specialized trekking trails.
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