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County in South Korea
Photo: Cpl. Kim Han-byeol, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Inje (인제군) is a county in Gangwon province in the far north of South Korea. It is a destination not only for soldiers stationed near the border, but also for travelers seeking to reconnect with nature.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
박인환문학관
A museum dedicated to the Korean modernist poet Park In-hwan (1926-1956), who was born in Inje and made a name for himself early in his age. However, at the age of 29, he passed away after four days of heavy drinking. Exhibitions include his personal items, letters, and literary works, as well as a recreation of Myeongdong in the 1940s where he ran a small bookshop and mingled with the poets of his time. The second floor is a gallery of photos that capture the history of Inje. Information boards mainly in Korean.
인제산촌민속박물관
Another museum beside Park In-hwan Literary Museum. Exhibitions mainly focus on the lifestyle of the villages in the mountains as well as agricultural history. There are farming tools, taxidermy of local animals, food models of local cuisine, and so on. Information boards mainly in Korean. Cool to check out both museums if you have some downtime in the town center.
원대리 자작나무숲
The birch grove is reached on foot from the visitor centre and car park; allow about 1–1½ hours to walk uphill to the forest, plus time to return. Wear suitable footwear, and check for weather-related trail closures before setting out. Winter conditions may require crampons.
용대리 황태마을
Hwangtae is the Korean name for Alaska pollack, and Yongdae-ri is renowned for the tradition of drying these fishes on deokjang (traditional air-drying racks) by the batches outside their homes. Using the cold climate, the fishes undergo a natural freeze-drying process which gives them a chewy texture. It is no doubt the restaurants in this area specialize in all things pollack.
매바위 인공폭포
An artificial waterfall in Yongdae-ri that falls over a tall mountain rock, giving a majestic impression. In summer, people come here to cool down; in winter it freezes over, and ice climbing enthusiasts come here to train themselves.
곰배령
A mountain 1,164m above sea level. Average 3 hours to scale the mountain. There are well-built wooden paths for most parts. Due to the abundance of wild, rare flowers on a high altitude, it has earned the nickname of 'garden in the sky'. Different flowers blossom in different seasons other than winter: expect azaleas in spring, water lilies in summer, and mugworts in autumn. To protect the natural environment of this area, the authorities have limited visitors to 450 per day, 5 days per week for 8 months per year, as such advance reservations are required and can be made on the website (provided in the hyperlink; only in Korean).
내린천
The main stream of Inje. The 70-km stream starts from Mt. Odaesan National Park, winds around the steep mountains and valleys, and flows into the North Hangang River. It is one of the cleanest streams in Korea. When spring comes, the thick ice of the valleys starts to melt. The Lenok, which is a type of salmon, starts to swim upstream to lay eggs. When you notice scarlet royal azaleas blossom along the stream and the water becomes cobalt blue, you can say summer has come. When fall comes in the valley, red and yellow leaves reflected on the surface of the stream seem to dye the water red and yellow. Winter in the valley has a short temper, so it doesn’t wait until December. You can see white snow sparkling all over the valley in early November. When you see this magnificent sight, you have no choice but to be spellbound. Mountain biking is another attractive sport available in Naerincheon. The steep mountains and bumpy roads along the stream encourage you to pedal on your bike harder. The harder you pedal the more spectacular scenes you can see.
비밀의 정원
It is said that the site was called the "Secret Garden" because it was not accessible to the general public because it was a former military operation area. Previously, photos could not be taken because it was a military operation area, but now it is only allowed to take pictures on the side of the road. Early in the morning, you can see frosty and foggy images, all of which feel beautiful, and it is especially a place famous for its good scenery photography.
38공원
38 Park is located at the end of the 38th Bridge connecting Gwandae-ri and Namjeon-ri, Nam-myeon, Inje-gun, and is designed to discover and shape storytelling based on the 38th parallel in Inje-gun to provide forgotten historical value and build the 38th parallel as a tourism resource that can represent Inje-gun.
공립 인제 내설악 미술관
Public Naeseorak Art Museum is a public art museum where artists who build their homes in Gyejeong-ri, Buk-myeon, Inje-gun or work in a workshop in Gyejeong-ri exhibit paintings born in the artist village. It fosters artists' active creative activities to create opportunities for local residents and tourists to experience creative works of culture and art and to inspire artists' creative enthusiasm to enhance the image of Inje, the home of culture and art.
인제 스피디움
A world-class motorsports complex featuring an international grade racing circuit. Even when there isn't a race, visitors can tour the grandstands, visit the Classic Car Museum on-site, or simply admire the high-tech architecture integrated into the mountain landscape.
백담사
A historic temple that serves as a gateway to the Inner Seoraksan area. It is famous for the thousands of small stone towers (pagodas) built by visitors in the surrounding stream. The shuttle bus ride from the village to the temple offers a thrilling view of the rugged Baekdam Valley.
한계령 휴게소
A high mountain pass on the boundary between Inje and Yangyang. The observatory at the rest area provides one of the most iconic panoramic views of the jagged peaks of Seoraksan National Park. It is a legendary spot for driving enthusiasts and photographers alike.
서킷 택시 및 서킷 주행 체험
For motorsports fans, this is the ultimate experience. You can take a "Circuit Taxi" where a professional driver takes you around the technical corners of the Inje Speedium at high speeds, or even drive your own car on the track after a short safety briefing. It’s a rare opportunity to experience a Grade 2 FIA-certified circuit firsthand.
내린천 래프팅
Inje is home to the most famous rafting course in Korea. The Naerin-cheon stream offers grade 3 and 4 rapids, providing a thrilling ride through narrow gorges and pristine nature. Most rafting centers are clustered along National Route 31 and offer combined packages with ATV and bungee jumping.
인제 번지점프 (내린천 수변공원)
Test your courage at one of Korea’s highest bungee jump sites, standing 63 meters tall. The jump overlooks the beautiful Naerin-cheon river. The resort also offers other "X-games" like the "Slingshot" and "Power Fan" for adrenaline junkies.
원대리 자작나무 숲 트레킹 및 출사
A must-do for media students and photographers. The 3.2km trekking course to the heart of the forest is moderately challenging but rewards you with a surreal, silver-white landscape. It is a world-class location for capturing cinematic shots, especially when the white bark contrasts with the autumn leaves or winter snow.
인제재래식손두부
The name literally translates to 'Inje Traditional Handmade Tofu'. This restaurant gained popularity ever since it appeared on Baek Jong-won's Top 3 Chef King, a famous Korean cooking-variety show. Beside the restaurant is a tofu factory, which directly supplies tofu to them. Hot-sellers include jeongol tofu (tofu stew), jjabak tofu (tofu braised in sesame oil), tofu hotpot, and grilled tofu in sesame oil. Menu in Korean.
인제막국수
A down-to-earth Korean restaurant specializing in makguksu (buckwheat noodle), the specialty dish of Gangwon. You sit on the wooden floor and enjoy their makguksu on a short wooden table. Dishes include dongchimi makguksu (served in a soup with dongchimi kimchi), and bibim makguksu (served dry, you are supposed to mix it up just like bibimbap). For beverages, its either plain water for ₩2,000, or alcoholic drinks for ₩4,000, which is soju, maekju and makgeolli. Menu in Korean.
인제순대국
A restaurant specializing in sundae-guk (blood sausage soup), served with side dishes and rice. They also sell haejangguk (hangover soup). Beverages are either plain water or alcoholic drinks. Menu in Korean.
용대리 황태촌
Specializes in Hwangtae-haejang-guk (dried pollack hang-over soup). The broth is milky white and rich in flavor, served with local side dishes. It is a legendary breakfast spot for travelers heading to Seoraksan.
옛날원대리막국수
Famous for its authentic buckwheat noodles (Makguksu) served with a tangy cold broth. It is located near the Birch Forest, making it a perfect post-trekking meal. Don't forget to try the boiled pork slices (Suyuk) with wild herbs.
챔피언스 클럽
Located within the Speedium complex, this restaurant offers a variety of Korean and Western dishes with a view of the racing circuit. It provides a unique atmosphere where you can dine while watching cars zoom past the track.
카페 자작나무
A cozy cafe located right near the entrance of the Birch Forest. It offers various teas and coffees, but their signature birch sap tea (when in season) is a must-try for a true taste of Inje.
더 브릿지
A modern cafe overlooking the Naerin-cheon River. It’s a popular spot for people to watch the rafters go by while enjoying a refreshing iced Americano or a seasonal fruit ade.
스피디움 라운지
Located in the Speedium Hotel, this lounge offers premium coffee and cocktails with the best panoramic view of the entire racing circuit. It’s a great place to relax after a high-speed driving experience.
나무
Even in a small town with quite a small population, somehow there's a trendy cafe. The name is the Korean word for 'tree', and the cafe's decor emphasizes on nature, perfect for Instagram shots. Not only do they sell classics such as americano and cappuccino, but also creative ones like toffee nut latte and mango crush ade, and even alcohol. Do try out their croffle, which is croissant + waffle, a snack that is popular in Korean cafes. It comes with an ice cream covered in grated cheese. Menu only in Korean.
별들의 기침
Located near a birch forest in Inje County, the Cough of the Stars is a rental house planned and operated by a blueberry farm called Sunshine Farm. It was designed in consideration of the natural environment of a clean area. They have a BBQ space, just make sure to reserve in advance. During summer, you can tour their farm and try out their blueberries.
노을이 머무는곳
인제 스피디움 호텔앤리조트
A world-class racing-themed resort. The most sought-after rooms are the "Circuit View" rooms, where you can watch races directly from your balcony. The complex also features a spa and a classic car museum.
백담사 템플스테이
Offers a serene and spiritual retreat deep within the mountains. The program includes tea ceremonies, meditation, and a chance to experience the life of a Buddhist monk in one of Korea's most beautiful valley settings.
인제 자작나무숲 펜션
Cozy wooden cabins located within walking distance of the Birch Forest. It is perfect for those who want to experience the quiet of the mountain night and be the first to start their hike in the morning.
하나로마트 인제농협
A supermarket right in the town center, where you can stock up on groceries. It has a variety of products, from food and beverages to toilet paper, perfect for last-minute shopping before going on a camping or hiking trip.
용대리 황태 직판장
The best place to buy premium Hwangtae (dried pollack). You can find various forms of it, from whole dried fish to convenient shredded strips and even hwangtae-based snacks. The quality here is considered the best in Korea due to the unique freezing and thawing process in the local valley.
인제전통시장
A classic five-day market (opening on dates ending in 4 and 9). It is a great spot to find wild mountain herbs (namul), local honey, and seasonal fruits directly from the farmers of the Taebaek mountains.
자작나무숲 기념품 판매소
Located at the entrance of the Birch Forest, this shop sells various items made from birch wood and bark, including postcards, small crafts, and local birch sap beverages.
By bus
By train
There is no direct rail service to Inje. The most common rail-to-bus transfer points are:
By car
Inje has become significantly more accessible since the opening of the Seoul–Yangyang Expressway (Highway 60).
By bus
Local buses (Nong-eo-chon buses) connect the main terminals in Inje-eup and Wontong to the surrounding villages.
By car
For motorsports enthusiasts and those who enjoy scenic drives, a car is the ideal way to explore Inje.
By taxi
Taxis are the most realistic alternative to buses for those without a car.
By foot
Walking is only practical within the small town centers of Inje-eup or Wontong. For everything else, you will need a vehicle.
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