A Unique Train Trip to Sangju Dried Persimmon Festival
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If you are wondering how to spend the weekend just before the Lunar New Year, this one-day train trip offers a refreshing answer. A special tourist train will take travelers directly to the Sangju Dried Persimmon Festival, where winter flavors and local culture come together.
From tasting premium dried persimmons at producer prices to exploring nature, culture, and unique local attractions, the journey is fully planned and guided from start to finish.
Running for one day only on January 24, this limited train tour combines seasonal food, festival excitement, and stress-free travel.
A One-Day Train Trip to the Sangju Dried Persimmon Festival
January often leaves people wondering what to do on quiet winter weekends. This time, the answer comes on rails. On January 24, just one day before the Lunar New Year, a special tourist train heads to Sangju.
Timed perfectly with the Sangju Dried Persimmon Festival running from January 23 to 25, this trip allows visitors to experience the festival at its peak without the hassle of driving.
The train departs early in the morning and returns late in the evening, making it a full yet comfortable day packed with seasonal highlights.
Why Sangju Dried Persimmons Are So Special
Sangju is widely known as the birthplace of dried persimmons in Korea. Large temperature differences, frequent fog, and steady winds create the perfect environment for producing high-quality dried persimmons.
The result is a chewy yet soft texture with a gentle sweetness that slowly fills your mouth, making them especially popular during winter.
At the festival, 47 booths operated directly by producers offer tastings and sales. Visitors can sample freely and purchase boxed sets at local prices, making it an ideal place to prepare Lunar New Year gifts.
Easy Boarding and Stress-Free Travel
The train departs from Seoul Station at 7:40 AM and arrives back at Seoul Station at 9:50 PM. Boarding is also available at Cheongnyangni, Yangpyeong, Wonju, and Jecheon.
This makes the trip accessible for travelers from the metropolitan area, Gangwon, and Chungcheong regions, allowing everyone to simply board nearby and enjoy the ride.
A guide accompanies the group, so there is no need to plan routes or schedules. Just bring yourself and enjoy the day.
Choose Your Route: Nature or Culture
Travelers can choose between two thoughtfully designed routes, each offering a different perspective on Sangju.
Emotion and Nature Course
This route includes the Dried Persimmon Festival, a visit to a farm café known as the Farmer’s Room, and the National Nakdonggang Biological Resources Center.
The farm café, run by young farmers, offers drinks in a relaxed, photo-friendly setting, while the biological center provides educational exhibits that appeal to both children and adults.
Culture and Tradition Course
This option combines the festival with visits to the Bicycle Museum and Hamchang Myeongju Theme Park.
The Bicycle Museum highlights Sangju’s identity as a bicycle city, showcasing rare vintage models, while the theme park introduces the history of fine silk once presented to Joseon kings.
A January Trip Worth Remembering
This special train journey offers more than just sightseeing. It supports local producers, removes driving stress, and creates meaningful winter memories.
As you bite into a Sangju dried persimmon and feel its sweetness spread, it becomes clear why this region and its festival are so loved.
Seats are limited to this one-day operation. Miss it, and you may have to wait another year.
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