Best Winter Stargazing Destinations in Korea
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Winter nights are deeper and quieter than any other season. The stars shining more brightly in the cold air and the flowing Milky Way create a spectacular scene that can only be seen in winter. January, in particular, offers the clearest air and stable atmosphere, making it one of the best times to observe stars. The experience of looking up at the sky in a quiet place away from the city leaves a profound impression that surpasses any travel experience.
The Milky Way is not an easily seen sight, so choosing the right location and conditions is crucial. You can only see the clear Milky Way in a place with clear skies, minimal artificial lighting, and an unobstructed view. Although the cold temperatures in winter require preparation for the chill, the clarity of the sky and starlight in this season is unmatched. Just standing under that sky brings an indescribable sense of wonder.
Today, let's explore the BEST 4 winter night travel destinations where stars and the Milky Way explode in beauty.
1. Taean Unyeo Beach
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Unyeo Beach, with the charm of the West Coast, shines even more as a stargazing spot in winter. During the day, it captivates travelers with its sunset, and at night, it enchants with stars and the Milky Way. Particularly, after sunset, the scene where the pine forest behind the beach blends with the Milky Way creates a fantastical landscape reminiscent of a fairy tale. The reflection of starlight on the sea enhances the emotional experience.
The biggest attraction of Unyeo Beach is the scene where the pine forest appears to float on the water depending on the tide. This illusion resembles a small island floating in the sea. However, to appreciate the reflected Milky Way, one must carefully consider the sky conditions, tide times, and moon brightness, making it a challenging endeavor, but the emotional reward is beyond words.
Photographers often stay up all night with tripods for this scene. If you plan to visit, it's best to check tide information in advance and choose a day away from the full moon. The winter sea breeze can be quite harsh, so warm clothing and winter gear are essential. The moment you encounter the Milky Way on a quiet winter beach will be a special gift unique to this season.
2. Gapyeong Hwacheon Tunnel Ssamji Park
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Ssamji Park, located at the entrance of Hwacheon Tunnel deep in the Gapyeong mountains, is an excellent place for stargazing. Far from city lights and at a high altitude, it offers unobstructed views of stars and the Milky Way. Recently, it has gained popularity as a car camping destination, making it an ideal spot for star enthusiasts.
While the cold air in winter makes stars appear clearer, extra preparation for warmth is necessary. Due to its high location, temperatures can drop sharply even in winter, and windy conditions can make it feel even colder. Bringing a thick coat, gloves, and hand warmers will enhance your experience under the night sky. The ability to rest in your vehicle is also a significant advantage.
Although Ssamji Park has basic restroom facilities, their cleanliness is not perfect, so it's advisable to use nearby rest areas before your visit. Alcohol and cooking are prohibited, so bringing simple snacks or warm drinks is recommended. If you wish to spend quiet time under a vast starry sky, this place is the purest and most tranquil space for winter nights.
3. Jeongseon Time Capsule Park
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Located at the foot of Jilwonsan Mountain in Jeongseon, Time Capsule Park sits at an elevation of 1,173 meters, offering a clear view of the Milky Way that is hard to imagine in the city. On a clear night with no clouds, you can see the flowing Milky Way with the naked eye, making it highly recommended for beginners in stargazing. The well-maintained park also makes moving around and observing convenient.
The park's main photo spot is a sculpture named 'Moonlight Sonata,' resembling a crescent moon. This illuminated point against the night sky is perfect for capturing memorable photos. The fairy-tale-like structure combined with twinkling starlight evokes scenes from a movie, making it a popular spot for couples and families.
During the day, you can enjoy the peaceful scenery of high-altitude cabbage fields and surrounding mountains, so staying from day to night is never dull. However, winter road conditions may make vehicle access challenging, so checking the weather before visiting is advisable. If you want to observe the stars in a comfortable and secure environment, Time Capsule Park is the optimal choice.
4. Chuncheon Geonbongnyeong Seunghodae
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Located near Soyang Lake in Chuncheon, Geonbongnyeong Seunghodae is an area with minimal artificial lighting, allowing for a full view of the stars and the Milky Way. Famous for its sunrise and sunset, it has also gained a reputation as a winter stargazing spot, especially among photographers who consider it the best shooting location. The farther you get from city lights, the more beautiful the sky shines.
However, access can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads, which may be daunting for those uncomfortable with driving. Parking space is limited, and caution is needed if the weather turns cloudy. It's advisable to arrive before sunset. Public transport access is low, making personal vehicles almost essential.
Due to the lack of facilities, it's important to bring simple snacks and warm items before visiting. In this quiet, less populated area, the time spent gazing at the stars feels like meditation. Encountering the winter Milky Way in a space where you can face the night sky without any distractions will be a uniquely memorable experience.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/tour_toctoc/224166004776
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