Exploring Cheonjinam Valley: A Hidden Gem in Gyeonggi-do
Every summer, I think about visiting a valley, yet I often postpone it, resulting in many years without a visit.
Gangwon-do feels too far, and nearby spots are overcrowded.
So, I opened a map app and searched for valleys within an hour's drive.
That’s when I discovered Cheonjinam Valley in Gyeonggi-do's Gwangju City, a place I had never heard of before.
It seemed to have a vibe known only to locals, so I hesitantly decided to check it out.
Upon arriving, I found that the valley is easily accessible by searching for 'Gwan-san Hiking Trail Public Parking Lot' or even 'Usan 5 Bridge' on a navigation app.
As I entered Cheonjinam Road, the atmosphere began to change.
The trees densely lined the road, and signs for pensions and cafes appeared, making the drive feel scenic.
It’s no wonder that Toechon-myeon is known as a popular driving destination near Seoul.
As soon as I parked and opened the car door, the sound of water greeted me.
It was a place where the sound arrived before the sight.
There are no parking fees or entrance fees, and there are restrooms conveniently located right next to the parking area.
For those arriving by public transport, bus numbers 431 or 13-2 are available.
Stepping into the valley, I found myself questioning if I was still in Gyeonggi-do.
Surrounded by rocks and forest, the air felt refreshingly different even in the height of summer.
The temperature noticeably drops as you walk from the parking lot to the valley.
It’s not easy to find such a valley atmosphere in Gyeonggi-do.
Cheonjinam Valley is divided into upper and lower spots for water activities.
The upper area is relatively quiet and the water is clearer.
You can see the stones beneath the water clearly, and the water is cold enough to feel refreshing.
If you arrive early, I recommend securing a spot in the upper area first.
The lower area has water flowing between rocks, creating a different atmosphere.
Flat rocks make it easy to sit and dip your feet.
Even on a weekday, there were quite a few people already settled in.
What makes Cheonjinam Valley a top water play spot in Gyeonggi-do is its water depth.
Most areas are knee-deep, and the current is gentle, making it safe for children.
However, there are deeper spots, so it's important to keep an eye on the kids.
Once you get in, you won’t want to leave, and it rivals any valley in Gangwon-do.
After enjoying the water, you’ll naturally feel hungry.
Restaurants line Cheonjinam Road, right next to the valley.
Many have tables set up beside the water, so you can enjoy the sound of flowing water while you eat.
Menus often feature dishes like samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) or dakgalbi (spicy chicken stir-fry).
Some restaurants even provide stairs leading to the valley, allowing for a quick dip after your meal.
The areas around popular restaurants and cafes have stairs and railings, making access easy.
I also enjoyed a cafe visit after lunch.
Outdoor tables are placed right in front of the valley, allowing you to hear the water while sipping your drink.
Sipping coffee while drying your wet feet makes you feel there’s no need to go further.
This itinerary is perfect for a day trip, but there are also various accommodations like pensions, camping, and glamping nearby for an overnight stay.
I discovered a photo studio near the valley, which was a pleasant surprise.
They have a photo zone that captures the natural backdrop of the valley, making it easy to stop by for a photo after changing clothes.
The natural light ensures that photos come out clean without much editing, making it a great spot for a memorable picture.
If you go further up the valley, you’ll find Cheonjinam Shrine, a historic site known as the birthplace of Korean Catholicism.
It’s open from 10 AM to 5 PM and offers a quiet, organized atmosphere, providing a nice contrast to the valley.
Visiting both spots can fill half a day nicely.
On a weekday, it was much less crowded compared to weekends.
If I had to recommend just one place to visit in Gyeonggi-do during summer, it would undoubtedly be Cheonjinam Valley.
On days when packing for Gangwon-do feels burdensome, it’s easy to head out here.
It’s a place that exceeds expectations.
Tips for Visiting Cheonjinam Valley:
1. There is free parking and restrooms for a comfortable visit.
2. For those without a car, bus numbers 431 or 13-2 are available.
3. The valley water is colder than expected, so if you bring kids, make sure to dry them off periodically.
4. If planning an overnight stay during peak season, be sure to book accommodations in advance.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/gyeonggi_gov/224292503373
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