The Garden of Morning Calm, Seoul - A wet street with a lamp post and trees in the background
1 / 10

The Garden of Morning Calm Seoul

4.4
·17k reviews·Gapyeong-gun, South Korea

A tranquil oasis with diverse themed gardens, stunning seasonal blooms, and enchanting light festivals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Vibrant blooms, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
The Garden of Morning Calm, Seoul - A wet street with a lamp post and trees in the background

The Garden of Morning Calm Seoul

Best Time

Spring mornings

Vibrant blooms, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil oasis with diverse themed gardens, stunning seasonal blooms, and enchanting light festivals.

4.4
(17k reviews)

"Every corner is a gorgeous photo spot, a must-visit place in Korea!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bring Cash for Purchases

Some vendors or smaller shops might be cash-only. It's always good to have some on hand!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the beautiful sections.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Themed Gardens

Themed Gardens

Various sections throughout the garden

Explore diverse themed areas, from Korean traditional to European-inspired landscapes. Each offers unique beauty.

Pink Muhly Grass

Pink Muhly Grass

Specific fields within the garden

Witness the breathtaking spectacle of pink muhly grass in bloom during autumn. A photographer's dream!

Winter Light Festival

Winter Light Festival

Throughout the garden

Experience a magical winter wonderland with stunning light displays illuminating the garden at night.

Spring Blooms

Spring Blooms

Various flower beds and meadows

Marvel at the vibrant colors of spring flowers, creating a picturesque and romantic atmosphere.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit early to beat crowds, especially during peak seasons like spring blooms or autumn foliage. Consider weekdays for a more serene experience. Check for seasonal festivals like the winter light show for unique views.

Getting There & Around

Public transport can be tricky; consider tours or private transport for ease. If using public transport, factor in bus transfers and potential wait times. Bring cash for smaller purchases.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Vibrant blooms, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Pink muhly, crisp air
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter evenings
Why
Magical light festival
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Also bring cash !! The way I could have spent a whole day here🥹 #seoultravel #seoulkorea #koreavlog #thingstodoseoul #koreamarket #travelvlog
@shirleyye_
828.9K likes • 4.3M views

🎯 Bring Cash for Purchases

Some vendors or smaller shops might be cash-only. It's always good to have some on hand! TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the beautiful sections. Reddit

A magical autumn! 📍화담숲 (Hwadam Botanic Garden) #seoul #korea #travel #fypシ #trending #koreatravel #tiktokviral #서울 #autumn #가을 #화담숲 #여행 #viral #tiktokkorea
@hi_mgkorea
80.1K likes • 1.2M views
🌿 Early spring vibes at the Garden of Morning Calm, Gapyeong! Just 1.5-2 hours from Seoul, this peaceful escape is perfect for unwinding before the crowds arrive. 🍃✨ Our travelers are loving the calm ...
travelwithroyal
0 likes • 116 views

📸 Perfect Photo Spots

Every corner is a photo opportunity! Don't forget your camera or phone. Instagram

🚗 Consider Tours for Ease

Public transport can be challenging; tours simplify travel from Seoul. Reddit

Don't miss out on these gorgeous spring blooms at the Garden of Morning Calm~ just a quick drive away from Seoul! 📍 Garden of Morning Calm 🎫 Tickets & roundtrip tours available on Trazy~ link in bi...
trazy_korea
212 likes • 5.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bring Cash for Purchases

Some vendors or smaller shops might be cash-only. It's always good to have some on hand! TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the beautiful sections. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Spots

Every corner is a photo opportunity! Don't forget your camera or phone. Instagram

🚗 Consider Tours for Ease

Public transport can be challenging; tours simplify travel from Seoul. Reddit

⏰ Visit Early to Avoid Crowds

Beat the rush by arriving shortly after opening, especially during peak seasons. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(17k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Garden of Morning Calm for its stunning beauty and diverse themed sections, making it a highly photogenic destination year-round. The seasonal highlights, particularly the autumn Pink Muhly grass and the winter light festival, are frequently cited as magical experiences. However, some find the journey from Seoul a bit challenging via public transport, leading many to recommend organized tours for convenience.

"We visited the Garden of Morning Calm as part of a tour package, and it turned out to be a very beautiful experience. The garden is well maintained and has several themed sections, each with its own charm. It is calm, quiet, and filled with lovely photo spots, making it a great place to enjoy nature. That said, I would recommend it only if you are already in the area. It does not feel worth traveling all the way from Seoul just for this. Also, accessibility is limited as the grounds are quite hilly, so be prepared to walk."

Umashankar Satapathy

"Better to buy tickets in advance as sometimes there is a rush. Always visit in the morning so you get the full day to spend there. The garden is amazing specially if you like country side and long walks. Most of the plants and trees have stories behind it. It’s worth it but check the weather before you decide to go."

Farhan Fazi

"It’s beautiful for what it is, a garden of calm. We went on a tour inbetween seasons and there were no flowers, so it was a quick visit. It was a calm place though, nice trees in parts, amazing images in their gallery and so many great products in their store that we wish were available online from Australia.

It would be nice given the paid entry if there was something to see between seasons though."

Jason Tabrett

What People Like

Breathtaking seasonal beauty
Diverse themed gardens
Magical winter lights

What People Dislike

Challenging public transport
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Getting to The Garden of Morning Calm from Seoul can be a bit tricky via public transport. Many visitors opt for organized tours which offer convenient round-trip transportation from Seoul.Reddit If you prefer public transport, you can take an intercity bus to Cheongpyeong Terminal, then transfer to local bus 30-6 or 30-7. Alternatively, an ITX train from Yongsan to Cheonpyeong is also an option, but requires further transfers.Reddit Some Redditors suggest that navigating public transport might be challenging for first-time travelers.Reddit

Yes, it can be challenging to reach The Garden of Morning Calm solely by public transportation. It often involves multiple bus or train transfers and can be time-consuming. Many travelers find that using tour services or private transport is a much easier and more efficient way to visit.Reddit

For the winter light festival, it's highly recommended to check platforms like Trazy or Klook for dedicated buses. These tours often have timings specifically catered to the illuminated garden, making it easier to experience the event without worrying about late-night public transport schedules.Reddit

While taxis are available, they can be expensive for the journey from Seoul. If you're already in Gapyeong or Cheongpyeong, a taxi might be a more feasible option for the final leg of your journey to the garden.

There are local buses that connect to the garden from Cheongpyeong terminal, but they are not always frequent. Dedicated shuttle buses are often part of organized tours, which are a popular choice for tourists.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees vary slightly by season. Generally, adult tickets range from 9,000 to 11,000 KRW. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and any seasonal discounts.Instagram

While you can purchase tickets at the entrance, booking in advance, especially through tour operators like Trazy, can sometimes offer package deals or ensure entry during busy periods.Instagram

The garden is open year-round, typically from 8:30 AM to sunset. However, hours can vary slightly depending on the season and specific events, like the winter light festival which extends into the evening.Reddit

Yes, the Winter Light Festival usually has specific operating hours and may have a slightly different admission fee or package. It's best to confirm the details for the festival period when planning your visit.Reddit

While credit cards are generally accepted for admission, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases within the garden or if you encounter any issues with card machines.TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Garden of Morning Calm is incredibly photogenic! Popular spots include the areas with Pink Muhly grass in autumn,TikTok the vibrant flower displays in spring,Instagram the illuminated landscapes during the winter light festival,Reddit and the various themed gardens with their unique structures and water features.Instagram

Absolutely! The Garden of Morning Calm is beautiful in the summer with lush greenery and a vast array of flowers. The variety of landscapes ensures plenty of stunning photo opportunities.Instagram

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for serene photos. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) provides beautiful warm light. For the winter light festival, evenings are obviously the prime time for capturing the illuminations.Reddit

Typically, drone usage is restricted in most botanical gardens and parks to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and the environment. It's best to check the garden's official regulations or inquire at the entrance.

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture both wide landscape shots and close-ups of flowers. A tripod can be helpful for low-light photography during the winter festival. However, even a smartphone can capture stunning images due to the garden's natural beauty.Instagram

🎫 🌸 Seasonal Highlights

Autumn is a spectacular time to visit, especially for the famous Pink Muhly grass, which blooms with beautiful pink plumes.TikTok The foliage also turns vibrant colors, creating a picturesque landscape. The garden offers a variety of photo experiences during this season.Reddit

Yes, the Garden of Morning Calm is highly recommended in winter, primarily for its stunning Winter Light Festival. The garden is transformed with dazzling illuminations, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.TikTokReddit

Spring brings a burst of color with various flowers in bloom, creating a fresh and vibrant atmosphere. It's a peaceful time to visit before the peak summer crowds arrive, offering lovely photo opportunities.Instagram+1

In summer, the garden is lush and green with a wide variety of flowers in full bloom. It's a great time to explore the themed sections and enjoy the expansive grounds, though it can get warm.Instagram Visiting early in the morning is advised.Reddit

The Pink Muhly grass typically blooms and is at its most beautiful during the autumn months, usually from September to November.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Garden of Morning Calm offers a wonderful escape for families. The diverse themed gardens provide plenty of visual interest for children, and the open spaces are great for them to explore. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the natural beauty and winding paths offer an engaging environment. Visiting early in the day can help avoid meltdowns from crowds or heat. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as options inside might be limited or pricier. Consider a tour that includes other family-friendly stops like Nami Island for a fuller day trip.Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This garden is a paradise for photographers! With its meticulously designed themed sections, seasonal blooms, and the spectacular winter light festival, you'll find endless photo opportunities.Instagram The Pink Muhly grass in autumn is a particular highlight for capturing unique shots.TikTok For the winter festival, a tripod will be invaluable for capturing the illuminations in low light. Be prepared to spend hours capturing the beauty, and consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for the most dramatic lighting.

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

The Garden of Morning Calm is an incredibly romantic destination. Its serene atmosphere, beautiful landscapes, and themed gardens provide a perfect backdrop for a peaceful outing. The Winter Light Festival is especially magical for couples, creating a fairy-tale ambiance.Reddit Visiting during spring or autumn also offers stunning natural beauty for a leisurely, romantic stroll hand-in-hand.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Garden: A Visitor's Guide

The Garden of Morning Calm is designed with a variety of themed sections, each offering a distinct aesthetic and experience. From the traditional Korean Garden, evoking a sense of historical charm, to the more whimsical European Garden, there's a diverse range of landscapes to explore. Visitors often highlight the sheer variety and the meticulous design that makes every corner a potential photo spot.Instagram The garden's founder, Professor Sang-kyung Han, aimed to create a space that reflects the beauty of Korean nature and culture.Instagram

When exploring, wear comfortable shoes as the garden is quite expansive and involves a good amount of walking. Many visitors recommend arriving early, especially during peak seasons like spring and autumn, to enjoy the tranquility before the crowds arrive.Instagram The garden is also known for its seasonal festivals, such as the vibrant Pink Muhly display in autumn TikTok and the enchanting Winter Light Festival, which transforms the grounds into a magical illuminated wonderland.Reddit

For those looking to capture the beauty, the garden offers endless opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow, the vibrant colors of the flora, and the unique garden designs provide a feast for the eyes and the camera lens. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just enjoying a leisurely stroll, the Garden of Morning Calm promises a visually rewarding experience.

Seasonal Spectacles: When to Visit for the Best Experience

The Garden of Morning Calm truly shines throughout the year, with each season offering a unique charm. Spring (April-May) is a riot of color as flowers like tulips and azaleas bloom, creating a picturesque scene perfect for early visitors.Instagram+1 Summer (June-August) brings lush greenery and a full bloom of various flowers, making it a vibrant, albeit warm, time to visit. Early mornings are recommended to avoid the heat and crowds.Reddit

Autumn (September-November) is arguably one of the most popular times, largely due to the stunning Pink Muhly grass that carpets certain areas in a soft pink hue.TikTok The changing foliage adds to the breathtaking scenery. Winter (December-February) offers a completely different, yet equally magical, experience with the renowned Winter Light Festival. The garden is adorned with thousands of lights, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere that is a must-see.TikTokReddit

While the garden is beautiful year-round, understanding these seasonal highlights can help you plan your visit to align with your preferences. Whether you're seeking floral displays, autumn colors, or dazzling light shows, The Garden of Morning Calm delivers a memorable experience in every season.

Getting There: Practicalities for Tourists

Reaching The Garden of Morning Calm from Seoul requires some planning, as it's not directly accessible by a single subway line. Many tourists find that booking an organized tour is the most convenient option, as these tours typically include round-trip transportation from Seoul and often combine visits to other nearby attractions like Nami Island.Reddit This eliminates the stress of navigating public transport and transfers.

For those who prefer a DIY approach, public transportation involves taking an intercity bus from Seoul to Cheongpyeong Terminal. From Cheongpyeong, you'll need to catch a local bus (like 30-6 or 30-7) that goes towards the garden. Another option is to take the ITX train from Yongsan Station to Cheongpyeong Station, which is faster but still requires a bus transfer. Some travelers have noted that this can be challenging for first-time visitors.Reddit

When planning your trip, especially for seasonal events like the Winter Light Festival, it's worth checking platforms like Trazy or Klook for specific tour packages that cater to these events. These often include transportation timed perfectly for the festival, ensuring you don't miss out and can get back to Seoul without hassle.Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2