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Inje Voyage Tips and guide

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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.

Understand

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A U.S. army officer tries bungee-jumping in Inje

Inje is famous for its beautiful nature. Over ninety percent of the region is formed of mountains or valleys, such as Mt. Seoraksan, Mt. Bangtaesan, Daecheong Peak, and Naerincheon Valley. You can take a trip to several mineral water springs and natural forest resorts. It is also a great place for the various leisure tours, such as rafting, bungee jumping, mountain biking, paragliding, four-wheel biking, or climbing an artificial waterfall.

The northern part of Inje is in the Korean DMZ, and plenty of South Korean military activity in the area. Musk deer and Asiatic black bears can be found in this remote region.

History

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Inje’s history is a story of transformation from a rugged, isolated mountain frontier into South Korea’s premier hub for adventure and speed. Historically, Inje was so remote that a famous folk saying lamented, "When will you return once you go to Inje? I cannot live in such frustration (Wontong)," referring to the county's difficult mountain passes and its distance from the capital. This isolation, however, allowed Inje to preserve its breathtaking natural landscapes through the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties.

During the Korean War (1950–1953), the county’s strategic location in the Taebaek Mountains made it the site of intense battles. Following the armistice, Inje became a vital military garrison, a status that unintentionally preserved its vast forests and crystal-clear streams from rapid industrialization. In the 21st century, Inje underwent a massive rebranding. It moved away from its image as a secluded military outpost to become the "Capital of Adventure," establishing world-class facilities like the Inje Speedium for motorsports and restoring the Wondae-ri Birch Forest, which has now become a global icon for eco-tourism and media production.

Climate

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Inje
Climate chart (explanation)
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Average max. and min. temperatures in °C
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Imperial conversion
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Average max. and min. temperatures in °F
Precipitation+Snow totals in inches

Inje experiences a humid continental climate, significantly influenced by its high altitude and inland location within the Taebaek Mountains. It is known for having some of the most extreme seasonal temperature variations in the country.

  • Spring (Mar–May): The season begins late due to the mountain chill. As the snow melts, the valleys come alive with wild greens and blossoms, making it a favorite time for hikers and photographers.
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): While daytime temperatures can be hot, Inje remains noticeably cooler and less humid than Seoul or the southern plains. The monsoon rains in July and August significantly increase the water volume in the Naerin-cheon stream, creating ideal conditions for rafting.
  • Autumn (Sep–Nov): Widely considered the best season to visit. The crisp air and the vibrant red and gold foliage of Mt. Seorak and the white trunks of the birch forests offer spectacular scenery.
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Winters are long, severely cold, and dry with frequent heavy snowfall. This extreme cold is essential for local traditions like sun-drying pollack (Hwangtae) and hosting the famous Smelt (Bing-eo) Ice Fishing Festival on the frozen Soyang Lake.

Local information

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Get in

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Inje is primarily accessible by road. While there are no train stations within the county, an efficient network of intercity buses connects it to Seoul and other major cities in Gangwon-do.

By bus

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  • 38.0695128.17251 Inje Intercity Bus Terminal (인제시외버스터미널), 12, Inje-ro 188beon-gil, Inje-eup. An intercity bus terminal. Frequent direct buses run from Dong Seoul Terminal (approx. 1.5–2 hours). It is the best arrival point for the Birch Forest and the Naerin-cheon rafting sites.It can be reached from these major destinations:
    • Dong-Seoul terminal (Korean: 동서울종합터미널) in Seoul
    • Wonju intercity bus terminal (Korean: 원주시외버스터미널) in Wonju
    • Chuncheon intercity bus terminal (Korean: 춘천시외버스터미널) in Chuncheon
    • Sokcho intercity bus terminal (Korean: 속초시외버스터미널) in Sokcho OSM directions
  • 38.1255128.21152 Wontong Public Bus Terminal (원통공용버스터미널), 1, Wontong-ro 174beon-gil, Buk-myeon. A major transit hub located north of the town center. Most buses from Seoul stop here after Inje-eup. This is the primary terminal for hikers heading to Baekdamsa Temple and the inner Seoraksan area. OSM directions
  • To Inje Speedium: If you are heading to the racing circuit by bus, take a bus to the Hyeon-ri (Girin-myeon) Terminal. Alternatively, some travelers take a bus to Sinnam and then a taxi to the circuit, although driving is highly recommended for motorsports fans.

By train

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There is no direct rail service to Inje. The most common rail-to-bus transfer points are:

  • Via Chuncheon Station: Take the Gyeongchun Line (subway or ITX-Cheongchun) to Chuncheon. From the station, take a taxi or city bus to the Chuncheon Intercity Bus Terminal, where frequent buses depart for Inje (approx. 1.5 hours).
  • Via Wonju Station: Take a KTX-Eum train to Wonju or Manjong Station. Transfer to the Wonju Intercity Bus Terminal for a bus to Inje (approx. 2 hours).

By car

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Inje has become significantly more accessible since the opening of the Seoul–Yangyang Expressway (Highway 60).

  • From Seoul: The drive from eastern Seoul typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Use the Inje IC for the town center or the Naerincheon IC (which features a famous eco-friendly service area) for rafting and the Speedium.
  • Scenic Route: For driving enthusiasts, taking National Route 44 offers a more scenic experience through the winding mountain passes, though it takes longer than the expressway.

Get around

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Public transportation in the county is scarce, so taxis will have to make do if you want to get anywhere in Inje. There are plenty waiting outside the bus terminal. Remember to note down the phone number of your taxi driver. Alternately, exploring Inje became significantly easier if you are already on a self-driving trip across South Korea.

By bus

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Local buses (Nong-eo-chon buses) connect the main terminals in Inje-eup and Wontong to the surrounding villages.

  • Hubs: Most local routes start from either the Inje Intercity Bus Terminal or the Wontong Public Bus Terminal.
  • Routes for Travelers:
    • To the Birch Forest: Take a bus heading towards Wondae-ri from Inje Terminal.
    • To Baekdamsa: Take a local bus from Wontong Terminal to the Baekdamsa entrance (Yongdae-ri).
  • Payment: Standard transportation cards (T-money, etc.) are accepted. Intervals can be very long (1–3 hours), so checking the schedule at the terminal is essential.

By car

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For motorsports enthusiasts and those who enjoy scenic drives, a car is the ideal way to explore Inje.

  • Driving Experience: The roads in Inje are a dream for those who love winding mountain passes. National Route 44 over Hangyeryeong Pass or the old roads through Misiryeong offer technical curves and breathtaking views.
  • Access to Speedium: The Inje Speedium circuit is located in a secluded area of Girin-myeon. Driving allows you to easily access the circuit, the on-site hotel, and the nearby classic car museum.
  • Rentals: It is best to rent a car in larger nearby cities like Chuncheon or Wonju, or at Yangyang Airport, as local rental options within Inje are limited.

By taxi

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Taxis are the most realistic alternative to buses for those without a car.

  • Taxi Stands: You can always find a line of taxis waiting at the Inje and Wontong terminals.
  • Fares: Due to the long distances between destinations (e.g., from Inje-eup to the Birch Forest), fares can be higher than expected. It is common to call for a taxi using the KakaoT app or local call services.
  • Inje Call Taxi (인제개인콜택시), 12, Inje-ro 188beon-gil (Terminal area), +82 33-461-2322. Reliable local taxi service centered around the Inje-eup area.
  • Wontong Call Taxi (원통콜택시), 1, Wontong-ro 174beon-gil (Terminal area), +82 33-461-3337. Primary taxi service for hikers heading to Seoraksan or Baekdamsa.

By foot

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Walking is only practical within the small town centers of Inje-eup or Wontong. For everything else, you will need a vehicle. However, once you reach your destination—like the Birch Forest or the Seoraksan trails—walking is the only way to experience the pristine nature.

See

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Inje’s landscapes are characterized by a dramatic mix of high-speed racing circuits, serene alpine forests, and ancient temples nestled deep within the Taebaek range.

  • 38.062536128.1713291 Park In-hwan Literary Museum (박인환문학관), 50 Inje-ro 156beon-gil, Inje-eup, +82334622086. 09:00-17:30. 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. Free. OSM directions
  • 38.062848128.1716822 Inje Mountain Village Folk Museum (인제산촌민속박물관), 415-1 Sangdong-ri, Inje-eup, +82334622086. 09:30-18:00. 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. Free. OSM directions
  • 37.995074128.2206913 Wondae-ri Birch Forest (원대리 자작나무숲), 581 Wondae-ri, Inje-eup, (Best to take a taxi, as bus schedules are sparse and not optimally timed.), +82334630044. 3 May-31 Oct: 09:00-18:00, 16 Dec-18 Mar: 09:00-17:00, last entry at 15:00 and 14:00 respectively, closed on all other dates. A birch forest south of Inje-eup town, scenic in all four seasons but especially in winter, when it becomes much more dreamy and romantic because of the white branches. The trekking route is easy, suitable for the casual tourist on honeymoon or a family vacation; the whole route takes 3 hours including time for photos and rest. There are decorations for photo ops along the way. Do note that in winter, park authorities require all visitors to have crampons, so that everyone can safely explore the area. If you forget to bring one, you can rent them for a fee (₩5,000). It's one of the places popular with domestic and foreign tourists, and some K-drama scenes are filmed here. Free. OSM directions
    Yongdae-ri on a misty day, with Maebawi Waterfall in the center.
  • 38.220742128.3699844 Yongdae-ri Hwangtae Village (용대리 황태마을), Yongdae-ri, Buk-myeon. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.220438128.3687285 Maebawi Artificial Waterfall (매바위 인공폭포), 1719 Yongdae-ri, Buk-myeon. 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. Free. OSM directions
  • Gombae-ryeong during winter.
    38.033179128.4311276 Gombae-ryeong (곰배령) (Jindong-ri, Girin-myeon), +82334638166. 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). Free. OSM directions
  • 38.011507128.2432037 Naerincheon Stream (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. OSM directions
  • 37.95128.358 Secret Garden (비밀의 정원), San 122-3, Gapdun-ri, Nam-myeon, +82 33-460-2170. 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. OSM directions
  • 37.95128.359 38 Park (38공원), +82 33-460-2170. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.08128.2510 Public Naeseorak Art Museum (공립 인제 내설악 미술관), 66-12, Yesurinchon-gil, Buk-myeon, +82 33-463-4081. 09:30-18:00, closed on Monday. 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. OSM directions
  • 37.9945128.322511 Inje Speedium (인제 스피디움), 458, Injesupyeon-ro, Girin-myeon. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.1605128.375512 Baekdamsa Temple (백담사), 746, Baekdam-ro, Buk-myeon. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.0935128.408513 Hangyeryeong Pass (Observatory) (한계령 휴게소), 1, Gwangchi-ryeong-ro, Buk-myeon. 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. OSM directions

Do

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Inje is branded as the "Capital of Adventure" for a reason. Whether you are looking for high-octane thrills on a professional race track or a serene walk through cinematic forests, there is no shortage of activities.

  • Inje Icefish Festival and Hwacheon Mountain Trout Festival (Every mid January~mid February) : The Inje Icefish Festival and the Hwacheon Mountain Trout Festival, the most popular winter festivals of Gangwon-do, are both held on the white ice fields created by frozen lakes. The main location is in Soyang-ho Lake (소양호). Catching the smelt and mountain trout that live in pure water is a fun experience for many Koreans. When you hear the term 'Icefish', you might first think of the activity of ice-fishing, but in Korean, it's the name of the fish (bing-eo), so it works both ways. You can fish outdoors, and there are tents to let you fish indoors if it's too cold outside. There are plenty of stalls selling raw and fried smelt during the festival - they are best eaten with gochujang. You can also have them cook the fish you caught, since cooking on the ice field is prohibited (for obvious reasons). A variety of snow and ice events, such as snow-sledding, an igloo exhibition, and snow sculptures, are also held, but the most exciting experience is walking and running on the thick ice of the frozen lakes!
  • Snow Flake Festival (Daegwallyeong /Mt. Taebaeksan/Mt. Seoraksan) (Mid January, for nine days): Winter in Gangwon-do is full of white snow everywhere. Across the mountains in Gangwon-do, visitors can enjoy a wide array of events such as ice sculpture contests, climbing ice covered cliffs, and snow sleds like the old days.
  • Inje adventure complex: 90 percent of Inje, where two-thirds of the Seoraksan Mountains are located, is mountainous. This natural environment blessed by heaven was developed with a three-adventure complex, each ideally befitting the natural topography. Visitors can experience the true enjoyment of outdoor sports, as it is equipped with facilities for beginners and the advanced.
  • Daemyung Resort Seorak Aqua World. Daemyung Resort Sorak’s most recognizable facility is the 1.6 ac. Hot Spring Theme Park. It has various hot spring baths, including a high-tech bath that provides different massages with different flows of hot spring water, an outdoor bath, a jasmine bath, a pine tree bath (Hinoki bath), and others. Sorak Aqua World also provides special attractions, such as an outdoor recreational pool surrounded by the beauty of Mt. Seoraksan, special barbecue parties in summer season, and Thai massage.
  • 37.9945128.32251 Circuit Taxi & Circuit Driving (서킷 택시 및 서킷 주행 체험), 458, Injesupyeon-ro, Girin-myeon. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.0355128.18252 White-water Rafting on Naerin-cheon (내린천 래프팅), 2254, Naerin-ro, Inje-eup. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.0362128.18183 Bungee Jumping at X-Game Resort (인제 번지점프 (내린천 수변공원)), 2254, Naerin-ro, Inje-eup. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.0068128.16554 Photography at Whispering Birch Forest (원대리 자작나무 숲 트레킹 및 출사), 760, Jajaknamusup-gil, Inje-eup. 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. OSM directions

Buy

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Inje is the center of Korea's high-altitude agriculture, offering unique mountain herbs, dried pollack (Hwangtae), and birch-themed crafts.

  • 38.067519128.174071 Hanaro Mart Inje Agricultural Co-operative (하나로마트 인제농협), 363 Sangdong-ri, Inje-eup, +82334612572. 08:00-22:00. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.2045128.35652 Yongdae-ri Hwangtae Market (용대리 황태 직판장), 44, Misiryeong-ro, Buk-myeon. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.0685128.17353 Inje Traditional Market (인제전통시장), 8, Inje-ro 188beon-gil, Inje-eup. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.0068128.16554 Birch Forest Souvenir Shop (자작나무숲 기념품 판매소), 760, Jajaknamusup-gil, Inje-eup. 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. OSM directions

Eat

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Inje’s cuisine is hearty and mountain-oriented, featuring dried pollack, buckwheat noodles, and wild herbs.

  • 38.064075128.1735451 Inje Jaelaesik Sondubu (인제재래식손두부), 427-11 Sangdong-ri, Inje-eup, +82334631858. M-F 09:00-19:00, Sa Su 08:30-19:00. 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. ₩12,000. OSM directions
  • 38.064012128.1721652 Inje Makguksu (인제막국수), 422-8 Sangdong-ri, Inje-eup, +82334615313. 10:00-19:30. 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. ₩9,000-27,000. OSM directions
  • 38.064664128.1724323 Inje Sundaeguk (인제순대국), 425-1 Sangdong-ri, Inje-eup, +82334635889. 07:30-20:00. 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. ₩7,000-30,000. OSM directions
  • 38.2052128.35684 Yongdae-ri Hwangtae-chon (용대리 황태촌), 44, Misiryeong-ro, Buk-myeon. 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. OSM directions
  • 37.9955128.15655 Yet-nal Won-dae-ri Makguksu (옛날원대리막국수), 1147, Jajaknamu-ro, Nam-myeon. 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. OSM directions
  • 37.9945128.32256 Champions Club (Inje Speedium) (챔피언스 클럽), 458, Injesupyeon-ro, Girin-myeon. 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. OSM directions

Drink

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Enjoying a drink in Inje usually means a cafe with a stunning mountain or river view.

  • 38.0065128.16521 Cafe Jajaknamu (카페 자작나무), 759, Jajaknamusup-gil, Inje-eup. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.0355128.18252 The Bridge (더 브릿지), 2254, Naerin-ro, Inje-eup. 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. OSM directions
  • 37.9942128.3233 Speedium Lounge (스피디움 라운지), 458, Injesupyeon-ro, Girin-myeon. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.061801128.1658674 Namoo (나무), 386-6 Nambuk-ri, Inje-eup, +82334626006. M-Sa 09:00-20:00. 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 cappucino, but also creative ones like toffee nut latte and mango crush ade, and even alcohol. Do try out their croffle, which is crossaint + waffle, a snack that is popular in Korean cafes. It comes with an ice cream covered in grated cheese. Menu only in Korean. ₩3,500-15,000. OSM directions

Sleep

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  • 38.015373128.1928161 Coughing of the Stars (별들의 기침), 743-71 Birch Forest Road, Nam-myeon, +82 507-1420-0455. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.043748128.2049792 Where the Sunset stays (노을이 머무는곳), 6231, Naerancheon-ro, Inje-eup, +82 33-463-9797. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. OSM directions
  • 37.9945128.32253 Inje Speedium Hotel & Resort (인제 스피디움 호텔앤리조트), 458, Injesupyeon-ro, Girin-myeon. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.1605128.37554 Baekdamsa Temple Stay (백담사 템플스테이), 746, Baekdam-ro, Buk-myeon. 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. OSM directions
  • 38.0072128.16455 Inje Jajaknamu Forest Pension (인제 자작나무숲 펜션), 760, Jajaknamusup-gil, Inje-eup. 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. OSM directions

Connect

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Internet and telephone services in Inje are reliable in the town centers and major resorts, though signal strength may fluctuate in deep valleys like the Birch Forest or Seoraksan trails.

Telephone

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  • The international country code for South Korea is +82.
  • The local area code for the region is 033.
  • Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: 112
    • Fire and Ambulance: 119
    • Tourism Information: 1330 (Multilingual support available)

Internet

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  • Public Wi-Fi: Available at the Inje Intercity Bus Terminal and Wontong Terminal.

Post

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Post offices in Inje offer international mailing services (EMS) and banking/ATM facilities.

  • 38.0688128.1741 Inje Post Office (인제우체국), 17, Inje-ro 188beon-gil, Inje-eup, +82 33-460-1114. The main post office located in the town center, providing full postal and financial services. OSM directions
  • 38.1245128.2122 Wontong Post Office (원통우체국), 16, Wontong-ro 174beon-gil, Buk-myeon. Ideally located for hikers heading to Seoraksan or soldiers stationed nearby. OSM directions
  • 37.9485128.32153 Girin Post Office (기린우체국), 14-5, Girin-ro, Girin-myeon. The closest post office for those staying at or visiting the Inje Speedium area. OSM directions

Stay safe

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While Inje is a safe destination, its mountainous terrain and extreme weather require certain precautions.

  • Mountain Driving: For motorsports fans driving the Hangyeryeong or Misiryeong passes, be aware of steep inclines and sharp hairpins. These roads can be extremely dangerous during heavy rain or winter snow. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires or chains during the winter months.
  • Extreme Cold: Inje is one of the coldest regions in Korea. If visiting for the Birch Forest or Smelt Festival in winter, dress in multiple layers and be aware of frostbite. Temperatures can drop well below -15°C.
  • Flash Floods: During the summer monsoon (July–August), mountain streams in the Naerin-cheon area can rise rapidly. If you are rafting or camping, always follow the instructions of local guides and avoid low-lying riverbanks during heavy rain.
  • Wildlife & Ticks: When trekking through the Birch Forest or Seoraksan, stay on marked trails to avoid ticks (SFTS risk) and potential encounters with wild boars.
  • Military Areas: As a frontline military county, many areas are restricted. Do not enter fenced-off zones and avoid taking photographs of military installations or personnel, as this is strictly prohibited.

Go next

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  • The Seoraksan National Park lies between Inje and the east sea.
  • Sokcho sits right beside Inje, and can be reached by bus.It is the most popular coastal city in the region, famous for its fresh seafood and the outer Seoraksan area.
  • Yangyang: Accessible via the Seoul-Yangyang Expressway. Known as the "Surfing Capital of Korea," it offers a trendy beach vibe and excellent cafes.
  • Goseong: Head northeast to visit the DMZ Museum and the Goseong Unification Observatory, offering views into North Korea.
  • Chuncheon: The provincial capital, famous for its lakes and Dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken). It is easily accessible by intercity bus (approx. 1.5 hours).
This city travel guide to Inje is a usable article. It has information on how to get there and on restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please feel free to improve it by editing the page.



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