Yecheon is a county in the North Gyeongsang region of South Korea. It's a place where culture and nature blend seamlessly, drawing in visitors with its unique traditions and serene landscapes. Known for its UNESCO-recognized falconry heritage, Yecheon allows travelers to witness an ancient art rarely seen elsewhere. With lush mountains, eco-parks, and traditional Korean villages, it’s a perfect spot for those seeking cultural immersion and peaceful nature experiences alike.
Understand
[edit]This county has the second-largest population in Gyeongsangbuk-do, following Chilgok County.
History
[edit]Yecheon County holds a deep historical and cultural significance in the northern region of Gyeongsangbuk-do. The county's name, Yecheon (醴泉), originates from two Chinese characters: 醴 (lǐ, meaning "sweet wine") and 泉 (quán, meaning "spring").
However, another theory suggests the name evolved from the ancient Korean word Dansleor, referring to a "vast and wide land," which was later transcribed into Chinese characters.
In historical records, Yecheon County's origins are also linked to Shaanxi Province in China.
According to the Yecheon Hyeonji (local records compiled during the Ming Emperor Chongzhen's reign), the Han Emperor Xuan (漢 宣帝) named this area Yecheon upon discovering a spring whose water tasted sweet. This is how the county came to be known as the "sweet spring."
The region has also been heavily shaped by traditional Confucian culture, influencing societal values, such as the preference for male children.
During the 1980s, Yecheon held the highest male birth ratio in Korea. However, as cultural preferences shifted in recent decades, the birth ratio has become more balanced.
Tourist Information
[edit]- Yecheon County Tourist Information Center, Yecheon City Hall, 45 Bonghwang-ro, Yecheon-eup, Yecheon-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, ☏ +82 54-650-1234, [email protected]. 09:00-18:00. Provides maps, brochures, and detailed guides in Korean, English, and Chinese. The staff is known for their hospitality, and English-speaking personnel are usually available.
- Tourist information site
Climate
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Yecheon experiences a humid continental climate, with distinct seasonal variations:
- Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 30°C or higher. Frequent rain during the monsoon season.
- Autumn (September to November): Mild temperatures with clear skies, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities such as hiking.
- Winter (December to February): Cold with occasional snowfall, though heavy snow is rare. The average temperature often drops below freezing.
- Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures with blooming cherry blossoms and other seasonal flowers, making it one of the most scenic times to visit. The county’s mountainous terrain helps buffer extreme weather, keeping the summers cooler and winters slightly milder compared to other inland areas in Korea. Yecheon’s unique combination of cultural heritage, nature, and modern sporting facilities makes it a hidden gem in Gyeongsangbuk-do, attracting visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Get in
[edit]By plane
[edit]- 1 Incheon International Airport (ICN).
- For international travelers, Incheon Airport is the main gateway. From Incheon, buses run to Yecheon or nearby Andong multiple times a day (approximately 4-5 hours travel time). Alternatively, you can take the KTX high-speed train from Incheon Airport to Dongdaegu Station and transfer to a local train or bus to Yecheon.
- 2 Yecheon Airport (Air Force Base).
- Although primarily a military base, Yecheon Airport allows limited public access and special tours.
- The nearest commercial airport for domestic flights is Daegu International Airport (about 1 hour by car or bus from Yecheon). Daegu Airport offers flights to major Korean cities and international destinations, including Japan, China, and Southeast Asia.
- Gimhae International Airport (Busan) is another option, offering a wider range of flights. It takes around 2.5 hours by car or intercity bus from Yecheon.
By train
[edit]- Yecheon Station on the Jungang Line provides connections to Seoul, Andong, and Gyeongju.
- Travel time from Seoul via the Mugunghwa or ITX-Saemaeul trains takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, making Yecheon accessible for day trips or weekend getaways.
- For visitors coming from Busan or Pohang, the journey by train to Yecheon takes about 2-3 hours with transfers at Dongdaegu or Andong.
- The Jungang Line offers scenic views of the countryside, making it a pleasant alternative to bus travel.
By bus
[edit]Yecheon is well-connected to major cities in Korea via intercity buses:
- Seoul Express Bus Terminal to Yecheon — Buses run every 1-2 hours. Travel time is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with fares around ₩20,000.
- From Daegu — Frequent buses operate from Dongdaegu Bus Terminal to Yecheon (travel time: 1 hour). The fare is about ₩8,000.
- From Busan — Direct buses to Yecheon are limited, but transfers through Daegu or Andong are available (total travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours).
- Local Bus Services — Yecheon’s local bus network connects smaller towns and tourist attractions within the county. Buses to places like Jinho International Archery Field or Yecheon Hot Springs depart regularly from Yecheon Station and the central bus terminal.
By car
[edit]- Yecheon is accessible via National Road 34 and 28, which connect the region with Andong, Gumi, and Uiseong.
- From Seoul, it takes approximately 3 hours by car via the Gyeongbu Expressway and Jungang Expressway.
- Rental cars are available in nearby cities such as Andong or Gumi, providing flexibility to explore Yecheon’s countryside and natural attractions.
Tips for Travelers
[edit]- Taxi services are available but limited, so it is recommended to plan ahead or use local buses for remote areas.
- For international visitors unfamiliar with the language, the Yecheon Tourism Center offers travel advice and maps in multiple languages to help navigate transportation within the region.
Get around
[edit]
Map of Yecheon
By bus
[edit]- Local Buses connect Yecheon’s key attractions, such as the Jinho International Archery Field and Yecheon Hot Springs, with stops at Yecheon Station and the bus terminal.
- Bus fares can be paid in cash or by using a transport card (T-money or Cashbee). Cards are available for purchase at convenience stores.
- Boarding Process: Board the bus at the rear door and exit through the front door, where you tap your card or pay the fare to the driver. Note that drivers do not give change, so exact fare or a card is recommended.
By train
[edit]- Yecheon Station, located on the Jungang Line, offers convenient rail access to Andong, Dongdaegu, and Seoul.
- Train fares can be purchased at the station or via the Korail website/app. ITX-Saemaeul and Mugunghwa trains operate on this line, providing scenic views of Yecheon’s rural landscape.
- For local transportation, short train trips between Yecheon and nearby cities like Andong are popular and affordable.
By taxi
[edit]- Taxis are readily available near Yecheon Station and the bus terminal.
- Base fare starts at around ₩3,800, with additional charges based on distance and time. Taxis in Yecheon do not accept credit cards, so cash or T-money is recommended.
- English-speaking drivers may be limited, so showing your destination in Korean or on a map app will be helpful.
By bicycle
[edit]- Yecheon offers scenic routes along rural landscapes, making it a pleasant place for cycling enthusiasts.
- Bicycle rentals are available at select locations, including the Yecheon Tourism Center and local guesthouses.
- For longer trips, visitors can enjoy the cycling trail along the Nakdong River, which passes through Yecheon, offering beautiful views of mountains and farmlands.
- Helmets and safety gear are typically not provided with rentals, so bringing your own is recommended.
By car
[edit]- Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring Yecheon and nearby rural areas.
- Rental services are available in Andong or Gumi, about an hour’s drive away.
- Parking is free at most tourist attractions, such as the archery field and hot springs. The roads are well-maintained, but it’s important to note that some rural roads may be narrow or steep.
See
[edit]
- 1 Yecheon Astronomical Space Center (예천천문우주센터), Deokyulli 91, ☏ +82 54-654-1710. 10:00-17:00. a theme park on the theme of stars and space, including astronomical observations ₩8,000.
- 2 Yecheon Museum (예천 박물관), Porrie 688, ☏ +82 54-650-8317. a museum that displays Yecheon's culture and history Free.
- 3 Yongmusa (용문사), 285-30 Yongmunsa-gil, Yongmun-myeon, Yongmun-sa-gil, ☏ +82 54-655-1010. Yongmunsa Temple is a temple in Yecheon. There are cultural properties such as Hoengdongmun, Sacheonwangsang, Gwaebulttanghwa, and Gyogyoji, which was given by King Sejo of the Joseon Dynasty. FREE.
- 4 Yecheon Jinho International Archery Field (예천진호국제양궁장), Archery Field 38, ☏ +82 54-653-2434. 10AM-5PM. It is the largest bow experience complex in Korea, where you can enjoy all bow-related experiences regardless of age. ₩7,000.
Do
[edit]Festivals
[edit]There are several regular festivals in Yecheon
- 1 Yecheon Bow Festival (예천 활 축제), 310-1 Nambon-ri, ☏ +82 54-650-6037. The festival takes place every year, but the dates may vary.. The Yecheon Hwall Festival is a festival held at the Hancheon Sports Park. It is an experiential festival in which not only children but also adults can enjoy a variety of experiences related to archery, which can be interesting to participate in in Yecheon, the home of archery. ₩7,000.
- 2 Yecheon Insect Festival (예천곤충축제), 310-1 Nambon-ri, ☏ +82 54-650-6037. The festival takes place every year, but the dates may vary.. With the theme of the Insect Ecology Center, the Yecheon Insect Festival provides children with time to return to their childhoods while arousing curiosity about living insects. Free.
- 3 Geumdangyahaeng (금당야행), 16-3 Sangwon-ri, ☏ +82 54-650-6037. The festival takes place every year, but the dates may vary.. It is a night festival where you can enjoy the autumn night of the beautiful Geumdangsil Village with more dignity through various night programs. Free.
- 4 Yecheon Samgang Inn Ferry Festival (예천삼강주막나루터축제), 33 Samgang-ri-gil, ☏ +82 54-650-6045. The festival takes place every year, but the dates may vary.. Representing the Chuseok holiday, this festival is a shelter for returning visitors to and from their hometowns. Various Yecheon's representative tourism resources, cultural and artistic performances, and Retro-Newtro coexist. Free.
- 5 Yecheon International Smartphone Film Festival (예천국제스마트폰영화제), 84-3 Sanhap-ri, ☏ +82 546558082. The festival takes place every year, but the dates may vary.. It is the only representative smartphone film festival in Korea. It conveys a new perspective by making a movie in accordance with the footsteps of the times with the smartphone that everyone has. Free.
Movie theaters
[edit]There are several movie theaters in Yecheon.
- 6 Megabox Gyeongbuk Provincial Office (메가박스경북도청점), 70, Saeum 3-ro, ☏ 1544-0070. Megabox in Yecheon, North Gyeongsang Province
- 7 Lotte Cinema Co., Ltd. Diwayi (롯데시네마 주식회사디와이), 417 Guseong-ro, ☏ 1544-8855.
- 8 Lotte Cinema Youngju (롯데시네마 영주), 417 Guseong-ro, ☏ 1544-8855. 06:00-16:00. Lotte Cinema in Yeongju.
Buy
[edit]- 1 Homeplus Yeongju Branch (홈플러스영주점), 29 Daehak-ro, ☏ +82 54-630-8000. 10:00-22:00.
- 2 Hanaro Mart Yecheon Agricultural Cooperative Headquarters (하나로마트예천농협본점), 245-1 Nambon-ri, Yecheon-eup, Yecheon-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, ☏ +82 54-652-0977. 09:00-19:55.
- 3 Daiso (다이소 경북도청신도시), 1491 in Sanhap-ri, ☏ +82 1522-4400. 10:00-22:00. a complex store where you can buy a variety of daily necessities
Eat
[edit]- 1 HQ of Yonggung Dangol Restaurant (용궁단골식당본점), 30 Yonggung Market-gil, Yonggung-myeon, Yecheon-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, ☏ +82 054-653-6126. 9:00-21:00. A restaurant where you can enjoy a pleasant atmosphere and traditional taste in a good facility ₩12000.
- 2 myeongga (명가), Nambon-ri 84-3, ☏ +82 010-5345-1494. 11:00-21:00. a traditional food restaurant that sells kalguksu and dumplings. ₩8000.
- 3 a five-bong restaurant (오봉집), Sanhap-ri 1497, ☏ +82 0507-1425-2581. 11:30-22:00. It is a restaurant that serves direct fire octopus and bossam dishes ₩56000.
- 4 Janggang (장강), Sanhap-ri 1354, ☏ +82 054-652-2241. It is a Chinese restaurant that sells jajangmyeon, jjamppong, and jangpie ₩9000.
- 5 Samil Mature Society (삼일숙성회), Sanhap-ri 1237, ☏ +82 054-652-3133. 17:30-21:30. It is a restaurant where you can enjoy aged sashimi and alcohol together ₩35000.
- 6 Bakdal Restaurant (박달식당), Eupburi 397-10, ☏ +82 0507-1426-0523. 10:00-21:00. The restaurant specializes in sundae gukbap. The restaurant has a history of appearing on 633 episodes of Find Delicious TV, 979 episodes of Live Broadcast Today, 629 episodes of VJ Commando, and 2 nights. ₩8000.
- 7 My neighborhood meat restaurant (우리동네고깃집), Sanhap-ri 1416, ☏ +82 0507-1383-1122. 17:00-24:00. This restaurant specializes in pork belly and is famous for its pork neck menu. ₩13000.
- 8 Yoon Hoon-sik Farm Ssambap (윤훈식농가쌈밥), Ocheon-ri 285-3, ☏ +82 0507-1315-2343. 11:00-20:00. It is a ssambap restaurant where you can eat with about a dozen ssam vegetables and delicious meat harvested from the farm every morning. ₩14000.
- 9 a salmon restaurant (연어), ☏ +82 0507-1391-8883. 11:00-23:00. It is a Japanese restaurant that serves sushi and salmon sashimi ₩63000.
- 10 Kamegol Poon Kimchi Stew (가메골양푼이김치찌개), Sanhap-ri 1417, ☏ +82 507-1325-8902. 9:00-21:00. The restaurant serves kimchi stew that is cooked using beef bone broth. ₩17000.
- 11 a good-natured toadam (맛질예찬 토담), Oam-ri 584-1, ☏ +82 0507-1303-2290. 10:00-20:00. This restaurant is an ideal place to experience the local taste and culture. Mulberry leaf medicinal rice and grilled beef are the main menus. ₩13000.
- 12 Grilled New Daegu Charcoal (새대구숯불구이), Nambon-ri 222-111, ☏ +82 0507-1337-1547. 11:30-21:30. The restaurant offers Korean beef menus such as beef bulgogi (grilled meat), raw beef ribs, and pork menus such as pork belly and seagull meat. ₩25000.
- 13 If you get attached to it (정들면), Sanhap-ri 1423, ☏ +82 054-522-8100. 11:00-20:00. This restaurant is a Korean snack restaurant with delicious banquet noodles and tteokbokki. ₩5000.
- 14 Cauldron pot (개포가마솥뚝배기), 238-16 Nambon-ri, ☏ +82 054-655-1020. 6:00-19:30. This restaurant is famous for gamjatang and hangover soup. ₩8000.
- 15 Steamed pork belly meat (항구아구찜), Nambon-ri 225-6, ☏ +82 0546543779. 11:00-20:30. This restaurant is Agujjjim restaurant where you can taste seasoned Korean food.
- 16 Kim Seobang Charcoal Garden (김서방숯불가든), 222-162, Nambon-ri, ☏ +82 0546520903. 11:30-21:00. This restaurant specializes in beef and is famous for its munchies and ribs.
- 17 Two legs (투다리), Sanhap-ri 1416, ☏ +82 0546547900. 18:00-2:00. This restaurant is an izakaya suitable for many people to drink and eat together.
- 18 Metstone soft tofu (멧돌순두부), 222-240 Nambon-ri, ☏ +82 0546542444. Rest at 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. only. Kimchi and Chonggak kimchi side dishes are delicious in this restaurant, Soft tofu Cheonggukjang tofu hot pot is famous.
Drink
[edit]Café
[edit]- 1 Likeness (라이크니스), Room 48108, Saeum 3-ro, ☏ +82 54-652-6365. 10:30-22:00. A sensual cafe with delicious scones
- 2 Bongdeok Warehouse (봉덕창고), Bongdeok Warehouse, 49 Bongdeok-ro, ☏ +82 507-1478-5633. 11:00-22:00. A cafe where latte and dessert bread are delicious
- 3 Connected Coffee (커넥티드 커피), 30-3 1st floor, Yangji 1-gil, Homyeong-eup, ☏ +82 70-7585-1707. 08:00-22:00. It is a cafe with a lot of group seats and a hip & nice atmosphere
- 4 Cafe BBMG (카페 BBMG), 331 floor, Daesim-ro, ☏ +82 507-1402-7785. 10:00-22:00. A big cafe with delicious bread.
- 5 Kiki coffee (키키 커피), 1st floor of Hoban Plaza, 95 Waterside-ro, Homyeong-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1362-7138. 10:00-21:00. A sentimental cafe with good atmosphere with Financier and latte
- 6 Café creme (카페크렘), 1771 Hyoja-ro, 1st floor, ☏ +82 507-1337-9215. 10:00-22:00. a cozy dessert cafe
- 7 Suda & Bread caffe (수다 브레드 & 카페), 71st floor, Yangji 6-gil, Homyeong-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1312-6008. 09:00-22:00. A cafe famous for delicious sandwiches and various kinds of coffee
- 8 Wad coffee (와드커피), 24-11, Jungang-ro, ☏ +82 507-1391-7334. 08:00-22:30. Delicious dessert and a cafe with a cute atmosphere
- 9 Coffee Jeonggyeong (커피정경), 61st floor, Yangji 2-gil, Homyeong-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1356-1417. 11:00-18:00. A cafe famous for its delicious coffee beans and quiet atmosphere
- 10 Cream x Cloud (크림 X 클라우드), Room 120 Creamx Cloud, 1st floor, Sangha-dong, 229, Haengbok-ro, Homyeong-eup, ☏ +82 507-1473-2077. 08:00-22:00. a cafe famous for its rich cream and delicious coffee
Bar
[edit]- 11 Yeogiya second floor (여기야 2층), Room 205,206, 142, Saeum 3-ro, Homyeong-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1410-9287. 18:00-01:00. A bar with a delicious ice beer and a good price for snacks
- 12 Dan Hong (단홍), 2228th floor, Daehak-ro, ☏ +82 54-636-6676. 17:30-01:30. a bar famous for its fine interior and exotic atmosphere
- 13 Daedongjip Gyeongbuk Provincial Office (대동집경북도청점), Daedong House on the 291st floor, Saeum 1-ro, Homyeong-eup, ☏ +82 507-1462-0332. 17:00-01:00. A bar famous for bossam and Korean traditional wine, makgeolli
- 14 Simsul (심술), Room 107, Woobang Central Plaza, 46, Saeum 3-ro, Homyeong-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1364-9443. 17:00-02:00. Simsul, a bar with a nice atmosphere
- 15 Yecheon Samgang Jumak (예천삼강주막), 27-1 Samgang Cultural Complex, Samgang-ri-gil, Pungyang-myeon, ☏ +82 54-655-3035. 09:00-18:00. a tourist attraction that restored the old tavern in a modern way
- 16 Hannam-dong House Gyeongbuk Provincial Office (한남동그집), Room 111, 1st floor, 60-3 Korea Building, Saeum 3-ro, Homyeong-myeon, ☏ +82 507-1368-8024. 17:00-01:00. a delicious bar with a variety of menus
- 17 Sohsijiyo Gyeongbuk Provincial Office (쏘시지요경북도청), 301F, Saeum 3-ro, Homyeong-myeon, ☏ +82 54-654-6767. 17:00-02:00. It's a cost-effective Osaka sensibility izakaya
- 18 Gangnam (강남), Room 30112, Saeum 3-ro, Homyeong-eup, ☏ +82 507-1363-8563. 17:00-03:00. a bar with Korean food as its main menu
- 19 Iljuil (일주일), Room 116, Sanga-dong, 27, Geommu-ro, Homyeong-eup, ☏ +82 507-1399-5430. 18:00-01:00. The bar is famous for its delicious skewers and soups and its variety of alcoholic beverages.
- 20 Geommu pocha (검무포차), Room 120, Sanga-dong, 27, Geommu-ro, ☏ +82 54-654-6066. A delicious bar where you can have seasonal snacks.
Sleep
[edit]- 1 Today, STAY (오늘스테이), Miho-ri 4-19, ☏ +82 010-5310-5522. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. This accommodation offers a detached pool villa, 24-hour ion pool, 6m private swimming pool, 1m train road view accommodation, and outdoor terrace barbecue service. ₩370,500~₩427,500.
- 2 삼강나루캠핑장 (삼강나루캠핑장), Samgang-ri 114, ☏ +82 054-652-5554. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 11:00. This campsite is located near the famous Samgang Inn. It is a popular tourist attraction as there is a Gangmunhwa Exhibition Hall near the accommodation and there are many things to see, play, and eat. ₩40,000 ~ ₩50,000.
- 3 Sir Derby Spaful Villa (더비경 스파풀빌라), Hyogali 1079-1, ☏ +82 0507-1434-7070. Check-in: 16:00, check-out: 12:00. This accommodation has a swimming pool and is suitable for group trips. ₩230,000~₩310,000.
- 4 독체한옥스테이 (독체한옥스테이), Umang-ri 364-1, ☏ +82 010-3495-1048. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 11:00. This accommodation allows you to experience hanok and enjoy nature. ₩150,000.
Connect
[edit]PC bangs (internet cafes) are scattered throughout Yecheon, offering affordable rates for travelers. Some independent coffee shops also provide complimentary internet-enabled PCs, making it easy to stay connected.
International calling cards can be conveniently purchased at major convenience stores and shops around Yecheon train station.
Small stores near university areas also carry these cards, catering to international students and long-term visitors alike.
Cope
[edit]- police emergency, dial 112
- ambulance emergency, dial 119 This will make emergency contacts clear and accessible for travelers visiting Yecheon.