Incheon

Understand

Incheon is a historically and economically significant place for Koreans. During the Korean War, the city was the site of the Incheon Landing by American forces. In 2016, Incheon became the third most populous city in the country after Seoul and Busan, with 3 million people, of whom about 60,000 are foreigners. The city serves as a transportation hub by air and sea, with a massive harbor and a major international airport. The status of the area is set to increase as various national projects are in development here. The New Songdo City plan, the most expensive real estate development in Korean history, is in progress. One of the world's tallest twin tower buildings, 151 Incheon Tower, is under early construction and one of Korea's tallest buildings, the Northeast Asia Trade Tower, is already finished. It is planned to launch further independent mini-cities for shopping, housing, and education. It received a lot of visitors for the 2014 Incheon Asian Games. Despite these developments, the Songdo district of Incheon is still under development, but has many completed areas with shops, restaurants hotels, a convention center, and spectacular architecture and green space. Famous places within Incheon Metropolitan City include Wolmido Island, the Chinatown, and the opening of the Woncheon Stream, Sorae Port and Incheon Grand Park in the southeastern region, Eulwangni Beach, Wangsan Beach, many islands, Songdo International City and Cheongna Lake Park. However, Incheon Metropolitan City does not have a good place to look around various areas. Incheon is caused by a wide city area. However, there are no major difficulties because major tourist attractions are concentrated in Wondocheong Station and Ganghwa Island, while Incheon Grand Park, Sorae Port and the island are separate from those in Wondoche, Ganghwa Island and Yeongjong Island. And with the opening of city railroads and wide-area railroads in Incheon, travel between regions is also very convenient compared to other regions except Seoul. And the easy thing to overlook is that the total area of Incheon metropolitan city is 1,062 km², much larger than the Seoul Metropolitan Government (605 km²), followed by Ulsan city (1,057 km²) among metropolitan cities. In addition, as it is long and divided into several islands, it takes a long time to travel around Incheon on public transportation.

Climate

Incheon is sometimes affected by yellow dust from the Mongolian desert region. Daylight hours range from 05:15 - 19:45 in the summer, and 07:45 - 17:15 in the winter. The annual average temperature is about 12°

Getting there

By plane Incheon International Airport (ICN IATA) is South Korea's main gateway. The AREX train connects the airport to Gyeyang (20 min) for Incheon Subway Line 1 or Geomam (16 min) for Incheon Subway Line 2. Alternatively, the limousine bus line (50 min) is always available to go to many places in Incheon, or you can take a taxi (25 min) to get into the city.

By boat 1 Incheon Port International Ferry Terminal (인천항 국제여객터미널) has connections to several cities in China, such as Weihai, Dandong, Qingdao and Tianjin. The largest operator is now Weidong, but passengers can look at full listings on the port's website (only in Korean). These ferries are similar to miniature cruise lines and provide karaoke rooms, console games, and DVD rentals (private rooms only). The trip can take as long as 24 hours, so if you have an economy ticket, request a sleeper bunk for a comfortable trip. If they are all taken, however, the only other option for an economy ticket is the sleeping deck where everyone will stay like sardines in a can. Arrive at the terminal 2–3 hours before departure to ensure there is availability for the bunks.

By subway Kyeong-in line called Metropolitan Line 1 links Seoul to Incheon. The line often provides express trains that skip some minor stops between Dong-incheon station and Yongsan station. By using the express trains passengers can save up to 30 minutes depending on where they go and for the same fare.

2 Incheon City Hall station. Incheon City Hall Station is the 14th subway station of Incheon in the north direction. (updated Apr 2023)

By ship The port of Incheon, the gateway to the Seoul metropolitan area in the waterway, was first opened in 1883. The port of Incheon is an export port, and there are passenger ships that ship old cars and various exports to and from Incheon to China. It consists of internal, northern and southern ports. The inland waterway was opened to traffic in 2012, a scenic route linking the Yellow Sea and the Han River. Meanwhile, international passenger ships are operating in each city of the People's Republic of China. The First International Passenger Terminal has routes to Yingkou, Qinhuangdao, Yantai, Dalian and Dandong. The second passenger terminal has ships operating in the areas of Weihai, Qingdao, Tianjin and Lianyungang. Incheon Hangshin International Passenger Terminal is under construction.

By bus

From various cities in South Korea, there are numerous Intercity Bus routes heading to Incheon. Travelers can book some routes from the Kobus website such as Busan, Daegu and Gwangju. From Seoul,

Getting around

Incheon has 8 city districts and 37 towns/villages (see Postal Code Finder by Government). The road name address system is used in the same way as Seoul (and many Western countries).

By subway Subway line No.1 and Suin line connect to Seoul and Gyeonggi Province. The subway line passes through many famous places. If you get off the 'Gyeyang station', you can see the Gyeongin Ara Waterway. There is also Incheon Metro Line 1. Incheon Metro Line 1 is an urban railway line of the Incheon Transportation Corporation that connects Gyeyang Station in Gyeyang-gu, Incheon, and Songdo Moonlight Festival Park Station in Yeonsu-gu, Incheon.

By bus For those who want to visit several places in Incheon, local bus lines could be another great option. There are about 2,000 operating buses; therefore, a visitor can go almost everywhere. In Incheon, the bus system is well-developed, and there are several types of buses that cater to different routes and purposes.

City (local) buses primarily serve routes within Incheon and nearby areas. Local buses have a variety of route numbers and are commonly used for short-distance travel. Blue uses (mainline buses): (간선버스) connect major districts within Incheon and often link Incheon to other cities, like Seoul. These buses cover longer distances and serve key transportation hubs. Green buses (branch buses) (지선버스) typically cover shorter routes that connect neighborhoods and residential areas to bus terminals or subway stations. They are often used for transferring to main routes. Red buses (express buses) (광역버스) are express buses that travel between Incheon and other cities, particularly Seoul. These buses have fewer stops and focus on faster travel across longer distances. Village buses (town buses) are smaller buses (마을버스) that serve local neighborhoods and run short routes within residential areas. They provide convenient transportation to nearby subway stations or larger bus stops.

By bike and scooter Conventional bicycles, electric bicycles, and electric scooters are scattered around the sidewalks of the city, and can be rented with a smartphone. For some systems, this is difficult to do without being able to read Korean.

Kakao T - This service covers the yellow Kakao T bikes and scooters (some of which are not labelled in English), and also GCOO, Xinging, and Kickgoing vehicles. The app is available in English. Choose "other payment methods" in order to be able to set up a non-Korean credit card for 100 KRW. (For Korean credit cards, you also need an account with a Korean cell phone carrier for verification.) You

See

Incheon has a lot of attractions in each region. There are places where you can experience things and places where you can feel nature. Visitors can easily get interested because there are special features in each area.

1 Wolmido Island (월미도). Wolmido Island is a lively waterfront destination in Incheon, known for its seaside boardwalk, amusement parks, and fresh seafood restaurants. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, thrilling rides at Wolmi Theme Park, and panoramic views of the city and ocean from Mount Wolmi. The island is easily accessible from downtown Incheon and offers a relaxing escape with cultural attractions, cruises, and vibrant street performances. (updated Apr 2023) 2 Chinatown (차이나타운). (updated Apr 2023) 3 Sorae Port (소래포구항). (updated Apr 2023) 4 Beam of light (불빛축제). (updated Apr 2023) 5 Dongmak Beach (동막해변). (updated Apr 2023) 6 Yeonan Pier (연안부두), Yeonan-dong, Jung-gu. The terminal is the gateway to more than 100 islands in the West Sea, offering ferries to destinations like Palmi-do, Deokjeok-do, and even China. It features the bustling Incheon Fish Market, famous for affordable fresh seafood, as well as waterside parks, boat tours, and the St. Petersburg Square, which commemorates friendship with Russia. Visitors can enjoy authentic local cuisine, coastal walks, seafood restaurants, and vibrant harbor scenery. (updated Sep 2025)

Cultural properties 7 Jeondeungsa Daeungjeon (전등사 대웅전), 37-41, Jeondeungsa-ro, Gilsang-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, ☏ +82 032-937-0125. The Daeungjeon Hall is the main worship hall of Jeondeungsa Temple, located on Ganghwa Island. Designated as Korean Treasure No. 178, this beautifully preserved structure dates back to the mid-Joseon Dynasty (17th century) and is known for its detailed wooden carvings. A distinctive feature is the small, nude female figure carved under one of the corner eaves, which is connected to a popular local legend about a carpenter's revenge. 8 Incheon government office building (인천도호부청사), Namgu-maesohol road 589. It was the first to be declared a tangible cultural property in Incheon. The buildings across the street from Munhak Stadium are reproductions, not tangible cultural properties. 9 Buddhist Sanctuary, Jeong-Su Temple (강화 정수사 법당), Hwado-myeon Sagi-ry 467-3, Gwanghwa. It is the No. 161 national treasure. 10 Gachon Museum (가천박물관), 40-9, Cheongnyang-ro 102beon-gil, Yeonsu-gu, ☏ +82 32-833-4747, fax: +82 32-833-4750. Gachon Museum is a private museum in Incheon founded by Dr. Lee Gil-ya, specializing in the preservation and exhibition of historical and medical artifacts. The museum

Do

1 Eulwang-ri Beach (을왕리 해수욕장), 16-15 Yongyu-seo 302beon-gil, Jung-gu. Daily 09:00-21:00. It is a beach in Eulwang-dong, Jung-gu, Incheon, and was designated as a national tourist destination in 1986 as it is also called Neulmok or Eolhang. The length of the white sand beach is about 700 m and the average depth is 1.5 m, which is relatively large. (updated Sep 2024) 2 Guwol-dong (구월동) has nightlife and many delicious restaurants and pubs. 3 Incheon culture & arts center (인천문화예술회관), 1408 Guwol-dong, Namdong-gu, ☏ +82 32 427 8401. The Incheon Culture & Arts Center has served as the home of culture and the arts in Incheon. 4 Haughty Cat (도도한 고양이), Rodeo Plaza 5th floor 1463-2 Guwol-dong, Namdong-gu, ☏ +82 32 433 8584. It is a cat café where you can drink some coffee and enjoy with cats. All beverages: ₩8,000. 5 Fairy-tale town (동화마을), Songwol-dong 3-ga, Jung-gu. This town is designed to show like fairy tales. The murals here are three-dimensional, so it's a great place to take commemorative pictures with family or lover. There are souvenir shops, experience facility and food shops. 6 Ganghwa mudflat center (강화 갯벌센터), Incheon Ganghwa, on the west coast, ☏ +82 32-930-7064. Ganghwa mud flat is the world's top five mudflat and one of the largest mudflat in Korea. This refers to the mudflats from Ganghwado Island to Sihwa Embankment in the south, centered on Yeongjongdo Island in Incheon. It is well preserved and its economic value is very high. (updated Nov 2019) 7 Gyeongin Arabat Road (경인 아라뱃길), 41, Jeongseojin 1-ro, Seo-gu. Open all year round. Gyeongin Arabat-road that connects the waters off Incheon with the Han River, is the first canal in Korea and is an 18-km water route linking the West Sea and the Han River. A pleasant bicycle road and a park have been built on both sides of the Arabat Road, making it a popular resting place for residents. The Arabat Road bike path is connected to the Han river bike road, which allows you to ride your bike to the West Sea from downtown Seoul. (updated Nov 2019) 8 Ganghwa Trail (강화 나들길), ☏ +82 32-934-1906. It will pass through history and culture, including the World Heritage site in Ganghwa. From the old history of the Korean Peninsula, you can see old and modern history. It covers 20 sections of 19 courses and 310.5 kilometers. It is divided according to the subject, so you can choose your route as you like. Visitors can meet the dolmen of the prehistoric age, royal tombs and buildings of the Goryeo Dynasty, and Dondae of the Joseon Dynasty, who fought against foreign powers. There is a sea and a river, and walking

Buy

1 Incheon Complex Fish Market (인천종합어시장), 27-69 Hang-dong 7(chil)-ga, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 32 888-4241. Daily 05:00-21:00. The country's largest seafood distribution market, which distributes seafood sent directly to the Seoul metropolitan area. Fresh seafood and raw fish can be bought at a low price, and fresh raw fish can be eaten if you pay extra for the restaurant. (updated Sep 2019) 2 Sinpo International Market (신포 국제시장), 11-5 Uhyeon-ro 49beon-gil, Sinpo-dong, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 32 772-5997. 10:00-21:30. A representative market in Incheon with more than 100 years of history. This place is a market with a variety of delicious foods, and the most famous food is chicken Gangjeong. (updated Sep 2019) 3 Soraepogu Fishery Market (소래포구 어시장), Namdong-gu, Nonhyeon-dong, 680 1, ☏ +82 32 719-1522. 09:00-12:00. Large enough to represent the Republic of Korea and has a deep history. It sells a wide variety of seafood like the Incheon Fishery Market. (updated Sep 2019) 4 Moraenae market (모래내시장), Guwol-dong, Namdong-gu, ☏ +82 32 471-1427. 10:00-21:00. Moraenae market is a traditional market. It was first formed in 1982. It is a comprehensive market where various products are sold. (updated Oct 2019) 5 Yonghyeon market (용현 시장), Yonghyeon-dong. Around 400 stores including a grocery store, food, fisheries and livestock products, fruit, clothing, accessories. This market has a ‘Music box’: music broadcasts are held every Monday and Saturday from 14:00-16:00 with the application song of merchants and customers. You can listen to the story of the market merchant's life through the broadcast, and you can listen to the songs you applied for while watching the market. There is also a cutely decorated cafe in the market where you can chat. (updated Dec 2019) 6 Jungseojin-jungang traditional market (정서진중앙시장), 11, Wonchang-ro 239beon-gil, Seo-gu (in seo-gu). Jungseojin Jungang Traditional Market is developing into a traditional cultural and cultural market with a theme by actively applying the tourism elements of Junggamjin which is beautiful in the sunset and cultural elements of the region. The commercial building-type medium-sized market offers a wide range of items, including vegetables, livestock, fisheries, clothing, and vegetable and many users. (updated Dec 2019) 7 Guwol Market (구월시장), 21-13, Hogupo-ro 790beon-gil, Namdong-gu, Incheon, ☏ +82 32-469-2525. 07:30-23:00. (updated Sep 2024) 8 Ganghwa Pungmul Market (강화풍물시장), 17-9, Jungang-ro, Ganghwa-eup, Ganghwa-gun, ☏ +82 32-934-1318. 08:00-20:00, Closed on the first and third Mondays. The market originated from merchants opening

Eat

In Incheon, there are a large number of quality restaurants but do not expect the staff to be able to speak English. Bupyeong and Guwol-dong Rodeo Street are two main areas for food and drink. It has the advantage of being able to enjoy a meal with drinks as well as meals. A variety of genres is available. Korean food generally offers a delightful and exciting experience. If someone is not familiar with Korean food, there are also many American and Italian restaurants which could be a safe bet for foreign visitors.

1 New York Banjeom (뉴욕반점), 4, Bupyeong-daero 87beon-gil, Bupyeong-gu, ☏ +82 32 516-4488. 11:30-21:30. New York Banjeom is a contemporary Korean-Chinese restaurant in Incheon that puts a modern and fusion twist on traditional Chinese cuisine. While they serve high-quality classics like Jajangmyeon and Jjamppong, they are particularly known for unique fusion dishes, such as their creamy, pasta-style seafood Jjamppong. 2 Jeongdeun Dakbal (정든닭발), 10, Seongmal-ro, Namdong-gu, ☏ +82 32 426-1111. 16:00-1:00. Jeongdeun Dakbal is a popular casual Korean eatery specializing in Dakbal (spicy chicken feet), a famous local drinking snack. Their most popular menu item is the fiery Boneless Spicy Chicken Feet, which is often served alongside Jumeokbap (rice balls) and soft Gyeranjjim (steamed egg) to balance the intense heat. It’s an ideal place to experience genuine Korean late-night Hof (drinking place) culture. ₩12,000. 3 Yeongyeong (연경 차이나타운본점), 41, Chinatown-ro, Jung-gu (in the Chinatown), ☏ +82 32 765-5551. 10:30-21:30. One of the most popular and long-standing Chinese restaurants in Incheon Chinatown. It is famous for its unique signature dish, White Jajangmyeon (Baek Jajangmyeon), which is prepared with a clear, savory sauce instead of the traditional black bean paste. They also offer excellent standard Jajangmyeon and various dim sum options. Expect long waiting lines, especially on weekends. ₩9,000-25,000. 4 Sinpo Dakgangjeong (신포닭강정 본점), 3, Uhyeon-ro 49beon-gil, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 32-762-5853. 10:00-20:00. Sinpo Dakgangjeong is famous nationwide for its unique sweet and spicy flavor. Unlike typical fried chicken, this dakgangjeong has a crispy texture even after being tossed in the sauce. Be warned: the basic flavor is quite spicy for some foreigners, so be ready for the kick. 5 Samgang Seolleongtang (삼강설렁탕), 95-8 Gyeong-dong, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 32-772-7885. 8:30-20:30. This restaurant serves seolleongtang, a stock soup of bone and stew meat. This restaurant boasts of a tradition that goes back 60 years. Seolleongtang: ₩6,000. 6 Granada Guwol (그라나다

Drink & nightlife

1 Dr. Caligari's Cabinet (칼리가리 박사의 밀실), 1464, Guwol-dong, Namdong-gu, ☏ +82 032-422-6253. 17:30-03:00. A popular craft beer pub known for its cozy, eclectic atmosphere and wide selection of local and regional craft beers. The venue often features a terrace and is highly recommended for 'Pimaek' (Pizza and Beer). 2 Monggeuldamsuju (몽글담주), 26-4 Sijang-ro 30beon-gil, Bupyeong-gu, ☏ +82 010-4685-5153. 16:00-03:00. A casual Korean pub in Bupyeong known for its selection of traditional Korean liquors (Makgeolli) and premium traditional alcoholic beverages. It offers creative Korean dishes like Clam and Pork Neck Slices and Beef Brisket Doenjang Stew. Makgeolli from ₩5,500, main dishes from ₩18,000. 3 Horangi Jutack (Tiger House) (호랑이주택), 1F, 17-10 Gyeongin-ro 370beon-gil, Michuhol-gu, ☏ +82 0507-1339-4470. 17:00-04:00. A cozy and atmospheric bar near Juan Station, known for its unique 'tiger house' concept. It offers a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including craft beers, wines, and traditional Korean liquors, alongside delicious fusion dishes. Perfect for a relaxed evening out. ₩15,000-25,000. (updated Nov 2025) 4 Baekya Guwol (The White Night) (백야 구월), 10-16, Inha-ro 511beon-gil, Namdong-gu, ☏ +82 0507-1312-5311. 17:00-02:00. A popular and clean culinary pub (Yori-jujeom) in the Guwol-dong area, specializing in high-quality Korean cuisine and a wide variety of traditional Korean liquors (Jeongjong, Makgeolli, etc.). Highly recommended dishes include Hanwoo (Korean beef) sets, such as the Yukhoe Samhap (beef tartare platter) and savory stews. It is an excellent spot for experiencing a modern, elevated Korean drinking culture. Main dishes range from ₩19,000 to ₩56,000 for signature sets. 5 DIGI Cocktail Bar (디지), 15, Gyeongwon-daero 1403beon-gil, Bupyeong-gu, ☏ +82 070-8657-4203. 18:00-03:00. A popular all-you-can-drink cocktail bar in Bupyeong, known for its excellent value (unlimited cocktails at a low fixed price). Outside food is permitted, and there are dart boards available for entertainment. Unlimited Cocktails: Women ₩16,000 / Men ₩18,000. 6 Oneuldo Chwihaneun Wonsungi (The Tipsy Monkey) (오늘도취하는원숭이), 40, Inha-ro 511beon-gil, Namdong-gu, ☏ +82 0507-1411-4166. 17:00-02:00. A highly rated and atmospheric Korean pub (Hansik Jujeom) in the Guwol-dong area, known for its creative menu and cozy interior. It specializes in modern Korean dishes, such as sous vide Bossam (steamed pork belly) and various spicy stews, along with traditional Korean liquors. The place is popular for its excellent food quality and pleasant ambiance. Main dishes range from

Sleep

Hotels Hotels are gathered in Songdo International City. If you come to city, you don't have to difficult to reserve accommodations.

1 Ramada-songdo Hotel (라마다 송도 호텔), Yeonsugu dongchun 1 dong 812, ☏ +82 32 832 2000, [email protected]. 2 Grand Hyatt (그랜드 하얏트 인천), 208 Yeongjonghaeannam-Ro, 321 Baekbeom-ro 910 beon-gil, Jung-gu (Near the airport), ☏ +82 32-745-1234. (updated Jan 2020)

Resort These resorts are not far from Incheon International Airport.

3 W5 resort (W5 리조트), Ongjin-gun, yeongheung-myeon, ☏ +82 32 891 0152, [email protected]. US$87-190 according to room size and day of the week. 4 Young Jong Sky resort (영종스카이리조), yongyuseoro 379, Jong-gu, ☏ +82 32 745 9000. 5 The Week & Resort (더 위크앤 리조트), 379 Yongyuseo-ro, KR Jung-gu, ☏ +82 32 745 0000. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. It is about a 5-minute walk from Eulwangni Beach and Wangsan Beach, and about a 20-minute drive from Incheon International Airport.This is the only urban resort in Korea that offers both vacation condominiums and resort facilities. There is a fitness center, AquaVenture (water park), Glowfoot (blacklight mini-golf game), and entertainment, as well as a rooftop observation deck with panoramic views of Eulwangli and Wangsan beaches and a pet park for dogs.There is a buffet restaurant, as well as a European fusion restaurant and a lobby cafe & bar. Costs range from ₩190,000 to ₩240,000 per adult per night. (updated Oct 2023)

Pensions In South Korea, the word for a boarding house where three meals a day are provided along with your room is "pension". There are 1,635 pensions around Incheon according to a 'Naver page', including the following:

6 IRIS pension (아이리스 펜션) (Yeongheungdo Island), ☏ +070 4141 6844. 7 Largo Ville (라르고빌), Hwado-myeon, Ganghwa-gun sea side road 2845 25, ☏ +82 32 555 8868, [email protected]. 8 Rothem House (로뎀하우스), Dongmak-ry, Hwado-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, ☏ +82 32 937 0678. 9 Galileeps Pension (갈릴리 펜션), Dongmak-ry 64-4, Hwado-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, [email protected]. 10 Badasory (바다소리), Nae-ry 2140, Hwado-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, [email protected].

Guest houses There are 39 guest houses according to a 'Naver page', including the following:

11 Edel Guesthouse (에델 게스트하우스), 3109-37 Unseo-dong, Jung-gu. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. It is close to Lotte Mart and Unseo Station Exit 2, which is also the next station to the airport. ₩20,000-100,000. 12 Incheon Airport Guest House (인천공항 게스트하우스), Gonghang-ro 424 50, jung-gu, [email protected]. US$43-78. 13 Good Time Guest House (굿타임 게스트하우스), Jungsan-dong Hanra-vivaldi 923

Go next

Jump on the metro to Seoul. Take the ferry to China. Take the bus or subway to Gyeonggi. Take the subway to Ansan via Oido. Take the subway to Gwangmyeong to enjoy various shopping facilities like Ikea and Costco.