Things To Do
in Ansan
Ansan is a coastal city in Gyeonggi Province, just southwest of Seoul, known for its diverse communities and active portside life. The city blends modern suburban neighborhoods with river and seaside vistas along Ansan Bay. Visitors can explore a mix of traditional markets, multicultural eateries, and scenic coastal walks.
With easy access to Seoul and Incheon, Ansan serves as a convenient base for exploring western Korea while offering its own urban and natural highlights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ansan Cultural Center, where you can immerse yourself in local art and history. Stroll through the nearby Ansan Market, where the vibrant stalls and fresh produce will awaken your senses. Enjoy a traditional Korean breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like kimchi stew and rice.
Visit the Ansan Botanical Garden, where you can explore the beautiful landscapes and unique plant species native to the region. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the peaceful waters of the Ansan Lake Park, perfect for relaxation and reflection. Grab lunch at a nearby café, enjoying a delicious bowl of bibimbap while overlooking the serene lake.
As the sun sets, head to the Ansan Grand Park for a peaceful evening stroll amongst the illuminated trees and pathways. Find a cozy spot to unwind while enjoying a picnic dinner under the stars. Conclude your day with a visit to a local tea house, sipping on traditional Korean teas and indulging in sweet rice cakes.
Begin your day by visiting the serene Jeongja-dong Temple, known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning architecture. Spend time meditating or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings as the morning light filters through the trees. Afterward, partake in a traditional temple breakfast, sampling vegetarian dishes that nourish the body and soul.
Continue your cultural exploration at the Hwarangdae Temple, where you can learn about Buddhist practices and participate in a guided tour. Engage with the monks and discover their daily routines, gaining insight into a lifestyle rooted in spirituality. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby noodle shop, tasting homemade jajangmyeon, a popular Korean dish.
Return to the city and visit the local performance hall for an evening of traditional Korean music or dance. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture as you watch captivating performances that showcase the country's rich heritage. Finish the day with dinner at a popular Korean barbecue restaurant, grilling your own meats and enjoying a variety of side dishes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment in city center (monthly) | $600-900 |
| 🚆Public transportation monthly pass | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible base for exploring western Korea and Seoul
- Coastal scenery and growing multicultural dining options
- Reasonable costs and a relaxed pace compared to bigger cities
- Growing infrastructure and public transit connections
- Smaller nightlife scene than central Seoul or Incheon
- Some areas can be less walkable or car-dependent
- Limited English signage outside main zones
- Weather can be humid in summer and cold in winter
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me / Pardon
- "다음에 또 만나요" - See you next time
- "이것은 얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "화장실이 어디에요?" - Where is the restroom?
- "도와주세요" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Ansan
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide water views, calm mornings, and sunset silhouettes over the harbor—great for landscape and lifestyle photography.
Colorful stalls, people in motion, and market life provide vibrant street photography opportunities.
Expansive tidal flats and salt marshes offer dramatic light and wide-angle compositions.
Food in Ansan
Ansan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bubbling kimchi stew often served with rice and tofu; widely available in most Korean eateries in Ansan.
Must-Try!
A savory seafood pancake perfect for sharing, commonly enjoyed with a dipping soy-vinegar sauce.
A hot stone bowl version of bibimbap with rice, vegetables, chili paste, and a choice of meat or tofu.
Grilled meats at many hometown-style restaurants; try samgyeopsal (pork belly) or bulgogi with side dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market with fresh seafood, vegetables, prepared foods, and affordable street snacks.
Casual lanes near central neighborhoods offering tteokbokki, hotteok, twigim, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite bow or head nod is common; address people with titles or honorifics. Wait your turn in lines and show modesty in conversations.
Use both hands when giving or receiving items to elders or strangers; avoid sticking chopsticks upright in bowls; share dishes modestly and say thank you.
Remove shoes in homes or traditional spaces when required. If visiting, presenting a small gift to a host is thoughtful.
Safety
Tipping in Ansan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most casual establishments in Korea. In upscale or international venues, a small tip may be appreciated but is not required. Leave service charges only if requested or clearly included in the bill.
Cash (KRW) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Kakao Pay, Naver Pay) are common in larger stores and restaurants. ATMs are available in markets and banks.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; ideal for city walks and harbor photography. Bring a light jacket and be prepared for intermittent rain.
Warm to hot with high humidity; occasional typhoons or heavy rain. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and enjoy seaside breezes along the coast.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; a great time for outdoor hikes and city sightseeing. Layered clothing is advised.
Cold with occasional wind chills; occasional snowfall in higher spots. Dress warmly and plan indoor breaks for comfort.
Ansan at Night
Hiking in Ansan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-covered peak with well-marked trails offering city views and a rewarding day hike near Ansan.
Accessible routes along tidal flats and salt marshes, ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Gentle to moderate routes suitable for weekend day hikes with scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Ansan by plane.
Major international hub about 40–60 minutes by car or rail depending on traffic; offers extensive international and domestic flights and seamless connections to Seoul and Ansan.
Close-to-mid-range option for domestic and some international routes; convenient for quick trips to/coastline areas of western Korea.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with diverse neighborhoods and growing multicultural communities.
Significant communities from Vietnam, China, the Philippines, and other regions; visible in schools, markets, and cultural events.
A youthful demographic in residential districts and near educational institutions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at community fields and local leagues; easy to catch pick-up games in parks.
Korean baseball culture is strong; local parks may host amateur games and events.
Korean martial arts tradition with clubs and demonstrations available for visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ansan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Korean dishes include meat-based broths or fish sauce. Look for tofu stews, vegetable bibimbap (without fish sauce), and clearly labeled vegetarian options. Don’t hesitate to ask for no meat stock or to customize dishes; many cooks will accommodate if asked politely.