Things To Do
in Asan
Asan is a coastal city in South Chungcheong Province, Korea, perched along the Geum River and not far from the Yellow Sea. It is renowned for the historic Onyangoncheon Hot Spring, a popular spa town with a long tradition. The town also features the well-preserved Oeam Folk Village, offering a glimpse into Baekje-era rural life.
Visitors can enjoy hot springs, markets, and easy day trips to nearby cities in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Asan Historic Site, where you can explore the remnants of the ancient city of Asan. Stroll through the museum to learn about the rich history of the area, including its significance during the Three Kingdoms period. Enjoy a traditional Korean breakfast at a nearby eatery, sampling dishes like kimchi and rice porridge.
After a hearty lunch, head to the Asan Fortress, where you can hike along the scenic trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visit the nearby Asan Spavis, a popular spa and water park where you can relax in hot springs and enjoy various wellness treatments. Engage in some local shopping at the nearby markets, picking up unique crafts and souvenirs to remember your trip.
As the sun sets, experience the vibrant nightlife in Asan by visiting a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant. Savor grilled meats and local specialties while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city. Wrap up your day with a peaceful walk along the Asan Bay, soaking in the moonlit views over the water.
Begin your day at Oeam Folk Village, where traditional Korean houses are preserved in their historical form. Take a guided tour to learn about the daily lives of Koreans during the Joseon Dynasty, including traditional crafts and farming techniques. Enjoy a simple breakfast at a local café, featuring homemade rice cakes and herbal tea.
Participate in a hands-on craft workshop, such as pottery or weaving, to truly immerse yourself in the local culture. Afterward, explore the village further, snapping photos of the picturesque surroundings and the beautiful gardens. Have lunch at a local eatery, where you can enjoy dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
In the evening, return to the village to experience a traditional Korean performance featuring music and dance. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the village's thatched roofs. Conclude your day with a quiet reflection at a local tea house, sipping on fragrant teas and enjoying traditional snacks.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚌Public transit ride | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| ☕Cafe coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍜Traditional lunch set | $8-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and access to hot springs
- Historic village experience (Oeam)
- Good value for families and solo travelers
- Convenient day trips to nearby cities
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Fewer direct international flights; requires connections
- Public transport can be slower without a car
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "메뉴 추천해 주세요" - Please recommend a dish
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me
- "화장실" - Bathroom
Places to Visit in Asan
Visit one of these nice places.
Steam rising from hot spring pools with soft morning or evening light; architectural details and steam create atmospheric silhouettes.
Well-preserved traditional houses and lanes that capture Baekje-era architecture and rural life; great for wide-angle and street photography.
Expansive river views, reed beds, and seasonal birds; ideal for sunset shots and long exposure photography.
Coastal scenery with horizons over the sea; favorable in golden hour for color and mood.
Food in Asan
Asan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Korean staple of rice wrapped in lettuce or perilla leaves with multiple banchan and dipping sauces; widely available at family-owned eateries.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked pork served with sesame leaves, garlic, and kimchi; a favorite for sharing in local restaurants.
Hearty stews made with kimchi or soybean paste, comforting and perfect for cooler days.
Coastal seafood delicacy featuring fresh crab marinated in soy sauce; look for it at seaside markets or seafood-focused eateries.
Seasonal fish, clams, and shellfish grilled to order, commonly found along the coast and market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in Onyang-eup with fresh produce, seafood, and inexpensive street bites.
Seasonal stalls offering tteokbokki, hotteok, twigim, and other local snacks in the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light bow or nod is common; address elders with honorifics and use polite language.
Remove shoes when entering homes or traditional places; use designated slippers if provided.
It's polite to wait for elders to start; use utensils appropriately and keep voices moderate in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Asan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Korean restaurants. Some upscale or international hotels may add a service charge, but it is not expected in everyday dining.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (KakaoPay, Naver Pay, and local apps) are common for small purchases and transit. ATMs are available in markets and banks for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming fruit trees and early greenery; pleasant for outdoor exploring and village photography.
Warm to hot days with high humidity; expect occasional rain or typhoon-season showers; precise markets and outdoor events thrive in evening hours.
Comfortable temperatures and vivid foliage; a popular time for outdoor walks, hikes, and light outdoor photography.
Cold and drier air with occasional snowfall; hot springs are particularly enjoyable and daylight hours are shorter.
Asan at Night
Hiking in Asan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, scenic riverside path with birdlife and seasonal scenery.
Short forested loop offering views of traditional houses and farmland.
Scenic route connecting parks and the hot spring cluster; gentle elevation change.
Airports
How to reach Asan by plane.
Major gateway to Seoul; roughly 1.5–2 hours away by highway or rail transfer.
Primary international hub; typically 2.5–3.5 hours by road or rail to Asan.
Nearest regional airport to the area; about 1–2 hours by car or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families with children; neighborhoods feel safe and welcoming.
A significant elderly population with traditional cultural ties and community centers.
Some commuters to larger cities; growing service and hospitality sectors around the hot springs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular spectator sport with local teams and community leagues.
Common pastime; matches at local fields and stadiums nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Asan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Korean dishes include meat or fish stock; navigate by choosing plant-forward jjigae, bibimbap without meat, and banchan; ask for no fish sauce or anchovy stock and look for tofu-based dishes in tofu or vegetable-focused restaurants.