Things To Do
in Goyang

Goyang is a bustling city located in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. Known for its modern infrastructure and vibrant entertainment scene, Goyang offers a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. The city is home to popular attractions like Ilsan Lake Park, which is a favorite spot for leisure activities and cultural festivals.

With a diverse culinary scene and a range of shopping options, Goyang is a dynamic destination for locals and visitors alike.

  • "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
  • "실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
  • "죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
  • "얼마예요? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Goyang
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk in the beautiful Ilsan Lake Park, surrounded by nature and stunning fountains. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Goyang Art Center to appreciate local art exhibitions. Lunch at one of the traditional Korean restaurants nearby.

evening
:

Stroll through the vibrant streets of the Goyang Hanok Village. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local BBQ restaurant.

day 2
Culture Day
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk in the beautiful Ilsan Lake Park, surrounded by nature and stunning fountains. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Goyang Art Center to appreciate local art exhibitions. Lunch at one of the traditional Korean restaurants nearby.

evening
:

Stroll through the vibrant streets of the Goyang Hanok Village. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local BBQ restaurant.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Goyang has a well-developed infrastructure with easy access to transportation, including subways and buses, making commuting convenient.
  • The city offers a high quality of life with many parks, recreational areas, and cultural facilities.
  • Goyang is home to various shopping centers and entertainment options, catering to diverse interests.
  • The city hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, enriching the local culture.
  • Proximity to Seoul allows residents to enjoy the benefits of the capital city while living in a quieter environment.
  • As Goyang is close to Seoul, it can experience high traffic congestion, especially during rush hour.
  • The cost of living, while generally lower than Seoul, can still be relatively high compared to other regions in Korea.
  • Goyang's rapid development has led to a loss of some green spaces and traditional areas.
  • Air quality can be a concern due to industrial activities and urbanization.
  • Limited nightlife compared to Seoul, which may be a drawback for younger residents looking for vibrant nightlife options.

Best Activities in Goyang

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking at Bukhansan National Park

Explore the scenic trails and breathtaking views at Bukhansan National Park, located within easy reach of Goyang.

Visiting Ilsan Lake Park

Enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling, picnicking, and walking around the picturesque Ilsan Lake Park.

Golfing at Haedanghwa Country Club

Experience a round of golf at the Haedanghwa Country Club, offering a beautiful course and facilities for golf enthusiasts.

Tours

Uncover the best of Goyang with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Goyang

Visit one of these nice places.

Haneul Park

Offers stunning views of Seoul and the Han River, especially during the autumn season.

Onemount Snow Park

Provides picturesque winter scenes and opportunities for unique photo experiences in a snow-filled setting.

Hyoyangji Pond

Features a tranquil and picturesque landscape, perfect for serene photos amidst nature.

Paju Premium Outlets

Offers modern architecture and scenic surroundings, perfect for stylish urban photo shoots.

Food in Goyang

Goyang, South Korea, offers a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, with a focus on traditional Korean cuisine alongside international flavors. The city is known for its delectable local dishes, bustling food markets and street food stalls, as well as a wide range of restaurants and cafes to satisfy every palate. Navigating dietary restrictions is relatively easy in Goyang, with an increasing number of establishments offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Goyang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dakgalbi

A spicy chicken stir-fry dish made with gochujang (red chili paste), vegetables, and rice cake. It's a must-try and can be found in abundance in the Dongducheon Dakgalbi Street.

Must-Try!

Bibimbap

A mixed rice dish topped with an array of sautéed and seasoned vegetables, chili paste, and often a raw or fried egg. One of the best places to savor this iconic dish is at Jeonju Jungang Hoekwan, known for its traditional preparation.

Kimchi Jjigae

A hearty stew made with Kimchi and other ingredients like pork or tofu. Served in most Korean restaurants, a particularly recommended spot is Mapo Jeong Daepo, known for its flavorful rendition.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Goyang better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Jeongbalsan Market

A bustling traditional market offering a wide variety of street food like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), mandu (dumplings), and hotteok (sweet pancakes), making it a great spot to sample an array of local fare.

Jeongbalsan Street Food Alley

A vibrant alley filled with food stalls offering diverse street foods ranging from twigim (fried snacks), gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), to odeng (fish cake skewers), providing a true taste of local street food culture.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a humid continental climate. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Summers typically last from June to August, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher. Rainfall is common during this time, particularly due to the East Asian monsoon season, which can bring heavy downpours. Winters, from December to February, can be quite cold, with average temperatures often dropping below freezing, particularly in January. Snowfall can occur, but the amount varies each year. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity. These transitional seasons are characterized by blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in the fall, making them particularly favorable times for outdoor activities. Overall, the region enjoys a diverse climate that facilitates various seasonal changes and natural beauty throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Use of Honorifics

When addressing someone older or of higher status, it is important to use honorific language and polite speech, such as bowing and using appropriate titles.

Shoe Etiquette

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home, as well as in certain traditional restaurants and temples. Be mindful of this and follow the local customs regarding footwear.

Respect for Elders

In Goyang and South Korea in general, showing respect and deference to elders is highly valued. This includes using formal language and gestures to convey respect and consideration for their wisdom and experience.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Goyang with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Located in the northern part of the Seoul metropolitan area, this city is known for its modern infrastructure and urban planning. Overall, safety in the area is generally rated highly, with low crime rates compared to many other urban centers around the world. The community is often characterized by a strong sense of security, with a visible police presence and community watch programs. Public transportation, including buses and subways, is considered safe, clean, and efficient, making it easy for residents and visitors to navigate the city. Nightlife in the area is lively, yet safety precautions are largely observed, with many establishments having security measures in place. The healthcare system in the region is advanced, providing residents access to quality medical services in case of emergencies. Natural disaster preparedness, particularly for potential events like earthquakes, is also taken seriously, given the country's geographical location. While the city is generally safe, it is always advisable for visitors and residents to remain aware of their surroundings and practice standard safety measures as they would in any urban environment.

Tipping in Goyang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in Goyang, Korea, South. In most cases, tipping is not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or for services.

Payment

In Goyang, Korea, South, payment is commonly made using cash, credit cards, and mobile payment methods such as Samsung Pay or Toss. Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Goyang.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Goyang, Korea, South is during spring (April to June) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the weather is mild and pleasant.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather in summer (July to August) with occasional monsoon rains.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) brings cool and crisp weather, along with beautiful fall foliage making it another great time to visit Goyang.

Winter

Winter (December to February) in Goyang is cold with occasional snowfall, but it is also a festive season with various winter activities and holiday events.

Goyang at Night

Nightlife in Goyang, South Korea offers a variety of experiences to suit different tastes. The city is known for its vibrant and modern culture, and as the sun sets, numerous areas come alive with activity. Popular districts like Ilsan, for instance, boast a mix of trendy bars, cozy cafes, and lively clubs. These venues often feature local DJs and live music, providing a great atmosphere to unwind or dance the night away. For those who enjoy a more relaxed evening, there are plenty of late-night coffee shops and dessert cafes where you can converse with friends over a cup of coffee or tea. Additionally, the city has some excellent restaurants that stay open late, offering a range of cuisine from traditional Korean dishes to international fare. Cultural enthusiasts might appreciate the periodic night markets and outdoor entertainment events that pop up, offering food, crafts, and performances. Karaoke rooms, known as noraebang, are also a popular option for both locals and visitors, offering a fun and interactive way to spend the night. With excellent public transportation, getting around the city at night is convenient. Whether you're looking to party, relax, or explore, the nightlife in Goyang ensures there's something for everyone.

Hiking in Goyang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukhansan National Park

A popular national park located north of Seoul, known for its beautiful mountains, various trails, and stunning views.

Seongbukcheon Stream Trail

A scenic trail following the Seongbukcheon Stream, perfect for leisurely hikes surrounded by nature.

Dobongsan Mountain

Offers a range of hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty, famous for its rocky peaks and stunning vistas.

Namsan Park

A centrally located park in Seoul that features trails leading up to the N Seoul Tower, providing panoramic views of the city.

Guri Hangang Park

A riverside park with walking and biking paths, ideal for light hiking and enjoying the Han River.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Goyang through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Goyang by plane.

Incheon International Airport (ICN)

Located approximately 40 km west of Goyang, Incheon International Airport is the largest airport in South Korea and serves as a major hub for international flights.

Gimpo International Airport (GMP)

Situated about 20 km west of Goyang, Gimpo International Airport primarily handles domestic flights but also offers international services, making it one of the key airports in the Seoul metropolitan area.

Wonju Airport (WJU)

Approximately 110 km east of Goyang, Wonju Airport serves as a regional airport with domestic flights and limited international connections.

Daegu International Airport (TAE)

Located around 230 km southeast of Goyang, Daegu International Airport provides both domestic and some international flights, mainly serving the southeastern region of South Korea.

Jeju International Airport (CJU)

While primarily serving flights to Jeju Island, Jeju International Airport is about 450 km south of Goyang and offers numerous international flights, especially from Asian destinations.

Walkability

The city features a mix of urban areas that promote walkability, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. In several neighborhoods, particularly those near public transportation hubs, residents enjoy easy access to amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks within walking distance. Goyang's urban planning has integrated green spaces and pedestrian pathways, encouraging walking as a means of transportation. Major areas like Ilsan, known for its lakes and parks, offer scenic walking routes that enhance the experience of exploring the city. Public transportation options, including buses and subways, are conveniently located, further supporting a walkable environment. While some parts of the city may have slight challenges regarding pedestrian safety and infrastructure, ongoing developments aim to improve accessibility and encourage a more walkable lifestyle. Overall, residents appreciate the blend of urban convenience and green spaces, making walking a viable option for daily activities and leisurely pursuits.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Korean

The predominant ethnic group in Goyang, comprising the vast majority of the population.

Foreigners

Includes a variety of ethnic groups residing in Goyang, such as Chinese, Vietnamese, and other expatriates.

Mixed Ethnicity

Individuals of mixed Korean and foreign heritage, often contributing to the multicultural landscape of the city.

The Soul of Goyang

Discover the essence of Goyang through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Goyang, with numerous local clubs and facilities catering to enthusiasts of all ages.

Baseball

Baseball has a strong following in Goyang, featuring various amateur and professional teams, as well as youth leagues.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played in Goyang, with many courts available for both recreational and competitive play.

Taekwondo

As a traditional Korean martial art, Taekwondo is commonly practiced in Goyang, with many dojangs (training halls) offering classes.

Cycling

Goyang has many cycling paths and parks, making cycling a popular recreational activity among residents.

Running

Running is a popular activity in Goyang, with many parks and trails available for both casual joggers and serious runners.

Traffic

The traffic in this city is influenced by its proximity to Seoul, as well as its own development and population density. Major highways and roads connect it to the capital, often leading to congestion during peak commuting hours, especially in the mornings and evenings. Public transportation, including buses and subways, is widely used but can also experience delays due to heavy traffic. The city has been working on improving its infrastructure, with plans for better road systems and public transit options to mitigate congestion. The mixed-use developments and residential areas contribute to local traffic patterns, with many residents commuting to Seoul for work. Overall, while public transport is a viable option, driving can be challenging due to crowded roads and the ongoing development in the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Goyang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditionally Korean cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in Goyang offer vegetarian versions of popular dishes such as bibimbap and kimchi jeongol, catering to the growing demand for vegetarian fare.

Vegan Choices

Vegan options are becoming more prominent in Goyang, with some restaurants preparing dishes like vegan bibimbap and tofu-based stews, with 'Kim's Green Kitchen' being a notable restaurant specializing in vegan Korean cuisine.

Gluten-free Alternatives

It's relatively easy to find gluten-free options at select establishments in Goyang, especially in cafes and restaurants that offer international cuisine, as well as in health-focused eateries that cater to dietary needs with gluten-free versions of traditional Korean dishes.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Goyang with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

The healthcare system in the region is characterized by a mix of public and private healthcare providers, reflecting South Korea's broader national healthcare framework. Residents have access to universal health coverage, which is provided through the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS). This system mandates that all citizens and registered residents pay into the insurance fund, ensuring that most medical services are affordable. In Goyang, various hospitals and clinics offer a range of services, from primary care to specialized medical treatments. Major hospitals often feature advanced medical technology and a wide array of specialists, enabling complex surgeries and treatments that are necessary for various health conditions. Additionally, the city is home to community health centers that provide preventive care, health education, and basic medical services, focusing on public health initiatives and wellness programs. Accessibility to healthcare is generally good, with public transportation facilitating visits to medical facilities. The growing trend of health consciousness among Koreans has led to an emphasis on preventative care and wellness programs, which are supported by local health authorities. Telemedicine is becoming more common, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing residents to consult with healthcare providers remotely. Overall, healthcare in the area is continuously evolving, with advancements in medical technology and an increasing focus on patient-centered care contributing to the wellbeing of the community.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2024 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide