Introduction: More Than Just a Bike Ride
Forget typical tours—Jeongseon Rail Bike (정선 레일바이크) offers a magical blend of history, engineering, and nature. This unique attraction repurposes an old train track into a pedal-powered journey through Gangwon-do’s mountains, valleys, and rivers. It’s perfect for travelers craving slow travel with cinematic views—no intense cycling required!
Getting There: Your Journey to Jeongseon
• From Seoul: Take the KTX to Jecheon Station (1.5 hours), then transfer to a bus to Auraji Station (정선 아우라지역, 90 mins). Pre-booking KTX tickets via Korail or Trip.com is essential.
• By Bus: Direct buses run from Seoul Express Bus Terminal to Jeongseon (3 hours). From there, taxis reach Auraji Station in 10 minutes.
Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds!
The Experience: A 3-Act Rail Adventure
- Departure from Auraji Station: Glide past the Soyang River, surrounded by pine forests. Pedaling is effortless—electric assist kicks in on uphill sections!
- Tunnel of Wonders: Pass through themed tunnels—one bursts with neon lights and K-pop beats, another mimics a starlit galaxy. Insta-worthy!
- Gohan Lake Finale: The route ends at Gohan Station, where a vintage train (included in your ticket) returns you to Auraji. Watch for emerald-green waters and jagged peaks!
Distance: 7.2 km (≈1 hour) | Ticket: ₩25,000–35,000 (book via Naver or onsite).
Why Foreigners Love It
✓ Accessible Fun: Bikes seat 2–4 people; no fitness level needed.
✓ Seasonal Magic:
- Spring: Cherry blossoms + snow-capped peaks.
- Summer: Lush greens reflected in rivers.
- Fall: Fiery maple forests (peak mid-October).
- Winter: Snow-dusted fairytale scenes (heated seats provided!).
✓ Local Culture: Stop at Auraji’s Makgeolli Alley post-ride for savory pajeon (scallion pancakes) and rice wine.
Essential Tips
① Book Early: Reserve online 2+ weeks ahead—slots sell out fast!
② Dress Smart: Layers + windbreakers; mountain weather shifts fast.
③ Timing: Aim for sunrise or sunset rides for golden-hour photos.
④ Extend Your Trip: Pair with nearby Gangwon Land casino or Daegwallyeong Snow Festival (winter).
Final Thoughts
Jeongseon Rail Bike isn’t just a ride—it’s Korea’s countryside unfolding at your own pace. Whether you’re a solo traveler or with family, this eco-friendly journey blends relaxation with adventure. Ready to escape Seoul’s buzz? Your mountain fairytale awaits!
> “Pedal, pause, gasp at the view—repeat. This is slow travel at its finest.” 🌄🚲