Seoul , South Korea

Chinatown Incheon

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About this experience

Authentic Chinatown Experience – Korea’s largest and oldest Chinatown, beautifully decorated in red and gold, offers visitors an atmosphere reminiscent of China.

Historical & Retro Ambience – The surrounding area features preserved late 19th and early 20th-century architecture, providing a nostalgic backdrop with retro-inspired photo spots.

Local Market Delights – A visit to the local markets introduces travelers to special street foods that originated from the region, offering a unique taste of Incheon.

Seafood Extravaganza – A stop at Incheon’s famous fish market showcases fresh seafood, immersing visitors in the bustling atmosphere of local trade.

Traditional Cuisine Sampling – Enjoy an authentic black bean noodle dish in Chinatown and savor coffee or tea at a charming café, adding a touch of local flavor to the experience.

Available options

Chinatown Incheon

What's included

Black-bean noodle: a Korean-Chinese noodle dish with a thick, savory black bean sauce, pork, and veggies. Rich, hearty, and slightly sweet, it's a beloved comfort food best paired with pickled radish.

A cafe in a restored 19th-century building, blends history with vintage charm. Famous for red bean porridge & Nagasaki castella. it's a cultural gem near Chinatown, ideal for exploring Incheon.

Marinated Crab: delicacy—raw crabs marinated in soy sauce for a rich umami taste. Silky texture, bold flavor, best enjoyed with rice. Known as Korea’s “rice thief,” it's a must-try for seafood lovers!

Public transportation

Detailed itinerary

This is a fish marker first open in 1981. It is about 12K square meter in size and about 500 shops operating in the market!

Like Norayngjin fish market in Seoul; it has been undergoing major efforts to become a cleaner and more appealing tourist destination.

At the fish market, you can find fish, shellfish, dried & fermented seafood, and even watch skilled vendors prepare fish or slice sashimi.

Additionally, during our visit to the fish market, I will share a story about a traditional Korean dish made with fish. This will offer a deeper insight into Korean cuisine and culture, highlighting the significance of fish in Korean cooking and its connection to the local way of life.

Lunch: Marinated Blue Crab

Koreans enjoy blue crab in various ways -- boiled, in stews, or marinated in soy sauce. Among these, the marinated version is the most beloved, so much so that there's a saying: "it practically steals your rice." Only fresh crab can be used for this delicacy.

The restaurant, Samdae Incheon Gejang, has been specializing in marinated crab for over 60 years. It exclusively uses blue crabs only from Yeonpyong island, a renowned source of the best blue crab, and traditionally aging soy sauce to ensure authentic flavor.

It is the biggest & the oldest Chinatown in Korea.

We'll take a leisurely stroll through Chinatown's main street, stopping by the Black-bean Noodle Museum. Along the way, you'll hear fascinating stories about the area, as Incheon is my hometown and black bean noodles were once my absolute favorite dish.

If we're lucky, we might get to see a chef skillfully hand-pulling noodles right in Chinatown.

After exploring Chinatown, we'll head to Incheon's oldest district where we can admire buildings from the late 1800s that mark the beginning of Korea's modern era.

If you need a rest, let me know and we can have a break at nice & cozy coffee shops in the district.

Early Dinner / Black-bean noodle

We’ll visit one of two small yet famous Chinese restaurants—Teahwawon or Shinseongru—depending on the situation and your preference:

Teahwawon: Located in Chinatown, this restaurant has been serving customers since 1926 and is now run by its third generation. Its spot in Chinatown means long lines of travelers are almost always expected.

Shinseongru: Situated outside of Chinatown, this restaurant holds sentimental value for me—it’s been around since I was a child, making it more than 50 years old. While it’s always crowded, you won’t have to wait in a line.

Menu? Naturally, black-bean noodles are the perfect choice here! However, if you’d like to change or add other dishes, I’ll gladly help you place your order.

What's not included

Snacks during local market tour

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Total tour duration includes travel time

Meeting point

Yongsan station (subway line 1), in front of the ticket barrier.
From here to Incheon by subway line 1, 1 hour trip.

About Seoul

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a dynamic metropolis where ancient palaces stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers. Known for its vibrant street life, cutting-edge technology, and rich cultural heritage, Seoul offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity that captivates every traveler.

Top Attractions

Gyeongbokgung Palace

The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful architecture.

Historical 2-3 hours 3,000 KRW (free for those wearing hanbok)

Bukchon Hanok Village

A traditional Korean village nestled between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, offering a glimpse into traditional Korean life.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (some cultural experiences may have fees)

Namsan Seoul Tower

Located atop Namsan Mountain, this iconic tower offers panoramic views of Seoul and is a popular spot for couples to lock love locks.

Viewpoint 2-3 hours 10,000 KRW (observatory), 1,500 KRW (cable car)

Myeongdong

A bustling shopping district known for its street food, fashion, and beauty products, offering a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

Shopping Half-day Varies widely, from budget to luxury

Hongdae

A lively and youthful neighborhood near Hongik University, famous for its nightlife, street performances, and trendy cafes.

Entertainment Evening or night Varies widely, from budget to upscale

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kimchi

Fermented spicy cabbage, a staple in Korean cuisine, often served with every meal.

Side dish Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)

Bibimbap

A mixed rice bowl with vegetables, meat, and gochujang (spicy paste), often served with a fried egg.

Main dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bulgogi

Marinated grilled beef, often served with rice and side dishes.

Main dish Contains meat

Tteokbokki

Spicy stir-fried rice cakes, a popular street food often served with fish cakes and boiled eggs.

Snack Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Bukhansan National Park Biking along the Han River Water sports at Seokchon Lake Visiting traditional tea houses Enjoying a jjimjilbang (Korean spa) experience Strolling through scenic gardens and parks Participating in a traditional hanbok photo shoot Attending a traditional Korean performance

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Korean
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

South Korean Won (KRW)

Time Zone

Korea Standard Time (KST, GMT+9)

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Seoul is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis
• Be wary of strangers offering help or assistance, as they may be trying to scam you

Getting there

By air

Incheon International Airport • 52 km from city center
Gimpo International Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Seoul Station, Yongsan Station

By bus

Seoul Express Bus Terminal, Central City Bus Terminal, East Seoul Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It operates from 5:30 AM to 12:00 AM, with frequent trains.

Taxis

Available • Apps: KakaoTaxi, T-money

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jongno Gangnam Hongdae Itaewon Insadong

Day trips

DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone)

50 km from Seoul • Half day to full day

A unique and fascinating day trip, the DMZ offers a glimpse into the history and current status of the Korean Peninsula, with tours visiting various historical sites and observation points.

Nami Island

56 km from Seoul • Half day to full day

A picturesque island known for its beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and filming locations for popular K-dramas like 'Winter Sonata'.

Suwon

30 km from Seoul • Full day

A historic city known for its well-preserved fortress, traditional markets, and cultural attractions, offering a mix of history, culture, and local cuisine.

Festivals

Seoul International Fireworks Festival • Mid-October (annual) Seoul Lantern Festival • Late November to early December (annual) Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Korean phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Use a T-money card for convenient and discounted public transportation
Try street food and local specialties for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore Seoul's diverse neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more unique and immersive experience