Cheongpung Lake Cable Car Day Trip from Seoul

A 12-hour autumn loop through three of Korea's most photographed seasonal landmarks.

This Seoul day tour takes you through Chungcheong-do and Wonju to three autumn focal points: Seokjongsa Temple in its red-maple season, the Cheongpung Lake Cable Car with 360-degree ridge views, and the Bangyeri Ginkgo Tree, an 800-year-old national treasure that turns into a canopy of gold in late autumn. A professional guide in English or Chinese, round-trip transport from central Seoul, and all entry fees are included; the day runs 12 hours with pickup at 7 a.m. and return by 7:20 p.m.

Step-by-step itinerary

Scenic autumn day trip from Seoul

• Pick up at Hongik University Station
• Pick up at Myeongdong Station
• Pick up at Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station
• Visit Seokjongsa Temple in Chungju
• Ride Cheongpung Lake Cable Car in Jecheon
• Explore observation deck and ridge trail
• Visit Bangyeri Ginkgo Tree in Wonju
• Return to Seoul via Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station
• Drop off at Myeongdong Station
• Drop off at Hongik University Station

The Experience

The tour picks you up from one of three central Seoul stations — Hongik University, Myeongdong, or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park — between 7 and 7:45 a.m., then heads south toward Chungju. Your first stop is Seokjongsa Temple, a quiet sanctuary on the slopes of Daelimsan Mountain where the traditional tiled roofs sit framed by autumn maples in deep red and orange. You walk the temple grounds at your own pace, breathing in the crisp air and taking in the meditative stillness before the day opens up.

From there, the route moves to Jecheon and the Cheongpung Lake Cable Car. The cable car carries you to the summit of Bibongsan Mountain, unfolding a 360-degree panorama as you rise — the deep blue lake below, mountains dressed in autumn colors all around, and designated photo zones at the observation deck where the contrast is sharpest. If you prefer to walk, a ridge trail leads away from the crowds and deeper into the view.

The final stop is the Bangyeri Ginkgo Tree in Wonju, estimated at over 800 years old and considered one of Korea's most beautiful living national treasures. In late autumn, its massive canopy transforms into a glowing dome of gold, and walking beneath its branches onto a carpet of fallen yellow leaves is the kind of seasonal moment people plan trips around. You return to Seoul by 7:20 p.m., arriving back at your original pickup station.

What’s included

• Professional tour guide in English or Chinese.
• round-trip transportation from central Seoul.
• admission to Seokjongsa Temple, Cheongpung Lake Cable Car, and Bangyeri Ginkgo Tree.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Lecirt

Is this one for you?Book this tour if you're visiting Seoul in autumn and want to see three seasonal landmarks in one day without arranging transport or entry tickets yourself — the fixed schedule and guide handle the logistics, so you focus on the foliage and the views.

Top questions

What is the Bangyeri Ginkgo Tree and when is the best time to see it?

The Bangyeri Ginkgo Tree is an 800-year-old national treasure in Wonju with a massive, sprawling canopy. In late autumn, it transforms into a vibrant dome of gold, and walking beneath its branches onto a natural carpet of yellow leaves creates a once-in-a-lifetime seasonal experience.

Does the tour include lunch, and what should I bring?

Lunch is not included in the tour price, so plan to eat at a restaurant near one of the stops or bring your own food. Wear comfortable walking shoes and layers, as you'll be outdoors for most of the day in autumn weather.

How does the Cheongpung Lake Cable Car work?

The cable car carries you to the summit of Bibongsan Mountain, where a 360-degree panoramic view unfolds beneath you. From the observation deck, you see the deep blue lake framed by autumn-colored mountains, and you can either stay at the top to photograph the view or walk the ridge trail.

Which pickup station should I choose?

You can pick up at Hongik University Station Exit 4 at 7 a.m., Myeongdong Station Exit 3 at 7:30 a.m., or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station Exit 10 at 7:45 a.m. — whichever is closest to where you're staying in Seoul.

What is Seokjongsa Temple like in autumn?

Seokjongsa Temple sits on the slopes of Daelimsan Mountain in Chungju and is a quiet sanctuary where the traditional Korean tiled roofs blend with fiery red and orange maples in autumn. You walk the grounds at your own pace and experience the meditative tranquility of the temple setting.

Is there a minimum group size, and what if I'm traveling alone?

The tour requires a minimum of 4 participants to run. If the minimum is not met by your departure date, you can book an alternative date or request a full refund.