A major port city west of Seoul, known for its international airport, Chinatown district, and fresh seafood market. Home to modern skyscrapers and 14th-century trade history.
Incheon, South Korea's third-largest city, is a dynamic metropolis located on the northwestern coast. This major transportation center houses South Korea's primary international airport and the country's second-largest seaport. You can visit Jayu Park with its statue of General MacArthur, taste jjajangmyeon in Korea's only official Chinatown, or explore the futuristic Songdo International City. Incheon's blend of historical landmarks and modern developments makes it a unique destination for travelers interested in South Korea's urban landscape.
Getting to Incheon
Incheon International Airport (ICN) serves as the main gateway to South Korea for international travelers. Located on Yeongjong Island, it's connected to the city center by the AREX train, which takes about 43 minutes and costs approximately ₩2,835. If you're coming from Seoul, you can reach Incheon via subway or commuter train service. The city is also well-connected to other major South Korean cities by highways and intercity bus routes.
Exploring Incheon's Coastal Areas
Head to Wolmido, an island connected to the mainland by a causeway, for a seaside experience. This area, once the site of the "Green Beach" landing during the Korean War, now has a boardwalk, an amusement park, and numerous seafood restaurants. For a calmer coastal experience, take a trip to Yeongjong Island, where you'll find beaches and a more rural landscape.
Shopping in Incheon
Incheon has many shopping options. The Bupyeong Underground Market houses over 1,000 stores selling everything from clothing to electronics. For a more modern shopping experience, visit the large shopping malls in the city center or the outlet malls on Yeongjong Island.
Discovering Incheon's Chinatown
Incheon's Chinatown, the only official one in Korea, is located near Incheon Station. This active neighborhood has red archways, Chinese-style buildings, and many restaurants. Try jjajangmyeon, a popular Korean-Chinese dish of noodles in black bean sauce, which originated in this area.
Modern Incheon: Songdo International City
Songdo International City is built on reclaimed land and aims to be a center for international business, trade, and eco-friendly urban living. You can visit Central Park, a large urban green space modeled after New York's Central Park, or see the city from above at the observation deck of the 68-story Northeast Asia Trade Tower.
Exploring Incheon's Historical Sites
Incheon played a crucial role in Korean history, particularly during the Korean War. Visit the Incheon Landing Operation Memorial Hall to learn about the significant amphibious invasion led by General Douglas MacArthur. In Jayu Park, you'll find a statue of MacArthur overlooking the port area. The park also houses a memorial commemorating the centennial of U.S.-Korea relations.
The "Street of Culture and History" features restored buildings from the Japanese occupation era (1910-1945), some of which have been converted into museums.
When to Visit
The best times to visit Incheon are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are mild, averaging in the mid-70s Fahrenheit. Winters can be cold with temperatures dropping below freezing, while summers are hot, humid, and rainy due to the monsoon season.
