The Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) has opened new O-Train and V-Train routes that take tourists through the scenic mountains of central Korea. The O-Train course (257.2 km and about five hours, not including the three-hour trek from Seoul) connects Seoul with the towns of Jecheon, Taebaek, and Yeongju, deep in the heart of Korea’s mountain country. Family and couple cars are available, and there’s an observation car for better views, too. The V-Train course (27.7 km), meanwhile, connects Buncheon and Cheoram Stations along a spectacularly steep section of track. One-day tickets (O-Train: KRW 18,900, V-Train: KRW 8,400) and multiday passes available.

FYI> www.korail.com, T. 1599-7777

Courtesy of Korail Tourism Development

Touring the countryside in the spring is always scenic and adds an element of nostalgia and romanticism. Tour operators like 7788 Tour Rail have prepared daily programs combining special trains and charter buses for tourists bound for Gurye and Gwangyang’s flower festivals. Tickets cost 72,000 won on weekdays and 92,000 won on weekends. Organized by Korail Travel, special trains go to other flower festival sites. The most popular cherry blossom festival is in Jinhae, Gyeongsangnam-do, where approximately 35,000 cherry trees are planted. Gyeongju in Gyeongsangbuk-do transforms itself into a blooming garden filled with cherry blossoms and bright yellow rape flowers.

EAT>
Gyeongju is famous for its Hwangnam bread , which is made from thin dough and filled with a generous amount of red bean paste. If you want a souvenir at an affordable price, it is highly recommended.

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Jinhae plays host to the Jinhae Gunhang (Naval Port) Festival in early April. The port city is home to the country’s Navy shipyard and base facilities, as well as the Naval Academy.

SEE>
The ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is a living museum and home to historical treasures such as the Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple.

STAY>
These daily tour packages do not include accommodation.

FYI >
www.korailtravel.com
T. 1600-7788, www.7788.co.kr

GO>
No need to worry about arranging transportation on these train-based package programs.

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