The Feel of a Bite in the Icy Light on a Winter River: A Trip to the Ice Nation Hwacheon Sancheoneo Festival
Introduction
When white breaths begin to settle over the winter river, the waters of Hwacheon slowly turn into a still sheet of ice. Waiting for the festival that has yet to begin, I first picture the sancheoneo trout swimming beneath the holes in the ice, and the faces of people above, bursting into laughter. Following that special thrill that only blooms in the cold air, I’ve sketched out the Ice Nation Hwacheon Sancheoneo Festival that will soon unfold.
Table of Contents
- Guide
- Program Information
- Visit (Planned) Impressions
- Where to Stay
- Restaurants & Cafés
- Nearby Attractions
- Getting There
- Closing Thoughts
- Photo Snapshots
- Videos
- Related News
Guide
- Name : Ice Nation Hwacheon Sancheoneo Festival
- Period : 2026-01-10 ~ 2026-02-01
- Opening Hours : 9:00 ~ 18:00 (Night fishing 18:00 ~ 21:00)
- Location : 137 Sancheoneo-gil, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Main festival venue – Hwacheoncheon Stream)
- Admission : Paid (Please check the website for details.)
- Hosted/Organized by : Hwacheon-gun, Nara Foundation
- Contact : 1688-3005
- Official Website : www.narafestival.com
- 10:00 After arriving at the festival grounds, stop by the General Information Center to pick up a map and program schedule, and reserve your ice fishing time slot.
- 11:00 Enjoy sancheoneo ice fishing on the frozen Hwacheoncheon while soaking in the winter river scenery and the feel of a bite on the line.
- 13:00 Have lunch at the on-site Sancheoneo Restaurant or the sashimi/grill centers, where you can enjoy your catch as sashimi or grilled fish.
- 14:30 Focus on fun and play at the snow and ice experience zones and the winter sports zone, including snow sledding, ice sledding, and the Eolgomiseong ice slide.
- 17:00 Visit the Seondeung Street Festival and the world’s largest indoor ice sculpture plaza to admire winter scenery where lights and ice sculptures blend together.
- 19:00 Enjoy night fishing or evening events, then head to nearby accommodation for a relaxing rest.
Weekends and public holidays can be crowded, so a relaxed schedule will help you enjoy the festival more leisurely.
*The food information for the festival grounds below is based on the 2025 festival; details for the 2026 festival are currently being updated.* The Ice Nation Hwacheon Sancheoneo Festival, held in Hwacheon, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, is an unusual winter festival that was selected as one of CNN’s “7 Wonders of Winter” in 2011. Every January, when the famously clear Hwacheoncheon Stream freezes solid, visitors can catch sancheoneo trout—known as the “queen of the valley”—through ice fishing and bare-hand catching, keeping smiles bright even in the biting cold.
You can enjoy your freshly caught sancheoneo as sashimi or grilled fish on the spot, and the addition of ice sledding, snow sledding, bobsleigh and other winter activities makes it a great destination for all ages. With more than a million visitors every year, take in the full winter landscape of Hwacheon with linked attractions like Seondeung Street and the indoor ice sculpture plaza.
Program Information
This is the festival’s signature experience, where you fish for sancheoneo through holes drilled into the frozen surface of Hwacheoncheon. Both on-site registration and reservations are available, and in the lure fishing zone you can enjoy a more serious angling experience.
Jump into the cold water and try catching sancheoneo with your bare hands. The activity runs for only a short time, but the thrilling moment when you grab a fish darting through the current stays with you for a long time.
A snow and ice play zone that everyone from children to adults can enjoy. Glide down the wide slopes on snow or ice sleds and feel the joy of racing across a winter field.
Enjoy a thrilling ride cutting through the winter sky and a giant slide shaped like Eolgomiseong Castle. Along with the fantastic snow sculptures, it’s also a great photo spot.
An area where you can try various winter sports such as ice soccer, curling, figure skating, and ice bubble suits. Even without professional gear, you can casually enjoy and discover the charm of winter exercise.
The opening ceremony marks the start of the festival, followed by a variety of programs such as the Hwacheon Luck-or-Not Event and street performances. Interactive shows like magic and juggling are also prepared, making it fun just to look around.
A General Information Center, fishing guides, warming shelters and infant lounges, mobility helpers, a medical center, an emergency rescue team, and the Hwacheon Fire Station are all on duty so you can enjoy the festival with relative peace of mind even in the cold winter.
The Seondeung Street Festival and the world’s largest indoor ice sculpture plaza operate together. Stroll along a street where lights and ice blend, and experience a winter kingdom-like scene among ice sculptures in various themes.
On-site registration for fishing is first-come, first-served, and spots may fill up completely by the morning on weekends. If possible, make a reservation in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
Registration for the bare-hand catching experience closes about 20 minutes before each session. Arrive at the venue a little early so you can prepare without rushing and be sure not to miss it.
There are many food stalls and vendor booths both inside and outside the festival grounds, so bringing cash, warm clothing, and a change of clothes will make your visit more comfortable.
Registration for the bare-hand catching experience closes 20 minutes before start time, so allow enough time to get there.
Pack extra clothes and waterproof/winter gear so you can stay warm after water activities.
Visit (Planned) Impressions
Today is December 27, 2025. The Ice Nation Hwacheon Sancheoneo Festival is scheduled to be held from January 10 to February 1, 2026, so I haven’t visited yet. Instead, I’d like to share my feelings as I wait for the scent of winter that will soon arrive. With the festival just around the corner, my excitement refuses to settle, and the scenes on the ice have already played out several times in my mind.
Recently, Hwacheon-gun has been ramping up promotional activities targeting domestic and overseas travel agencies and foreign media to publicize the 2026 Sancheoneo Festival. I heard they plan to hold a briefing session at the Korea Press Center in Seoul for foreign correspondents and are preparing familiarization tours with representatives from travel agencies in Vietnam, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and more. They are also carrying out “road marketing” by putting up festival posters at highway rest areas nationwide, so I feel I might soon spot the familiar sancheoneo illustration flickering by among the winter scenery outside the car window, which only heightens my anticipation.
The aesthetic richness of the festival is already starting to show little by little. On December 20, “Seondeung Street,” where tens of thousands of sancheoneo-shaped lanterns hang together, was lit up on Jungang-ro in Hwacheon-eup, and the indoor ice sculpture plaza has also opened. From stately structures like the Silla-era Hwangnyongsa Temple’s nine-story wooden pagoda to popular character sculptures that children love, a wide variety of forms are recreated in fantastical ice. I want to wander between these ice sculptures infused with light and feel the thrill that rises with the cold air throughout my body.
Though I haven’t been there yet, the winter scenes in my mind grow clearer with each new piece of news. I can almost see the shape of a sancheoneo moving delicately like a needle through a hole in the ice, the bursts of laughter and exclamations from people here and there, and the nightly spectacle of light and shadow unfolding in the festival’s illuminations. As the festival period approaches, the night air will grow even colder, but I already long for the warmth that will bloom within it and the gentle kindness shared among people.
If you happen to go, I hope you prepare thoroughly for the cold and plan a relaxed schedule that lets you soak everything in. Small moments—fleeting smiles and glances, a warm meal shared together—will linger long in your memory of this winter festival. I, too, am quietly waiting for it. Counting down the days to the opening, I imagine the countless stories that will spread across the ice.
Where to Stay
To fully enjoy the festival, it’s best to base yourself in Hwacheon-eup or nearby areas and allow plenty of time. Accommodations in downtown Hwacheon are convenient for both walking and driving, while pensions and resorts around Hanam-myeon and Sangseo-myeon are great for enjoying lake and mountain views. Refer to the options below to plan a winter night that suits your route and preferences.
31-10 Jungang-ro 2-gil, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A motel in downtown Hwacheon with good access to the festival grounds.
Ideal for a one-night stay if you’re traveling light with minimal luggage.
Distance: 1.1 km
31-4 Jungang-ro 2-gil, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Located in downtown Hwacheon, with easy access to restaurants and convenience facilities.
Close enough to enjoy both the Sancheoneo Festival and a stroll around town.
Distance: 1.1 km
Dagagada Hanok, 167 Pyeonghwa-ro, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A hanok-style stay with a traditional atmosphere, ideal for a quiet retreat.
A comfortable driving distance to downtown Hwacheon and the festival grounds.
Distance: 2.3 km
865 Pyeonghwa-ro, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A pension nestled in nature, perfect for those seeking a quiet stay.
Enjoy the winter fields and river scenery as you drive to and from the festival.
Distance: 4.6 km
2861-10 Chunhwa-ro, Hanam-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A pension in Hanam-myeon that’s great to pair with a scenic drive.
A bit farther from the festival grounds, but a good option if you prefer a quiet stay.
Distance: 5.7 km
254 Hosu-gil, Hanam-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A resort-type accommodation near the lake, ideal for both views and relaxation.
You’ll need a car, but you can stay while gazing out over the winter lake.
Distance: 8.3 km
913-10 Mansandong-ro, Sangseo-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A pension at the foot of a mountain, suited for those who enjoy quiet forest scenery.
A good base for drives along snow-covered fields and mountain roads.
Distance: 9.1 km
898-16 Mansandong-ro, Sangseo-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A pension surrounded by nature, with a layout well suited for families and groups.
A good choice if you’d like to spend the night in a quiet mountain village after visiting the festival.
Distance: 9.1 km
If you’re not used to driving on snow or ice, consider staying in downtown Hwacheon and plan to get around mostly on foot or with short drives.
Restaurants & Cafés
Around the festival grounds in Hwacheon-eup you’ll find a cluster of restaurants perfect for winter, from hot soups and makguksu to fish stew and cafés. Considering your route, choose a place near the festival grounds for lunch and somewhere close to your accommodation for a relaxed dinner or tea time.
13 Sansuhwa-ro, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A place where you can sample local takju and get a light taste of Hwacheon.
Nice for a brief stop after the festival to enjoy a drink with some warm side dishes.
Distance: 0.6 km
8 Jungang-ro 5-gil, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A Korean restaurant well suited for family visitors.
Conveniently located for both lunch and dinner before or after the festival.
Distance: 1.0 km
13-3 Jungang-ro 2-gil, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A familiar franchise chicken brand, ideal for a simple meal or late-night snack.
Great for takeout or to-go orders before heading back to your accommodation after the festival.
Distance: 1.0 km
Shincheonil Makguksu, 34-9 Jungang-ro, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A place to enjoy refreshing makguksu, recommended for those seeking Gangwon’s buckwheat dishes.
Pairs well with something spicy and hot after ice fishing.
Distance: 1.1 km
Ppoyane Restaurant, 59 Gudunjigil, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A restaurant offering home-style countryside meals.
A nice stop for a leisurely lunch if you’re traveling by car.
Distance: 2.5 km
6445 Yeongseo-ro, Sangseo-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A roadside restaurant that’s convenient for a meal during a drive.
Worth considering if you prefer eating in a quieter spot away from the festival area.
Distance: 2.6 km
91 Paroho-ro, Gandong-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A restaurant specializing in fish stew, perfect for enjoying hot broth in winter.
Combine it with a visit to the Paroho area for a full and satisfying day.
Distance: 4.9 km
2861-10 Chunhwa-ro, Hanam-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A café with a garden, perfect as a stop on a scenic drive.
Enjoy a hot drink while taking in the winter landscape.
Distance: 5.7 km
Mixing festival food booths with outside restaurants can help you cut down on wait times.
Nearby Attractions
After enjoying the Sancheoneo Festival, it’s nice to explore Hwacheon’s natural and historical spots. Paroho Observatory, the Native Fish Ecology Experience Center, and Gore-ri Arboretum Park are all about 20 minutes away by car, making them easy to include as same-day courses. Use the attractions below to build your own winter circuit around Hwacheon.
1121 Yongam-ri, Hanam-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A prehistoric site where you can glimpse traces of ancient times, ideal for a quiet walk.
Strolling around the site with fields lightly dusted with snow offers a unique winter ambiance.
Distance: 2.3 km
514-1 Gore-ri, Hanam-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A park where river and trees meet along walking paths, with Banji Bridge adding to the charm.
A great spot to take photos while strolling slowly along snow-covered trees and riverbanks.
Distance: 4.4 km
484-2 Gore-ri, Hanam-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A tree famous as a photo spot, offering a different mood with each season.
Even in winter, it’s a peaceful place to capture memorable photos.
Distance: 4.7 km
685 Pyeonghwa-ro, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A bridge with a unique name and atmosphere, great for capturing Hwacheon’s scenery.
A quick stop before or after the festival to take in the winter river view.
Distance: 4.7 km
1313-1 Guman-ri, Gandong-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A mountain offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for nature lovers.
In winter, check the weather and trail conditions in advance and visit with safety in mind.
Distance: 4.9 km
366 Eoryongdong-gil, Gandong-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A facility where you can observe and experience the region’s native fish up close.
Combine it with the Sancheoneo Festival for an educational visit with children.
Distance: 5.0 km
208 Paroho-ro, Gandong-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
An observatory overlooking Paroho Lake, where mountains and water create a striking panorama.
On a clear winter day, stop by during a drive to take in the open view.
Distance: 5.8 km
97 Geonneondeul-gil, Hanam-myeon, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Especially beautiful when the lotus flowers bloom, but in winter it offers calm field scenery.
A pleasant short walk while looking out over snow-covered paddies and ponds.
Distance: 9.3 km
Winds around Paroho and the observatory can be strong, so hats, scarves, and other warm accessories are helpful.
Getting There
Public Transportation — You can take a bus to Hwacheon from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal. It runs about 24 times a day and takes around 2 hours 40 minutes. If you’re traveling by train, take an ITX-Cheongchun train or subway to Chuncheon Station from Yongsan or Cheongnyangni Station, then transfer to an intercity bus from Chuncheon to Hwacheon.
By Car — Set your navigation destination to “Hwacheon County Office” or “Sancheoneo Festival Grounds” for convenience. Exit at Chuncheon IC on the Jungang Expressway, follow National Route 46 through Baehuryeong Tunnel and Oeum Intersection, then take Local Route 416 into downtown Hwacheon. Cross Hwacheon Bridge to reach the festival grounds. Around 40 temporary parking lots operate near the venue, and congestion is expected on weekends and holidays, so it’s best to leave earlier than usual.
If you’re driving, check your winter tires and chains beforehand to prepare for snowy or icy roads.
Closing Thoughts
The Ice Nation Hwacheon Sancheoneo Festival is a place where you can fish for sancheoneo on the frozen Hwacheoncheon, glide across snow and ice, and feel the unique bite and warmth of winter. As we await the curtain to rise on the 2026 festival, I find myself already picturing the sancheoneo swimming in the clear water below, the lights of Seondeung Street, and the cool beauty of indoor ice sculptures.
The moments of shared laughter in the cold night air, and of passing around a warm bowl of food, are what will make this festival linger in memory. If you come well-prepared for the cold and with a relaxed heart, winter in Hwacheon—bathed in icy light—will feel all the more welcoming.
