Monday, October 07, 2013

[Jeollanam-do, Korea] Autumn Series: Rail-Biking Along Seomjingang River

Seomjingang River, one of the four major rivers in Korea, starts from Imsil and Sunchang. It merges with several bodies of water in Gokseong-gun, Gurye and Hadong before flowing into the South Sea.  With the cool weather, rail-biking is one way to enjoy the scenic Seomjingang River scenery, in Gokseong County. 




Rail biking is a self-powered pedal vehicle and runs on railroad tracks.  Work in a pair or 2 pairs, and it is great fun for family and friends.  The rail bike starts from Chimgok Station and ends at Gajeong Station.  Enjoy the gentle breeze as you pedal through the rail road, which is approximately 5.1km long between the 2 points.


Enjoying the clear, blue skies... as a safety precaution, we were asked to keep a distance from the vehicle ahead.  On the vehicle, there is a small storage area for bags and stuff but it is definitely not big enough to keep big items!



Views of Seomjingang River.  Clear river water runs through peacefully, quietly and slowly... 



Roads are clear, no messy congestions, no honks, no hurry ~


Riders take our time too ~ enjoy the cool wind, savour the moments with nature, have a chat with your partner, crack some jokes, take turns to pedal the vehicle.... that's how life should be.




Reality sets in as we end the tranquillity of the Seomjingang River Rail Bike but memories stay. 

Our destination was the Gajeong Train Station.  Around the station, there are a number of restaurants, temples, markets and pensions too.  It is possible to stay over for a night or two at the vicinity of the Gajeong Station.


Getting to Chimgok Station:

Take a bus from Seoul Central City Bus Terminal to Gokseong Bus Terminal.
(Bus schedule: 15:00 / Estimated travel time: 3hr 45min)

Alternatively, take the KTX from Yongsan Station (Seoul) to Gokseong Station. 
(Train schedule: 08:20am and 19:20pm; 2hr 49min ride)

It takes about 5 to 10 mins by taxi and 20 to 30 minutes on foot from Gokseong -eup Bus Terminal to the Rail Bike Station.


View Larger Map

No comments:

Post a Comment

All comments are welcomed