Experience one of Korea's most iconic winter festivals at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, a unique seasonal event held every January in the pristine mountain town of Hwacheon. Set on a frozen river surrounded by snowy landscapes, this festival offers an unforgettable day of winter fun for visitors of all ages.
The highlight of the festival is ice fishing for sancheoneo (mountain trout) through holes drilled into the thick ice. For those looking for a bigger thrill, you can even try bare-handed trout catching, diving into an icy pool to catch the fish yourself. After your catch, enjoy the freshest mountain trout grilled over charcoal or prepared as sashimi at the festival grounds.
Beyond fishing, the festival features a variety of exciting winter activities, including snow sledding, traditional ice sledding, and other family-friendly attractions. Whether you're fishing on the frozen river, racing down snowy slopes, or savoring freshly grilled trout, the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival offers an authentic Korean winter experience that combines adventure, local culture, and delicious food in one unforgettable day. The festival attracts over one million visitors each year and has been recognized internationally as one of the world's premier winter festivals.