Experience Winter Magic at the Ganghwa Island Wangbang Village Ice Festival
Catch the thrill of ice fishing and frosty fun from December 25, 2024, to March 3, 2025! 🎣
The 11th annual Ganghwa Island Trout and Smelt Ice Festival returns to the Insan Fishing Pond in Wangbang Village, promising a winter wonderland of excitement for all ages. This year, experience the magic of ice fishing for smelt and cherry salmon/trout, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and invigorating walking trails. Beyond fishing, enjoy thrilling ice sledding (conditions permitting), a lively air bounce playground, and the unique "Catch one!" snatching event. Warm up with delicious smelt fritters and other tasty treats available on-site.
What’s New This Year? While details are still being finalized, we’re working hard to bring you new and exciting additions to this year’s festival. Check back soon for updates!
Activities:
- Smelt Fishing: Enjoy fishing for smelt from the floating bridge (operational depending on ice conditions).
- Cherry Salmon & Trout Fishing: Test your angling skills against these feisty fish!
- "Catch one!" Snatching Event: A unique opportunity to test your speed and reflexes (separate participation fee applies).
- Air Bounce Playground: Let loose and bounce away the winter chills (separate fee applies).
- Ice Sledding: Glide across the glistening ice (separate fee applies; inquire about ice conditions by phone).
Admission Fees:
Smelt Fishing (Floating bridge operation dependent on ice conditions):
- Adults: 15,000 won
- Middle/High/Elementary School Students: 10,000 won
- Preschool (36 months – Under 7 years old): 7,000 won
Trout/Cherry Salmon Fishing:
- Adults: 30,000 won
- Middle/High School Students: 25,000 won
- Elementary School Students: 20,000 won
- Preschool (36 months – Under 7 years old): 15,000 won
- "Catch one!" Snatching Event: 1 ticket 13,000 won (Elementary School Students: 8,000 won)
Discounts (No duplicate discounts; please bring supporting documents):
- National Merit Person: 50%
- Person with Disabilities: 30%
- Ganghwa County Residents: 30%
- Families with Multiple Children: 20%
- Birthday Discount: 20%
- Small Business Owners: 20% (General, Simplified taxpayers; Business registration certificate + ID required)
- University Students (Chung-Ang University, Sungkonghoe University, Anyang University, Catholic University, Gachon University): 20% (Student ID/Certificate of Enrollment + ID required)
- Groups of 20 or more: 20%
Event Details:
🗓️ Dates: December 25, 2024 – March 3, 2025
📍 Address: Insan Fishing Pond Management Store, 8-1 Jungang-ro 787beon-gil, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon
💰 Fee: Paid (see admission details above)
📞 Inquiries: 010-7617-6606 (for Trout/Cherry Salmon fishing operation inquiries and ice sledding conditions)
🖥️ Website: http://www.insanry.com/
🛏️ Accommodation: Find hotels near the festival
What is Ganghwa Island?
Ganghwa Island is located off the west coast of South Korea, near Incheon, and is the country’s fifth largest island. It is known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. Accessible by bridges from the mainland, it is a popular destination for both residents and tourists.
The island is notable in Korean history, having played a role in events such as invasions and treaties during the Joseon Dynasty. It is home to many dolmens, ancient stone burial markers, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to their historical value. Notable attractions include the Ganghwa Peace Observatory, offering views into North Korea, and bustling local markets.
Beyond its historical and cultural allure, Ganghwa Island offers various outdoor activities. Its diverse landscapes are suited for hiking and cycling, and in the winter, ice fishing becomes a popular pastime. The Ganghwa Island Ice Fishing Festival in Wangbang Village is a key event, attracting families and enthusiasts for ice fishing and seasonal celebrations.
