🇰🇷 Chuseok Korea 2026: Quick Travel Tips Before You Go 🍂
A First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Traveling During Korea’s Biggest Holiday. Planning to visit South Korea during Chuseok 2026? You’re visiting during one of Korea’s most meaningful cultural holidays — but also one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Chuseok (추석), often compared to Korean Thanksgiving, is when millions of Koreans return to their hometowns, families gather, and traditional customs take center stage. For travelers, this means busier transportation, possible changes to opening hours, and a chance to experience a more authentic side of Korean culture.
This guide covers the Chuseok 2026 dates, what tourists should expect, and practical travel tips to help you plan a smoother and more enjoyable trip.
Planning where to stay in Seoul during the holiday? Check out my guide to the [Best Areas to Stay in Seoul for First-Time Visitors (2026 Guide)] to find the best neighborhoods based on your travel style.
Arriving through Incheon Airport? My [How to Get from Incheon Airport to Seoul (2026 Guide to Airport Transfer Options)] covers the easiest ways to reach the city, including train, bus, taxi, and private transfer options.
📅 What is Chuseok? (And Why Does It Matter for Travelers?)
Chuseok is Korea’s traditional harvest festival and one of the country’s most important holidays. Families come together to honor ancestors, share traditional foods, and celebrate the autumn harvest.
If you’re visiting Korea during Chuseok for the first time, I recommend reading my [What is Chuseok in Korea? A Beginner’s Guide for Tourists (2026)] to learn more about the holiday’s traditions, foods, and cultural meaning.
🇰🇷 Chuseok 2026 Dates:
📅 September 24–26, 2026
⭐ Main holiday: September 25, 2026
For travelers, the biggest thing to know is that Chuseok travel can feel like a nationwide holiday rush. KTX trains, buses, flights, and hotels can become much harder to book as many Koreans travel across the country. With early planning, you can still enjoy Korea’s attractions, autumn scenery, and unique Chuseok atmosphere without unnecessary stress.
🚄 1. Book Transportation Early (KTX Sells Out Fast)
Chuseok is one of Korea’s busiest travel periods, and transportation demand increases quickly as millions of Koreans travel to visit family.
What gets busy:
🚄 KTX High-Speed Trains
If you’re planning to travel between cities like Seoul, Busan, or Gyeongju during Chuseok, I recommend reserving your KTX tickets early. Seats can sell out quickly, especially around the peak holiday dates.
🚌 Express & Intercity Buses
Buses are another popular option for traveling around Korea. Booking ahead gives you more choices and helps avoid last-minute stress.
🚗 Rental Cars
Planning a road trip to places like Jeju, Gyeongju, or the countryside? Rental cars can be in high demand during Chuseok, so it’s better to reserve your vehicle early.
Smart traveler tips:
Book transportation as soon as tickets become available
Avoid peak travel days if possible (around September 23–26, 2026)
Travel early morning or later in the evening for a smoother journey
💡 Tip: Domestic flights, especially routes between Seoul and Jeju, can also become more expensive during the holiday period.
🏨 2. Stay in Seoul or Major Cities for Easier Travel
A common misconception is that Seoul completely shuts down during Chuseok — but that’s not true.
From my experience living in Korea, Seoul can actually feel more relaxed during the holiday because many locals leave the city to visit their hometowns.
Benefits of staying in major cities:
- Less crowded streets
- Easier sightseeing
- More peaceful atmosphere
Recommended bases for travelers:
🇰🇷 Seoul
🌊 Busan
✈️ Incheon
🌴 Jeju Island
If you’re visiting Korea for the first time, I recommend booking your hotel in advance, especially during Chuseok when popular areas can fill up faster.
📱Richelle’s Tip: Having the right travel apps can make your trip much easier, especially during busy holidays. Before your trip, check out my guide to [15 Essential Apps to Download Before Your Korea Trip (2026 Tourist Guide)] for useful apps for navigation, translation, transportation, and daily travel.
🍽️ 3. Check Opening Hours Before You Go
Not everything operates normally during Chuseok.
Some places that may close:
- Small local restaurants
- Family-run cafés
- Traditional markets
- Small businesses
Places that usually remain open:
- Major tourist attractions
- Hotels
- Convenience stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven)
- Many chain restaurants
💡 Tip: Check Naver Map or official websites before visiting, as holiday schedules can change.
🛒 4. Buy Essentials Before Chuseok
This is one of the easiest ways to avoid inconvenience during the holiday.
Before Chuseok, consider preparing:
- Snacks and drinks
- Medicine and toiletries
- SIM card, eSIM, or pocket WiFi
📶 Staying connected is especially important in Korea for navigation, translation, transportation apps, and checking opening hours. If you’re not sure which option is best for your trip, check out my guide: [Best SIM Card, eSIM or Pocket WiFi for Korea? (2026 Tourist Guide)].
During Chuseok:
- Some shops may close for 1–3 days
- Delivery services may operate slower
- Smaller businesses may have limited hours
💡 Think of it as a short holiday period where planning a few essentials ahead can make your trip much smoother.
🏯 5. Attractions May Change Schedules (But There’s a Bonus!)
Some attractions may have different opening hours during Chuseok, but there is also a great benefit for travelers.
Many cultural sites offer special holiday events, traditional performances, and sometimes free admission during the holiday period.
Popular places to visit includes and it’s FREE during Chuseok Holiday:
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace
Changgyeonggung Palace
Deoksugung Palace
Jongmyo Shrine
👘 Richelle’s Tip: One of my favorite ways to experience Korea’s traditional culture is by wearing hanbok while visiting palaces. It makes the experience more memorable and is perfect for photos, especially during autumn. If you’re planning a palace visit, you can compare hanbok rental options and prices in advance to find a style that suits your trip.
🍡 Must-Try Chuseok Foods in Korea
Food is one of the best parts of Chuseok. During the holiday, Korean families prepare special dishes, share meals together, and celebrate the autumn harvest.
If you’re visiting Korea during Chuseok, these are some traditional foods worth trying:
🍡 Songpyeon (송편) – Chuseok’s Most Famous Food
These small half-moon rice cakes are the food most people associate with Chuseok. They are usually filled with sesame, honey, sweet beans, red bean paste, or chestnuts. Many families make Songpyeon together as part of the holiday tradition.
🥞 Jeon (전) – Korean Savory Pancakes
Jeon comes in many varieties, including seafood, vegetables, meat, mushrooms, and kimchi. These crispy Korean pancakes are a popular part of family gatherings and are often prepared in large batches during Chuseok.
🍐 Seasonal Fruits
Fresh fruit is an important part of the Chuseok table, representing the autumn harvest. Korean pears, apples, grapes, and persimmons are commonly enjoyed during the holiday and are also popular gifts.
🍜 Japchae (잡채) – One of My Favorite Korean Dishes
Although Japchae is not only eaten during Chuseok, it is a dish you’ll often find at Korean celebrations and family gatherings. Made with sweet potato glass noodles, vegetables, and usually beef, it has a slightly sweet and savory flavor that makes it one of my favorite Korean foods to recommend to first-time visitors.
💡Richelle’s Tip: During Chuseok, you may find traditional food experiences at cultural villages, markets, and some restaurants. It’s a great chance to try Korean dishes beyond the usual tourist favorites.
🚆 Best Day Trips from Seoul During Chuseok
If you’re spending Chuseok in Korea, it’s actually a great time to explore beyond Seoul. With beautiful autumn scenery, cultural experiences, and quieter surroundings, day trips can be a memorable part of your holiday.
From my experience traveling around Korea, these are some of the best Chuseok day trips to consider:
🌲 Nami Island (Gapyeong)
One of Korea’s most popular autumn destinations, known for its beautiful tree-lined paths and peaceful scenery.
🚲 Gangchon Rail Bike (Chuncheon)
A fun outdoor activity where you can cycle along old railway tracks while enjoying mountain and riverside views.
🦙 Alpaca World (Hongcheon)
A relaxing nature escape where you can meet adorable alpacas and enjoy the countryside atmosphere.
🌸 Garden of Morning Calm (Gapyeong)
A stunning seasonal garden that is especially beautiful during autumn with colorful landscapes.
🏘️ Korean Folk Village (Yongin)
A great place to experience traditional Korean culture, performances, and historical village life.
💡Richelle’s Tip: Chuseok is a popular travel period, so day tours and activities can fill up faster than usual. I recommend booking your tickets or guided tours in advance to secure your preferred date, avoid last-minute availability issues, and often get better prices compared to booking on the day.
🇰🇷 What to Do If You’re Staying in Seoul During Chuseok
Seoul is actually one of the best places to stay during Chuseok. While many locals travel to their hometowns, the city can feel quieter, making it a great time to explore without the usual crowds.
🏯 Visit Traditional Korean Sites
During Chuseok, many cultural attractions remain open and may offer special holiday programs.
Great places to visit include:
Namsangol Hanok Village
Eunpyeong Hanok Village
Donuimun Museum Village
Gyeongbokgung Palace
👘Richelle’s Tip: Wearing hanbok is one of my favorite ways to enjoy Seoul’s traditional sites. It makes your palace visit feel more special and gives you beautiful photos to remember your trip. If you want a more memorable experience, you can compare hanbok rentals or book a hanbok photoshoot in advance, especially during busy holiday periods.
🌏 Best Places to Visit Outside Seoul During Chuseok
If you want to experience a deeper side of Korea during Chuseok, traveling beyond Seoul is a great choice. From traditional villages to historic sites and beautiful autumn scenery, these destinations offer a different perspective of Korean culture.
🕊️ DMZ Tour (Near Seoul)
A DMZ tour is one of the most meaningful experiences you can have in Korea. You’ll learn about the country’s history, visit important landmarks, and gain a better understanding of the Korean Peninsula.
💡 Tip: DMZ tours have limited availability and can become popular during holidays, so I recommend booking your DMZ tour in advance to secure your preferred date.
🍜 Jeonju Hanok Village
Known for its beautiful traditional houses, charming streets, and famous Korean food like bibimbap, Jeonju is a great place to experience Korea’s traditional culture.
🎭 Hahoe Folk Village (Andong)
This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for traditional hanok houses, mask dances, and preserved Korean heritage.
🌿 Yangdong Folk Village (Gyeongju)
Explore one of Korea’s best-preserved traditional villages and experience the history and culture of the Joseon era.
⛩️ Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju)
One of Korea’s most famous temples, Bulguksa is especially beautiful during autumn when the surrounding mountains change colors.
🚄 Travel Tip for Jeonju, Andong & Gyeongju:
These destinations are popular during Chuseok, and transportation can become busy as many Koreans travel around the country. I recommend booking KTX tickets and express buses in advance to avoid sold-out seats and last-minute schedule problems.
🌊 Jeju Island
For a more relaxing Chuseok getaway, Jeju Island is a great choice. Enjoy nature spots like:
Jeju Olle Trails
Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)
Beautiful coastal roads and scenic viewpoints
✈️ Jeju Travel Tip:
Domestic flights to Jeju can become more expensive and limited during Chuseok. If you’re planning a Jeju trip, it’s best to book your flights early for better prices and more schedule options.
💡 Final Chuseok Reminder:
Whether you’re visiting the DMZ, Jeonju, Andong, Gyeongju, or Jeju, early planning is key during Korea’s biggest holiday. Booking your tours, KTX, buses, flights, and accommodation in advance will help make your trip much smoother.
📊 Chuseok Travel Impact: What Tourists Should Know
Traveling to Korea during Chuseok 2026 can be a great experience, but the holiday does change the way some things work. Knowing what to expect will help you plan a smoother trip.
Category | What Happens During Chuseok | Travel Tip |
🚄 Transportation | KTX trains, buses, and flights get very busy | Book early and avoid the busiest travel days |
🏨 Hotels | Popular areas like Seoul, Busan, Jeju, and Gyeongju can fill up quickly | Reserve your hotel early for more choices |
🍽️ Restaurants | Some small local restaurants may close for family time | Have a few backup places in mind |
🏯 Attractions | Some places may have different opening hours | Check schedules before visiting |
🌆 Seoul | The city can feel quieter as many locals leave | A good time to explore popular spots |
🎟️ Tours & Activities | Popular tours can sell out faster | Book in advance to secure your spot |
💰 Prices | Hotels and flights may cost more during busy dates | Booking early can help you find better options |
💡 My tip after living in Korea: Chuseok does not mean everything closes. The biggest challenge is usually transportation, not sightseeing. With a little planning, you can still enjoy Korea’s food, culture, and attractions during this special holiday.
📊 Chuseok Travel Impact Table (What to Expect)
Chuseok is one of Korea’s busiest holidays, but it doesn’t mean everything closes. Here’s what tourists can expect during the holiday:
Category | What Happens During Chuseok | Traveler Advice |
🚄 Transport | Trains and buses can sell out quickly | Book early and avoid peak travel days |
🍽️ Restaurants | Some local restaurants may close | Keep backup options like chain restaurants or convenience stores |
🏯 Attractions | Some places may have changed hours | Check opening times before visiting |
🌆 Seoul City | Less crowded than usual | A great time for sightseeing and exploring |
🎟️ Tours | Popular tours may fill up faster | Reserve ahead of time |
🏨 Prices | Hotels may become more expensive | Book early for better choices and rates |
💡Richelle’s Tip: Chuseok can actually be a great time to visit Korea. With a little planning, you can enjoy quieter cities, cultural events, and unique holiday experiences without the usual crowds.
💡 Essential Chuseok Travel Tips (Quick Summary)
Planning to visit Korea during Chuseok 2026? Keep these simple tips in mind for a smoother trip:
✔ Book KTX, buses, and flights early – Transportation gets busy quickly during the holiday.
✔ Keep your itinerary flexible – Some restaurants and shops may have different opening hours.
✔ Prepare essentials ahead of time – Buy snacks, medicine, and travel items before the holiday starts.
✔ Expect some closures – Small local businesses may close while families celebrate together.
✔ Use Seoul as your base – The city is often quieter and easier to explore during Chuseok.
✔ Experience Korean traditions – Visit palaces, cultural villages, or join seasonal events for a more memorable trip.
❓ FAQ: Chuseok Korea 2026 Travel
1. Is Chuseok a good time to visit Korea?
Yes! Chuseok is a great time to experience Korean culture, traditional food, and local customs. However, you should plan ahead because transportation and hotels can get busy.
2. Will Seoul be closed during Chuseok?
No. Seoul stays open during Chuseok. Some small local shops and restaurants may close for a few days, but many tourist attractions, cafés, and convenience stores remain available.
3. Are tourist attractions open during Chuseok?
Yes, most major attractions remain open. Some palaces, museums, and cultural sites may offer special Chuseok events or adjusted opening hours.
4. Is public transportation available during Chuseok?
Yes, public transportation continues to operate, but KTX trains, buses, and domestic flights can become very crowded and sell out quickly.
5. What should I avoid during Chuseok?
Avoid booking transportation, hotels, or long-distance trips at the last minute. Peak travel days can be stressful due to heavy demand.
6. What food should I try during Chuseok?
Try traditional Chuseok foods like Songpyeon (송편), Jeon (전), and seasonal fruits such as Korean pears, apples, and persimmons.
7. Are hotels more expensive during Chuseok?
Prices can increase, especially in popular destinations like Seoul, Busan, Jeju, and Gyeongju. Booking early usually gives you more choices and better rates.
8. Is Seoul a good place to stay during Chuseok?
Yes. Seoul can actually feel quieter during Chuseok because many locals travel to their hometowns. It’s a good time to explore popular attractions with fewer crowds.
9. Can tourists experience Chuseok traditions?
Yes! Visitors can enjoy traditional performances, cultural activities, hanbok experiences, and seasonal events at palaces, folk villages, and cultural sites.
10. What is the best tip for traveling to Korea during Chuseok?
Plan ahead. Book transportation, accommodation, and popular activities early, but also stay flexible because holiday schedules can change.
🧳 More Korea Travel Guides to Help Plan Your Trip
Planning a trip to Korea during Chuseok? These helpful guides can make your journey easier, from transportation and accommodation to money and travel preparation.
💸 Money & Payments in Korea
Learn where to exchange money, when to use cash, and whether cards are accepted:
Best Place to Exchange Money in Korea: Airport vs Myeongdong vs ATM (2026 Guide)
Cash vs Card in Korea: What Most Travelers Actually Use (2026 Guide)
🏨 Where to Stay in Korea
Find the best areas to stay based on your travel style:
Best Areas to Stay in Seoul for First-Time Visitors
🚄 Getting Around Korea
Plan your arrival and transportation before your trip:
✨ Final Thoughts
Chuseok in Korea is more than just a holiday — it’s a chance to experience Korean culture, traditions, and everyday life in a more meaningful way.
With a little planning, visiting Korea during Chuseok 2026 can be a memorable experience. You can enjoy quieter Seoul streets, autumn palace views, traditional foods, and cultural activities that many visitors don’t get to see during a regular trip.
Whether you’re exploring the city, joining a cultural experience, or taking a countryside trip, Chuseok offers a unique side of Korea worth experiencing.
👤 About the Author
Hi, I’m Richelle, the creator of Just KTravel, based in South Korea.
I share simple and practical Korea travel guides from my own experience — including seasonal spots, transport tips, hidden places, and easy itineraries.
I started this blog after visiting Korea as a traveler myself, and now I write to help others plan their trips with less stress and more confidence.
My goal is to make Korea travel easier and more enjoyable for everyone, especially first-time visitors.
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