Chungju Lake & Sightseeing Ferry

Ashy Minivet · CC0

Korea's largest inland reservoir, with a two-hour boat running between sheer limestone walls.

When the Chungju dam blocked the Namhan in 1985 a whole valley system flooded and became Korea's largest wholly inland reservoir. The water rose to halfway up the limestone cliffs, so travelling this lake by boat is like moving through a drowned gorge — vertical rock on both sides, with the occasional temple or hamlet clinging to a slope. The Chungju to Danyang run takes about two hours and passes Gudambong, a rock listed among the Eight Scenes of Danyang since Joseon times. Water levels shift with the season, and in a dry year the foundations of old villages surface on the bed.

Visitor information

When is the best time to visit Chungju Lake & Sightseeing Ferry?

May–June and October–November (autumn colour on both shores)

How much does it cost to visit Chungju Lake & Sightseeing Ferry?

12,000–20,000 KRW depending on route and pier (children from 8,000)

How long do you need at Chungju Lake & Sightseeing Ferry?

Half a day

What are the opening hours of Chungju Lake & Sightseeing Ferry?

By sailing schedule, usually 2–4 a day

Did you know

Formed in 1985 when the Chungju dam blocked the Namhan river.
The largest artificial lake lying entirely inland in Korea.
The Chungju–Danyang ferry run takes about two hours.
The boat passes Gudambong, one of the Eight Scenes of Danyang.

Travel tips

Sailings stop when the water is too low — check before travelling.
Going Chungju to Danyang and returning by train is the easier direction.
Sit on the open deck; the cliffs are hard to see through the cabin glass.

Source: https://onedaykorea.com/tours/danyang-eight-scenic-views-dodamsambong-peak-chungju-lake-cruise-tour/

Updated: 2026-08-04