New Hot Spots Continue to Draw Tourists to Incheon

Incheon, a popular destination with a number of tourist attractions like China Town and Sorae Port, now offers a few more must-see sites and here they are.

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◆ Shopping

Famous as the set for the megahit drama "My Love from the Star", Songdo is now transforming into a shopping mecca. Hyundai Premium Outlet there achieved over W45 billion in sales only one month after its grand opening in April (US$1=W1,146). Directly connected to a subway, it provides easy access to visitors.

At Canal Walk, where European-style buildings stand according to the themes of spring, summer, fall and winter along the central waterway, a huge shopping mall has plenty to offer, including shopping and a range of amusements.

◆ Business Tourism

Songdo Convensia is also gaining popularity as a place where visitors can enjoy tours while also attending meetings or seminars. With three stories above ground and one below, it features an exhibition hall where 450 booths can be installed and a convention hall that can accommodate up to 2,000 people. It hosts over 500 events per year on average.

Work is underway to expand the current facilities. Once completed in 2018, another exhibition hall will be able to set up 900 booths, while another conventional hall will accommodate about 2,000 guests and offer meeting rooms.

At the nearby Wolmi Park, visitors can take in the beautiful scenery of traditional-style homes.

There is also the BMW Driving Center in Yeongjong Island and Panoramic 65, on the 65th floor of Oakwood Premier Hotel in Songdo, which commands a great view of the sea and city.

In April next year, Paradise City, Korea's largest casino for foreigners, is being ready for opening in sometime April next year in Yeongjong Island. The casino will have a top-end hotel, conference facilities and all other amenities. The casino will be also equipped with a Korea-themed space where foreign visitors can enjoy everything from traditional Korean culture to K-pop.

◆ Leisure Activities

Opened in May, 2012, the 18-km inland waterway flows downstream of the Han River to the West Sea. Along with wharfs, there are camping facilities and outlet stores, making it a new hot spot where visitors can enjoy leisure activities while shopping.

On weekends, bikers flock to the area as the bike path along the waterway is flat and easy to ride, making it perfect for beginners. The waterway is also dotted with artificial falls, valleys and observatories.