At Mt. Shosha's Engyo-ji Temple 圓教寺, the Maniden 摩尼殿 ⭐stands as the main attraction. This magnificent structure resembles Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera 清水寺, but unlike Kiyomizu-dera's bustling crowds, Engyo-jioffers a quieter experience. When we visited in autumn, the temple appeared more quaint and elegant against the backdrop of golden maple leaves, enhancing its unique charm. Its traditional and quaint architecture makes Engyo-ji Temple a frequent choice as a backdrop for filming movies.
A Kiyomizu-dera Echo: Maniden 摩尼殿 in Peak Autumn (YouTube link)
Photo Gallery
On December 4, 2024, autumn had reached its crescendo—the maples surrounding Maniden flamed in hues of gold and crimson, casting the temple in an even more breathtaking light. After climbing a set of stairs winding up the hillside, you can enter the hall from the side. We slipped off our shoes, stepping into the cool, quiet space, and immediately began to soak in its serene atmosphere. The photos captured on that day are a testament to the radiant atmosphere at Maniden Hall.
Pathway to Maniden Blazes Through a Backdrop of Fiery Maples
Iconic Duo: Odaiba's Liberty Statue & Rainbow Bridge
Odaiba Seaside Park ⭐ transforms into a truly enchanting spectacle as evening descends upon Tokyo Bay. The interplay of city lights, the shimmering water, and iconic landmarks creates a captivating atmosphere from various vantage points.
From the West Promenade:
As twilight falls, the West Promenade's soft lights invite strolls along Tokyo Bay, where the colorful Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower's red glow create a serene, picturesque escape perfect for photos and reflection.
From the Observation Deck at Odaiba Seaside Park:
From the elevated Observation Deck at Odaiba Seaside Park, the lit-up Rainbow Bridge guides the eye toward Tokyo's glittering cityscape, with boats adding dynamic lights to the tranquil, expansive view of Tokyo Bay under the evening sky.
Around the Statue of Liberty - Odaiba:
In the evening, Odaiba's subtly lit Statue of Liberty replica, set against the glowing Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower, creates an iconic, lively scene blending American and Japanese cultural icons, perfect for photographers and visitors.
Around Fuji TV Building:
The Fuji TV building's glowing Hachitama sphere makes it a striking evening landmark in Odaiba, offering panoramic views of the illuminated Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower, and Tokyo Skytree from its observatory, amid a vibrant, festively lit atmosphere.
Odaiba's Evening Glow: A Nighttime Escape with Iconic Views (YouTube link)
Photo Gallery
Collectively, the evening view of Odaiba Seaside Park is a delightful sensory experience, offering a harmonious blend of iconic architecture, sparkling cityscapes, and the serene beauty of Tokyo Bay, all bathed in the magical glow of night. The video above and photos below, taken during a visit on December 10, 2024, serve as a testament to this description.
How to use Naver Map (Best map app in Korea) | Guide, tips, English settings (YouTube link)
The video by Young from "Your Korea Friend" explains how to use Naver Map, an essential navigation app for traveling in Korea, as Google Maps is less effective there.
Google Maps: Unreliable for bus ETAs and routes in South Korea but useful for tracking your location (blue dot) to know when to stop. Not all roads are shown.
Why Naver Map? Google Maps doesn’t work well in Korea, and Naver Map, while primarily in Korean, is the go-to app for navigation, though its limited English translation can make it challenging for non-Korean speakers.
This video aims to help travelers navigate Korea using Naver Map effectively, with practical workarounds for non-Korean speakers.
Key Points
Downloading and Language Settings
Download Naver Map from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android), or use the browser version (link here).
Best for finding nearby bus options with minimal walking though its limited English translation can make it challenging for non-Korean speakers.
Overcome Language Barrier:
English address to Korean (link here): this website is the official site for South Korea’s Road Name Address System, operated by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. The site provides address search and conversion services, allowing users to find or convert addresses between Korea’s road name and lot number systems.
Change the language to English: Go to the menu, select settings, find "Ono" (language), choose English, and restart the app. For the browser, use the Google Translate Chrome extension.
After downloading the app, the language on my Samsung phone was already set to ‘System setting,’ which was English. So, no additional adjustments were needed on my part.
Use Korean/Hangul addresses (copy from Google Maps) if English searches fail.
Screenshot stops from Naver, translate via Google Translate or Papago, and monitor stops on the bus’s screen or by listening.
Key Features
Offline Maps: Download maps by province (e.g., Seoul, Jeju, Busan) to reduce data usage and view maps offline (navigation requires data).
Subway Map: Access subway maps for Seoul and other cities, select stations (e.g., Hongdae to Myeongdong) for routes and schedules.
Search Tips:
Search by place name (e.g., Namsan Tower), but results may be in Korean—use Google Translate or select places with high reviews.
Search by address: Convert English addresses to Korean using Papago, then paste into Naver Map.
Search by phone number for attractions or restaurants for easier results.
Nearby Search: Find restaurants, cafes, etc., near a location (e.g., Myeongdong Station) and translate details using Google Translate.
Directions: Choose routes by public transport, driving, walking, or cycling. Subway and bus options are detailed, with tips like "fast transfer" (indicating optimal subway car/door) and exit numbers for efficiency.
Saving Locations:Save places or routes using the star icon or bookmark section (up to 5,000 locations, 400 lists). Saved content requires a data connection.
Additional Tips
Subway timetables are available, but bus timetables are not.
For restaurant reservations, use the Catch Table app (English version) as Naver Map’s reservation feature requires Korean phone verification.
Fig. 1 Getting Around with Ease: How to Customize Your Naver App Settings
Navigating with the Naver App
When using the Naver app to get from point A to point B, you have several options to customize your route (Fig. 1):
Transportation Options: Choose how you want to travel: Transit (public transportation), Drive, Walk, or Bike.
Departure Time: Specify your desired date and time of departure.
Sort Options: Prioritize your route based on what's most important to you:
Best route (Naver's recommended balance)
Least time
Fewest transfers (for transit)
Least walking (for transit)
Example Route: Toyoko Inn Seoul Gangnam to Toyoko Inn Seoul Yeongdeungpo
Let's look at an example to see these options in action:
From: Toyoko Inn Seoul Gangnam
To: Toyoko Inn Seoul Yeongdeungpo
Best Route: This route takes approximately 58 minutes.
Fastest Route: This option gets you there quicker, in about 46 minutes, and involves the following subway transfers:
Take the Shinbundang Line (Subway) at Gangnam Station.
Transfer to Line 9 at Sinnonhyeon Station.
Transfer to Line 5 at Yeouido Station.
Get off at Singil Station.
Despite language barriers, Naver Map is manageable with these tips and examples.
Fig 2. After Choosing the Fastest Route, a Split Screen Displays: Overview Map at the Top, Detailed Information Below
Fig 3. Preview a Detailed Map of Boarding Stations by Scrolling with the Left and Right Arrows
Iconic Aircraft and Spacecraft: It houses an extensive collection of aviation and space artifacts, including the Space Shuttle Discovery, the SR-71 Blackbird (the fastest jet ever), and the Enola Gay (the B-29 that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima). These are rare, historically significant vehicles you won’t see elsewhere.
Massive Scale: The museum’s two massive hangars display thousands of objects, from early biplanes to modern jets and spacecraft, offering a comprehensive look at aviation and space exploration history. The sheer size and variety are breathtaking.
Unique Experiences: Features like the observation tower, where you can watch planes take off and land at Dulles International Airport, and the IMAX theater with aviation-themed films provide immersive experiences. The flight simulators also let you feel like a pilot.
Educational Value: With detailed exhibits on aerospace technology, history, and science, it’s a treasure trove for learners of all ages. Interactive displays and guided tours deepen understanding of human flight and space exploration.
Rarities and Artifacts: You’ll see one-of-a-kind items like the Gemini VII capsule, a Concorde, and even a piece of the Moon. The collection includes artifacts not found in the Smithsonian’s D.C. location.
Inside the Udvar-Hazy Center: A Showcase of Aviation Legends (YouTube link)
Photo Gallery
As we wandered through the sprawling hangars of the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, we couldn’t help but marvel at the wonders of flight and space exploration unfolding before us, from the sleek Space Shuttle Discovery to the record-breaking SR-71 Blackbird. The best part? This Smithsonian gem offers free admission, a hallmark of its commitment to sharing knowledge with all. Though we paid a modest $15 for parking, the chance to immerse ourselves in aerospace history felt like a steal. Just a short drive from Washington, D.C., the museum beckoned as the perfect day trip, welcoming families, students, and curious minds alike to explore its vast collection without breaking the bank.
Guardians of the Skies: HMM-774’s Combat Readiness Mission
Discovery’s Tail Section with Boosters Displayed
Celestial Showcase: Discovery and Satellites Suspended Above
Blackbird Unleashed: The Jet That Outran Everything
The SR-71 Blackbird on Display with the Museum Entrance Beyond
Inside the James McDonnell Space Hangar: Discovery on Display
Jet Black Precision: The Slim Silhouette of the SR-71
How to go from Incheon Airport to Seoul ( By Limousine Bus🚍; YouTube link)
Bus 6009 Offers Direct Access to Central Gangnam — Sinsa, Gangnam, Yangjae & More (link)
Traveling from Incheon International Airport (ICN) to Seoul by express bus is a popular and convenient option. Here's a breakdown of how to do it:
1. Find Your Bus Route:
Determine your destination in Seoul. Limousine buses serve various areas, including major tourist spots and business districts like Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, Gangnam, Seoul Station, Hongdae, etc.
Look for specific bus numbers that go to your desired area. Some common routes include:
6001: Dongdaemun, Myeongdong Station, Seoul Station, Yongsan
You can find a comprehensive list of routes and their stops on the Incheon Airport website or K Airport Limousine website.
2. Purchase Your Ticket:
On-site at the Airport:
Ticket Booths: At Terminal 1, look for ticket booths on the 1st floor near exits 4 and 9 (inside) or near exits 4, 6, 7, 8, 11, and 13 (outside). At Terminal 2, ticket booths are located on the basement level.
Payment: You can usually pay with cash, credit cards, or a T-Money card.
Online Booking (Optional): Some routes and third-party platforms allow online booking in advance, which might offer a QR voucher to exchange for a physical ticket at the airport.
T-Money Card: It's highly recommended to purchase a T-Money card at the airport (available at convenience stores or vending machines) and top it up. This card can be used for buses, subways, and even some taxis and convenience stores throughout Seoul, making your travel much easier.
Terminal 2 Transportation Center (B1 Level) Layout — Serving Korean Air, Delta, and More (link)
3. Find Your Bus Stop:
International travelers do arrive at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of Incheon International Airport (ICN) — but which terminal you arrive at depends on the airline you're flying with.
Terminal 1: Limousine bus stops are typically on the 1st floor (arrivals level) outside the terminal. Look for the designated platform number for your bus route.
Terminal 2: Limousine buses usually depart from the Transportation Center (B1) at Terminal 2.
Refer to signs and maps: Incheon Airport has clear signage in English to guide you to the bus stops. You can also use the airport's official website or information desks for assistance.
Bus Ticket Overview: Bus No., Platform, Seat Info, etc.
4. Board the Bus:
Wait at the designated platform.
Present your ticket to the driver or scan your T-Money card.
Store your luggage: There's usually a dedicated luggage compartment under the bus, and drivers are generally helpful with loading and unloading bags.
5. Enjoy the Ride:
The journey from Incheon Airport to Seoul typically takes 70–90 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route.
Announcements: Bus stops are announced in English and Korean, and a list of stops is often displayed onboard, making it easy to track your destination.
Buses are generally comfortable and offer a relaxing way to get to your accommodation. Some even have Wi-Fi.
By following these steps, you should have a smooth and easy journey from Incheon Airport to Seoul by limousine bus!
Bonus Tips
At Seoul Station
Connect to Subway Lines 1 or 4 for destinations like Yeouido.
Transfer to KTX (bullet train) for other cities like Busan (<3 hours).
Choose from 15 exits to reach your destination; signs indicate directions (e.g., Exits 1–9 or 9–14).
Hotel Shuttles
Some hotels offer shuttle services. Check with your hotel and follow signs to the designated pickup area.
Late-Night Buses
Limited options available to areas like Gangnam; check signage for details.
Options for Connectivity
Home Phone Plan: Check with your provider for international roaming rates and availability.
Local SIM Card: Purchase at airport stands for a local phone number and data. Pre-booking is recommended for convenience.
Wi-Fi Egg: A portable Wi-Fi device for constant internet access.
Public Wi-Fi: South Korea is highly connected, with free Wi-Fi available in many public areas.
Approximate Bus Fares (as of 2025):
Adults: ₩17,000 - ₩18,000 KRW
Children (ages 6-12): ₩12,000 KRW
Money and Currency Exchange
Avoid Airport Currency Exchange: Rates are less favorable. Exchange only a small amount if necessary and exchange more in Seoul’s city center for better rates (USD offers the best rates).
Global ATMs: Use ATMs in the airport to withdraw Korean Won (KRW). Notify your bank beforehand to avoid card issues due to suspected fraud.
Credit Cards: Widely accepted in South Korea, but having some cash (KRW) is recommended for smaller vendors or public transport.
T-Money Card: A must-have for public transportation (buses, subways, and some taxis). Costs 3,000–5,000 KRW to purchase, plus additional funds (20,000–50,000 KRW recommended to start). Available at convenience stores (e.g., CU in the airport basement) or ticket machines near the airport railroad. Cash-only for purchasing at some locations.
Check the latest schedules
Bus schedules and stops can change due to road conditions, traffic, or other factors. Always check the official Incheon Airport website or the specific bus company's website for the most up-to-date information before your travel.
Eligibility for Priority Fast Lanes: Diplomats, crew members, individuals with mobility impairments, children under 7 years old, seniors aged 70 and above, pregnant women, and holders of the Korea Priority Card are eligible to use the priority fast lanes.
Optional Application: Travelers aged 65 or older may still choose to apply for a K-ETA if they want benefits like bypassing the arrival card requirement at immigration. In this case, they must pay the 10,000 KRW fee, and no refunds are provided for voluntary applications
Mandatory for: Individuals who are required to complete the e-Arrival Card are the same individuals who must fill out the paper entry card. As a general rule, all foreign nationals are obligated to complete one.
Exceptions: However, registered foreign nationals, holders of a valid Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA), and airline crew members are not required to submit the card.)
Discover Shirakawa-go's Serene Past, Away from the Crowds
Escape the bustling crowds of Shirakawa-go's Old Town and step back in time at the Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en ⭐合掌造り民家園, an open-air museum in Japan's Gifu Prefecture. This serene village offers a more intimate experience of the region's iconic thatched-roof farmhouses, known as gassho-zukuri, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Here’s why it’s worth visiting:
Unique Architecture: The gassho-zukuri houses, with their steep, triangular roofs resembling hands in prayer, are designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Their construction, using no nails, highlights ingenious carpentry techniques adapted to the region’s harsh climate.
Cultural Heritage: As part of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the museum preserves Japan’s rural history. You can explore authentic homes, some over 250 years old, and learn about the lifestyle, farming, and sericulture (silk production) of the region’s past inhabitants.
Scenic Beauty: Nestled in the Japanese Alps, the museum is surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, especially vibrant in spring with cherry blossoms or winter when snow blankets the roofs, creating a picturesque scene.
Historical Insight: Exhibits inside the houses display tools, household items, and stories of daily life, offering a glimpse into Japan’s pre-modern rural society.
