hidden gems in ch’ŏnan that even locals don't know about
okay, so ch’ŏnan isn't exactly the first city that pops into your head when you think "korean adventure," but that's exactly why it's perfect. it's quiet, it's weird in the best way, and yeah, even some locals here haven't found these spots. i'm writing this as a freelance photographer, so i'm always hunting for the weird, the overlooked, the places that don't scream "instagrammable" but somehow end up being the best photos of the trip.
first up: the abandoned train tunnel near taejosan park. it's not on any tourist map, and honestly, it's a little creepy. but the graffiti inside? chef's kiss. layers of paint, rust, and filtered sunlight make it a dream for moody shots. locals say it's haunted, but i think that's just because they don't want more people finding it.
next, there's this tiny coffee shop called "slow café" tucked behind a laundromat. no sign. you just smell the beans and follow your nose. the owner roasts everything himself, and he won't let you take photos inside. "real life isn't for instagram," he said. bold move, but i respect it.
and then there's the underground arcade. not the shiny new one downtown-this one's in the basement of an old department store that looks like it hasn't been updated since 1992. neon lights, broken claw machines, and a group of ajummas who run the place like it's their personal kingdom. one of them told me, "if you beat my high score, i'll give you free coffee." i didn't, but i got a free coffee anyway.
real talk: ch’ŏnan is cheap. like, really cheap. rent for a decent studio is about $350/month, and you can eat like a king for $7. safety? it's korea-basically zero crime. but the job market? meh. unless you're teaching english or working remotely, good luck.
weather here is… unpredictable. spring is gorgeous, autumn is crisp, but summer? it's like walking through soup. and winter? bring a coat or become a popsicle. nearby cities like daejeon and cheongju are just a short bus ride away, so you're never too far from a change of scenery.
local rumor: there's a secret garden behind the old library. nobody talks about it, but if you ask the right person (hint: look for the guy with the cane and the newspaper), they'll point you in the right direction. i haven't found it yet, but i'm on the hunt.
last thing: ch’ŏnan's real gem isn't a place-it's the people. they're not trying to sell you anything, they're not performing for tourists. they're just… there. and that's rare.
if you're curious, check out tripadvisor's ch’ŏnan guide or ask around on reddit's r/korea. but honestly? just show up and get lost. that's where the magic is.
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