Planning a trip to Ulsan? If you’re landing at Incheon International Airport (ICN), there are several ways to make your way to Ulsan, whether you’re looking for speed, comfort, or the best bang for your buck. This guide walks you through the three main options—train, bus, and domestic flight—so you can pick the one that best suits your travel style.
Option 1: By Train (AREX + KTX)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN)
- Clear immigration, collect your baggage, and pass through customs.
- Transfer to Seoul Station from Incheon Airport
- Airport Railroad Express (AREX)
- Follow the signs to the AREX station within the airport.
- You can choose between two options:
- AREX Express Train (Non-stop): KRW 9,500, 43 minutes.
- AREX All-Stop Train: KRW 4,750, 56 minutes.
- Airport Railroad Express (AREX)
- Take the KTX from Seoul Station to Ulsan Station
- Buy a ticket for the KTX high-speed train at Seoul Station. The journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from KRW 53,000 to 65,000, depending on the class of service and timing.
- From Ulsan Station to Your Destination
- You can either take a red 5000-series bus (30-40 minutes) or hop in a taxi for a quicker, albeit more expensive, ride to downtown Ulsan.
Option 2: By Domestic Flight
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN)
- Clear immigration, collect your baggage, and pass through customs.
- Transfer to Gimpo Airport for a Domestic Flight
- AREX All-Stop Train: 30 minutes, KRW 3,750.
- Airport Limousine Bus: Take bus 6101 or 6003 for a 30-40 minute ride, costing KRW 7,500 – 8,000.
- Fly from Gimpo Airport to Ulsan Airport
- Domestic flights to Ulsan take about 1 hour. Prices range from KRW 50,000 to 100,000, depending on how early you book and the time of year.
- From Ulsan Airport to Your Destination
- A taxi ride to downtown Ulsan takes around 20 minutes, or you can catch a bus if you prefer a more budget-friendly option, though it may take longer.
Option 3: By Bus
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN)
- Clear immigration, collect your baggage, and pass through customs.
- Take a Direct Bus from Incheon Airport to Ulsan
- Buy a ticket for the direct bus to Ulsan at the airport.
- The ride takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours and costs between KRW 40,000 and 50,000.
- From Ulsan Bus Terminal to Your Destination
- Once you arrive at the Ulsan Express Bus Terminal, you can take a local bus or a taxi to your final destination. Taxis are usually waiting in front of the station.
General Travel Tips
- Luggage: Make sure your luggage is manageable for easy transfers, especially if you’ll be hopping between buses and trains. The KTX trains have lager luggage storage by the doors between the trains.
- Language Help: Most signs are in both Korean and English, but having a translation app can come in handy for any unexpected language barriers.
- Time Management: Give yourself extra time for transfers, especially during peak travel seasons or if you’re unfamiliar with the routes.
- Ticket Purchases: For trains and flights, it’s a good idea to buy your tickets in advance, especially if you’re traveling during busy times like holidays (chuseok or seollal are next to impossible) or weekends. Bus tickets can be purchased at most stations or even on the bus.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for speed, convenience, or the most budget-friendly option, getting from Incheon Airport to Ulsan is easy once you know your choices. Whether you’re zipping across Korea on the KTX or relaxing on a bus, this guide has you covered. Safe travels and enjoy Ulsan!