Ara West Sea Lock
The official starting point for the 4 Rivers Cycle Path, where cyclists can get their passport stamped. A scenic, albeit windy, location.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant cycling weather
Ara West Sea Lock
Best Time
Pleasant cycling weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The official starting point for the 4 Rivers Cycle Path, where cyclists can get their passport stamped. A scenic, albeit windy, location.
"Grab your cycling passport and get your first stamp at the official start of the 4 Rivers Cycle Path!"
🗺️ Use Local Maps
Google Maps can be unreliable in Korea. Download Naver or Kakao Maps for accurate directions. :iphone:
🥾 Wear Windproof Gear
It gets very windy and cold near the terminal, especially with seagulls around. Dress warmly! :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
4 Rivers Cycle Path Start
The official starting point for the epic 4 Rivers Cycle Path. Get your passport stamped!
Seagull Gathering Spot
Observe numerous seagulls congregating behind the terminal. A lively, if windy, spot.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cycling Passport & Stamps
Navigation & Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Use Local Maps
Google Maps can be unreliable in Korea. Download Naver or Kakao Maps for accurate directions. :iphone:
🥾 Wear Windproof Gear
It gets very windy and cold near the terminal, especially with seagulls around. Dress warmly! :cloud:
🛂 Find the Certification Center
The certification center can be tricky to locate. Look for it to start your cycling passport. :ticket:
🚴♀️ Cycle Path Start
This is the official start of the 4 Rivers Cycle Path. Perfect for cyclists beginning their journey. :bike:
Cycling in Korea!
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Use Local Maps
Google Maps can be unreliable in Korea. Download Naver or Kakao Maps for accurate directions. :iphone:
🥾 Wear Windproof Gear
It gets very windy and cold near the terminal, especially with seagulls around. Dress warmly! :cloud:
🛂 Find the Certification Center
The certification center can be tricky to locate. Look for it to start your cycling passport. :ticket:
🚴♀️ Cycle Path Start
This is the official start of the 4 Rivers Cycle Path. Perfect for cyclists beginning their journey. :bike:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Ara West Sea Lock is primarily recognized as the starting point for the 4 Rivers Cycle Path, offering cyclists the opportunity to obtain their passport and first stamp. Visitors appreciate its role in the cycling route but note that navigation can be difficult and the area is prone to strong, cold winds.
"This is the start of the Cross Country Route for the 4 Rivers Cycle Path. There is a certification centre here to buy your cycling passport (approx 3000 won) and a stop to get your first stamp."
Jenny Doan
"Nice place for biking"
JHUN AMUL
"It's too difficult to travel using Google maps in Korea. Use Navar or Kakao maps."
SAURABH PARAB
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While specific public transport details can be sparse, many cyclists arrive by bike. For navigation, it's highly recommended to use local Korean map apps like Naver or Kakao Maps, as Google Maps can be less reliable for precise directions in Korea.
It can be challenging. Travelers have noted difficulty using Google Maps. It's best to rely on Naver or Kakao Maps for accurate GPS guidance to the lock and its facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The certification center at the Ara West Sea Lock is where you can purchase your cycling passport, typically costing around 3000 won, and get your first stamp.
The certification center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Make sure to plan your visit within these hours to get your passport stamped.
There isn't a specific entrance fee mentioned for the general area. The primary cost associated with visiting for cyclists is the purchase of the cycling passport.
🎫 🚴♀️ Onsite Experience
The main draw is its role as the starting point for the 4 Rivers Cycle Path, where you can get your passport stamped. It's also a scenic spot for biking, though it can be windy.
Yes, the certification center serves as a key facility for cyclists to begin their journey. Restrooms and potentially bike racks are usually available in such areas.
Expect strong winds, especially near the terminal where many seagulls gather. It's advisable to wear windproof clothing to stay comfortable.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🚴 Cyclists
Be prepared for the weather; it can be quite windy and cold, especially near the water and the terminal where seagulls are abundant. Wearing windproof layers is highly recommended. Utilize Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for navigation, as they are more reliable than Google Maps in Korea.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 4 Rivers Cycle Path
Many travelers use this point to begin their multi-day cycling trips, making it a hub of activity for those with a passion for long-distance cycling. The experience of getting that first stamp is often highlighted as a memorable moment, signifying the commencement of a significant personal challenge. The path itself offers diverse landscapes, from urban stretches to more natural riverine environments, making the entire journey a rich exploration of Korea's geography and culture.
Navigational Challenges and Local Tips
When planning your visit, especially if you're arriving by bike or car, ensure you have one of these local apps downloaded and familiarized yourself with its interface. This will significantly reduce the stress of finding the certification center or the lock itself, allowing you to focus more on the cycling experience. The advice to use local maps is a recurring theme among those who have traveled extensively in the region, underscoring its importance for a smooth trip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit