Hotels in Jinju

Jinju: Where Majestic Castles Embrace Serene Countryside Wonders

Nestled in South Gyeongsang Province, Jinju is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Famous for the stunning Jinju Castle, which overlooks the Namgang River, this charming city offers a glimpse into Korea's past with its well-preserved architecture and serene landscapes. Explore the picturesque countryside dotted with traditional hanok houses, and don’t miss the enchanting Jinju Lantern Festival, celebrating culture and creativity. Ideal for romantic getaways or cultural explorations, Jinju invites travelers to immerse themselves in its rich heritage while enjoying breathtaking scenery. Experience the magic of Jinju, where history and nature harmoniously unite. For the best hotel rates in Jinju and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Jinju

Some of the best places to stay in Jinju are Namhae, Tongyeong and Sacheon. Namhae, Tongyeong, and Sacheon are fantastic destinations for travelers seeking beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and delicious seafood. Namhae offers stunning coastal views and hiking trails, while Tongyeong is known for its vibrant harbor and artistic vibe. Sacheon boasts historical sites and serene parks. For accommodations, you'll find a range of options from cozy guesthouses to mid-range hotels in each area. For first-time visitors, Tongyeong is particularly appealing due to its mix of attractions and accessibility. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Jinju:

1. NamhaeOpens in a new window: Namhae is a charming destination known for its beautiful outdoor attractions and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the Namhae German Village, a historic site that showcases unique architecture, or visit the serene Boriam Temple, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Sangju Beach is perfect for those looking to relax by the sea. For accommodations, consider Yeosu Venezia Hotel & ResortOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel ideal for families, featuring amenities like a game room and outdoor activities. Another option is Sono Calm YeosuOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel with direct beach access, perfect for beach lovers. For business travelers, Utop Marina Hotel & ResortOpens in a new window offers excellent facilities including a business center and meeting rooms.
2. TongyeongOpens in a new window: Tongyeong is a vibrant city that beautifully combines outdoor adventure with local culture. Key attractions include the bustling Tongyeong Jungang Market and the picturesque Dongpirang Wall Painting Village, celebrated for its colorful murals. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy Hallyeohaesang National Park, perfect for hiking and scenic views. Recommended hotels include Stanford Hotel & Resort TongyeongOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star beachfront hotel, and Dream PensionOpens in a new window, a cozy pension with entertainment options nearby. For a more upscale experience, Samsung Hotel GeojeOpens in a new window provides luxury and business amenities, making it suitable for both leisure and corporate travelers.
3. SacheonOpens in a new window: Sacheon is a city rich in history and culture, with attractions like the romantic Jinju Castle and the bustling Samcheonpo Yonggung Fish Market. This area provides a unique blend of urban and cultural experiences. For accommodation, J Square HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel offering diverse dining options and fitness facilities, ideal for families and active travelers. Another option is Namiltte ResortOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort with direct beach access, perfect for those seeking relaxation. Sacheon Grand HotelOpens in a new window is also a great choice, featuring comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast, catering to a variety of needs and preferences.

Things to do in Jinju for first time

A three-day trip to Jinju offers a delightful blend of countryside charm and historical allure. Travelers can explore lush forests, serene lakes, and rolling hills while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and yoga. Don’t miss the vibrant festivals and cultural performances that add a unique touch to your adventure. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Jinju:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the KAI Aerospace Museum, where you can explore the fascinating world of aviation technology and see impressive aircraft displays. After immersing yourself in the wonders of flight, head to the nearby Sacheon Seonjinri Dwarf Castle, a charming and quirky site that offers a glimpse into a unique architectural style. Wrap up your day with a hike up Waryongsan, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, especially as the sun sets.
• Day 2: Kick off your exploration at the Goseong Dinosaur Museum, where you can marvel at life-sized dinosaur replicas and learn about the prehistoric era. Next, make your way to the Namhae German Village, a picturesque spot that showcases German-style architecture and offers delightful local cuisine. Conclude your day at the Haeoreum Art Village, a creative haven filled with art installations and galleries, perfect for soaking in the local artistic vibe.
• Day 3: Start your morning with tranquility at Dasolsa Temple, a serene place that provides a glimpse into Buddhist culture and stunning natural surroundings. Afterwards, take a stroll across the Namhae Bridge, which offers panoramic views of the ocean and mountains—a perfect photo opportunity. Finish your day with a hike up Geumo Mountain, where the beautiful trails and scenic vistas will surely leave you with unforgettable memories of your Jinju adventure.

5 tips to find a great Jinju hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Jinju is during June, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For a budget-friendly experience, it's recommended to stay for at least 1-2 days to fully explore the area's main attractions, such as the beautiful countryside and the historic castle. This way, you can enjoy great value for your money while taking in the sights.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Jinju, Hotels.com offers great options to explore. To uncover potential discounts, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you may discover reduced rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers, ensuring you’re more likely to seize opportunities to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could increase the chances that you may save on hotel expenses in Jinju.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Jinju is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like buses and taxis to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Jinju and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in Jinju

Here are a few popular dishes in Jinju, South Gyeongsang, South Korea:

• Bibimbap: This vibrant Korean dish is a harmonious mix of rice topped with an array of sautéed vegetables, a fried egg, and gochujang (spicy red pepper paste). In Jinju, bibimbap is often served in a hot stone bowl, allowing the rice to crisp at the bottom, enhancing the flavors. Diners enjoy personalizing their bibimbap by adjusting the spice level and ingredient combinations, making it a fun and interactive meal.
• Galbi: A beloved Korean BBQ dish, galbi consists of marinated beef short ribs grilled to perfection. The marinade, typically made from soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, infuses the meat with deep flavors. In Jinju, sharing galbi with friends and family around a grill creates a lively and social dining experience, highlighting the communal spirit of Korean cuisine.

Best time to go to Jinju

Jinju experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 32.7°F (0.4°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 77.7°F (25.4°C). July is usually the wettest month. July to September are the peak travel months in Jinju, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with moderate rainfall. On the other hand, January, November, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.