Petite France (쁘띠프랑스), located in Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, is a charming French-themed cultural village nestled amidst the picturesque countryside. Inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved novella, “The Little Prince,” and the quaint villages of the French countryside, Petite France offers a whimsical and enchanting experience for visitors of all ages.
Key Features:
French Village Ambiance: The village is meticulously designed to evoke the atmosphere of a traditional French village, with colorful buildings featuring stucco exteriors, terracotta roofs, and charming details reminiscent of the Provence region.
Homage to “The Little Prince”: Throughout Petite France, you’ll find numerous references to “The Little Prince,” including statues of the characters, artwork, and themed exhibits dedicated to the book and its author.
Cultural Performances and Exhibitions: The village hosts various French-themed cultural performances, including mime shows, marionette performances, and French music concerts. There are also exhibitions showcasing French art, culture, and traditional artifacts.
“Little Prince” Museum: A dedicated museum within Petite France explores the life and works of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, offering insights into the creation of “The Little Prince.”
French Antique Shop: Visitors can browse and purchase unique French antiques and souvenirs.
Accommodations: Petite France also offers guesthouse accommodations, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the French village experience overnight.
Scenic Surroundings: Situated near Cheongpyeong Lake, the village offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and water, adding to its idyllic charm.
Filming Location: Petite France has served as a popular filming location for various Korean dramas and variety shows, further increasing its recognition.
Visiting Information:
Location: 1063 Hoban-ro, Cheongpyeong-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea (경기도 가평군 청평면 호반로 1063)
Operating Hours: Typically from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but hours may vary depending on the season. It’s recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Admission Fees: There is an entrance fee to Petite France. Prices vary depending on age. Check the official website for current rates.
Getting There:
By Public Transportation: Take the subway to Cheongpyeong Station (Gyeongchun Line). From there, you can take a local bus or a taxi to Petite France (approximately a 20-minute ride). The Gapyeong City Tour Bus also stops at Petite France.
By Car: It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Seoul, depending on traffic.
Petite France offers a delightful escape to a whimsical French-inspired world within the Korean countryside. With its charming architecture, “Little Prince” theme, cultural performances, and beautiful surroundings, it’s a unique and memorable destination for a day trip from Seoul.
