Things To Do
in Gangneung
Gangneung, located on Korea's east coast, blends pristine beaches with a thriving coffee culture and a rich historical heritage. The city offers seaside strolls, seafood markets, and easy access to surrounding mountains and national parks. Visitors can catch dramatic sunrises over the East Sea, savor fresh catches at local markets, and explore heritage sites like Ojukheon House.
With its relaxed pace and scenic coastline, Gangneung makes for a rewarding, family-friendly coastal escape in Gangwon Province.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ojukheon House, the birthplace of the famous Confucian scholar Yulgok. Wander through the serene gardens and admire traditional Korean architecture. After soaking in the history, head to the nearby Seongyojang House to learn about the life of the noble class during the Joseon Dynasty.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Korean dishes such as bibimbap. Afterward, take a stroll along the scenic Anmok Beach, famous for its beautiful cafes and stunning views of the East Sea. Don’t forget to stop by the Gangneung Art Center to appreciate contemporary Korean art.
As the sun sets, head back to Anmok Beach to enjoy a peaceful evening walk by the water. Indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants, savoring the local flavors. Conclude your day with a cozy drink at a cafe while taking in the night view of the ocean.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront cafe while listening to the waves. Afterward, gear up for an exciting morning of water sports, including kayaking or paddleboarding at Gyeongpo Beach. The warm sun and gentle sea breeze will invigorate your spirit as you take in the beautiful coastal scenery.
Post-lunch, indulge in some beach relaxation or join a group for a fun banana boat ride. Spend some time sunbathing or playing beach volleyball with locals and fellow travelers. As the afternoon rolls in, explore the nearby Gyeongpo Lake for a peaceful bike ride around its scenic trails.
As evening approaches, unwind with a seaside barbecue, where you can grill your own seafood and enjoy it with friends. The sound of the ocean will provide a perfect backdrop for storytelling and laughter. Relish the beautiful sunset over the horizon as you wrap up your adventurous day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| ☕Coffee or cafe beverage | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi start fare | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and easy access to beaches
- Vibrant coffee culture and excellent seafood
- Rich cultural heritage with Ojukheon and historic sites
- Good value for money and family-friendly attractions
- Can be crowded in peak summer and holidays
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger cities
- Limited KTX-style rapid connections in some areas; plan for road travel
- Harsh tides and rocky coastlines require caution at certain spots
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me
- "이거 얼마예요?" - How much is this?
- "영어 하실 수 있나요?" - Do you speak English?
- "다시 한번 말씀해 주세요" - Please say that again
Places to Visit in Gangneung
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy shoreline with open vistas to the East Sea—ideal for sunrise shots and long exposure beach photography.
Colorful cafe facades and sea views create lively, candid street photography opportunities along the coast.
Iconic long breakwater with dramatic sea views and dramatic light during golden hour; popular for iconic social media photos.
Historic courtyard and traditional architecture provide cultural backdrops for portraits and detail shots.
Scenic coastal bridge that frames the East Sea—great for long exposure and silhouette photography.
Food in Gangneung
Gangneung Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Soft, delicate tofu served with dipping sauces and enjoyed with fresh seafood or greens, a signature of the Chodang area.
Must-Try!
Fresh raw fish slices often enjoyed with sesame oil, chili, and local accompaniments—a staple of east coast dining.
Salted, grilled mackerel commonly found at markets and seaside restaurants, simple and flavorful.
Spicy soft tofu stew with seafood or vegetables, a comforting staple in many eateries around the city.
Light, seaweed-based soups and seasonal greens served alongside hot rice and banchan.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling traditional market offering fresh seafood, produce, and ready-to-eat bites from morning to evening.
Coastal market area with seafood stalls, snacks, and casual eateries styled for seaside visitors.
A stretch of cafes along the coast where you can sample local roasts and enjoy sea views; some spots offer light bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite language and bowing are common in formal settings; address elders with proper titles and avoid raising your voice in public.
Dress modestly, remove hats, and follow instructions at religious sites; photography may be restricted in certain areas.
Use both hands when passing items or receiving, and avoid tipping; wait for elders or hosts to begin before eating.
Safety
Tipping in Gangneung
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Korea; many service charges are included. If you do tip, small amounts in cash are appreciated in upscale places.
Cards are widely accepted in cities; cash remains useful for markets. Mobile payments (Kakao Pay, Naver Pay) are popular for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for coastal strolls and temple visits. Expect occasional rain showers.
Warm to hot and humid with plenty of beach days; refresh with sea breezes and early-morning or late-evening outings to avoid heat.
Clear skies and comfortable temperatures; excellent for photography and hiking with colorful foliage along the coast and nearby mountains.
Cold and windy with occasional snow in higher elevations; coastal walks are crisp, and nearby mountains offer lighter snow activities.
Gangneung at Night
Hiking in Gangneung
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hiking options with coastal views and forested sections; suitable for day trips from Gangneung.
A premier mountain area with forested trails, temples, and scenic overlooks within a reasonable drive from the city.
Iconic peaks and varied trails; a popular day or overnight trip for more ambitious hikers.
Airports
How to reach Gangneung by plane.
Closest major airport serving domestic and some international routes; about a 60–90 minute drive to Gangneung depending on traffic.
Domestic airport serving local flights; convenient for quick trips within Korea and connecting to major hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily ethnic Korean families and individuals; a growing number of students and retirees, with steady domestic tourism growth.
Students from local and regional institutions contribute to a youthful, active segment in university-adjacent areas.
A modest expatriate presence and increasing international visitors drawn by coastal scenery and cultural sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal areas around Gangneung support surfing, swimming, and beach volleyball, especially in summer.
Local parks and stadiums host casual play and occasional matches; families and groups enjoy outdoor sports by the sea.
Nearby mountains and coastal trails attract hikers and trail runners throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gangneung.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Korean cuisine often uses fish sauces and broths; look for namul (seasoned vegetables), tofu dishes, and vegetable stews, and ask for no fish-based broths or sauces.