Things To Do
in P’yŏngch’ang
Pyeongchang is a high-altitude county in Gangwon Province, surrounded by rugged mountains and pine forests. It rose to international prominence as a Winter Olympics host and remains a haven for winter sports, nature lovers, and traditional mountain cuisine. In summer, cool air and scenic valleys make hiking and photography ideal, while in winter the area becomes a snowy playground with world-class ski resorts.
Visitors can combine village markets, temple stays, and outdoor adventures to experience both modern amenities and rural charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in P’yŏngch’ang and settle into your accommodation. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe, sampling traditional Korean dishes. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to enjoy the mountain views and get a feel for the area.
Visit the Pyeongchang Olympic Museum to learn about the history of the Winter Olympics and see exhibits from past games. Enjoy a lunch of local specialties at a nearby restaurant, then explore the charming shops around the town. Consider trying your hand at a few winter sports options available in the area.
Savor an authentic Korean barbecue dinner at a popular local restaurant. After dinner, take a scenic walk under the stars, enjoying the crisp mountain air. Wind down your day by indulging in a traditional Korean jjimjilbang (spa) experience to relax your muscles.
Head out early to Odaesan National Park for a day filled with nature and adventure. Begin your hike on one of the stunning trails, surrounded by pristine landscapes and diverse wildlife. Pause for a picnic breakfast amidst the tranquility of the mountains.
Continue your hike to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. After descending, visit the iconic Woljeongsa Temple, an important cultural site with beautiful architecture. Take part in a temple stay program to learn more about Buddhist culture and traditions.
Return to your accommodation and enjoy dinner at a nearby local eatery, focusing on seasonal ingredients. Reflect on your day while watching the sunset over the mountains. Consider trying some local drinks in a cozy bar to end your day on a relaxed note.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌Intercity bus ticket (Seoul to Pyeongchang) | $15-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
| 🎿Day ski lift ticket | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and fresh air
- Wide range of outdoor activities year-round
- High-quality ski facilities and well-maintained trails
- Relaxed pace compared to big-city destinations
- Limited nightlife and dining options outside peak seasons
- Some areas require a car for easy access to trails and markets
- Weather can restrict certain outdoor plans in winter
- "안녕하세요" - Hello (polite)
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "화장실이 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "도와줄 수 있어요?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in P’yŏngch’ang
Visit one of these nice places.
Pastoral hills and grazing sheep set against blue skies; ideal for wide-angle landscape and animal photography, especially at golden hour.
Modern resort architecture framed by snow-capped mountains; striking in sunrise and dusk lighting.
Serene temple grounds with wooden structures, lanterns, and ancient trees; great for tranquil architectural and forest photography.
expansive mountain panorama and valley views from the pass; ideal for panoramic shots.
Food in P’yŏngch’ang
P’yŏngch’ang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Buckwheat noodles in a refreshing icy broth, commonly served with radish and sesame; a regional staple in Gangwon.
Must-Try!
Fresh river or stream trout, often simply seasoned and grilled to showcase the fish’s flavor.
Locally raised Hanwoo beef grilled at restaurants; enjoy with mushrooms, kimchi, and dipping sauces.
Stone-pot stews featuring tofu, vegetables, and umami-rich pastes; comforting in cooler weather.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market offering fresh produce, noodles, kimchi, hot snacks, and seasonal treats from nearby farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite bow or nod is common; always show respect to elders and use titles when addressing strangers in formal settings.
In homes or traditional spaces, remove shoes; keep voices moderate in public and on transport.
Queue patiently for buses and elevators; avoid loud conversations in trains or buses.
Safety
Tipping in P’yŏngch’ang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most South Korean restaurants; service charges are not typically added. In tourist-focused venues, small tips may be appreciated but are not expected.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (KakaoPay, Naver Pay, Samsung Pay) are common. ATMs are readily available in towns and at airports.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool mornings with fresh greens and blooming wildflowers; air is clear but can be misty in the valleys.
Warm but comfortable; expect occasional afternoon thunderstorms; great for hiking and lake views.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage; perfect for scenic drives, hikes, and photography.
Snowy landscapes with practical cold-weather gear needed; superb for skiing, snow sports, and picturesque snowscapes.
P’yŏngch’ang at Night
Hiking in P’yŏngch’ang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridge walk with panoramic mountain views; popular in summer and autumn.
Airports
How to reach P’yŏngch’ang by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic flights; drive or bus transfer to Pyeongchang.
Coastal airport with domestic and limited international flights; transfer by road or rail to Pyeongchang.
Major international gateway; about 2.5–3.5 hours by express bus or rail to Seoul and onward to Pyeongchang.
Domestic and some international flights; convenient for connections to Seoul and onward to Pyeongchang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Korean communities with families involved in agriculture, tourism, and service industries; a growing number of seasonal workers around ski resorts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Top-tier resorts like Yongpyong and Alpensia offer runs for all levels and reliable snow.
Explore snow-covered forests and ridges at a relaxed pace.
Mountain trails across Daegwallyeong Pass and nearby parks from late spring to autumn.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting P’yŏngch’ang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Korean cooking often uses fish sauces and broths; look for tofu-focused dishes, vegetable stews, kimchi-free options, and rice. Clearly communicate dietary needs to staff; many places will accommodate with egg or mushroom dishes when available.