whatdo

Things To Do
in Taebaek

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Taebaek is a picturesque city nestled in the eastern region of South Korea. Known for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage, Taebaek is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The city is famous for hosting the annual Taebaek Snow Festival, where visitors can enjoy a variety of winter activities and ice sculptures.

With its tranquil atmosphere and friendly locals, Taebaek offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

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Private Transfer - Incheon Airport ⇔ Alpensia / Yongpyong Ski Resort

  • "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
  • "실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
  • "죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
  • "얼마예요? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the Taebaek Mountains
morning
:

Start your day with a scenic hike in Taebaek Mountains National Park. Enjoy the stunning views and fresh mountain air as you immerse yourself in nature.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Taebaek Coal Museum to learn about the region's mining history. The interactive exhibits will give you insight into the lives of the miners.

evening
:

Relax in the evening with a traditional Korean meal at a local restaurant. Savor the flavors of the region while reflecting on your day.

day 2
Nature & Culture
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the beautiful Cheonma Mountain. The fresh, crisp air and beautiful views will invigorate your spirit.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Taebaek Traditional Market for lunch and to explore local crafts and produce. Experience the hustle and bustle of this vibrant spot.

evening
:

Wind down by enjoying a local performance at the Taebaek Cultural Center. Immerse yourself in the local arts scene and enjoy the captivating talents of the performers.

Taebaek Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery including mountains and forests.
  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and traditional festivals.
  • Less crowded compared to major cities, providing a peaceful living environment.
  • Good opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and fishing.
  • Strong sense of community and local culture.
  • Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
  • Less access to modern amenities and services.
  • Public transportation options may be sparse.
  • Harsh winters can be challenging for some residents.
  • Possible language barrier for non-Korean speakers.

Best Activities in Taebaek

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in Taebaeksan Mountain

Taebaeksan Mountain offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels of hikers, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Skiing at Taebaek Snow Festival

During the winter season, Taebaek hosts a popular snow festival featuring skiing and other winter sports activities.

Exploring Guwau Village

Take a stroll through the traditional Guwau Village and experience the local culture and heritage.

Places to Visit in Taebaek

Visit one of these nice places.

Hwangji Pond

A beautiful pond offering stunning views of Taebaek and surrounding mountains.

Taebaeksan Mountain

A popular hiking destination with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding scenery and city below.

Taebaek Coal Museum

A unique location to capture the industrial history and heritage of Taebaek, with scenic views of the surrounding area.

Food in Taebaek

Taebaek, a city in South Korea, offers a diverse and rich cuisine that reflects the country's culinary heritage. Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors, emphasis on fresh ingredients, and balance of textures.

Taebaek Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hanwoo beef

A must-try local specialty, Hanwoo beef is known for its exceptional marbling and tenderness. Visitors can savor this delicacy at local barbecue restaurants like Daegwallyeong Hanwoo Town.

Must-Try!

Samgyetang

This nourishing ginseng chicken soup is a popular dish, often enjoyed for its nutritious and revitalizing qualities. Chuncheon Samgyetang serves an excellent rendition of this traditional dish.

Makguksu

Makguksu, a type of buckwheat noodle, is a regional specialty often served with a spicy and tangy sauce. Donam Makguksu is a renowned spot to relish this refreshing dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Taebaek Snow Festival Food Stalls

During the annual Taebaek Snow Festival, the streets come alive with various food stalls offering an array of Korean street food such as tteokbokki, hotteok, and twigim (fried snacks).

Taebaek Jeonggangwon Food Market

This bustling market is a treasure trove of local produce, snacks, and freshly prepared street food. Visitors can sample a wide range of authentic Korean snacks and delicacies here.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a humid continental climate, which is typical for mountainous areas. Winters are cold and snowy, with January temperatures often dropping below freezing, while lengthy snowfall can accumulate due to the elevation. Summers are warm and humid, with July and August seeing the highest temperatures, often reaching the mid to high 20s Celsius (70s to 80s Fahrenheit). The area experiences distinct four seasons, each with its own charm—spring brings blooming flowers and moderate temperatures, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Due to its geographical location near the Taebaek Mountains, the region often receives significant precipitation, particularly in the summer months, influenced by the East Asian monsoon. Overall, the climate supports diverse ecosystems, making it a picturesque destination throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bow when greeting

In Taebaek, it is customary to bow as a sign of respect when greeting someone, especially elders or those in positions of authority.

Remove shoes indoors

It is considered polite to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain establishments in Taebaek, as is common in many East Asian cultures.

Use both hands when giving or receiving

When giving or receiving items, especially when it comes to money or business cards, it is respectful to use both hands as a sign of politeness and respect.

Safety

The city is generally considered safe, with low crime rates typical of many smaller towns in South Korea. Residents and visitors often report feeling secure while walking around, both during the day and at night. The local community is known for its friendly atmosphere, and incidents of violent crime are rare. Public transportation is reliable and safe, enhancing accessibility throughout the area. Emergency services are effective, and there is a social emphasis on community safety. However, as with any location, it is advised to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions. Natural disasters, such as heavy snowfall in winter, can pose challenges, especially for transportation and outdoor activities. The region is also known for its beautiful mountains and hiking trails, attracting many outdoor enthusiasts, which can increase the risk of accidents in remote areas. Overall, it is a peaceful place, conducive to both living and visiting, with community and environmental factors contributing to its safety.

Tipping in Taebaek

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in Taebaek, South Korea. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or taxis.

Payment

Payments in Taebaek, South Korea are commonly made with cash, but credit cards are also widely accepted. Mobile payment methods such as Samsung Pay and Apple Pay are becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to see cherry blossoms and enjoy pleasant weather

Summer

Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, but can be hot and humid

Autumn

Great for seeing colorful foliage and hiking in cool weather

Winter

Ideal for winter sports and experiencing snowy landscapes

Taebaek at Night

Nestled in the highlands of the Gangwon province, this city offers a unique nightlife experience that combines the tranquility of mountainous surroundings with the vibrant energy of Korean culture. As evening falls, local bars and pubs become lively hubs where residents and visitors alike enjoy traditional Korean drinks such as soju and makgeolli. Karaoke bars, or "noraebang," invite groups to sing their hearts out into the late hours. Street food stalls and cozy restaurants serve a variety of delicious snacks and meals, from hotteok (sweet pancakes) to steaming bowls of ramyeon, providing the perfect sustenance for nocturnal adventures. For those who prefer a quieter evening, there are plenty of spots to relax and take in the stunning night views of the surrounding mountains under a clear, starry sky. Whether you're looking to partake in local party culture or simply unwind, the nightlife here offers something special that reflects the essence of Taebaek's charm and character.

Hiking in Taebaek

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Taebaeksan National Park

A stunning national park featuring the iconic Taebaek Mountain, offering various hiking trails with breathtaking views, diverse flora and fauna, and beautiful landscapes.

Jangsan Mountain

A popular hiking destination with trails that provide panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Taebaek city and the neighboring mountains.

Hambaeksan Mountain

Known for its picturesque trails and scenic vistas, Hambaeksan offers hiking routes suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Seolaksan National Park

A beautiful park featuring well-maintained trails and stunning mountain scenery, Seolaksan is ideal for day hikes and nature exploration.

Odaesan National Park

Offering a mix of cultural and natural attractions, Odaesan features a variety of hiking trails that lead to serene temples and lush forests.

Aiports

How to reach Taebaek by plane.

Incheon International Airport (ICN)

Located approximately 200 km from Taebaek, Incheon International Airport is the largest airport in South Korea, serving as a major hub for international flights.

Gimpo International Airport (GMP)

Gimpo International Airport is about 190 km from Taebaek and primarily handles domestic flights but also offers limited international services.

Cheongju International Airport (CJJ)

Located around 120 km from Taebaek, Cheongju International Airport offers a range of domestic and limited international flights.

Yangyang International Airport (YNY)

Yangyang International Airport is situated approximately 70 km from Taebaek and serves both domestic and a small number of international flights.

Walkability

Walkability in Taebaek is characterized by a blend of urban and natural elements. The city is nestled in the mountainous region of Gangwon Province, which influences its layout and accessibility. Sidewalks are available in many areas, particularly in the downtown region, where local shops, restaurants, and public facilities are concentrated. The city features a generally compact design, making it easier for residents and visitors to walk between key destinations. However, due to the mountainous terrain, some parts can be steep and may pose challenges for pedestrian access. Public transportation is also available, providing alternatives for those who may find walking strenuous. Green spaces and parks contribute to the walkability experience, offering scenic routes and recreational areas for walking and leisure activities. Overall, while there are some obstacles due to the terrain, the city's compact nature and availability of amenities encourage walking in Taebaek.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Korean nationals

The majority demographic group, comprising the local population of South Koreans residing in Taebaek.

Foreign workers

Includes individuals from various countries who have come to Taebaek for employment, particularly in industries like mining.

Elderly population

A significant segment of the population in Taebaek, reflecting the aging demographic trends in South Korea.

Students

Youth demographic including those attending local schools and universities in Taebaek.

Tourists

Visitors who travel to Taebaek, drawn by its natural scenery and cultural sites, albeit a smaller group compared to residents.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

Taebaek is renowned for its ski resorts, attracting enthusiasts for winter sports activities, particularly skiing and snowboarding.

Mountain Climbing

With its mountainous terrain, Taebaek offers various trails for mountain climbing and hiking, making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed in Taebaek, with local teams and schools actively participating in tournaments.

Baseball

Baseball is another popular sport in Taebaek, with local leagues and a strong community of players and fans.

Basketball

Basketball is commonly played in schools and parks, and the community actively supports local teams and events.

Traffic

In this mountainous city, traffic patterns are influenced by its geography and local economy. The road network consists mainly of national and provincial highways that connect Taebaek to other regions, particularly during tourist seasons when visitors come to enjoy the natural scenery and winter sports. During peak commuting hours, especially in the mornings and late afternoons, the streets can become congested as residents travel to work and school. The local population is relatively small, but the influx of tourists can create added pressure on the roads. Public transportation options, including buses, provide essential services, but their schedules can be affected by the weather, especially in winter when heavy snowfall occurs. Overall, while traffic is generally manageable, certain times of the year see increased activity, requiring drivers to be more cautious.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Taebaek.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan

While traditional Korean cuisine prominently features meat, many restaurants in Taebaek offer vegetarian bibimbap, vegetable-based stews, and tofu dishes. Notable options include Bibimbap Sarang and Ssangam Vegetarian.

Gluten-Free Options

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can opt for rice-based dishes such as bibimbap, grilled fish, and Korean barbecue without the soy-based marinade. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out.

Healthcare

The healthcare system in this region is characterized by a combination of public and private medical facilities, providing access to a range of services for residents. Local hospitals offer both general and specialized care, while clinics and health centers cater to outpatient services. In addition to traditional medical care, there is also a focus on preventive health, with immunization programs and health education initiatives aimed at promoting wellness within the community. The region benefits from the national health insurance system, which covers a significant portion of medical expenses for the population. While larger cities in South Korea may offer more advanced facilities and a wider array of specialists, residents in this area typically have access to competent healthcare services, although they may need to travel to nearby urban centers for certain specialized treatments. Overall, the healthcare environment is structured to ensure that the basic medical needs of the population are met, fostering overall community health.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2024 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide