whatdo

Gangneung

Gangneung is a charming coastal city located in the northeastern part of South Korea. It is renowned for its beautiful beaches, including the popular Gyeongpo Beach and Anmok Beach. The city is also rich in cultural heritage, with a number of historical sites such as Ojukheon House, where the famous scholar Yi I once lived.

Gangneung is a great destination for visitors looking to enjoy a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious local cuisine.

See More
  • "μ•ˆλ…•ν•˜μ„Έμš” (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "κ³ λ§™μŠ΅λ‹ˆλ‹€ (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
  • "μ‹€λ‘€ν•©λ‹ˆλ‹€ (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
  • "μ£„μ†‘ν•©λ‹ˆλ‹€ (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
  • "μ–Όλ§ˆμ˜ˆμš”? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?

Prices in Gangneung

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • β˜• Coffee: $3 - $6
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
  • πŸ›’ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
  • πŸ‹οΈβ€β™‚οΈ Gym Membership: $30 - $50

Highlights

  • Beautiful coastal scenery with beaches and mountains.
  • Rich cultural history and heritage, including historic sites and temples.
  • Home to high-quality local seafood and diverse culinary options.
  • Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
  • Popular destination for winter sports and the 2018 Winter Olympics.
  • Well-developed infrastructure for tourism, including hotels and transportation.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Summer months can be hot and humid, making some outdoor activities uncomfortable.
  • Language barrier for non-Korean speakers may pose challenges.
  • Public transport options may be less frequent outside of main tourist areas.

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Beach Day at Gyeongpo

morning

:

Start your day with a refreshing walk along Gyeongpo Beach. Enjoy the morning sun and grab a traditional Korean breakfast at a nearby cafΓ©.

afternoon

:

Spend your afternoon swimming or relaxing on the sandy shores of the beach. Try local seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

evening

:

Take a stroll by the beach as the sun sets, painting the sky with beautiful colors. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant with a sea view.

day 2

Cultural Exploration

morning

:

Visit the Ojukheon House, the birthplace of the famous Confucian scholar Yulgok. Learn about Korean history and enjoy the beautiful traditional architecture.

afternoon

:

Head to the Gangneung Art Center to view contemporary Korean art exhibits. Participate in one of the interactive workshops offered there.

evening

:

Dine at a local restaurant and try traditional dishes like bibimbap. Enjoy a calm evening walk around the historic areas, soaking in the culture.

Explore Day Plans

Attractions in Gangneung

Visit one of these nice places.

Gyeongpo Beach

Gyeongpo Beach offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.

View

Anmok Beach Coffee Street

Anmok Beach Coffee Street provides a picturesque setting with cafes overlooking the beach, making it a great place for scenic photography.

View

Ojukheon House

Ojukheon House is a traditional Korean house with a beautiful garden, offering great photo opportunities for capturing the charm of Korean architecture.

View

Is it safe in Gangneung

This coastal city in South Korea is generally considered safe for both residents and visitors. Violent crime rates are low, contributing to a peaceful atmosphere that locals and tourists alike enjoy. Regular police presence enhances the sense of security, and emergency services are efficient and responsive. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing or scams, can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas, but they are not prevalent. It's always wise to exercise common sense, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. The public transportation system is reliable and safe, making it easy to explore the city and surrounding areas. Additionally, the community is known for its welcoming and friendly demeanor, which further contributes to a secure environment. Overall, visitors to this seaside destination can expect to have a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring its beautiful beaches, cultural sites, and local cuisine.

Gangneung's Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Squid Sundae

A unique local delicacy, Squid Sundae is made of squid stuffed with glutinous rice, vegetables, and noodles. It's then steamed and served with spicy dipping sauce. Try it at Ojukheon or Gangneung Central Market.

Must-Try!

Hwehwe Bibimbap

Hwehwe Bibimbap is a variation of the classic Korean mixed rice dish, Bibimbap. It features fresh raw fish atop the rice and a variety of colorful vegetables. Enjoy this specialty at Seongjin Market or Jungang Market.

Chodang Dubu

A local tofu dish, Chodang Dubu, is cherished for its delicate flavor and smooth texture. Sample it at local tofu specialty restaurants like Chodang Dubu Village.

Things To Do in Gangneung

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Gyeongpo Beach

Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports at this beautiful beach.

Jeongdongjin Beach

Visit the sandy beach and the nearby attractions, such as the Sunrise Park and the hourglass.

Anmok Beach Coffee Street

Stroll along the beachfront and enjoy various coffee shops and cafes.

Gangneung Olympic Park

Explore the venues from the 2018 Winter Olympics and enjoy outdoor activities like cycling.

Weather in Gangneung

The climate in this coastal city is classified as humid continental, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters, which last from December to February, can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Summers, spanning from June to August, are typically warm and humid, with temperatures frequently reaching the high 20s to low 30s Celsius (mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit). Spring and autumn are transitional periods, featuring mild temperatures and lower humidity. Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the majority occurring during the monsoon season in summer. Winds from the East Sea can also influence weather patterns, particularly in winter, leading to the accumulation of snow in the surrounding mountainous areas. Overall, the city's climate offers a diverse range of weather conditions throughout the year, appealing to various recreational activities and tourism.

How To Behave in Gangneung

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Remove Shoes Indoors

In Gangneung, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional Korean establishments as a sign of respect and cleanliness.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect for elders is a fundamental cultural norm in Gangneung, South Korea. It is important to use formal language and gestures when interacting with older individuals.

Mindful Dining Etiquette

When dining in Gangneung, it is considered polite to wait for the eldest or most senior person to start eating before beginning your meal. Additionally, it is customary to use both hands when giving and receiving items, such as money or gifts.

Tipping & Payment

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Gangneung, Korea, South, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, cafes, or for services. Additionally, some establishments may find it disrespectful or confusing if visitors attempt to tip.

Payment

Cash is widely accepted in Gangneung, Korea, South, especially at smaller businesses. However, major credit and debit cards are also commonly used, particularly in larger stores and restaurants. It's important to carry cash for smaller transactions and to inquire about card acceptance beforehand.

Nightlife in Gangneung

As the sun sets along the eastern coast of South Korea, the vibrant nightlife in Gangneung springs to life, offering a mix of beachside relaxation and lively city activities. Visitors can start their evening with a stroll along Gyeongpo Beach, where local musicians often set the mood with live performances and the sound of waves in the background. The beachside cafes and bars, many of which feature outdoor seating, provide the perfect setting for enjoying a cocktail or a locally brewed beer as the night unfolds. For those seeking more energetic nightlife, Gangneung's downtown area offers a range of options. The area around Central Market is bustling with restaurants and street food vendors, where you can sample traditional Korean dishes such as Dakgangjeong (crispy fried chicken) and Hotteok (sweet pancakes). After a satisfying meal, the streets fill with people heading towards the array of pubs, karaoke bars, and nightclubs. Live music venues and noraebang (singing rooms) are popular among both locals and tourists, ensuring that there's no shortage of entertainment until the early hours of the morning. And for a more laid-back experience, the coffee culture in Gangneung is strong, with many cafes open late, allowing visitors to relax with a coffee or tea, often accompanied by a slice of the famous Chodang Sundubu (soft tofu). For those interested in cultural experiences, Gangneung also hosts night markets and art galleries that stay open late, offering a glimpse into the local art scene and artisanal crafts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful evening by the sea or a night of music and dancing in the city, Gangneung's nightlife caters to a wide array of tastes and preferences.

Best Time to Visit Gangneung

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Gangneung, Korea, South is in spring (March to May) when the weather is mild and cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Expect enjoyable outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid in Gangneung but is an ideal time for beach activities and water sports. Expect crowded beaches and vibrant summer festivals.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) boasts beautiful foliage and comfortable weather, making it a great time to visit Gangneung. Expect stunning fall colors and outdoor adventures.

Winter

Winter (December to February) is cold in Gangneung, but it's a great time for winter sports and enjoying the snowy landscapes. Expect winter sports, ice fishing, and scenic winter views.

Accomodations in Gangneung

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gangneung.

Hotels Apartments