Things To Do
in Gangneung
Gangneung sits on the eastern coast of South Korea, blending sandy beaches, modern cafes, and historic sites along the East Sea. The city is famous for Chodang tofu, fresh seafood, and scenic coastal walks. It serves as a gateway to nearby parks and mountain trails in Gangwon Province.
Seasonal markets and cultural events make it a rewarding destination at any time of year.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Gangneung and check into your accommodation. Start your day with a stroll along the picturesque Gyeongpo Beach, where you can enjoy the cool breeze and beautiful ocean views. Visit the nearby Gyeongpo Lake for a refreshing walk amidst nature.
Have lunch at a seaside café, tasting local specialties such as fresh seafood. Spend the afternoon sunbathing or engaging in water sports at the beach. Don't miss out on visiting the historic Gyeongpo Temple nearby.
As the sun sets, head over to the beach to witness a stunning sunset over the horizon. Dine at a seafood restaurant renowned for its sashimi and grilled fish. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk along the shore, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Visit Seongyojang House, a well-preserved traditional Korean house that showcases the architectural beauty of the Joseon Dynasty. Explore the serene gardens and learn about the lifestyle of the noble class in ancient Korea. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant before heading to the Gangneung National Museum. The museum features exhibits on the history, art, and culture of the Gangwon province. Spend some time exploring the surrounding park, which offers beautiful nature trails.
Experience a traditional Korean barbecue dinner, where you can grill your own meat right at the table. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Gangneung, checking out unique shops and cafes. Cap the night off with a visit to a local pub to enjoy some Korean craft beer.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or beverage at cafe | $3-5 |
| 🍜Mid-range restaurant meal | $12-25 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚎Public transit fare (local) | $1-3 per ride |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and easy access to nature
- Renowned tofu and seafood cuisine with fresh market options
- Rich cultural heritage sites like Ojukheon and Seongyojang
- Relaxed, traveler-friendly atmosphere with plenty of seaside cafes
- Can be crowded in summer and around popular beaches
- Some areas have limited English signage or English-speaking staff
- Longer travel times from major international hubs
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "메뉴 추천해 주세요" - Please recommend a dish
- "화장실이 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "이것 좀 주세요" - Please give me this
- "영어를 할 수 있어요?" - Do you speak English?
- "도와주세요" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Gangneung
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sunrise vantage with the long railroad track threading along the coast—perfect for dramatic early-morning photos.
A wide sandy shoreline with pine trees and a scenic boardwalk, offering expansive ocean views and sunset shots.
A traditional hanok set in a tranquil garden, ideal for capturing Korean architectural details and historical ambiance.
Coastal cafes with sea-facing terraces; great for golden hour photography and moody harbor scenes.
Well-preserved Joseon-era residence with gardens and water features, offering classic cultural photography opportunities.
Food in Gangneung
Gangneung Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Silky soft tofu served in a light anchovy broth with radish and dipping sauces; best experienced in Chodang Tofu Village.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught sashimi served with sesame oil and a trio of sauces; widely available at Jungang Market and coastal restaurants.
Assorted grilled fish, squid, and shellfish cooked to order; popular along the coast in fishing villages and seaside eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering seafood, produce, and street foods like hotteok and fish cakes; a great place to sample local snacks.
Coastal market near Gyeongpo Beach with fresh catches and quick bites—ideal for a casual seafood lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite language (formal speech) when addressing strangers and elders. A light bow or nod is common in greetings.
Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional venues; maintain gentle tone in crowded spaces and avoid loud conversations in temples or cultural sites.
Respect queues, avoid talking loudly on public transport, and be mindful of local customs when taking photos of people or sacred sites.
Safety
Tipping in Gangneung
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in most Korean dining and service settings; rounding up the bill or leaving small tips is not expected. In tourist-heavy venues, a small tip may be appreciated for standout service, but it is not required.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (KakaoPay, Naver Pay) are increasingly common in shops and cafes, especially in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming scenery; pleasant for coastal walks and hanok visits. Pack a light jacket.
Warm to hot and humid with frequent coastal showers; ideal for beaches, water activities, and terrace cafes. Prepare sun protection and hydration.
Clear skies and comfortable temperatures; great for outdoor hikes and photography with golden light.
Cold and dry with occasional snowfall; coastal winds can be strong. Expect fewer crowds and a cozy cafe scene.
Gangneung at Night
Hiking in Gangneung
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive from Gangneung, offering iconic granite peaks, forested trails, and panoramic views; Ulsanbawi Rock is the standout hike.
Highland trails with pine groves and rolling ridges, great for light-to-moderate hikes and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Gangneung by plane.
Nearest airport to Gangneung with domestic and limited international routes; typically a 40–60 minute drive to central Gangneung.
Mid-size regional airport offering domestic flights; drive time to Gangneung is longer but workable for a multi-city itinerary.
Major international gateway to Korea; typical transfer by train or bus to Gangneung can take several hours, but offers the widest flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Korean residents with a growing number of domestic travelers and international visitors, especially from nearby Asia.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular activity on the East Sea beaches around Gangneung, with local surf shops offering lessons and rentals.
Common in local gyms and school grounds; community leagues and pickup games are accessible in urban areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gangneung.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for tofu dishes like Chodang Dubu and vegetable-based bibimbap; request no fish-based broths when possible and ask for vegetable broths or water-based sauces at restaurants.