Things To Do
in Gangneung
Gangneung is a vibrant coastal city located on the east coast of South Korea, known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. It has gained international recognition for hosting events during the 2018 Winter Olympics, showcasing its commitment to winter sports and tourism. Gangneung is also famous for its traditional Korean tea culture, particularly at the local Ojukheon House, where the renowned artist Shin Saimdang was born.
In addition to its natural splendor, the city offers attractions like the scenic Gyeongpo Lake and the stunning Anmok Beach, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike.
- "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 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along Gyeongpo Beach. Enjoy the sunrise while sipping coffee at a nearby café.
Visit the Gangneung Water Park for some fun in the sun. Take a leisurely stroll through the beach and grab lunch at a beachside restaurant.
Watch the stunning sunset at Anmok Beach. Dine at a local seafood restaurant to cap off your day.
Head to Seoraksan National Park for a morning hike. Revel in the beautiful landscape and fresh air.
Visit Ojukheon House, a significant cultural site. Explore the traditional architecture and learn about its historical importance.
Grab dinner at a local Korean BBQ spot. Enjoy a relaxing evening at one of the nearby bars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including beautiful coastlines and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage with various historical sites and local traditions.
- Mild climate, making it pleasant to visit year-round.
- Famous for its coffee culture and local Korean cuisine.
- Host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, providing modern infrastructure and facilities.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, leading to higher prices and less availability.
- Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities.
- Some attractions may have limited English signage, making navigation challenging for non-Korean speakers.
- Weather can be unpredictable, especially during monsoon season.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger urban areas.
Best Activities in Gangneung
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the beautiful sunrise and sandy beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The area also offers cafes and restaurants along the coast.
Take a hike in this stunning national park, known for its scenic trails, towering peaks, and diverse wildlife.
Rent a bike and ride along the picturesque coastal trail that offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic by the serene Gyeongpo Lake, known for its beautiful scenery and walking paths.
Try your hand at surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking at one of Korea's premier surfing spots.
Visit this historic site, home to the famous Confucian scholar Yulgok, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and traditional Korean architecture.
Experience traditional Korean culture by participating in a tea ceremony in one of the local tea houses, which often have views of the surrounding nature.
Places to Visit in Gangneung
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its beautiful sunsets and panoramic ocean views, Gyeongpo Beach is perfect for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. The beach's extensive coastline offers numerous spots for capturing stunning landscapes.
Known for its picturesque sunrise views, Jeongdong-jin boasts a beautiful beach and the iconic Hourglass Park. The combination of the sunrise over the sea and the unique hourglass sculpture makes for a great photo opportunity.
A scenic walking trail that runs along the coast, Ollae-gil offers exceptional views of the ocean, cliffs, and, in certain seasons, beautiful wildflowers. It's an ideal spot for nature photography.
The Sogeumgang River area is great for capturing natural beauty, with its stunning river views, surrounding mountains, and vibrant flora in the spring, making it a wonderful location for landscape photography.
Not only known for its unique cider, but the factory also offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes. The rustic buildings and natural setting provide great backdrops for photos.
This traditional house provides a glimpse into Korea's past, surrounded by beautiful gardens and mountains. It’s an excellent place for taking photos that capture Korea's heritage and natural surroundings.
Food in Gangneung
Gangneung Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This soft tofu is made from local soybeans and is known for its silky texture and rich flavor. Head to Chodang Tofu Village to sample this delicacy, where you can enjoy it in various forms, including grilled or in soups.
Must-Try!
A beloved street food, Gangneung's sundae is made with rice, sweet potato noodles, and pig's blood. Check out the local street vendors or Gangneung Jungang Market for an authentic experience.
Gyeongpo wet rice is a traditional dish made from fresh, plump rice cooked in a savory sauce. Visit local restaurants along Gyeongpo Beach to try this comforting specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a variety of local street food and fresh produce. Try popular snacks like tteokbokki, hotteok, and the renowned sundae while exploring the stalls full of vibrant local products.
A charming street lined with numerous cafes and beachside vendors. Enjoy the famous coffee from Anmok Beach, known for its local beans, and try paired desserts like bingsu or pastries from local shops.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gangneung, as in the rest of Korea, it is crucial to show respect, especially towards elders. Use formal language when addressing older individuals and offer your seat to them on public transport.
When dining, it is polite to wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin. Also, using both hands when passing or receiving items, including chopsticks, demonstrates respect.
Koreans typically maintain a degree of personal space. Avoid excessive physical contact, like hugging, in public settings unless you know the person well. Bowing is a common form of greeting.
Safety
Tipping in Gangneung
Ensure a smooth experience
In Gangneung, South Korea, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected. Service charges are often included in the bill, especially in restaurants and hotels. However, customers may leave small change or round up the bill as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service.
Payments in Gangneung can be made using cash, credit cards, or mobile payment apps. Many establishments accept major credit cards, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops and markets. Digital payment methods, including apps popular in Korea such as KakaoPay and Naver Pay, are widely used and accepted, making transactions convenient.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Gangneung (March to May) is mild and beautiful, with cherry blossoms blooming. The average temperature ranges from 5°C to 20°C. It's a great time for outdoor activities and experiencing local festivals, such as the Gangneung Cherry Blossom Festival.
Summer (June to August) in Gangneung is warm and humid, with temperatures typically between 20°C and 30°C. This is the peak season for beach activities, as Gangneung has stunning beaches like Gyeongpo Beach. Expect lively nightlife and various summer festivals.
Autumn (September to November) offers cooler temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C, and stunning fall foliage. It's an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the changing colors in the parks and mountains. The Gangneung Coffee Festival is also noteworthy during this season.
Winter (December to February) in Gangneung can be chilly, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C. However, winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts. The city hosts various winter festivals and is beautiful under a blanket of snow.
Gangneung at Night
Hiking in Gangneung
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located a short drive from Gangneung, Odaesan National Park is known for its beautiful mountain scenery and diverse plant species. It offers various hiking trails, including routes to the summit of Odaesan.
Koreansan features stunning vistas and well-maintained trails. The hike to the peak provides a rewarding view of surrounding landscapes, making it a favorite among local hikers.
While a bit farther from Gangneung, Seoraksan National Park offers breathtaking mountain scenery and a range of hiking options from easy walks to challenging climbs. It is one of Korea's most renowned national parks.
Although primarily known for its beautiful beaches, Jeongdongjin also offers coastal hiking trails with stunning ocean views, making for a different hiking experience.
Located near Yangyang, Naksan Provincial Park features trails that include coastal views, forested paths, and opportunities to see historical sites such as Naksansa Temple.
Aiports
How to reach Gangneung by plane.
Located approximately 200 kilometers from Gangneung, Incheon International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in South Korea, serving as a major international gateway.
Situated around 190 kilometers from Gangneung, Gimpo International Airport primarily deals with domestic flights but also handles international services, mainly to nearby countries.
Located about 30 kilometers from Gangneung, Yangyang International Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights, serving the eastern coast of Korea.
Approximately 360 kilometers from Gangneung, Jeju International Airport is the largest airport on Jeju Island and offers a range of international flights, especially to Asian destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group in Gangneung, consisting of ethnic Koreans who make up the majority of the population.
This group includes expatriates and foreign workers from various countries, contributing to the cultural diversity in Gangneung.
A significant number of students from different regions of Korea and abroad who attend local universities and educational institutions.
An increasing demographic group, with many retirees and elderly individuals residing in Gangneung due to its pleasant environment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Gangneung is known for its ice hockey culture, especially after hosting events during the 2018 Winter Olympics.
The city has facilities that support speed skating, making it a popular sport in the region.
Curling gained popularity in Gangneung, particularly due to its success in the Olympics.
Soccer is widely played and followed in Gangneung, with local teams competing in various leagues.
Baseball has a strong following in Gangneung, with local teams and fans supporting the sport.
With its coastal location, surfing has gained popularity, especially among younger populations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gangneung.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-based dishes dominate the culinary scene, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes. Look for bibimbap (mixed rice) without meat, or tofu-based dishes in Buddhist temples.
Vegan options may be limited, but some restaurants provide plant-based dishes. South Korea's rising vegan culture means more cafes are starting to cater to this lifestyle, especially in larger cities.
Gluten-free options can be scarce; however, many Korean dishes naturally avoid gluten. Look for rice and vegetable-based meals, and don’t hesitate to inquire at restaurants about ingredient sourcing.