Things To Do
in P'Yngch'Ang
P'yunggyeong (often spelled P'Yngch'Ang) is a city located in the Gangwon Province of South Korea, known for its picturesque mountainous landscape and cold climate. It gained international recognition as the host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, which showcased its facilities and infrastructure for winter sports. The region is also popular for its ski resorts, including Yongpyong and Alpensia, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
Additionally, P'yunggyeong is rich in natural beauty, with areas like Odaesan National Park providing opportunities for hiking and exploring diverse flora and fauna.
- "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): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at Odaesan National Park, immersing yourself in its natural beauty. Look out for the vibrant flora and fauna as you enjoy scenic views along the trails.
Visit the local market for lunch and sample traditional Korean street food. Afterward, explore the art galleries and shops in town.
Unwind at a cozy café overlooking the mountains. Enjoy a warm drink while watching the sunset paint the sky.
Head to Yongpyong Resort for a morning of skiing or snowboarding during the winter. Rent equipment and take a few lessons if you're a beginner.
Have lunch at one of the resort’s restaurants, enjoying local dishes. Then, try your hand at some snow activities like snow tubing or sledding.
Relax in the resort's indoor pool or spa. End your day with a hearty dinner at a mountain lodge.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery with beautiful mountains and coastlines.
- Host of major international events, showcasing culture and hospitality.
- Rich in cultural heritage with historical sites and traditions.
- Growing infrastructure and modern amenities for visitors.
- Access to winter sports and outdoor activities.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
- Higher cost of living and travel during major events.
- Potential language barriers for non-Korean speakers.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
Best Activities in P'Yngch'Ang
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A scenic hiking trail offering breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Perfect for nature lovers and those looking to enjoy the fresh air.
A sports resort that provides outdoor activities such as skiing in winter and mountain biking or zip-lining during the summer months.
A beautiful national park with various trails, waterfalls, and opportunities for camping and bird watching. An ideal spot for a day of exploration and relaxation.
One of Korea's largest ski resorts, offering skiing and snowboarding in the winter as well as golf and water sports in the warmer months.
A peaceful walking path through a bamboo forest, providing a serene environment for walking, meditation, and photography.
Places to Visit in P'Yngch'Ang
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque location with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, ideal for capturing winter sports and autumn foliage.
Known for its excellent ski slopes, this park provides breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks, perfect for dynamic winter photography.
Famed for its diverse flora and rugged landscapes, Odaesan offers numerous trails that lead to scenic lookout points, perfect for nature photographers.
A landmark of the 2018 Winter Olympics, this stadium provides a modern architectural backdrop combined with mountainous scenery, making for unique photographs.
This serene Buddhist temple, surrounded by beautiful nature, offers historical charm and tranquility, perfect for capturing spiritual and cultural photography.
The glass-floored skywalk offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding alpine scenery and is an exhilarating spot for unique photographic angles.
Food in P'Yngch'Ang
P'Yngch'Ang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional rice cake made from glutinous rice, filled with various ingredients like red bean paste or vegetables, often served during festive occasions. It can be found at local bakeries and traditional food stalls.
Must-Try!
Korean savory pancakes made with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, seafood, and kimchi. Popular spots serving Jeon include street food vendors and traditional restaurants.
A hearty pork bone soup simmered with potatoes, vegetables, and a mix of spices, perfect for colder days. You can find this dish in many local restaurants specializing in traditional Korean cuisine.
A special dish made from golden rice, often mixed with seasonal vegetables and protein, providing a unique local flavor. It can be enjoyed at eateries around P'Yngch'Ang.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market featuring an array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls. You can sample popular snacks such as Tteokbokki (spicy rice cake) and hotteok (sweet pancakes) while exploring.
Known for its lively atmosphere, this street food alley offers various treats, including fish cakes, mandu (dumplings), and kimbap (seaweed rice rolls). It's the perfect place to enjoy quick bites while soaking in the local culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In P'Yngch'Ang, as in much of Korea, it is important to show deference to elders. Use honorific language and show politeness in interactions with older individuals, as they hold a respected status in society.
When dining, it is customary to wait for the eldest person to start eating before you do. Additionally, it is polite to use both hands when passing food or accepting items, as this shows respect.
Dressing modestly is important in P'Yngch'Ang, especially when visiting temples or traditional sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing and opt for attire that is respectful of local customs and traditions.
Safety
Tipping in P'Yngch'Ang
Ensure a smooth experience
In P'Yngch'Ang, Korea, tipping is generally not a common practice. The service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and other establishments. However, in certain high-end restaurants or for exemplary service, a small tip may be appreciated but is not expected.
Payments in P'Yngch'Ang are typically made using cash, credit cards, or mobile payment apps. Most restaurants and shops accept major credit cards, and there is a growing prevalence of digital payment methods. It is important to check if a place accepts card payments, especially in smaller businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (April to June) is a beautiful time to visit P'Yngch'Ang, as cherry blossoms bloom and the weather becomes mild. Expect pleasant temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing.
Summer (July to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 25°C to 30°C. Expect occasional rain and thunderstorms. While this season offers vibrant greenery, it may be less comfortable for outdoor activities.
Autumn (September to November) is another fantastic time to visit, with cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. Expect temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. This season is perfect for hiking and enjoying the scenic beauty of the mountains.
Winter (December to February) attracts visitors for snow sports, as P'Yngch'Ang is known for its ski resorts. Temperatures can drop below 0°C, so prepare for cold weather. Expect snow-covered landscapes and opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
P'Yngch'Ang at Night
Hiking in P'Yngch'Ang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park known for its rugged mountains, diverse flora and fauna, and scenic hiking trails, offering various difficulty levels.
A moderately challenging hike that provides panoramic views of the east coast and the surrounding landscape, particularly beautiful during autumn.
Famous for its beautiful mountainous terrain and rich biodiversity, it offers numerous hiking trails through serene forests and temples.
Located slightly farther from P'Yngch'Ang, this park is ideal for experienced hikers looking for challenging trails and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Known for its unique rock formations and steep trails, Chiaksan offers hikes ranging from easy to challenging, with beautiful waterfalls along the way.
Aiports
How to reach P'Yngch'Ang by plane.
The largest airport in South Korea, located about 80 kilometers northwest of P'Yngch'Ang. It serves as a major hub for international flights.
Located approximately 70 kilometers west of P'Yngch'Ang, Gimpo primarily handles domestic flights but also offers a few international services.
A smaller airport located about 30 kilometers from P'Yngch'Ang, Yangyang mainly serves domestic flights and some seasonal international flights.
Situated approximately 340 kilometers from P'Yngch'Ang, this is the second largest airport in South Korea, serving the city of Busan and offering numerous international routes.
Located around 450 kilometers from P'Yngch'Ang, Jeju International Airport is a significant airport primarily serving flights to and from Jeju Island, with many international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in P'Yngch'Ang, making up the vast majority of the population.
Individuals who have migrated from different regions of South Korea for work, education, or tourism.
A smaller group consisting of expatriates, international workers, or tourists from various countries.
Individuals of mixed Korean and foreign heritage, representing a minor demographic segment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
P'Yngch'Ang is renowned for its ski resorts, making skiing a very popular sport in the region.
With several snow parks and slopes, snowboarding attracts many enthusiasts and athletes.
The region has facilities for bobsleigh, especially popular after hosting the Winter Olympics.
The scenic trails in P'Yngch'Ang are perfect for cross-country skiing, drawing both locals and tourists.
Curling has gained popularity, especially during winter sporting events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting P'Yngch'Ang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly options, including dishes like bibimbap (mixed rice) without meat or seafood and various vegetable-based jeon.
Though it can be a bit challenging, some eateries provide vegan alternatives, such as tofu-based dishes or vegetable soups. Checking menus in advance is recommended.
Finding strictly gluten-free options may be difficult, but rice-based dishes such as rice cakes or bibimbap can often be modified to meet gluten-free needs. Inquire with restaurant staff for assistance.