Things To Do
in P'Yngch'Ang
P'Yngch'Ang is a tranquil mountain town in central Korea, where pine forests cradle sandstone cliffs and a slow river winds through terraced fields. The town preserves traditional hanok lanes beside modern cafes, galleries, and small markets that pulse with seasonal produce. Temples, lookout points, and craft workshops invite visitors to slow down and savor local rhythms.
With welcoming locals and scenic vantage points around every bend, P'Yngch'Ang offers a warm, nature-infused escape from city bustle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in P'Yngch'Ang, settle into your accommodation and take some time to refresh. Grab a traditional Korean breakfast at a local café, enjoying dishes like kimchi and rice. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll to acclimatize to the serene mountain air.
Explore the vibrant local markets, where you can sample street foods and shop for unique souvenirs. Visit the Pyeongchang Culture & Art Center, showcasing both contemporary and traditional Korean art. This immersion into local culture will enhance your appreciation for the region's artistic expressions.
As the sun sets, dine at a traditional Korean barbecue restaurant, where you can grill your own meat. Enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with laughter and conversation, making new friends along the way. End the night with a peaceful walk to the nearby river, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Odaesan National Park. The morning hike offers breathtaking views of lush forests and vibrant flora. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
After lunch at a mountain lodge, continue your hike towards Sogeumgang Valley, where you can sit by the river and enjoy the serene surroundings. Take part in nature activities, such as bird watching or a guided nature tour, to deepen your connection with the environment. The tranquil sound of flowing water will amplify your sense of peace.
Return to the village and indulge in a warm bowl of noodle soup at a local eatery. Enjoy the cool evening air while reflecting on the day’s adventures. Cap off the night with stargazing, as the low light pollution allows for breathtaking views of the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $4-7 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping (small items) | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and peaceful pace
- Rich local cuisine and welcoming residents
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Occasional language barriers in smaller vendors
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "네" - Yes
- "아니요" - No
- "제발 주시겠어요" - Please
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me
- "영어를 할 수 있나요?" - Do you speak English?
- "이것은 얼마예요?" - How much is this?
- "화장실이 어디예요?" - Where is the restroom?
- "반갑습니다" - Nice to meet you
Places to Visit in P'Yngch'Ang
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic valley and ridge views; especially dramatic at sunrise or golden hour when the light softens the cliffs.
Traditional rooftops glow as the sun lowers; a perfect composition with narrow lanes and hanging lanterns.
A slender wooden bridge that reflects the surrounding pines and sky on calm days.
Temple architecture framed by lanterns and the night sky; ideal for atmospheric night photography.
Food in P'Yngch'Ang
P'Yngch'Ang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A colorful bowl of rice topped with foraged greens, mushrooms, sesame oil, and gochujang. Best enjoyed at Hwaje Market eateries or hillside diners.
Must-Try!
Fresh trout from nearby streams, grilled and served with a peppery glaze and sesame-laced greens; look for it at riverside eateries.
A comforting kimchi stew cooked in a sizzling stone pot with tofu, often featuring locally fermented kimchi and seasonal vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A riverside market offering seasonal produce, herbal teas, fried snacks, and small eateries. Great for sampling bite-sized dishes and buying souvenirs.
Evening market near the riverbank with street snacks, grilled skewers, and handmade crafts under lantern light.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove hats and keep voices quiet. Show respect when taking photos near sacred spaces.
Remove shoes when entering certain homes or traditional eateries; wait to be shown where to sit in formal settings.
A soft bow or nod is common; handshake is acceptable, often with a slight bow for elders. Address older people with polite language.
Give priority seating to elders and elders are typically greeted first in conversations.
Safety
Tipping in P'Yngch'Ang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Korean service settings; a small tip is appreciated in very high-end or foreign-run establishments, but not expected. Check whether a service charge is included on the bill.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments like KakaoPay and Naver Pay are common in shops and markets. Cash in local currency (KRW) is handy for smaller stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers. Pack light layers and an umbrella for occasional showers.
Warm days with higher humidity; expect afternoon showers. Stay hydrated and plan early-morning outdoor activities.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage. Perfect for hikes and photography; bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Cold, dry days with possible snowfall on higher elevations. Dress in layers and be prepared for early sunsets.
P'Yngch'Ang at Night
Hiking in P'Yngch'Ang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop through pine forests with several lookouts and a gentle ridge ascent.
A fuller-day hike along river canyons with waterfall viewpoints and shaded sections.
Evening hike featuring rock faces, a quiet creek, and occasional wildlife sightings.
Airports
How to reach P'Yngch'Ang by plane.
Major international hub with frequent connections; about a 2.5–3 hour journey by train or car from P'Yngch'Ang.
Primarily domestic and short-haul international flights; convenient for regional connections.
Coastal airport serving seasonal and domestic flights; useful for east-coast access to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local families and visitors with children populate the town, especially around weekend markets and parks.
Nearby colleges attract students who study regional crafts, ecology, and tourism.
A stable segment of locals and seasonal residents who enjoy the town’s calm pace and nature.
Domestic and international visitors drawn by cuisine, hiking, and photography.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Korean martial art practiced widely in the region and demonstrated at cultural festivals.
Historical sport present in local cultural centers and occasionally featured in demonstrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting P'Yngch'Ang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared vegetarian by omitting fish-based broths; request no anchovy or fish sauce and opt for tofu, mushrooms, and local greens. Communicate clearly with staff, and enjoy bibimbap with extra greens or a tofu jjigae.