Gangwon Travel Guide (South Korea/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Gangwon
List of Places to Visit in Gangwon
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Gangwon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Gangwon
Best Things to Do in Gangwon: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Gangwon
Food and Drink Scene of Gangwon
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Gangwon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Gangwon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Gangwon
Best Time to Visit Gangwon
Do’s and Don’ts of Gangwon
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Gangwon
- Health in Gangwon
Getting to Gangwon: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Gangwon
Where to Go Next from Gangwon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Gangwon

Gangwon is a province in South Korea known for its beautiful natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Located in the northeast region of the country, the province boasts a diverse range of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. The region is home to Seoraksan National Park, one of the most popular hiking destinations in Korea, as well as the scenic beaches of Sokcho and Gangneung. Gangwon is also known for its rich cultural history, with several museums and historical sites scattered throughout the province.

List of Places to Visit in Gangwon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Gangwon province is home to several museums and historical places that offer a glimpse into Korea’s rich cultural heritage.

Gyeongpodae Pavilion: A historic pavilion located in Gangneung that offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding mountains.
Ojukheon: A traditional Korean house and museum in Gangneung that was the birthplace of famous Joseon-era scholar Yulgok Yi I.
Sokcho Fishing Village Folk Museum: A museum that showcases the history and culture of the Sokcho fishing village.
Gangneung Seongyojang: A traditional Korean house built during the Joseon Dynasty, now preserved as a museum.
Jeongdongjin Time Museum: A museum dedicated to the history and evolution of timekeeping.

Natural Attractions of Gangwon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Gangwon province is a nature lover’s paradise with many opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views.

Seoraksan National Park: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that features stunning mountain peaks and breathtaking views.
Jeongseon Rail Bike: A unique experience that allows visitors to pedal along abandoned railroad tracks while taking in scenic views of the countryside.
Nami Island: A picturesque island that gained popularity due to its appearance in the Korean drama “Winter Sonata.”
Sokcho Beach: One of the most popular beaches in Korea known for its clear waters and scenic views of Ulsanbawi Rock.
Daegwallyeong Sky Ranch: A high-altitude ranch that offers horseback riding, sheep shearing, and other traditional farm experiences.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gangwon

Gangwon province is home to many hiking and biking routes that offer scenic views of its natural landscapes. Some of the best routes include:

Seoraksan National Park: A popular hiking destination that offers many trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The most popular trail is the Ulsanbawi Rock Trail, which leads to a panoramic view of the park.
Jeongseon Arirang Road: A scenic road that runs through the countryside and offers views of traditional Korean houses, rice paddies, and mountains.
Gangwon Rail Bike: A bike ride along an abandoned train track that offers scenic views of the mountains and countryside.
Mount Odae: A popular hiking destination with several trails that lead to the summit, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Gangwon: Activities and Tours

Gangwon province offers many activities and tours that cater to all types of travelers. Some of the best things to do include:

Skiing and snowboarding: Gangwon is home to many ski resorts, including Alpensia Resort, which hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics.
Cultural experiences: Visitors can participate in traditional Korean activities, such as tea ceremony, calligraphy, and hanbok (traditional Korean dress) rental.
Food tours: Gangwon is known for its fresh seafood, traditional rice cakes, and mountain vegetables. Visitors can take food tours that offer a taste of these local specialties.
Water activities: Gangwon has many beaches and lakes that offer water activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Theme parks: Gangwon has several amusement parks, including High1 Resort, which features a ski park, a water park, and a casino.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gangwon

For visitors who want to explore Gangwon province in-depth, here’s a suggested week-long itinerary:

Day	Activity
1	Visit Seoraksan National Park and hike to Ulsanbawi Rock
2	Explore the cultural attractions of Gangneung, including Ojukheon and Gyeongpodae Pavilion
3	Take a scenic bike ride along the Jeongseon Arirang Road and visit the nearby Jeongdongjin Beach
4	Experience traditional Korean activities, such as a tea ceremony and hanbok rental, in Pyeongchang
5	Visit Nami Island and take a leisurely stroll through its picturesque landscapes
6	Ski or snowboard at one of Gangwon’s many ski resorts
7	Relax at a local spa or hot spring and try traditional Korean medicinal treatments

Food and Drink Scene of Gangwon

Must-Try Dishes

Gangwon cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, mountain vegetables, and traditional rice cakes. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Squid and daepo (big crab) sashimi: Fresh seafood that’s typically served raw with spicy dipping sauces.
Sanche bibimbap: A rice dish served in a hot stone pot with various vegetables, meat, and a raw egg on top.
Deodeok gui: Grilled mountain root vegetables that have a unique nutty flavor.
Hwae (raw fish) bibimbap: A rice dish served with raw fish and various vegetables.
Memil guksu: Buckwheat noodles served in a cold broth with vegetables and chili sauce.

Local Beverages

Gangwon province is known for its traditional alcoholic beverages, including:

Makgeolli: A Korean rice wine made from fermented rice that has a slightly sweet taste.
Bokbunja ju: A Korean raspberry wine that has a sweet and sour taste.
Soju: A clear, distilled liquor that’s popular in Korea.

Where to Stay in Gangwon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gangwon province has many options for accommodations, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the best options include:

Alpensia Resort: A luxury resort that hosted many events during the 2018 Winter Olympics.
Sokcho Beach Hotel: A hotel that’s located right on Sokcho Beach.
Pyeongchang Greenpia Condo: A condo-style resort that offers stunning mountain views.
Goodstay Motels: A chain of budget-friendly motels that offer clean and comfortable accommodations.
Guesthouse Bon: A popular guesthouse in Gangneung that offers a cozy atmosphere and convenience to local attractions.

What to Buy in Gangwon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Gangwon province is known for its local products, including traditional crafts and agricultural specialties. Some of the best souvenirs to bring home include:

Herb-soaked salmon: A locally-produced salmon that’s soaked in herb-infused brine.
Dakgangjeong: Sweet and spicy fried chicken that’s a popular snack in Korea.
Ginseng: A traditional Korean herb that’s known for its medicinal properties.
Handmade pottery: Gangwon is home to many traditional pottery studios that produce unique and beautiful pieces.
Pine tree products: Gangwon is known for its pine trees, and many local products, such as tea and soap, are made from pine extract.

Local Culture and Customs of Gangwon

Gangwon province has a rich cultural heritage that’s influenced by its history, geography, and natural surroundings. Some of the unique aspects of Gangwon culture include:

Gangwon folk songs: Traditional songs that are sung in the Gangwon dialect and feature themes of love, nature, and everyday life.
Gangwon-style hanbok: A traditional Korean dress that’s characterized by its bright colors and bold patterns.
Mountain culture: Gangwon’s mountainous terrain has influenced its culinary traditions, arts, and crafts.
Winter sports: Gangwon is known for its winter sports culture and has hosted many international events, such as the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Best Time to Visit Gangwon

The best time to visit Gangwon province depends on the activities and attractions that you want to experience. Some of the best times to visit include:

Spring (April to June): The weather is mild, and the cherry blossoms and other flowers are in bloom.
Summer (July to August): Gangwon’s beaches and lakes are at their busiest during this time, and the weather is warm and sunny.
Fall (September to November): The autumn foliage in Gangwon’s mountains is spectacular, and the weather is cool and crisp.
Winter (December to February): Gangwon is home to many ski resorts, and the winter festivals, such as the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, offer unique experiences for visitors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gangwon

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions: Learn about Gangwon’s cultural heritage and be respectful when visiting temples, shrines, and other cultural attractions.
Try local food and drinks: Gangwon’s cuisine is unique and flavorful, and trying local specialties is an essential part of the travel experience.
Learn basic Korean phrases: Knowing a few basic Korean phrases can go a long way in communicating with locals and showing respect for their culture.

Don’t:

Forget to take off your shoes: It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a traditional Korean house.
Be loud and disruptive: Koreans value harmony and respect, and being loud and boisterous in public places is considered impolite.
Be disrespectful to elders: Korean culture places a high value on respecting elders, and being rude or dismissive to older adults is considered highly disrespectful.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gangwon

Gangwon province is generally safe for visitors, with low levels of crime and a well-developed infrastructure. However, visitors should be mindful of the following safety concerns:

Natural hazards: Gangwon’s mountains and beaches can pose hazards such as landslides, flash floods, and strong currents.
Traffic accidents: Road accidents can occur due to heavy traffic and narrow roads in some areas.
Skiing and snowboarding accidents: Visitors should follow safety guidelines when participating in winter sports.

Health in Gangwon

There are no major health risks for visitors to Gangwon province. However, visitors should take precautions against the following:

Sunburn and dehydration: Gangwon’s summers can be hot and humid, and visitors should drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen when spending time outdoors.
Air pollution: Gangwon’s air quality can be poor during the winter months due to increased emissions from heating systems.

Getting to Gangwon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gangwon

The nearest airport to Gangwon province is Yangyang International Airport, which serves domestic flights from Seoul and other major cities in Korea. Incheon International Airport, South Korea’s largest airport, is about a three-hour drive from Gangwon and offers international flights to many destinations.

Bus Stations Near Gangwon

Gangwon has several bus stations that offer transportation to other cities in Korea. Some of the major bus stations include:

Gangneung Intercity Bus Terminal: Offers transportation to cities in the eastern region of Korea, including Seoul.
Wonju Express Bus Terminal: Offers transportation to cities in the central region of Korea, including Daejeon and Busan.
Chuncheon Express Bus Terminal: Offers transportation to cities in the northern region of Korea, including Sokcho and Goseong.

Other Options

Gangwon province is also accessible by train, with several train stations located throughout the region. The KTX high-speed train and other express trains offer convenient transportation to major cities in Korea.

How to Get Around in Gangwon

Gangwon province has a well-developed transportation infrastructure that makes it easy to get around by car, bus, or train. Rental cars are available at major airports and cities, and taxis are readily available. Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is affordable and convenient, with many routes serving popular attractions and destinations.

Where to Go Next from Gangwon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Gangwon province is located in the northeastern region of Korea, and there are many nearby destinations that are worth visiting. Some of the best options include:

Seoul: The capital city of Korea is located about a two-hour drive from Gangwon, and offers a wealth of cultural attractions, shopping destinations, and dining options.
Gyeonggi Province: Located south of Gangwon, Gyeonggi Province is home to many historic sites and cultural attractions, as well as the popular tourist destination of Everland Resort.
Jeju Island: Known as the “Hawaii of Korea,” Jeju Island is a popular tourist destination located off the southern coast of Korea. It’s accessible by plane from Yangyang International Airport.
Incheon: Located west of Seoul, Incheon is home to Incheon International Airport, as well as several historic sites and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Gangwon province is a beautiful and diverse region of South Korea that offers something for everyone. From the natural landscapes of Seoraksan National Park to the cultural heritage of Gangneung, visitors can experience the best of Korea’s history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or a culture enthusiast, Gangwon is a destination that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.