Gangneung Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Gangneung in South Korea with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, outdoor activities, food and drink, accommodation, and more.


Introduction to Gangneung

Located in Gangwon Province, Gangneung is a city on South Korea’s east coast, surrounded by the Taebaek Mountains and the East Sea. Gangneung is a must-visit destination in South Korea, with its beautiful beaches, world-class coffee shops, and rich cultural heritage. The city offers an array of attractions, including natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and many activities to suit every traveler’s preference. Whether you’re a solo traveler or planning a family vacation, Gangneung is the perfect destination for those who are looking for a mix of relaxation and exploration.

List of Places to Visit in Gangneung

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ojukheon House: One of the main highlights of Gangneung, Ojukheon house is a 600-year-old traditional Korean house, which is also the birthplace of the famous Korean scholar, Yulgok Yi I.
  • Gyeongpo Provincial Park: Home to the Gyeongpo Lake, this park offers stunning scenery and is a perfect spot for a relaxing walk or picnic.
  • Seongyojang House: This historic house offers a glimpse of the traditional Korean architecture, dating back to the Joseon dynasty.
  • Haslla Art World Museum: This art museum located on the shores of the East Sea offers contemporary art exhibitions by Korean and foreign artists, showcasing the city’s rich art and cultural scene.
  • Chamsori Gramophone and Edison Museum: This unique museum displays the world’s largest collection of antique gramophones and phonographs, an excellent place for music and history lovers.

Natural Attractions of Gangneung: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jeongdongjin Beach and Train Station: Famous for its sunrise views, this white sandy beach is the most popular in South Korea.
  • Anmok Beach: A long stretch of sandy beach lined with coffee shops, where you can savor a local cup of coffee while enjoying scenic views of the East Sea.
  • Gyeongpodae Pavilion: Located on the eastern end of Gyeongpo Lake, the pavilion offers stunning views and is an ideal place to capture beautiful views of sunset and sunrise.
  • Jeongdongjin Rail Bike: This activity involves biking on a rail track, experiencing the breathtaking view of the East Sea.
  • Jeongseon Arirang 5-day Market: This traditional market is held every five days and is a great opportunity to meet local residents in traditional attire, and try local street food.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gangneung

  • Gyeongpo Lake Bike Path: This 6.2 km long path encircles Gyeongpo Lake, offering picturesque views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
  • Seongyojaang House to Gyeongpo Beach: This hiking trail offers a 5 km scenic walk through the forest and along the beach.
  • Daegwallyeong Sky Ranch: This horseriding route offers a panoramic view of the Daegwallyeong mountain range, with horses for riders of all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Gangneung: Activities and Tours

  • Beach day at Jeongdongjin Beach: With its unique atmosphere and stunning views, Jeongdongjin Beach is the perfect place to spend a day, sunbathing and swimming.
  • Visit a traditional Korean village: Gangneung has several traditional Korean villages, such as the Namsan Folk Village and Bukpyeong Village, where you can see the authentic Korean lifestyle.
  • Fishing Trip: Fishing is a popular activity in Gangneung, with boats and fishing gear available for rent.
  • Coffee shop hopping: Gangneung is famous for its coffee culture, with coffee shops on nearly every corner offering a range of coffees and pastries.
  • Hwajinpo Aquarium: A great place for families with children, this aquarium features a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gangneung

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Ojukheon house and Gyeongpodae Pavilion
Day 2 Bike the Gyeongpo Lake Bike Path and visit Seongyojaang House
Day 3 Hike from Seongyojaang House to Gyeongpo Beach
Day 4 Take the Jeongdongjin Rail Bike tour and visit the Haslla Art World Museum
Day 5 Go fishing in Gangneung and explore the Namsan Folk Village
Day 6 Visit the Jeongseon Arirang 5-day Market and hike the Daegwallyeong Sky Ranch
Day 7 Relax and enjoy a coffee day in the city’s many coffee shops and visit the Hwajinpo Aquarium

Food and Drink Scene of Gangneung

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chodang Tofu: A popular tofu dish made with clean soybeans, a specialty of the Chodang region of Gangneung.
  • Sundae: A sausage made from pig’s intestines and mixed with various ingredients such as sweet potato noodles and spices, usually served with sauce and vegetables.
  • Buckwheat Noodles: Another local specialty, made of buckwheat, usually served cold in the summer and hot in the winter.

Local Beverages

  • Gangneung Coffee: Known for its coffee culture, Gangneung offers a variety of local coffee shops serving flavorful coffee.
  • Makgeolli: A traditional Korean rice wine, often enjoyed with friends in a cozy restaurant or bar.

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

  • Hotel Seabay: A 5-star hotel located in front of Jeongdongjin Beach, offering a stunning view of the East Sea.
  • Goodstay Hotel Gyeongpoen: A traditional Korean-style guesthouse, located near the Gyeongpo Lake, offering a serene atmosphere.
  • Yangsunjae: A homestay style guesthouse, located in Bukpyeong Village, offering an authentic Korean experience.

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

  • Gangneung Dureuk: A traditional Korean wooden sculpture, found in Bukpyeong Village.
  • Gangneung Ssukbaegi: A unique pottery made of a special type of clay that is said to keep food warm for a longer time.
  • Gangneung Hupae: A traditional Korean kite made of bamboo and Hanji paper.

Local Culture and Customs of Gangneung

Gangneung is a city with a rich cultural heritage, with many festivals and events that celebrate traditional Korean culture throughout the year. The city is also famous for its coffee culture, with coffee shops serving a perfect blend of traditional Korean and modern coffee flavors.

Best Time to Visit Gangneung

The best time to visit Gangneung is from April to June and from September to November when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gangneung

Do:

  • Try local Korean cuisine, such as sundae, buckwheat noodles, and chodang tofu.
  • Visit traditional Korean villages to experience the authentic Korean lifestyle.
  • Take part in local festivals and events, such as the Gangneung Danoje festival.

Don’t:

  • Do not leave your trash behind in outdoor or public spaces.
  • Do not leave tips at restaurants or cafes, as they are not customary in South Korea.
  • Do not speak too loudly or be boisterous in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gangneung

Gangneung is a safe city, with low crime rates, and excellent public safety measures. However, as with any destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.

Health in Gangneung

Gangneung has adequate medical facilities, with many hospitals and clinics throughout the city. However, visitors are advised to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical care and emergency evacuation.

Getting to Gangneung: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gangneung

  • Yangyang International Airport: Located about a 45-minute drive from Gangneung, this airport mainly offers domestic flights.
  • Incheon International Airport: Located around 3 hours from Gangneung, this airport offers both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Gangneung

  • Gangneung Express Bus Terminal: Located in the city center, it offers buses to various destinations throughout South Korea.
  • Gangneung Intercity Bus Terminal: Located in Jumunjin, it offers buses to nearby regions such as Sokcho and Donghae.

Other Options

  • Taxi: Taxis are plentiful in Gangneung, and it’s a convenient option for exploring the city.
  • Rent a Car: Renting a car is another option to explore the city at your own pace.
  • Train: Gangneung is also connected to Seoul by train, with several daily services available.

How to Get Around in Gangneung

Gangneung is a small city, and many of the popular attractions are within walking distance of each other. Public transportation, including buses and taxis, are also available throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Gangneung: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sokcho: A coastal city that’s a gateway to the Seoraksan National Park, known for its stunning scenery and hiking trails.
  • Pyeongchang: The host city of the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang is a mountainous region that offers winter sports, including skiing and snowboarding.
  • Jeongseon: A mountainous county famous for its scenic views and the Jeongseon Arirang 5-day Market.

Conclusion

Gangneung is an ideal destination for travelers who want to combine relaxation and exploration. With its unique blend of beaches, culture, and coffee culture, Gangneung offers something for every visitor. Plan your trip today, and experience the beauty and hospitality of this unique South Korean gem.

The Seongyojang House The Seongyojang House The The "village guardians" at Ojukheon Cafe Paul&Mary handmade burger Cafe Paul&Mary handmade burger Sun cruise hotel - built to look like a cruise ship Sun cruise hotel - built to look like a cruise ship