Pyeongchang Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Pyeongchang, including information on places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Pyeongchang

Nestled in the picturesque province of Gangwon, Pyeongchang is a natural paradise that boasts panoramic mountain views, clear streams, and fresh air. Pyeongchang rose to international fame after hosting the Winter Olympics in 2018, which brought a wave of tourists keen to explore the region’s stunning outdoor beauty. In this guide, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of Pyeongchang and explore its local culture, natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, hotels and accommodations, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Pyeongchang

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Pyeongchang has a rich historical and cultural heritage that is showcased in its museums and historical sites. Some notable attractions include:

  • Pyeongchang Olympic Museum: A commemorative museum dedicated to the 2018 Winter Olympics that provides visitors with information about the games, athletes, and venues.
  • Lee Hyo-seok Culture Village: A cultural village honoring the works of Lee Hyo-seok, a renowned poet who lived in Pyeongchang. The village has preserved the traditional Hanok-style houses in which Lee resided, and visitors can learn about his life and work.
  • Jumunjin Beach: A stunning white sand beach that witnessed the first arrival of Catholicism in Korea in the late 18th century and is home to the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, built by French priests in 1888.

Natural Attractions of Pyeongchang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pyeongchang’s natural beauty is unparalleled, and the region offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. Some must-visit natural attractions include:

  • Mount Seorak: A picturesque mountain with hiking trails, a cable car, and stunning views over the East Sea.
  • Odaesan National Park: A pristine natural park with several hiking trails that provide magnificent views of colorful foliage in the fall and vibrant flowers in the spring.
  • Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm: A sprawling farm with over 2000 sheep, and visitors can enjoy sheep shows, sheepdog demonstrations, and feed the animals as well.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pyeongchang

Hiking and biking are two of the most popular outdoor activities in Pyeongchang, and the region offers a vast network of trails for all levels. Some popular routes include:

  • Pyeongchang Peace Trail: A 60 km trail that traverses the county from Woljeongsa Temple in Odaesan National Park to Haeparang Trail by the East Sea. The trail offers stunning views of natural landscapes, traditional rural villages, and cultural sites.
  • Taegisan Provincial Park: A natural park with several popular hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Pyeongchang: Activities and Tours

Pyeongchang offers a plethora of activities and tours that cater to all kinds of travelers. Some popular options include:

  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Pyeongchang’s winter wonderland draws many visitors to its well-maintained slopes and winter sports facilities
  • Paragliding: Experience the thrill of soaring above the mountains and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the stunning natural scenery
  • Zip-lining: Zip line through the scenic beauty of the forests and valleys of Pyeongchang

Week-Long Itinerary for Pyeongchang

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Pyeongchang:

  • Day 1: Visit the Pyeongchang Olympic Museum and explore the city center.
  • Day 2: Hike up Mount Seorak and enjoy the sweeping views of the East Sea.
  • Day 3: Explore the fishing village of Jumunjin Beach and visit the Holy Trinity Catholic Church.
  • Day 4: Discover the natural beauty of Odaesan National Park
  • Day 5: Take a day trip to the nearby coastal town of Gangneung and enjoy the city’s bustling markets.
  • Day 6: Enjoy a day of skiing or snowboarding at one of Pyeongchang’s winter sports facilities.
  • Day 7: Relax and unwind at one of Pyeongchang’s rejuvenating hot springs.

Food and Drink Scene of Pyeongchang

Must-Try Dishes

Pyeongchang is famous for its traditional cuisine, which incorporates local produce and seasonal ingredients. Some popular dishes to try include:

  • Hanwoo beef: A premium grade of beef from Korean indigenous cattle that is marbled, tender, and flavorful.
  • Makguksu: A cold noodle dish made with buckwheat noodles, vegetables, and a spicy sauce.
  • Jeonbok-juk: A rice soup with abalone, vegetables, and seasoning.

Local Beverages

Try some of Pyeongchang’s local drinks:

  • Makgeolli: A traditional Korean rice wine with a milky consistency and a slightly sweet and sour taste.
  • Sokseongju: A locally brewed alcoholic beverage made with pear, chestnut, and honey.

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

Pyeongchang offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort: A luxurious resort with world-class amenities and stunning mountain views.
  • Oak Valley Resort: A family-friendly resort that offers skiing, golfing, and hot springs.
  • Journeyman Guesthouse: A budget-friendly hostel with charming and cozy rooms and a central location.

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

Some popular souvenirs and local products to bring back from Pyeongchang include:

  • Hanji Paper Products: Handmade paper products made from Korean mulberry bushes.
  • Ginseng: Pyeongchang is known for its high-quality ginseng, which is believed to have tremendous health benefits.
  • Pyeongchang Trout: Locally caught and freshly smoked trout, perfect for a tasty souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Pyeongchang

Pyeongchang locals are proud of their regional traditions and tend to display them through music, dance, and art. Some local customs to be aware of include:

  • Respect for elders: Koreans place a strong emphasis on respect for elders; therefore, it’s essential to use honorifics when interacting with seniors.
  • Removing shoes: It’s customary to remove shoes when entering a Korean home, so bring along a pair of socks.

Best Time to Visit Pyeongchang

The best time to visit Pyeongchang depends on the activities the traveler is interested in.

  • Spring and Summer: The months between March and September are perfect for hiking, biking, and visiting the natural attractions of Pyeongchang. The weather is mild, and the scenery is beautiful.
  • Winter: For those interested in winter sports activities like skiing and snowboarding, the months of December to February are the prime season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pyeongchang

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditional values;
  • Try the local cuisine and sample the locally brewed drinks;
  • Use the Korean universal greeting “Annyeonghaseyo” (Hello) when greeting locals.

Don’t:

  • Bring up the topic of politics or the Koreas’ relationships with its neighbors;
  • Enter a sauna or public bath if you have open wounds or cuts;
  • Touch someone’s head or pat them on the back as it is considered impolite.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pyeongchang

Pyeongchang is generally a safe destination, and crime rates are low. While there is no major safety threat, standard precautions are advisable.

  • Beware of traffic. South Korea is known for having a high number of traffic-related accidents.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly when in crowded areas or on public transport.

Health in Pyeongchang

South Korea provides quality healthcare services, both private and public. For minor issues, pharmacies are available in all cities and towns, and many are open 24/7. In case of an emergency, dial 119 from any phone in South Korea for an emergency ambulance service.

Getting to Pyeongchang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pyeongchang

  • Incheon International Airport: The largest international airport in South Korea, located in Incheon city.
  • Gimpo International Airport: The second-most prominent airport in South Korea, located in Seoul.

Bus Stations Near Pyeongchang

  • Jinbu Bus Terminal is the primary bus terminal in Pyeongchang, and buses run frequently from major cities and towns.

Other Options

  • Taxis are a popular mode of transportation for shorter trips and can be flagged down in the street or found at taxi stands.

How to Get Around in Pyeongchang

Public transportation in Pyeongchang is minimal, so the best transportation options are by car or taxi.

  • Renting a car is the best way to explore Pyeongchang and its surroundings.
  • Taxis are widely available throughout Pyeongchang and are relatively inexpensive compared to other countries.

Where to Go Next from Pyeongchang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Pyeongchang is a perfect base to explore some nearby destinations and excursions, including:

  • Seoul: A vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a mix of modernity and traditional urban life.
  • Sokcho: A charming and relaxing coastal town known for its gorgeous beaches, seafood, and fresh fish markets.

Conclusion

Pyeongchang is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It’s an incredible blend of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure activities. We hope this guide gave you an idea of what Pyeongchang has to offer, and we encourage you to plan your trip soon, and experience all this stunning mountain county has to offer.

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