Gangwon-do (Rail Bike & Seaside)

South Korea has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in recent years, thanks to the ever-growing ecstasy of Korean pop culture sweeping the globe. As a result, many popular tourist spots, including Seoul, have witnessed increased visitors. Many ardent tourists have added the city to their bucket lists. However, Gangwon Province, only an hour and a half from Seoul, is a hidden travel treasure waiting to be found. Read more about the Best things to do in Gangwon-do for your next ultimate Korea trip.

How to Get to Gangwon Province

Gangwon Province, in the northeast of South Korea, is great because you can take a day trip from Seoul. There are lots to see, taste, and do in Gangwon, from seductive natural beauty to real traditional food and even renowned Korean drama shooting locations. Given how much there is to tour and do in the province, we suggest dedicating more than a few hours to genuinely exploring this off-the-beaten-path area. And the best way to accomplish it is to tour Gangwon Province like a local!

Train to Gangwondo

It only takes about 1 hour and 49 minutes from Seoul Station to Gangneung on the KTX train, costing about $37. Here is the KTX train site for exact details.

Subway to Gangwondo

You can also take subway line 1. Stay on the subway from Seoul Station for about 13 minutes to Cheongnyangni Station. From there, you can take the KTX to Wonju. Stay on the KTX for about 58 minutes. The price is about $20.

Bus to Gangwondo

From Dong Seoul Bus Station, near Gangbyeon subway station, you can ride a bus to Wonju every 20 minutes. The bus ride is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The price is about 10,000- 15,000 KRW ($7-11).

Taxi to Gangwondo

Maybe the easiest transportation method is by taking a taxi. It will be about 111 km from Seoul Station to Wonju and cost about 120,000- 150,000 KRW ($91-113). You can use the Kakao Taxi app for quick access.

Visit Chuncheon and eat Chuncheon goodies.

Chuncheon, the capital of the country’s northernmost province, serves as a gateway to the region’s harsh landscapes. Chuncheon, surrounded by lakes and rivers, is sometimes enveloped in fog, which gives the panorama of river islands, mountains, waterfalls, and woods in a mystical air.

Beautiful Nami Island in Gangwondo

One of the first places that comes to mind about Gangwondo is Nami Island. It became famous and a top tourist attraction in Korea after the famous Korean drama Winter Sonata. There are even statues of the main characters and where the drama occurred. The location has many things to do for all ages, from watersports to craft making. Check out our post on the 10 Unique Things to Do in Nami Island.

• Website: 나미나라공화국 [NAMINARA REPUBLIC] (namisum.com)
• Address: 1, Namiseom-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea

Lego Land Korea in Chuncheon, Gangwondo

The popular Lego company has made a big imprint with the Lego Land Korea. It boasts one of the biggest Lego Land attractions among the 10 in the world. There are many rides, attractions, and hotels to stay at for your total enjoyment. Check their site on days when the park is not open, especially in winter.

• Website: LEGOLAND® Korea Resort
• Address: 128, Hajudo-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do

Jade Garden Natural Arboretum in Chuncheon, Gangwondo

A must-visit is the Jade Garden Natural Arboretum, a well-maintained garden on a mountain. It has a European atmosphere with forest-like gardens. Wear comfortable shoes before you go there, and note that it can be humid in summer. They have hands-on programs and activities. Don’t miss the Jazz Flower Festival for camping and a nice picnic to relax.

• Website: 제이드가든 (chuncheon.go.kr)
• Address: 80, Hatgol-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon

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Gangchon Rail Park

Then, head off to Gangchon Rail Park, where you can ride your bike along an old railroad bed surrounded by enormous mountains and a river. In the company of friends and family, two and four-seater carts give a romantic and pleasant experience of exploring the fields, mountains, lakes, and wonderfully painted caverns.

• Website: Gangchon (railpark.co.kr)
• Address: 1383, Gimyujeong-ro , Sindong-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do

Gangchon Rail Bike Tours

Samaksan Cable Car, the longest cable car in the country

The nation’s longest cable car runs over a lake at Samaksan Mountain in Chuncheon, Gangwon-do Province. It takes about 30 minutes roundtrip and every season, the landscape is unique; you will be in awe of Gangwondo. There is also a walking path, but the cable car and walking path might close if there are heavy rains and lightning. The times to ride the cable car is from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Website: 춘천 삼악산 호수 케이블카 (samaksancablecar.com)
• Address: 245, Sports Town-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon

Visit the Uiamho Lake and Uiamho Lake Skywalk

Many visitors flock to Uiamho Lake to canoe after being featured on renowned Korean TV series like “Two Days, One Night” and “Running Man.” Uiamho Lake Skywalk is one of the longest skywalks in Chuncheon, 12 meters on top of the Uiamho Lake and made of glass. Mulle-Gil offers a variety of courses, including the Skywalk Course, Bungeoseom Island Course, and Jungdo Island Course.

• Website: 의암스카이워크> 여행지 | ‘열린 관광’ 모두의 여행:대한민국 구석구석 (visitkorea.or.kr)
• Address: 486 Chiljeon-dong, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea

Chuncheon Mulle-gil Canoeing

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Dakgalbi Most Popular Food in Gangwondo

During your visit to Chuncheon, try local specialties, such as dakgalbi, a meal of grilled chicken and veggies in a spicy gochujang sauce. Makguksu (cold buckwheat noodles), another Chuncheon delicacy, is a superb accompaniment to any order of Dakgalbi. Visit Chuncheon Dakgalbi Street, where there are many dakgalbi restaurants.

• Chuncheon Dakgalbi Street Address: 9-1 , Geumgang-ro 62beon-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do

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Hongcheon: Experience the refreshing hills!

Hongcheon is a city in South Korea’s Gangwon Province. The city is located southeast of Chuncheon on the northern bank of the Hongcheon River. The county’s topography is primarily hilly, including hot springs in the Hongcheon River basin! Here are the best hot spots to visit!

Alpaca World

Alpaca World is a site where you can watch alpacas roaming about in the wild, and it aspires to be a joyful place for nature, animals, and people. You may not only connect with, feed, and touch rare creatures such as alpacas, white deers, mules, hinnies, and ponies, but you can also see magicians and animal companions perform. You will be drenched in bliss provided by nature after you have had a picnic in the breezy and cool Starlight Plaza.

How to Get to Alpaca World From Seoul

• By Bus, take the bus at the Dong East Seoul Bus Terminal for one hour to Hongcheon. From Hongcheon, take a taxi to Alpaca World. It will take about 24 minutes and cost about 30,000-37,000 won ($23-$29).
• It is about a 115-kilometer drive from Seoul City Hall to Alpaca World. It will take about 1 hour and 24 minutes. Taking a taxi will cost about 130,000-160,000 won ($100-$124). It will be cheapest to take the bus to Hongcheon and then a taxi to Alpaca World.

Alpaca World-Related Tours

Vivaldi Park

Vivaldi Park, Korea’s most popular ski resort, is continually upgrading its facilities and services to meet the demands of its visitors. With its modern eateries and attractive structures, Vivaldi Park claims to be Korea’s most fashionable Resort, especially among the local youth. During summer, enjoy the water park at Vivaldi Ocean World; in winter, enjoy the slopes at Vivaldi Park.

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Garisan Leports Park

Also, you must visit Garisan Leports Park and enjoy nature! There is something for everyone to do. You can zipline, play games, go forest walks, and more. Everyone who enters the park will come out with a healed body, soul, and mind.

• Website: 영문 (hongcheon.go.kr)
• Address: 426, Garisan-gil, Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do

Gong Jaksan Sutasa Temple

Gong Jaksan Sutasa Temple is an ancient temple popular for its peculiar resemblance to a peacock with wide open feathers. The gabled Paljak roofs of the Daejok shrine, a bronze bell, a three-tiered pagoda, and Wollnseokbo, a biography of Buddha that has been declared a National Treasure, are among the temple’s cultural assets.

• Address: 473 Sutasa-ro, Tong-myŏn, Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea

Healience Seonmaeul

The first healing and science resort that offers a total package of destressing from the pains of life through spas, daycares, and even rest areas for pets. Be surrounded by clean air and beautiful starry skies. Take yoga classes, drink wine in the Sunhyang cave, play games in Cheonjin Square, and make a bonfire while looking at the stars. There is so much healing for the tired body and soul here at Healience Seonmaeul. Check the price here.

• Website: 힐리언스 선마을 (healience.co.kr)
• Address: 122 Jongjasan-gil, Seo-myeon, Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea

Wonju: The Modern Metropolis!

During the Joseon Dynasty, Wonju served as the capital of the ancient Gangwon province. It is one of the biggest cities in Gangwon province. You will be able to see nature and art all in one place.

Museum SAN

The Museum SAN (Space Art Nature) is a wonderful day trip from Seoul that encompasses healing from your busy schedule. It has historical attractions, exhibitions, heritages, and relics of the ancient Wonju region gathered and conserved throughout the Goryeo Dynasty at the museum’s History Museum. In addition, different programs there, such as special exhibits, family movie theaters, and movie theaters, have helped people understand and appreciate Korean traditional culture. It has been chosen four times in a row as one of the top 100 attractions to see in Korea.

• Website: Museum SAN
• Address: 260, Oak valley 2-gil, Jijeong-myeon,Wonju-si, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea

How to get to Museum SAN from Seoul

Train to Museum SAN

From Seoul Station, go to Manjong Station. It will take about 1 hour and 7 minutes. Then, from Manjong Station, take a 15-minute taxi ride to Museum SAN. The price will be about 19,000 to 24,000 won ($14-19).

Bus to Museum SAN

Take the bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Wonju. From Wonju, take an 18-minute taxi ride to Museum SAN. The price will be about 23,000 to 28,000 won ($17-22).

Chiaksan National Park

Moreover, Chiaksan National Park is the 16th national park in Korea since 1984. It is close to Wonju city and has many high mountain peaks and steep valleys. Go there to get close to nature and find healing. You can find the Guryongsa temple at the foot of the national park. Try a temple stay program. You can rest from the stress of life and find healing within the Chiak mountain.

• Website:치악산국립공원 < 국립공원탐방 < 국립공원공단 (knps.or.kr)
• Address: 26 Musoejeom 2-gil, Socho-myeon, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea

Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge

Then check out the Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge, one of Wonju’s most fantastic attractions. It is Korea’s most extended and giant pedestrian bridge, with a length of 200 meters, a height of 100 meters, and a width of 1.5 meters. Visitors flock to this attraction for the sensation of strolling in midair.

The Skywalk beside the bridge provides a spectacular view of the surrounding area. Anyone with bravery may go on the bridge since it has a protected deck at the entrance.

• Website: Wonju city – English
• Address: 26, Sogeumsan-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do

Oak Valley Resort

In Wonju, Oak Valley Resort has a restaurant, a fitness center, a bar, and a garden. This hotel has family rooms and a patio for visitors to enjoy. Guests may use the hotel’s 24-hour front desk, concierge service, and currency exchange. So, what are you waiting for?

• Website: OAK VALLEY | 오크밸리
• Address: Oak Valley 1-gil, 66 KR Wonju-si, Jijeong-myeon, Gangwondo

Pyeongchang: Ancient to Present!

Be it Pyeongchang’s history or present, this place will have you tour it all! Here’s how it will do so!

Woljeongsa Temple

Your mind and body will be healed at the Woljeongsa temple and the Woljeongsa Temple Fir Forest Trail. The fir woodland trail is around 1km long. Even while this fir forest route is known for its greenery, the panorama is as breathtaking in the winter, when many of the woodland’s gorgeous trees are blanketed in snow. This route is also well-known for being the location of the Korean TV drama Guardian: The Lonely and Great God.

• Website: woljeongsa.org/intro.php
• Address: 374-8 Odaesan-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do

Sangwonsa Temple

Eight kilometers north of Woljeongsa Temple lies Sangwonsa Temple. The Bronze Bell of Sangwonsa (a National Treasure) is at the temple and is the country’s oldest bronze bell. The bell has a height of 1.67 meters and a diameter of 91 cm. You can see a lovely, clear ring, and it was created during King Seongdeok’s 24th year. Other relics in the temple include the Statue of Child Manjusri. It is reported to have been viewed personally by King Sejo. There is also a plaque signed by King Sejo commending the restoration of Sangwonsa Temple.

• Website: Woljeongsa
• Address: 1211-14 Odaesan-ro, 진부면 Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do

Daegwallyeong Samyang Ranch

Let’s jump to the adventurous part! The biggest ranch in Asia, Daegwallyeong Samyang Ranch, has been featured in several advertisements and dramas. The ranch will have shuttle buses running from time to time. When you reach the top of the ranch, you can see Gangneung and Donghae cities.

• Website: samyangroundhill.com/eng/index
• Address: 1-186 Hoenggye-ri, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do

Odaesan National Park

Then, Odaesan National Park is spread across Gangneung-si, Hongcheon-gun, and Pyeongchang-gun in Gangwon-do (Province). It is over 303,929 square kilometers and is centered on Birobong, with the majestic Sogeumgang (Valley) flowing below. Most of Odaesan’s summits are flat, and the slopes are sluggish, typical of Korean dirt mountains.

• Website: 오대산국립공원 < 국립공원탐방 < 국립공원공단 (knps.or.kr)
• Address: 2 Odaesan-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do

Herbnara in Pyeongchang

Herbnara is where you may learn about herbs from the garden to your house. The extensive range of unique herbal tea blends, gastronomy, and potpourri are prepared with herbs cultivated on our farm. Farm Herbnara is a fun place for the whole family to visit. Come to Farm Herbnara and be enchanted by the beauty of nature and the delicious flavor of herbs.

• Website: 허브나라농원 (herbnara.com)
• Address: 225 Heungjeonggyegok-gil, Bongpyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do

Balwangsan Skywalk

When you visit the Balwangsan Skywalk, you’ll feel like you’re strolling through the clouds. Enjoy the natural splendor of Mount Balwang and enjoy a pleasant time! Afterwards, check out the Balwangsan Cable Car, one of the longest in the country, with a 7.4 km round trip. Then, book yourself with the ever-so-famous Pyeongchang Phoenix!

• Address: Yongsan-ri, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do

Phoenix Blue Canyon Water Park in Pyeongchang

Your one-stop place to enjoy Gangwondo any season is at Phoenix Blue Canyon. There is a hotel, plaza, restaurant, water park, ski park, and ski and snowboarding lessons in English here. It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes on the KTX from Seoul Station to Pyeongchang Station. A shuttle runs from the station to Phoenix Blue Canyon so that you can get there easily.

• Website: PHOENIX PARK (phoenixhnr.co.kr)
• Address: 174, Taegi-ro, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do

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Welli Hilli Park

Welli Hilli Park is a ski resort in Gangwon Province, South Korea. Skiers and snowboarders come to this place to enjoy the various slopes made for beginners and advanced skiers and boarders. To enjoy, book your stay at Pyeongchang with popular and superb resorts such as Alpensia Resort and Yongpyeong Resort!

• Website: 웰리힐리파크 (wellihillipark.com)
• Address: Gangwon-do Hoengseong-gun 451, Gowon-ro

Taebaek: An Attractive Tourist Destination

Taebaek is a city in South Korea’s Gangwon province. It has the same name as the Taebaek Mountains. Taebaek is the tallest city in South Korea, at 650 m to 700 m. Here are the attractive tourist spots!

Taebaek Mountain National Park

If you love hiking, go up the Taebaek Mountain National Park. There are high peaks for skilled and non-skilled hikers with the perfect view of the Inje region. Taebaek is one of the top national parks in Gangwondo and a great place to experience the nature of Gangwondo. You can also visit the Manggyeongsa Temple in Hyeol-dong, created to house the Bodhisattva of Wisdom at 1,460 meters in the Taebaek Mountains.

• Website: 태백산국립공원 < 국립공원탐방 < 국립공원공단 (knps.or.kr)
• Address: 65FP+V4 Inje-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
• Manggyeongsa Temple Address: 321 Hyeol-dong, Taebaek-si, Gangwon-do

Tongri-Tan Tan Park

Tongri-Tan Tan Park is a new tourist attraction in Taebaek that debuted recently. This theme park with an IT display is where abandoned mining resources have become a tourist attraction. Visitors may enjoy a variety of digital material as well as ride-on go-carts.

• Website: 통리탄탄파크 (tantanpark.com)
• Address: 67-38 Tong-dong, Taebaek-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea

O2 Resort in Taebaek

Taebaek is home to the O2 Resort. They have a ski resort, sledding areas, golf courses, and resorts. Stay at one of their condos and eat at the Korean restaurants there. There is something to do every season at O2 Resort; just overlooking the mountains and clear blue skies will bring healing to you. Not to mention the crisp, clear air and convenient amenities.

• Website: o2resort.com/main.xhtml
• Address: 115-16 Bunji Hwangji-dong, Taebaek, South Korea

Taebaek Paleozoic Natural History Museum

A beautiful place to learn the importance and history of Taebaek is the Taebaek Paleozoic Naural History Museum. This museum in Gangwondo, Korea, features real fossils of sea creatures in this area. The historical preservation of the fossils depicts the significance of this natural area. Visit this clean and educational museum during your trip to Taebaek.

• Website: 태백 고생대 자연사 박물관 (taebaek.go.kr)
• Address of Taebaek Paleozoic Natural History Museum: 2249 Taebaek-ro, Taebaek-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea

365 Safetown in Taebaek Gangwondo

This is one of the safest and most educational parks in Taebaek; you will learn about fire, earthquakes, and other natural disasters and what to do if you experience one.

• Website: 365세이프타운, 국내 최대 안전체험 테마파크, 한국안전체험관 입니다. (taebaek.go.kr)
• Address of 365 Safetown: 15 Pyeonghwa-gil, Taebaek-si, Gangwon-do (Korea Youth Safety Experience Center)

Yeongwol: Amusing and Amazing

We have got some hot spots for you here! The Korean Peninsula-shaped cliff in Yeongwol, Gangwon Province, is noted for its well-preserved environment. It is one of the most well-known destinations for its fascinating scenery. When you visit the site, compare it to a satellite image of the Korean peninsula to see how similar the two are.

Youngwol Y Park

Next is the Youngwol Y Park, an excellent place for the entire family to witness masterpieces. You can walk throughout the park and see the huge art pieces shine among the natural beauty. This location is also within an hour of Resom Resort, an incredible spa, and a sauna, so you could combine the two and stay in the region.

• Website: Spider web 플레이 스페이스 | 젊은달와이파크 (ypark.kr)
• Address: 1467 Songhakjucheon-ro, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon-do

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Jeongseon: A Bunch of Varieties

Jeongseon Rail Bike

In Jeongseon, the rail bike is a novel leisure activity that mixes pedaling along a train with picturesque vistas. Jeongseon Rail bikes are pretty widespread in Europe’s hilly areas. The sport is played on a decommissioned railway track that connects Jeongseon’s Auraji and Gujeol-Ri. Despite its size, a railbike rides smoothly, and one person can easily pedal a four-person rail cycle at speeds of 10 to 30 kilometers per hour.

Hwaam Cave

Hwaam Cave, formerly known as the Cheon Po gold mine, is Asia’s biggest limestone cave and was Korea’s fifth most prolific gold mine. As a mining museum and tourist attraction, the mines and cave system are now available. Visitors enter via a monorail ride (or a strenuous climb) at the top of the mine, then descend into the caverns, passing through many diverse areas of history and spectacle. Hwaam Mineral Spring is one of Hwaam’s Eight Scenic Sites, and it delivers carbonated water that is supposed to be beneficial to stomach and skin ailments. Surprisingly, the water in the valley’s streams is merely typical freshwater.

Romy Zian Garden

Go to Romy Zian Garden with one book in a light bag. In the shelter of a lonely woodland, you may read and communicate with nature. Alternatively, sit on Arii Hill overlooking Jeongseon’s gorgeous environment and draw, or relax while listening to nature’s noises at Geumgang Pine Forest Park. Surrounded by flowers, wind, forest, and light, High1 Resort is a National Rest Area. Spend your family vacations at High1; the Healing Sanctuary is open all four seasons.

Gangneung brings you knowledge with fun!

Gangneung 3-hour Taxi Tour

One of the most convenient ways to enjoy Gangneung is by going on the 3-hour taxi tour of the hippest spots in Gangwondo. You can choose from the 3 different courses.

In the K-wave (Music & Drama) Tour, view the BTS bus stop at Hywangho Beach, see the background for the Drama “Goblin” at Youngjin Beach, visit the Anmok Cafe, and more.

The Coffee City Gangneung course tours Myeongjudong Cafe Street, Anmok Cafe Street, Soon-tofu Ice Cream, Gangneung Hanok, and Jungang Market.

Lastly, the Gangneung History tour is a great place to see Ohjukheon, Seongyojang, Gyeongpo Lake, and more.

See which type of tour you are looking for and comfortably visit them with your taxi driver.

Arte Museum

Arte Museum is Korea’s most extensive immersive media art exhibition, organized by the district. Also, a world-class digital design firm best known for the public media art “WAVE,” shown at Coex. The large area of 4,600 sqm with a maximum height of 10-meters, formerly a speaker manufacturing plant. It has been renovated to offer you ten new, vivid media art shows via mixing light and music. With their striking sights, seductive sounds, and delicate smell, the media artworks produced around the concept of ETERNAL NATURE deliver a completely immersive experience.

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Haslla Art World

Haslla Art World is a fantastic art museum; it allows plenty of time to explore the expanding outside section, brimming with tiny and massive sculptures.

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Gyeongpo Beach

Gyeongpo Beach is Gangneung’s most well-known beach, drawing visitors of all ages. It is the most beautiful beach in Gangwon-do, and I go there often to clear my head. The colors of the water, especially in summer, will make you feel like you are on an island.

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Sungeut Beach in Gangneung

A little lesser known is Sungeut Beach, which is close to Gyeonypo Beach. It is popular for families because of the clear and shallow waterfront. The waves are strong in winter, but they are perfect for tubing in the summer. There are also camping sites, showers, parasols, and conveniences to add comfort to your trip.

Address: 678 Coastal-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do

Jeongdongjin Beach in Gangneung

This beach can be easily accessed along the Jeongdongjin station, Jeongdongjin waterbreak, and Sandglass Park. It is popular for being close to the train station and watching the sunset and sunrise. Along the Jeongdongjin beach is the rail bike that lets you view the East Sea.

Address: 17, Jeongdongyeok-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do

Jumunjin Fish Market

If you prefer being near the shore, the vibrant Jumunjin Fish Market and Gyeongpo Aquarium are well worth seeing. The Jeongdong-Simgok Badabuchae-Gil Trail was built to provide a diverse range of views of coastal terraces that have never been seen before. Between the magnificent sea and the coastal terrace, the water is veiled by coastal guard stations and barbed-wire fences, creating a sorrowful feeling.

Anmok Coffee Street

Anmok Coffee Street in Gangneung is a popular hangout for residents in Gangwon Province. This ambient position along Anmok Beach is probably The hanging destination in the city, especially among the young and young at heart. It is also unquestionably one of Gangwon’s must-see attractions.

Jumunjin Breakwater

Jumunjin Breakwater is a fantastic K-drama shooting location. Fans of the iconic Korean drama series Guardian (2016) will instantly recognize this place. It was here, after all, that the two central protagonists famously first met.

Samcheok: Caves, Beaches, and Falls

Hwanseon Cave

The most significant cave on Korea’s East Coast, Hwanseon Cave, is in Samcheok’s Daei-ri district. The Taebaek-san Range, which forms the backbone of Korea, is where limestone caves are concentrated in the mountainside valleys. Sadari Bahwe Cave, Yanhtuh-mokseh Cave, Daegeum Cave, and Keunjehseh Cave are nearby caves.

Cable Cars

Korea’s Grand Canyon is Korea’s most significant limestone region, covering almost 6.6 million square meters. Samcheok is famous for having marine cable cars like no other place can have!

Janghohang Port

The Janghohang Port is located just outside Samcheok’s downtown area. The port is the “Naples of Korea” because of its circular beach line and white sand beachfront. Janghohang Port provides spectacular views of the sea’s distinctive rock formations from the shore.

Samcheok Beach

This beach offers a 1.2-kilometer-long, 100-meter-wide white sand that is readily accessible. Beachgoers flock to the area yearly because of its pine tree forest, white sand, and shallow waves. Other amusing activities include a barehanded flounder fishing tournament.

Address: 76, Thema town-gil, Samcheok-si, Gangwon-do

Maengbang Beach, BTS Butter album cover location

After BTS’ album Butter was released, Maengbang Beach instantly became one of the top locations to visit in Gangwondo. The colorful umbrellas and sunbeds are great props for taking Instagram photos in front of the powerful blue East Sea. You can also enjoy a volleyball game right next to the popular location. You will see signs of this location, so you can’t miss it.

While there, you can also walk towards Deokbongsan Mountain. It is 54 meters high, and you can see a picturesque view of Maengbang Beach and Deoksan Beach.

Address: 221-14 Hamaengbang-ri, Geundeok-myeon, Samcheok-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea

Miin Waterfall

The Miin Waterfall is quite beautiful, with pure water cascading down from many levels. Sounds so peaceful and relaxing!

Sokcho: The Evergreen!

Sokcho is appealing in any season. Extreme ice climbers conquer the frozen Towangsung Waterfall, while others enjoy Lake Youngrang’s ice fishing. Summer festivals are at Sokcho Beach, and the Seorak Cultural Festival is in October. Here’s what it offers!

Seoraksan Mountain National Park

Seorak Mountain is the tallest peak in the Taebaek mountain range in eastern South Korea’s Gangwon Province. It’s near the city of Sokcho. Cable cars are mainly used for hiking this mountain!

Waterpia Sokcho Waterpark

Enjoy the hot spring-themed water park with the view of Mt. Seorak. The water park has alkaline mineral water with warm temperatures and exciting rides. There are outdoor and indoor facilities for all seasons and single and family tube rides. Enjoy your time there and rest at the Hanhwa resort right next door. It’s a great place to relax with your family.

Address : 24-1, Jangsa-dong, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do, Korea

Jungang Market

Jungang Market has become Korea’s largest dried seafood and seaweed market. Traditional marketplaces, such as Jungang Market, are excellent representations of everyday life in Korea.

Oeongchi Bada Hyangiro

Oeongchi Bada Hyangiro has some fantastic restaurants nearby that you must try! In addition, Alive Museum tickets combined with Dynamic Maze tickets provide you access to two of the city’s most fascinating attractions. So, what are you waiting for? Why not add this to your list?

Sokcho Alive Heart & Dynamic Maze Ticket

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Sokcho 3Hours Taxi Tour

[Taxi Tour] Sokcho Taxi tour (3 Hours)

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Head to Yangyang’s Surfing Culture!

Yangyang is South Korea’s Bali, a genuine surf paradise, and a great place to visit! Everything in Yangyang is so devoted to the surfing culture that even the public restroom signs are in the form of a surfboard.

A tiny mountain separates the beaches of Ingu and Jukdo Jeong in Yangyang. Jukdosan, a lovely coastline promenade constructed around the mountain, is a must-see. You’ll find a little temple snuggled into the rock halfway along the trek. Jukdoam is the name of the temple.

Surffy Beach

A surfer’s paradise is the famous and beautiful Surffy Beach in Yangyang. It is about 1 kilometer along Hajodae beach, with surfboards and lessons. Many cafes, pubs, and restaurants are along Ingu Beach and Jukdo Beach. It is the first designated surfers-only beach and has gained popularity because of K-dramas.

Address: 119, Hajodaehaean-gil, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do

Naksan Temple by the East Sea

The Naksan Temple is notably one of the most beautiful spots in Yangyang. It is easily approachable by taking the city bus number 9 or 9-1 at the Yangyang intercity bus terminal and heading to Naksan Temple. Inside the temple, you will find a seven-story pagoda, one of the two national treasures in the Naksan Temple. The other treasure is of Buddha inside the Wontong-jeon hall. There are a couple of Buddhas in the temple and a lotus pond. Every visit will be unique because the temple is by the East Sea.

Hyuhyuam Hermitage

Another lovely temple near the sea is the Hyuhyuam Hermitage. It means “Rest and Rest Again” in English. Because this setting is so soothing, you’ll immediately understand why.

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Donghae: Natural Resources

Donghae is a city in South Korea’s Gangwon Province. The city is mainly hilly, with natural resources including Mureung Valley and lovely beaches. As a result, we’ll suggest the top places to visit in Donghae!

Mureung Valley

The Mureung Valley is located between the Dutasan and Cheongoksan mountains. A flat granite slab stretches across the opening of Mureung Valley, providing a resting spot for hikers before ascending.

Famous artworks adorn this location. Why not spend a relaxing day at Mangsang beach during your visit to Donghae?

Chuam Chotdaebawi Rock

Ten other rocks surround Chuam Chotdaebawi Rock. The wonderfully shaped rock rises far into the sky and is named because it resembles a candlestick. “Chote” means “candle” in Korean, and “bawi” means “rock”; literally, “candle rock.”

Chuam Beach in Donghae

While you are at Chuam Chotdaebawi, enjoy Chuam Beach and the suspension bridge overlooking the sea. The powerful waves in winter and the clear waters in summer perfectly show the beauty of Gangwondo’s beaches. There are parasols for resting and fun water sports in summer. The sunrise and sunset views during winter are great places to make New Year prayers.

Address: 26, Chotdaebawi-gil, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do

Mangsang Beach

While you’re in the neighborhood, make time to explore the theme park and temples. And, amid your fantastic tour, don’t forget about Hanok village. Enjoy the wonderful Cultural and rural life of Hanok village!

Donghae Mureung Health Forest

With the use of Donghae’s natural environment, the Donghae Mureung Health Forest, managed by the city of Donghae, desires to give its visitors rest, healing, and health. It is open all four seasons, offering a different theme in the summer and winter. Join the outdoor pools during summer and the indoor activities during winter in your home away from home.

• Website: Mureung Health Forest
• Address: 455, Samhwa-ro, Donghae-si, Gangwondo (Samhwa-dong)

Cheorwon: History and chemistry!

Cheorwon Peach Observatory

Cheorwon Peace Observatory is a vast museum that includes the history of DMZ. It’s on the left side of the road as you approach the Goseong Unification Observatory within the Tongil Security Park. In addition to the scenery, you can experience prehistoric ruins, the Three Kingdoms era, and modern and contemporary historical ruins. Not to mention the life of residents living in modern times on the Han River columnar joint road, which is 27.9 kilometers long and surrounds Hantan River on the Yeoncheon side.

Sambuyeon Falls

A three-stage waterfall around 20 meters high and in the granite region amid Mount Myeongseong (870 meters). It was made during the Cretaceous era by water cutting (eroding) down the granite on the surface. The granite that makes up the waterfall is 110 million years old (Hwang Jae-ha and Kim Yu-bong, 2007). Because the water stream is interrupted three times and the lowest half of the waterfall is dented like a cauldron, the name Sambuyeon Waterfall is derived from “bu,” which means cauldron. It was possible to see spectacular hexagonal and polygon-shaped features in the basalt surrounding the Jiktang Falls.

Jiktang Falls

When you look around the Jiktang Falls, you’ll see that multiple layers of lava (the basal layer) are layered on top of each other. Lava rushed down the Han River, filling it and piling up as it frequently erupted from the Chugaryeong Tectonic Valley. The lava layer of Jiktang Falls is primarily separated into two units since the porous structure that can be seen on the surface of the lava at the unit’s border can also be seen on the lava layer of Jiktang Falls.

Inje: Lovely tourist spot!

Wondaeri Birch Forest

Here’s why it is a lovely tourist spot! Wondaeri Birch Forest is a lovely natural preserve in Inje with various picturesque hiking trails. Tourists may immerse themselves in the quiet forest, majestically rising to the blue sky with towering white bark birch trees. It is especially great to see during winter.

Baekdamsa Temple

A hidden gem deep inside Inner Seorak, with a breathtaking backdrop. With the temple surrounded by the tiered foothills of Inner Seorak, the view surrounding Baekdamsa is already breathtaking. Still, when the fall leaves set the trees ablaze with crimson hues, it’s as if nature has carefully arranged this vision of indescribable beauty.

Soyanggang Skywalk

Soyanggang Skywalk is a 156-meter walking route built entirely of translucent glass that provides a stunning view of Uiamho Lake. The Skywalk is 7.5 meters over the ocean so it may be a little nerve-wracking for some, but it’s well worth it if you’re courageous enough.

• Address: 26785, Yeongseo-ro, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do
• Opened all year long
• March-October 10:00-21:00
• November-February 10:00-18:00

Inje Secret Garden

Inje Secret Garden, in Gangwon Province, is a hidden gem. The fall foliage at Inje Secret Garden is unquestionably gorgeous, even though it is unavailable to the public. Autumn-colored mountains lined together in a row. This isn’t your typical park. Instead, it resembles a forest, complete with natural and artificial paths.

• Address: Mt. 122-3, Gapdun-ri, Nam-myeon, Inje-gun
• Google Map of Inje Secret Garden

Goseong: North Korean tour!

Tongil Unification Observation tower

Tongil Unification Observation Tower is the closest place to view the Geumgansan Mountain in North Korea. You can book a tour with the popular Tongil Tours. It is the first North Korean tour agency to have solely academic personnel who speak Korean. Tongil Tours aims to give tour participants a memorable experience in North Korea and a more profound knowledge of the nation and its people.

Songjiho Dulle-Gil

Songjiho Dulle-Gil hiking Trail is a 3.2-mile trail in Gangwon-Do, near Goseong-gun. This route is simple and includes an elevation gain of roughly 160.7 feet.

DMZ Museum

The DMZ Museum depicts the South Korean perspective on the North Korean war. The artifacts are well-presented and exhibited. If you like reading, you could easily spend an entire day here. Remember that this museum is in one of the world’s most active military zones. Yet no shots have been fired in decades.

Conclusion

Finally, there you have it: a comprehensive guide to the Best things to do in Gangwon-do like a native. Of course, there’s much more to see and do in Gangwon than what’s on the list. A day trip is great, but we suggest staying longer to experience the beauties of this overlooked place! Do spend some time in Gangwon the next time you’re in South Korea and explore its rural attractions!

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