Gangneung City

What are the most recommended things to do in Gangneung City?

  • Visit the beautiful Gyeongpo Beach for a relaxing day by the sea.
  • Explore Ojukheon House, a historical site that was home to the famous Confucian scholar Yulgok Yi I.
  • Stroll through the peaceful Seoraksan National Park for stunning mountain views and hiking trails.
  • Discover the Gangneung Coffee Street, where you can enjoy local coffee and pastries.
  • Visit the Gangneung Olympic Park to learn about the 2018 Winter Olympics and enjoy the scenic lakeside view.

Introducing Gangneung City

Gangneung is a city located on the eastern coast of South Korea. It began as Gangneung in 1363 and has been successively organized into a province, a prefecture, a county, and a city. Gangneung is renowned for its long history and splendid culture.

Gangneung City is located on the eastern coast of South Korea. Established as a province, prefecture, county, and city since 1363, the city is renowned for its rich history and splendid culture. Located east of the Taebaek Mountains, the city covers approximately 1,040 square kilometers, accounting for 6.2% of Gangwon Province. Its population, over 229,000, makes up the largest portion of the urban population. Gangneung has a maritime climate with four distinct seasons, ranging from a high of 39°C to a low of -10°C, with an average annual temperature of 13.4°C. The city boasts a highly developed economy. Besides being a cultural and tourist center, it also boasts a thriving seafood and agricultural product processing industry, commerce, and finance. Its annual fiscal revenue is approximately 249 billion won (2.4 billion RMB), significantly exceeding that of our city. Furthermore, the city boasts a beautiful environment and well-developed transportation and communications, contributing to a high quality of life for its residents.

Climate and best time to travel

Marine climate; Jiangling City is famous for its long history and splendid culture, and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Hourglass Park, Jeongdongjin Station, Ojukheon, Seongyojang, etc.

It is recommended to visit for 1-2 days

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day


Most Popular FAQs for Gangneung City

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Gangneung is a coastal city in South Korea with a rich cultural and historical heritage. It is known for its traditional Korean culture, including the birthplace of Yi I, a famous Confucian scholar. The city gained international attention during the 2018 Winter Olympics, which took place in Pyeongchang, a nearby area.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Gangneung is located on the eastern coast of South Korea, approximately 230 kilometers from Seoul. You can get there by KTX high-speed train, bus, taxi, or car. It is also accessible via a scenic bus ride from nearby cities like Pyeongchang and Seoul.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The best times to visit Gangneung are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild. Most attractions open around 9:00 AM and close by 6:00 PM, though some parks and beaches remain accessible at night.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Many of Gangneung's attractions, like beaches and parks, are free to enter. However, for attractions like Ojukheon House and museums, entrance fees range from 2,000 KRW to 10,000 KRW. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online for certain events and exhibitions.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is recommended for popular attractions, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer and holidays). For most attractions, booking a few days ahead is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Gangneung fully would take around 2 to 3 days, depending on the number of attractions you want to visit. A day at the beach and another for cultural sightseeing is a typical itinerary.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Gyeongpo Beach and the nearby Gyeongpo Lake for relaxation and sightseeing.
  • Ojukheon House, a historical site with a deep connection to Korean Confucianism.
  • Seoraksan National Park for its scenic mountain views and hiking opportunities.
  • The Gangneung Olympic Park and its surrounding lakes for a peaceful walk.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at most historical sites and popular attractions, including Ojukheon House and Seoraksan National Park. Tours are available in Korean and English. Audio guides are also available for specific locations like museums and parks.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The top of Seoraksan Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Gyeongpo Beach, especially during sunrise or sunset.
  • The Olympic Park, which offers great views of the lake and surrounding nature.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Start your day with a visit to Ojukheon House for a historical introduction.
  • Head to Seoraksan National Park for a hike or nature walk.
  • Relax in the afternoon at Gyeongpo Beach or take a stroll around Gyeongpo Lake.
  • End your day by exploring the Gangneung Olympic Park and surrounding lakes.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are available to some attractions, such as the Gangneung Olympic Park and Gyeongpo Beach, where the night lights offer a beautiful atmosphere. Special tours or events are available during the festival seasons or national holidays.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Gangneung tends to be busy during the summer months and major holidays, especially around Gyeongpo Beach. For a more peaceful experience, visit in spring or fall during weekdays, avoiding weekends and national holidays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • Toilets are available at most parks, beaches, and tourist attractions.
  • Food and water can be found at local restaurants and cafes, particularly around Gyeongpo Beach and the Olympic Park.
  • Shops selling local souvenirs are available near popular tourist areas like Gyeongpo Beach and Seoraksan National Park.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most attractions in Gangneung, including Gyeongpo Beach and the Olympic Park, are accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. However, some hiking trails in Seoraksan National Park may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most places in Gangneung accept cards and mobile payments. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting traditional markets, small shops, and street vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Local Korean restaurants serving traditional dishes such as bibimbap and grilled fish.
  • Cozy cafes along the Gyeongpo Beach and Coffee Street, offering coffee and pastries.
  • Seafood restaurants along the coastline, specializing in fresh catches from the ocean.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most Korean restaurants, though halal options are more limited. It’s advisable to check with restaurants in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Luxury hotels near Gyeongpo Beach and the Olympic Park.
  • Budget accommodations like guesthouses and motels near the city center and Gyeongpo Beach.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • The city of Pyeongchang, home to the 2018 Winter Olympics, is a short drive away and offers additional outdoor activities.
  • The picturesque Jeongdongjin Beach and its famous sunrise can be easily added to your itinerary.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops around Gyeongpo Beach and Seoraksan sell local products, including Korean ceramics, traditional handicrafts, and tangerine-based products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • The KTX high-speed train from Gangneung to Seoul or other major cities like Busan.
  • Local buses or taxis for shorter trips to nearby cities like Pyeongchang or Jeongdongjin.