GWANDONG
Gwandong is the majestic eastern heart of the Korean Peninsula, a region defined by the towering Taebaek Mountains and the deep blue of the East Sea. It offers a stunning contrast of alpine peaks and pristine beaches.
This area is a spiritual and scenic powerhouse, encompassing the historical, Olympic, and natural beauty of Gangwon Province. It is a land of ancient temples, dynamic cities, and breathtaking coastal roads.
Most Popular Attractions
Gangneung City Core & Culture:
Ojukheon House: One of Korea’s oldest wooden residential buildings, the birthplace of the famous scholar Yulgok Yi I and his mother, Shin Saimdang.
Gyeongpoho Lake & Gyeongpo Beach: A coastal lake famous for its surrounding cherry blossom trees, combined with a beautiful, popular East Sea beach.
Jeongdongjin Beach & Hourglass Park: A picturesque beach known for having a train station closest to the sea, famous for New Year’s sunrise views and a massive hourglass monument.
Haslla Art World: A scenic art park and museum combining modern art with stunning ocean views, built on a mountain slope overlooking the East Sea.
Chamsori Gramophone & Edison Museum: A unique private museum housing an extensive collection of gramophones, records, and inventions by Thomas Edison.
Gangneung Coffee Street & Anmok Beach: A coastal strip famous for its high concentration of coffee shops and its scenic view of the East Sea.
Sokcho & Yangyang Coastline:
Naksansa Temple: A serene Buddhist temple on a cliff overlooking the East Sea, featuring a towering white statue of the Bodhisattva of Mercy (Haesugwaneum).
Abai Village (Sokcho): A small village settled by refugees from North Korea during the Korean War, famous for its unique local food (like Abaesundae) and the Gatbae (a chained raft).
Yeonggeumjeong Pavilion (Sokcho): A picturesque rock formation and pavilion on the coast, known for the sound of waves hitting the rocks.
Jumunjin Beach & Breakwater: A famous, picturesque spot known for its appearance in Korean dramas and K-Pop music videos.
Daepo Port (Sokcho): A bustling fishing port famous for its raw fish restaurants and fresh seafood market.
Taebaek Mountains & National Parks:
Seoraksan National Park: Korea’s most famous mountain range, known for its dramatic granite peaks, diverse ecosystems, and fall foliage. Home to peaks like Daecheongbong.
Sinheungsa Temple (Seoraksan): A historic temple at the entrance of Seoraksan, famous for its massive bronze Buddha statue (Tongil Daebul).
Wolgjeongsa Temple (Pyeongchang): A major center of Korean Buddhism nestled in the Odaesan National Park, known for its nine-story stone pagoda.
Odaesan National Park: A serene mountain park famous for its dense fir tree forest and its historical Buddhist temples.
Chiaksan National Park: A prominent mountain near Wonju known for its steep slopes and challenging hiking trails.
Pyeongchang & Olympic Legacy:
Alpensia Ski Resort & Ski Jumping Centre: The main venue for the 2018 Winter Olympics, offering year-round leisure activities and a famous ski jump.
Pyeongchang Trout Festival: A popular winter festival offering ice fishing and other winter activities.
Gwandong Historic & Cave Sites:
Hwanseongul Cave (Samcheok): One of the largest limestone caves in Asia, with an impressive network of paths, streams, and unique formations.
Goseong Unification Observatory: An observation deck near the DMZ, offering a chance to view North Korean territory and monuments.
Samcheok Haesindang Park (Penis Park): A unique, controversial theme park dedicated to phallic sculptures, based on a local folk tale.
DMZ Museum (Goseong): A museum focused on the history, ecology, and culture of the Korean Demilitarized Zone.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Peaks of Seoraksan National Park: Explore South Korea’s most stunning mountain range, including its highest peak, Daecheongbong. Choose from gentle valley walks to challenging multi-day treks.
Ride the Jeongdongjin Rail Bike: Cycle along the scenic coastal railroad track at Jeongdongjin, offering breathtaking views of the East Sea (Donghae).
Surf at Yangyang’s Beaches: Take a surfing lesson at popular spots like Jukdo Beach or Hajodae Beach, known for having some of the best waves and surf culture in South Korea.
Visit the DMZ’s Goseong Unification Observatory: Look out over the heavily fortified Demilitarized Zone and catch a glimpse of North Korean territory and its famous Haegŭmgang mountain.
Explore the Traditional Charm of Gangneung’s Ojukheon: Visit one of the oldest preserved wooden residential buildings in Korea, the birthplace of the famous Confucian scholar Yulgok Yi I.
Relax at Naksansa Temple: Discover this beautiful Buddhist temple set on a cliff overlooking the East Sea, featuring a large white statue of Haesugwaneum (Bodhisattva of Compassion).
Go Trout Fishing at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival (Winter): If visiting in January, join thousands of visitors for one of Korea’s most famous winter festivals, where you can ice fish for mountain trout (Sancheoneo).
Take a Skywalk Over the Ocean: Experience the adrenaline rush of walking on a transparent floor jutting out over the sea at locations like the Jumunjin and Sokcho Skywalks.
Sample Fresh Seafood at Sokcho Jungang Market: Dive into the local culinary scene by exploring this vibrant traditional market, famous for fresh hoe (raw fish) and local specialties like sundae (Korean blood sausage).
Stroll Around Gyeongpoho Lake: Rent a bike or walk the path around the scenic lake in Gangneung, renowned for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and its reflective, peaceful waters year-round.
Learn the Art of Temple Stay: Spend a night or a few days living and practicing with Buddhist monks at a serene temple in the mountainous region, such as Woljeongsa Temple.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Recommended for Flexibility: While major cities are connected by high-speed rail, the best way to explore the national parks, coastal towns, and secluded temples of Gangwon-do is by rental car. This is especially true for accessing the many beaches and hiking trailheads.
High-Speed Rail (KTX):
The KTX connects Seoul to major cities like Gangneung and Jinbu (for Pyeongchang/Alpensia ski resorts) quickly and efficiently. This is the fastest way to get to the region from the capital.
It’s best to book KTX tickets in advance, especially on weekends or during peak travel seasons (holidays, summer).
Intercity and Local Buses:
A comprehensive intercity bus network connects all the major towns and smaller villages in Gangwon-do. These are often the only public transport option for reaching remote spots.
Local city buses are generally reliable, but routes can be complex. Services like Naver Map or KakaoMap are essential for planning routes and real-time tracking.
Taxis:
Taxis are readily available in the cities but can be expensive for long-distance travel between towns.
If you plan to use a taxi from a remote spot (like a distant trailhead), arrange a pick-up time in advance with the driver or a local inn, as they may be scarce.
Mountain & Sea Culture:
The East Coast is the Sunrise Spot: Gangwon-do is famous in Korea as the first place to see the sunrise. Many Koreans travel here specifically on New Year’s Day. If you’re staying near the coast, wake up early to catch the stunning dawn over the East Sea.
Seasonal Extremes: Be prepared for dramatic seasonal shifts. Winters are very cold and snowy (great for skiing), and summers are hot and humid. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and stunning foliage (especially in Seoraksan).
Dining & Specialties:
Embrace the Seafood: Given its proximity to the East Sea, fresh seafood is the specialty. Try Mulhoe (spicy cold raw fish soup), Ojingeo Sundae (squid stuffed with a mixture of rice, vegetables, and sometimes glass noodles), or have a local hoe (sashimi) meal at a port market.
Potato and Corn Culture: Due to the mountainous terrain, Gangwon-do is also famous for humble ingredients like potatoes and corn. Try Gamja Ongsimi (potato dumpling soup) or roasted corn from a roadside stand.
Etiquette & Hiking:
Hiking Gear is Serious: Koreans take hiking very seriously. While not essential for light walks, if you plan to tackle major peaks in Seoraksan, wear proper hiking boots and layered clothing. Trails are well-maintained, but they are challenging.
Temple Visit Etiquette: When visiting a temple, dress respectfully (no overly revealing clothing). Be mindful of your noise level. It is polite to bow slightly when passing a monk.
Hidden Gems:
Haslla Art World (Gangneung): A stunning outdoor art park and museum set on a cliff overlooking the sea, featuring diverse modern and contemporary art installations.
Samcheok Candlelight Village: An often-overlooked small town famous for its scenic coastal drive and the picturesque Haesindang Park (Penis Park), a very unique cultural attraction tied to local folklore.
Biryong Falls (Seoraksan): While the main peaks are crowded, the path to Biryong Falls is a relatively easy and incredibly scenic hike that showcases the park’s lush valley beauty.
Top Restaurants
Sokcho Myeongsikdang [$20-$35] – Famous in Sokcho for its Haemul Ttukbaegi (spicy seafood stew in a hot pot), packed with fresh local crab, shrimp, and clams.
Samgyung Mulhoe [$25-$40] – Located in Sokcho, known for its excellent Mulhoe, a refreshing, cold, spicy soup with sliced raw fish and vegetables, perfect after a day at the beach.
Gangneung Hwaerok [$30-$50] – Highly regarded in Gangneung for its fresh local Hwe (sliced raw fish) and dedication to traditional methods, often focusing on seasonal catches.
Daege Naradeulmokhwaetjip (King Crab Alley) [$40-$70] – A cluster of specialized restaurants in the Gyeongpo/Gangneung area famous for selling and preparing the massive King Crab (Daege) and snow crab (Hongge), fresh from the tank.
Jumunjin Daege Manchan [$40-$60] – A dedicated King Crab restaurant near Jumunjin Port known for serving huge portions of steamed crab along with a massive side dish (banchan) spread.
Chodang Halmae Sundubu [$15-$25] – A famous spot in the Chodang Dubu Village of Gangneung, renowned for its Chodang Sundubu (soft tofu) made with seawater, served simply with soy sauce.
Bongpo Meokgeori (Haejang-guk) [$15-$25] – A local spot in Goseong known for its excellent and hearty Haemul Naejang-tang (seafood internal organs soup), a local hangover cure.
Goseong Mulgogijaebi [$20-$35] – A traditional restaurant near Hwajinpo focusing on seasonal and simple seafood stews and grilled fish.
Yangyang Sannam Bada Jangeo [$25-$40] – Located in Yangyang, specializing in grilled sea eel (Jangeo), a favorite local stamina food, often grilled with a spicy sauce.
Janghohang Maeuntang [$20-$35] – Found near Jangho Port in Samcheok, known for its spicy fish stew (Maeuntang), prepared with ultra-fresh fish right from the port.
Samcheok Hanjan [$25-$45] – A local’s gem near the Samcheok coast for incredibly fresh raw fish and unique local preparations you won’t find in Seoul.
Sokcho Abai Sundae [$20-$35] – Famous in the Abai Village of Sokcho, specializing in Abai Sundae, squid stuffed with rice, noodles, and vegetables.
Inje Sanchae Jungsik [$20-$35] – A well-known restaurant in Inje focusing on a table spread of various sanchae (mountain vegetable) dishes served with rice and soup.
Goseong Geumgangsan Hwaetjip [$25-$40] – Located near Unification Observatory, offering fresh raw fish dishes and stews with a focus on simple, clean presentation.
Jeongseon Gondre Bap Sikdang [$15-$25] – A simple, highly-rated local restaurant in Jeongseon famous for its Gondre Bap, rice mixed with fragrant dried thistle leaves.
Pyeongchang Hanu Maeul [$35-$60] – A favored spot in the Hanu (Korean Beef) town of Daegwallyeong, Pyeongchang, offering high-quality, local Korean beef grilled at your table.
Donghae Ojingeo Naejangtang [$15-$25] – A unique local favorite in Donghae, a spicy and savory stew made with the internal organs of squid (Ojingeo Naejang), a strong regional dish.
Taebaek Makguksu [$10-$20] – A traditional noodle house in Taebaek, serving excellent Makguksu (buckwheat noodles), often served cold and mixed with a spicy dressing.
Heungbu Makguksu [$10-$20] – Known in the Gangneung area for its simple, traditional Makguksu (buckwheat noodles), a local staple with a refreshing broth.
Sokcho Myeongtae Hoe Naengmyeon [$15-$25] – A highly popular spot in Sokcho for Naengmyeon (cold noodles) mixed with spicy, cured pollack (Myeongtae Hoe).
Pyeongchang Hwangtae Hoegwan [$20-$35] – Located in Pyeongchang, specializing in Hwangtae (dried pollack), serving it grilled, in soup, or as a side dish.
Taebaek Jjimdak (Tteokgalbi) [$25-$40] – A well-regarded spot in Taebaek that serves excellent Tteokgalbi (grilled beef patties) and local specialties like Taebaek Jjimdak.
Hongcheon Hwayanggang Maeuntang [$25-$40] – A riverside restaurant in Hongcheon specializing in fresh water fish Maeuntang (spicy stew) using local catches.
Wonju Bori Bap Gyeotdeurin Jangeotang [$20-$35] – A traditional restaurant in Wonju (part of the historical Gwandong region) known for its hearty eel soup (Jangeotang) and barley rice (Bori Bap).
Jeongseon Haneol Tteokgalbi [$30-$50] – A cozy restaurant in Jeongseon serving high-quality, handmade Tteokgalbi (grilled short rib patties).
Gyeongpo Hoetjip (near Gyeongpo Lake) [$20-$35] – A popular cluster of simple, no-frills raw fish restaurants near the lake that locals frequent for a casual seafood meal.
Yeongwol Eoleumgol Sikdang [$15-$25] – A hidden gem in Yeongwol, known for its traditional and rustic dishes, often utilizing local ingredients from the surrounding area.
Wonju Bongsan Gondeure Bap [$15-$25] – A humble but excellent restaurant in Wonju focused on Gondeure Bap and other simple, wholesome meals.
Cafe R. Holic & Dining [$30-$50] – Located in Gangneung, this spot offers a more modern dining experience with an emphasis on fusion dishes using local seafood and fresh ingredients.
Gyeongpo Pasta (Gangneung) [$25-$45] – A stylish restaurant near Gyeongpo Beach offering Italian food that incorporates Gangwon’s fresh seafood and vegetables.
Yangyang Surfist Kitchen [$20-$35] – A trendy spot near the popular surfing beaches in Yangyang, serving creative, often internationally-influenced dishes with fresh local ingredients.
Sokcho Ssukbawi [$35-$60] – A modern, well-regarded restaurant in Sokcho that elevates traditional regional dishes with contemporary plating and techniques.
Chuncheon Gyebaek Siktang (Dakgalbi focus) [$20-$35] – Though in Chuncheon, this specific location offers a creative, premium approach to Dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), using high-quality local ingredients.
Jumunjin Tteokbokki & Craft Beer [$15-$30] – A fusion spot near Jumunjin Port that pairs modernized Korean street food like Tteokbokki with local and craft beers.
Gangneung Bongbong Bangjuk [$25-$45] – A modern, cafe-style restaurant focusing on brunch and light meals using fresh-baked bread and seasonal Gangwon produce.
Pyeongchang Bistro (Near Alpensia) [$30-$50] – A stylish bistro offering Western-style comfort food and modern Korean dishes, often incorporating local beef and potatoes.
Donghae Ocean View Diner [$30-$50] – A contemporary restaurant in Donghae with great sea views, offering a mix of seafood and Western-style dishes.
Samcheok Haemul Jjigae & Fusion [$25-$45] – A spot in Samcheok that takes the traditional Haemul Jjigae (seafood stew) and offers unique, often less spicy, fusion variations.
Yangyang Matjib (The Local Dish) [$20-$35] – A modern, minimalist restaurant that prides itself on reinterpreting simple, traditional Yangyang dishes with high-quality ingredients.
Seokbong Dohwaji [$60-$100] – A fine dining experience in Gangneung that focuses on Hansik (Korean cuisine) using premium Gangwon ingredients in a beautiful, artistic presentation.
Gyeongpo Lake Hanjeongsik (Jinsusa) [$40-$70] – A traditional Hanjeongsik (full-course Korean meal) near Gyeongpo Lake, known for its huge spread of traditional dishes and quality ingredients.
Pyeongchang Alpina Dining [$70-$120] – Located in a high-end resort area, this restaurant offers exquisite tasting menus featuring premium local products like Hanu beef and seasonal sanchae.
Donghae O-Sikyeo [$50-$90] – A refined establishment in Donghae focusing on high-quality raw fish and seafood, served in a more private and upscale setting.
The Bay 700 (Yangyang) [$40-$70] – A luxurious dining spot with stunning ocean views in Yangyang, offering high-end seafood and Western cuisine.
Gyeongpo Hoe Sanchae Jungsik (Premium) [$50-$80] – A high-tier restaurant specializing in a combination of fresh raw fish and an extensive mountain vegetable side dish spread.
Sokcho Juksaek [$50-$80] – A respected restaurant in Sokcho that focuses on high-quality ingredients and a refined preparation of traditional Gwandong dishes.
Gangneung Gyodong Jajangmyeon [$10-$20] – A local spot in the Gyodong area of Gangneung famous for its excellent Jajangmyeon (black bean noodles) and Jjamppong (spicy seafood noodle soup).
Sokcho Matna Bunsik [$10-$20] – A classic Bunsik (snack food) restaurant in Sokcho, beloved by locals for its inexpensive and delicious Kimbap and Tteokbokki.
Hwacheon Fish Cake Factory Rest Stop [$10-$20] – A humble spot in Hwacheon known for freshly made, high-quality Eomuk (fish cake) skewers and simple noodle soups.
Wonju Galbitang Sikdang [$15-$25] – A cozy restaurant in Wonju specializing in a clean, hearty Galbitang (beef short rib soup).
Taebaek Yeongdong Mulguksu [$10-$20] – A no-frills noodle house in Taebaek, popular for its simple, traditional Mul Guksu (hot noodle soup).
Jeongseon Market Snacks (Various Stalls) [$5-$15] – Not a single restaurant, but the traditional market offers numerous stalls with local snacks like Susu Buchimgae (corn pancakes) and traditional rice cakes.
Inje Sanchae Bibimbap Matjib [$10-$20] – A small, unassuming restaurant in Inje highly rated for its fresh, flavorful Sanchae Bibimbap (mixed rice with mountain greens).
Pyeongchang Gamja-ongsimi [$10-$20] – A very traditional place in Pyeongchang known for its Gamja-ongsimi, a unique soup with chewy potato dough balls.
Yangyang Haemul Kalguksu (Hand-cut noodles) [$15-$25] – A small, simple eatery in Yangyang specializing in hand-cut noodles in a rich seafood broth.
Goseong Gamja Jeon House [$10-$20] – A local favorite specializing in Gamja Jeon (potato pancake), made with freshly grated local Gangwon potatoes.
Samcheok Hanjan (Gukbap) [$15-$25] – A casual spot in Samcheok known for its excellent Gukbap (rice soup), perfect for a quick and comforting meal.
Sokcho Sundae Alley (Various Stalls) [$15-$25] – A lane of simple, classic restaurants focusing on various types of Sundae (Korean blood sausage), often enjoyed with a side of steamed rice.
Gangneung Ongsimi Jip (Near Chodang) [$10-$20] – A hidden gem near Chodang known for its simple, traditional Ongsimi (potato dumplings) in a clean broth.
Yeongwol Olchaeguksu [$10-$20] – A local favorite in Yeongwol for its unique Olchaeguksu, a simple noodle dish made from corn flour.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Bar Astar (Gangneung): A stylish cocktail bar in Gangwon-do known for its innovative drinks and lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for tourists seeking a unique night out.
Sky Lounge Bar (Gangneung): Located on the highest floor of the Skybay Hotel Gyeongpo, this bar offers panoramic views of Gyeongpo Lake and the East Sea. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a classic cocktail while watching the sunset.
hafahakiki beach lounge (Gangneung): Situated right on the beach in Gangwon-do, this lounge provides a quintessential beachside experience, combining delicious cuisine, live music, and stunning ocean views.
307 Pub & Pop (Gangneung): A casual bar located on the 16th floor of the St. John’s Hotel. Accessed through a secret door within a photo studio, it offers great views of the East Sea from its terrace and occasionally hosts live performances.
안목해변 술집 문문 (Munmun Bar) (Gangneung): A relaxing beachside bar in Gangwon-do that offers local drinks and is a perfect retreat after a day of enjoying the nearby ocean.
Yurameson Yasik (Sokcho): Found near Dongmyeonghang Port, this spot offers a romantic atmosphere, serving delicious street food and cocktails in a more laid-back setting, characteristic of Sokcho’s nightlife.
정혜영 COOK Chicken & Pub (Gangneung): Blending a pub atmosphere with popular Korean nightlife fare, this spot in Gangneung-si is famous for its delicious fried chicken and vibrant social scene.
White Crow Taphouse (Gangneung): A welcoming bar in Gangneung-si known for its warm ambiance and selection of craft brews, serving as both a bar and a family restaurant during earlier hours.
경포펍 (Gyeongpo Pub) (Gangneung): A popular bar located near the beautiful coast in Gangneung, offering local drinks in a lively atmosphere close to the main beach area.
생활맥주 강릉성남점 (Daily Beer Gangneung Seongnam) (Gangneung): Situated in Gangneung-si, this pub allows visitors to explore the essence of Korean craft brewing, combining flavor and culture in a vibrant pub environment.
Budnamu Brewery (Gangneung): While primarily a brewery in Gangneung, it offers an innovative space where you can explore the rich and traditional flavors of Korean craft beer in a lively, modern setting.
Long Bread (Gangneung): Although known for brunch, this cozy, hidden gem in Gangneung-si also offers a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for evening drinks.
오조식당 (Ojo Sikdang) (Gangneung): A spot in Gangneung known for its lively nightlife, offering local drinks and a great environment for an unforgettable experience.
Rush Music Bar (Gangneung): A vibrant music bar in Gangneung where live music and a friendly atmosphere create memorable nightlife experiences.
Cafe Street Lounges (Gangneung/Anmok Beach): Along the famous Anmok Beach Coffee Street, many stylish cafes and lounges transition into relaxed evening spots, offering coffee-infused cocktails and a serene ocean view.
Benz Night Club (Sokcho): A renowned club in Sokcho, conveniently located in Joyang-dong. It’s known for its lively atmosphere, pulsating music, talented DJs, and a vibrant dance floor, drawing both locals and travelers.
The Club (Gangneung/Jumunjin): A well-regarded nightclub in the Jumunjin area of Gangneung, offering a modern setting with rotating DJs and a high-energy environment for late-night dancing.
Club Arena (Gangneung Downtown): A large, high-profile club in the central Gangneung downtown area that hosts well-known DJs and is popular for its energetic, commercial dance music and modern light shows.
NB 2 (Sokcho): A popular dance club in Sokcho known for its lively K-Pop and commercial music mix, attracting a younger crowd looking for a big party atmosphere.
Club Face (Gangneung): Situated in a busy district of Gangneung, this club is known for its stylish interior and a good mix of electronic dance music and hip-hop, often packed on weekend nights.
Mix Club (Sokcho): A local favorite in Sokcho, offering a more intimate yet still high-energy clubbing experience, known for its friendly crowd and diverse music selection.
Vinyl Club (Gangneung): A unique club experience in Gangneung, focusing on classic and retro music played on vinyl records, providing a dance-friendly but distinctively nostalgic atmosphere.
Pulse Night (Sokcho): A smaller, but highly energetic spot in Sokcho, often featuring local DJs and focusing on powerful bass and electronic beats for a dedicated dancing crowd.
Retro 8090 (Gangneung): A themed club in Gangneung that specializes in Korean pop and dance music hits from the 1980s and 1990s, popular for its nostalgic, sing-along, and high-spirited crowd.
Bar & Club Harmony (Sokcho): A venue that seamlessly blends a sophisticated bar area with a dedicated dance floor, offering a compromise between a relaxed drink and a late-night party in Sokcho.
Party Zone (Gangneung): A straightforward, popular club in the student district of Gangneung, known for its loud music, drink specials, and a focus on an unpretentious, all-night dance party.
The Underground (Sokcho): A hidden gem in Sokcho that specializes in techno and deep house music, catering to an international and local crowd looking for a different electronic music vibe.