Gangneung, located on South Korea's east coast, is a city that offers a mix of pristine beaches, lush natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. It attracts visitors seeking a relaxed coastal escape with opportunities for both historical exploration and outdoor activities.
For those looking to socialize, the Gyeongpo Beach area is a popular choice, featuring numerous cafes and restaurants, and a friendly atmosphere at its hostels, which can facilitate meeting other travelers. Anmok Coffee Street, with its array of cafes directly overlooking the ocean, also provides a pleasant setting for interaction and relaxation. Downtown Gangneung and Wolhwa Street offer a vibrant local cultural experience with street food, markets, and live music.
Top 7 Things to do in Gangneung
Visitors can immerse themselves in coastal scenery, explore historical landmarks, engage with local culture through markets and unique culinary experiences, and discover modern art installations.
1. Gyeongpo Beach and Gyeongpo Lake
Spend time at Gyeongpo Beach, known for its soft sands and clear waters, ideal for swimming and enjoying stunning sunsets. Adjacent to the beach is Gyeongpo Lake, where visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along scenic trails or rent bicycles to cycle around its perimeter, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. The area provides a peaceful escape with opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Cost: Access to the beach and lake is free. Bicycle rentals around Gyeongpo Lake typically cost approximately W5,000 for one hour.
Transport: Gyeongpo Beach and Lake are accessible by local city buses (e.g., routes 200, 202) from Gangneung city center. Taxis are also readily available.
2. Anmok Coffee Street
Experience Gangneung's renowned coffee culture along Anmok Coffee Street, a bustling stretch of cafes directly overlooking Anmok Beach. This location provides a relaxing setting to savor freshly brewed coffee while enjoying direct ocean views. Many unique cafes offer a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation and interaction.
Cost: Coffee prices vary by cafe, typically ranging from W5,000 to W8,000 per cup.
Transport: Anmok Coffee Street is easily reached by local bus from Gangneung city center or a short taxi ride. It is also within walking distance from some central areas.
3. Ojukheon House
Step back in time at Ojukheon House, one of Korea's oldest wooden residential buildings. This historic site is the birthplace of prominent Confucian scholar Yi Yulgok and his mother, Shin Saimdang, both featured on Korean banknotes. Visitors can explore the well-preserved traditional Korean architecture, serene gardens, and several exhibition halls detailing their lives and relics.
Cost: Admission for adults is approximately W5,000. A small discount may be available on the last Wednesday of each month, known as Culture Day.
Transport: Ojukheon House is accessible by local buses from Gangneung city center. It is generally recommended to stay near the city center for convenient access.
4. Haslla Art World
Discover Haslla Art World, a unique art complex where contemporary art intertwines with nature, offering stunning views of the East Sea. The complex features indoor galleries with diverse art genres, an outdoor sculpture park with interactive installations, and a Pinocchio and Marionette Museum. It is a popular spot for photography.
Cost: Admission fees for adults range from W12,000 to W17,000.
Transport: Haslla Art World is located south of central Gangneung, near Jeongdongjin. From Seoul, one can take a KTX train to Jeongdongjin Station (approximately W23,000-W36,000) and then a short 5-minute taxi ride. Local public buses (routes 112 or 113) also serve the area.
5. Jumunjin Beach and BTS Bus Stop
Visit Jumunjin Beach, a picturesque coastal spot that gained international fame as the location for the BTS 'You Never Walk Alone' album cover bus stop, making it a must-visit for K-pop fans. The beach is also a recognized filming location for the popular K-drama 'Goblin'. It offers clear waters and is suitable for taking memorable photos.
Cost: Visiting the beach and the bus stop is free.
Transport: Jumunjin Beach is located north of Gangneung city center. It can be reached by local bus or taxi. A foreigner tourist taxi service offers a 3-hour tour including this spot for W20,000.
6. Gangneung Jungang Market
Immerse oneself in the vibrant local culture at Gangneung Jungang Market, a bustling traditional market. It is an excellent place to sample various Korean street foods, fresh seafood, and purchase local specialties and souvenirs. The market offers a lively atmosphere and a genuine glimpse into local life.
Cost: Costs vary based on purchases, but street food is generally affordable.
Transport: The market is centrally located in Gangneung city, often within walking distance of hotels in the downtown area. It is also easily accessible by local public transport.
7. Chodang Dubu Village
Explore Chodang Dubu Village, renowned for its soft tofu (sundubu) made using seawater, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. The village is a street lined with restaurants specializing in various tofu dishes, offering a distinct local culinary experience that draws visitors from across Korea.
Cost: Meal prices vary by restaurant and dish.
Transport: Chodang Dubu Village can be reached by a city bus from Gangneung train station. Taxis are also an option.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
