Gang Won Do, South Korea
Pyeongchang (평창): Host of the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics. A region of beautiful mountainous landscapes and serene temples. Experience world-class ski resorts or summer gondola rides.
Visit Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm for pastoral views. Explore Woljeongsa Temple in Odaesan National Park.
Explore coastal cities south of Gangneung, presenting their own unique attractions.
Gateway to Seoraksan National Park with hiking and cable car views. Explore Abai Village for North Korean refugee culture and local food. Visit Sokcho Jungang Market for fresh seafood.
A coastal city just south of Gangneung, presenting its own charming attractions. Home to Mukho Port and its fresh seafood restaurants.
Gangwon Province is a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Majestic mountains, granite peaks, deep valleys, and waterfalls. Stunning natural beauty. Cable car access presents panoramic views for less strenuous activity.
Known for pristine forests, clear streams, and the historic Woljeongsa Temple. Excellent for tranquil hiking and unspoiled nature, often with fewer crowds than Seoraksan.
A serene, pastoral retreat with rolling green hills and free-roaming sheep. A refreshing change of scenery and a pleasant spot for a stroll.
Seoraksan National Park, a significant natural wonder. Sokcho serves as a nearby coastal city.
Odaesan National Park, home to Woljeongsa Temple. Pyeongchang presents the Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm and Olympic sites.
Deepen your cultural understanding with visits to nearby historical and spiritual sites.
A serene Buddhist temple nestled within Odaesan National Park. Celebrated for its beautiful fir forest path leading to the temple complex and a significant 9-story stone pagoda.
A picturesque Buddhist temple on a cliff overlooking the East Sea, near Sokcho. Famous for its large Bodhisattva statue (Haesu Gwaneum-sang) and stunning coastal views, especially at sunrise.
A unique and memorable park in Samcheok dedicated to fertility, displaying numerous phallic sculptures. Presents a distinct cultural perspective on ancient folk beliefs.
A historical pavilion perched on a cliff in Samcheok, presenting scenic views of the Samcheok coastal river and surrounding landscape. It ranks among the Eight Scenic Spots of Gwandong.
Explore the deep spiritual and historical heritage of Gangwon Province.
Woljeongsa presents peaceful reflection amidst nature.
Naksansa combines spiritual visits with ocean vistas.
Haesindang Park presents an unusual cultural journey.
Gangneung functions as a component of a larger regional itinerary.
Combine capital exploration with coastal and mountain experiences for a varied trip.
Drive north or south to explore diverse coastal attractions at your own pace.
Goseong presents an unique perspective on the inter-Korean border for those interested.
Begin in Gangneung, then travel north along the coast to Sokcho (for Seoraksan National Park and Abai Village) and further to Goseong (for the DMZ Peace Observatory).
From Gangneung, head south to Donghae (for Mukho Port and Chuam Beach), then Samcheok (for Haesindang Park and caves), and potentially further down to Uljin or Pohang, exploring the diverse coastal landscapes and local towns.
Consider extending your trip further inland to Pyeongchang, or connecting to cities like Gyeongju (via KTX transfer at Dongdaegu) for a broader South Korean experience.
