Gang Won Do, South Korea
South Korea's main international gateway is Incheon International Airport (ICN). Gimpo International Airport (GMP) handles domestic and short-haul international flights. Yangyang International Airport (YNY), approximately 40 kilometers north of Gangneung, has limited international and domestic flights, offering the closest air access.
ICN consistently ranks among the world's best airports. It offers extensive duty-free shopping, diverse dining, lounges, transit hotels, medical services, and counters for SIM cards, Wi-Fi egg rentals, and currency exchange. GMP and YNY offer more basic facilities but include convenience stores and cafes.
Flight prices to ICN generally peak during major holidays: summer (July-August), Lunar New Year, and Korean Thanksgiving (Chuseok). Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October, avoiding Chuseok) offer better value.
From YNY, take a local bus or taxi directly to Gangneung city. The journey takes approximately 40-60 minutes, making YNY the quickest airport connection if direct flights are available.
Low-cost carriers like Jin Air, Jeju Air, T'way Air, Eastar Jet, and Air Busan operate domestic routes within Korea.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary for foreign drivers in South Korea, alongside your valid driver's license. Obtain the IDP before arrival. DiscoverCars.com for rental options.
South Korea boasts excellent, well-maintained roads and highways. Signage often appears in both Korean and English. Most highways are toll roads. Rental cars include an electronic toll device (Hi-Pass).
A GPS system with Korean maps (Naver Map or KakaoMap) is necessary. Google Maps' navigation features are limited. Paid parking is common in popular tourist areas.
Gangneung has a port (Gangneung Port), but it mainly handles cargo and domestic ferry services. The main passenger ferry service from Gangneung connects to Ulleungdo Island (via Anmok Port Passenger Terminal). This is a multi-hour journey to an island off the east coast, not a means of international arrival.
From Anmok Port Passenger Terminal, where the Ulleungdo ferry departs, local buses and taxis provide connections to Gangneung city center and other areas. The port is easily accessible from the city. Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable for international arrivals, as Gangneung's port does not process international passenger entries.
No separate exit fees or taxes are typically charged to departing passengers at South Korean airports or ports. These fees usually figure into the price of your airline ticket or ferry fare.
Incheon International Airport (ICN) offers extensive duty-free shopping, a wide range of restaurants, comfortable lounges, and currency exchange services. You can also process VAT refunds here.
Buses are the main mode of public transportation within Gangneung. The city does not have a metro or tram system. Gangneung operates an extensive network of city buses (시내버스, Sinaebeoseu). These buses connect all major attractions, neighborhoods, and terminals.
T-Money card offers a slight discount on fares compared to cash, and transfer benefits. Purchase and reload at most convenience stores and metro stations. A standard adult bus fare is approximately ₩1,300-₩1,500.
Taxis offer a convenient alternative to buses. Licensed taxis are typically orange, white, or silver, with a "TAXI" sign. Hailing is possible on the street or at designated stands.
Kakao T (카카오T) is the dominant ride-sharing and taxi-hailing app. It allows hailing licensed taxis, seeing estimated fares, and tracking drivers. Payment links to credit card within the app.
Numerous bicycle rental shops are available around Gyeongpo Lake and some shops along Anmok Coffee Street. Ideal for exploring perimeter and coastal paths. Affordable hourly rates.
Gangneung is a pleasant city for both walking and cycling, notably in its scenic coastal areas.
Dedicated cycling paths are extensive and well-maintained, especially along the coast (part of the East Coast Bicycle Road) and around Gyeongpo Lake.
Gangneung City Tour Bus offers themed tours to major attractions (e.g., Coastal Tour, Cultural Tour). Bookings through Gangneung City Tourism website or KTX Station tourist information center.
This unique pedal-powered rail experience runs along a scenic coastal railway. A popular and distinctive local activity. Reservations are recommended.
Newer buildings, major hotels, and KTX trains are generally accessible. Older buildings or traditional sites may pose difficulties. Contact Korea Tourism Organization (1330 hotline) for assistance.
