Things To Do
in Gangneung

Gangneung is a beautiful coastal city located on the east coast of South Korea, known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene. The city is particularly famous for its annual Gangneung Danoje Festival, celebrating traditional customs and folk culture. With a backdrop of scenic mountains and the East Sea, Gangneung offers a perfect blend of nature and urban life.

Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, historical sites, and delicious local cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Ojukheon House, the birthplace of the famous Confucian scholar Yulgok. Explore the beautiful gardens and museum.

afternoon
:

Head to the Gangneung Seongyojang, a traditional Korean house, for a glimpse into the life of the Joseon Dynasty. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Korean dishes.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with a leisurely stroll along Anmok Beach, famous for its coffee shops. Enjoy a sunset view with a cup of coffee.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Visit the scenic Jeongdongjin Beach, known for its beautiful sunrise views. Take a walk along the beach and enjoy the fresh sea air.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Seoraksan National Park where you can hike and witness breathtaking landscapes. Pack a picnic to enjoy in nature.

evening
:

Return to the city and dine at a seafood restaurant, savoring the freshest catch of the day. Explore the local night market for some street food snacks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$8
Coffee at a Cafe$3
🍣Sashimi Platter$15
🚍Bus Ticket$1
🏨Hotel Night (Budget)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and beautiful beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh seafood.
  • Limited English signage can be challenging for tourists.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent in certain areas.
  • Crowded beaches during the summer season.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "물 좀 주세요" - Please give me water
  • "화장실 어디예요?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "이거 얼마예요?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Gangneung

Visit one of these nice places.

Jeongdongjin Sunrise Park

Famous for its breathtaking sunrises, providing picturesque views over the ocean.

Gyeongpo Lake

A serene lake surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring, perfect for scenic photos.

Anmok Beach

Known for its beautiful beach cafes and stunning sunset views, making it a great spot for evening photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gangneung

Gangneung is a culinary delight, offering a mix of fresh seafood, traditional Korean dishes, and unique local specialties that reflect its coastal heritage.

Gangneung Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chodang Dubu

A soft tofu dish made from locally sourced soybeans, known for its creamy texture.

Must-Try!

Sundae

Korean blood sausage served with a variety of accompaniments.

Gyeongpo Hoetjip

Fresh sashimi made from local fish, often served with spicy dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gangneung Traditional Market

A bustling market offering fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks.

Anmok Beach Street Food Stalls

Street food vendors serving popular snacks like tteokbokki and hotteok.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gangneung experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid with temperatures averaging 25°C to 30°C. Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below zero, especially during January. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) feature mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals; it’s customary to bow when greeting.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the oldest person at the table to start eating before you begin.

Public Behavior

Maintain a quiet demeanor in public spaces and avoid loud conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gangneung is generally considered a safe city for travelers. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 for police and 119 for medical assistance.

Tipping in Gangneung

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not a common practice in South Korea, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are commonly used in restaurants and shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, particularly in April.

Summer

Hot and humid weather with plenty of beach activities; ideal for water sports.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage; a great time for hiking and outdoor activities.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall; perfect for winter sports in nearby ski resorts.

Nightlife Guide

Gangneung at Night

Gangneung's nightlife is vibrant, featuring a mix of cozy bars, karaoke rooms, and bustling night markets. The Anmok Beach area is popular for its beachside cafes and bars where locals and tourists gather to enjoy drinks and live music. For those looking for a traditional experience, there are numerous Korean-style pubs (hof) offering local beers and soju.

Hiking in Gangneung

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Seoraksan National Park Trails

Various trails available from easy walks to challenging hikes, offering stunning mountain views and diverse flora.

Naksansa Temple Trail

A scenic hiking route leading to the historic Naksansa Temple, offering beautiful views of the coastline.

Airports

How to reach Gangneung by plane.

Yangyang International Airport

Located about 40 minutes from Gangneung, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gangneung is relatively walkable, especially in areas like downtown and along the beach. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions may be spread out, so consider using public transportation or renting a bike for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With several universities in the area, there is a significant student population contributing to the local culture.

Tourists

Gangneung attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists, especially during the summer and festival seasons.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Taekwondo

A traditional Korean martial art that is popular in Gangneung, with many dojos offering classes.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played and followed in the region, with local teams that engage in community matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gangneung is generally manageable, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Biking is also a popular option, with dedicated bike lanes along many roads.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gangneung.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many traditional Korean restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for meat-based broths.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's best to communicate your dietary needs to the restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Gangneung is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. The Gangneung Asan Hospital is one of the largest facilities in the region, offering comprehensive medical services. Most medical professionals speak basic English, making it easier for travelers to communicate their needs.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide