Things To Do
in Gwangyang

Gwangyang is a vibrant city located in South Jeolla Province, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and the annual Gwangyang Maehwa Festival, attracting visitors from all over the country. The city is also home to the Gwangyang Bay, which offers stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities.

With its unique blend of modernity and tradition, Gwangyang is an ideal destination for those seeking a diverse Korean experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Gwangyang
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Gwangyang Maehwa Village to see the beautiful plum blossoms and stroll through the scenic paths.

afternoon
:

Head to the Gwangyang Bay for a leisurely walk along the waterfront, followed by a visit to the Gwangyang Confucian School to learn about traditional Korean education.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in grilled seafood, and take a relaxing walk at the Gwangyang Waterfront Park.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Gwangyang City Museum to explore the history and culture of the region.

afternoon
:

Take a trip to the nearby Yudalsan Mountain for a hike and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a traditional Korean pub, where you can try soju and various anju (snacks served with drinks).

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Ramen$5
🍡Cup of Coffee$3
πŸ—Grilled Chicken Meal$10
🚍Local Bus Fare$1
🏨Hotel Night$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences with historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh ingredients.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Korean speakers.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent outside peak hours.
  • "μ•ˆλ…•ν•˜μ„Έμš”" - Hello
  • "κ°μ‚¬ν•©λ‹ˆλ‹€" - Thank you
  • "ν™”μž₯μ‹€ μ–΄λ””μ—μš”?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "λ„μ™€μ£Όμ„Έμš”" - Help me
  • "가격이 μ–Όλ§ˆμ˜ˆμš”?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Gwangyang

Visit one of these nice places.

Gwangyang Maehwa Village

A picturesque village famous for its blooming plum trees, perfect for capturing stunning nature shots in spring.

Gwangyang Bay

Offers breathtaking sunset views over the water, ideal for landscape photography.

Yudalsan Mountain

A great spot for panoramic shots of the city and its surroundings, especially from the summit.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gwangyang

Gwangyang's culinary scene is a delightful blend of flavors, showcasing local ingredients and traditional recipes that reflect the region's culture.

Gwangyang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gwangyang Bulgogi

A marinated beef dish grilled to perfection, known for its sweetness and tenderness.

Must-Try!

Grilled Mackerel

Freshly grilled mackerel served with a variety of side dishes, a staple of Gwangyang cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gwangyang Traditional Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food such as tteokbokki and hotteok.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gwangyang experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is mild with blooming flowers, summer (June to August) is hot and humid with monsoon rains, autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, while winter (December to February) is cold with occasional snow. Overall, the best times to visit are during spring and autumn for pleasant weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to older individuals, often using both hands when giving or receiving items.

Removing Shoes

Shoes should be removed when entering someone's home and some traditional restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gwangyang is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 119, and it's wise to have travel insurance for unexpected situations.

Tipping in Gwangyang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect beautiful cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Hot and humid with occasional rain; perfect for beach activities at nearby coastal areas.

Autumn

Mild temperatures and stunning fall foliage make it a great time for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter

Cold with occasional snowfall; visit for winter festivals and enjoy warm Korean stews.

Nightlife Guide

Gwangyang at Night

Gwangyang's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but it offers a selection of cozy bars and local pubs. You can find traditional Korean pubs (hofs) serving soju and beer alongside a variety of anju. Live music venues and small clubs can also be found, providing a relaxed atmosphere for socializing and enjoying the local culture.

Hiking in Gwangyang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yudalsan Trail

A popular hiking trail offering various routes with varying difficulty levels, leading to the summit with stunning city views.

Bonghwangsan Mountain Trail

Another scenic hiking option with well-marked paths and beautiful landscapes, ideal for both casual walkers and serious hikers.

Airports

How to reach Gwangyang by plane.

Gwangju Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Gwangyang, Gwangju Airport serves domestic flights and some international destinations, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gwangyang is a fairly walkable city, especially in its downtown area where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the city layout encourages exploration on foot. However, some attractions may be spread out, so it's advisable to use public transportation or bikes for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Gwangyang, contributing to the local economy and cultural scene, mostly in tech and service industries.

Retirees

Many retirees enjoy the peaceful lifestyle in Gwangyang, taking advantage of its natural beauty and slower pace of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is hugely popular in Gwangyang, with local teams attracting enthusiastic crowds during the season.

Soccer

Soccer is also widely played and followed, with community leagues and school teams actively participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gwangyang is generally manageable, with main roads connecting key areas of the city. Public transportation includes buses that are reliable and affordable, though they may not run as frequently during off-peak hours. Taxis are also available and can be a convenient option for reaching less accessible areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gwangyang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Korean cuisine includes meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially in markets.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, but rice dishes and certain soups are generally safe.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Gwangyang is generally accessible with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and visitors. Emergency medical services can be reached quickly, and many doctors speak basic English. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Korea

Read more in our Korea 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea Travel Guide