Theme Tour
- Home
- Tour
- Theme Tour
-

-
Downtown
Gangneung's Night isMore Beautiful Than Its Day
Nighttime attractions in Gangneung
Gangneung's Night is More Beautiful Than Its Day Nighttime attractions in Gangneung
Gangneung’s true charms shine bright after the sun sets.From the romantic Gyeongpoho Lake with five moons and Wolhwa Street Night Market where excitement begins once the sun sets to Solhyang Arboretum that sparkles at night and the starlit pastoral Anbandegi to watch stars at night!Let's visit the nighttime attractions that make Gangneung much more fascinating.
Gyeongpoho Lake with five moons
The first thing that pops up in many people's minds when they hear “Gangneung” is Gyeongpo sea.But Gyeongpoho Lake, which is close to the sea, is also a widely loved spot with tranquil paths for evening strolls.
Gyeongpo Gasiyeon Wetlands, which surrounds the lake and boasts its original beauty still intact, attracts people day and night.
Gyeongpoho Lake is known as the lake with five moons, which are the moon in the sky, the moon reflected on the lake, the moon reflected on the sea, the moon reflected on your glass, and lastly, the moon reflected on your loved one's eyes.How romantic it is to walk alongside your loved one while searching for the five moons together!
Wolhwa Street Night Market where excitement begins after sunset
Wolhwa Street gains vigor once the sun sets every Friday and Saturday.
Clean and stylish food stalls and stands are installed while delicious smells fill the air.
The night market, which features cheerful music, bright lights and performances, is instantly filled with excitement.
First opened in May last year, Wolhwa Street Night Market opens at 6 PM and keeps the area bright until 11 PM every Friday and Saturday.
If you visit Wolhwa Street, we recommend you to also check out the harmony of splendid lights and music of the nighttime fountain show at Wolhwagyo Bridge, which is connected to the street.
There is no better place for a stroll or a date on a cool autumn night than Wolhwa Street Night Market where the old and new coexist.
Gangneung Solhyang Arboretum, a romantic getaway
Located at the foot of Chilseongsan Mountain, Gangneung Solhyang Arboretum, featuring a dense colony of Geumgang pines whose stalks grow straight and red, is widely known as a place of healing.Once the leaves turn into autumn foliage, the arboretum presents a modest yet beautiful spectacle.
Gangneung Solhyang Arboretum has recently begun to open at night, boasting a different charm compared to the daytime.
A total of 713 bright lightings put on splendid clothes on a mundane forest to create a gorgeous scenery in which the lights become one with nature.On Fridays, in particular, different colors of lights are used compared to other days to grab visitors’ attention.
The marvelous nightscape colored with lighting creates a romantic vibe.Trails that warm up the cold air and shiny green lights together seem like an orchestra of fireflies.
From a pool on a dark night, a dragon formed by lights soars up into the sky.As you walk under the subtle moonlight while soaking in the autumn flavors, you will instantly fall under a spell to become filled with joy under the bright lights.
Anbandegi enraptured in starlight
Anbandegi360VR
Click on the screen and move the mouse to view the foreground.
Anbandegi Village, located at 1100 m above sea level, got its name from its sunken and broad topography that resembles Anban, a pounding board for making tteok (rice cake) with a mallet.
Filled with cabbage patches, the village is widely considered as a great spot to watch stars.
Although many believe that it began to be recognized by people thanks to the TV show “I Live Alone,” those who like taking pictures of stars had already known about this place.We recommend the ones who do not have much expectation in star watching to visit first as it is impossible to talk about its mystique before experiencing ecstasy from countless stars lit in the dark night sky.
Anbandegi boasts open, unobstructed views in all directions, which makes it a perfect place to enjoy watching the milky way.You may not be able to fetch a star for your loved one, but you can show him or her the beautiful, starlit night sky in Anbandegi.
-

-
Downtown
A Trip Like a Scene From a Movie
A Trip Like a Scene From a Movie
From Autumn in My Heart to One Fine Spring Day and All About My Wife, it is not difficult to find Gangneung in many films, dramas and music videos.As soon as you set up a camera anywhere in Gangneung, which embraces mountains, sea and lakes all in one place, it instantly becomes a work of art.How about taking on a trip like a scene from a movie in Gangneung, the mecca of Hallyu tourism and the setting for countless works?
Yeongjin Beach, the filming site of Guardian: The Lonely and Great God
“Because the day was good, because the day wasn't good, because the day was just right. All the days I spent with you were good.”This famous line is from a drama titled Guardian: The Lonely and Great God broadcasted in 2016.One of its most well-known scenes is by a sand arrester on Yeongjin Beach in Jumunjin.
Thanks to a sad but romantic scene in which Gong Yoo puts an umbrella over red-scarved Kim Go-eun and presents buckwheat flowers, Yeongjin Sand Arrester is still visited by many tourists.
Kim Eun-sook, the writer of the drama who is from Gangneung, is famous for including her hometown in every work she writes for.The place is more familiar as the filming site of Guardian: The Lonely and Great God than as Yeongjin Sea Arrester.Couples, in particular, will be able to feel as if they are inside a drama simply by standing face to face each other while listening to the sound of crashing waves.
Jumunjin Sodol Breakwater, the filming site of The Glory
In The Glory, another famous work written by Kim Eun-sook, Jumunjin Sodol Breakwater made an appearance.In the Netflix original series that tells a revenge story of a school violence victim, Dong-eun and Yeo-jeong sat with their backs against the Sodol Breakwater and had beer to reaffirm their love once again. This cool scene to which a red lighthouse on a snowy night adds picturesque beautygrabbed many viewers’ attention and gave the area instant fame.
Sodolhang Port is a small port located in Jumunjin-euplocated at the northern tip of the coast based on Gangneung.
Its sea that is blue and clear throughout the year as well as unique-shaped rocks forms a gorgeous landscape.We recommend you to also check out the Adeul Rocky Park nearby.The fabulous daytime seascape is the reason why it is a perfect place to make unforgettable memories.
Jumunjin Bus Stop, the BTS music video filming site
There is a bus stop in a very secluded area to the north of Jumunjin Beach in Gangneung.This is where BTS shot the cover of their second regular album,“YOU NEVER WALK ALONE.” In the cover photo, all seven members of BTS are seated in a row at a seaside bus stop, basking in the spring sun.
Actually, this bus stop was installed on the road just for shooting photos of the album.It was taken down after the shooting, and the city of Gangneung remade a 3.8 m-wide, 2.6 m-high bus stop and put it in the same spot. Behind the bus stop, a blue sea and a vast sandy beach stretch out extensively.It seems like everywhere that BTS visits becomes a must-see attraction, but it is rare for a mere bus stop to become such a nice work of art.
Thanks to this photo of an album released in 2017, the bus stop is still seeing a long line of BTS fans and tourists every day.Isn’t the scenery that you must take a picture of even if that means waiting in line for a long time a gift that only Gangneung can give?And please note that no bus will come no matter how long you wait at the bus stop.
-

-
Downtown
SEA TEA Bus, a Driving Romantic Café Trip
SEA TEA Bus, a Driving Romantic Café Trip
Gangneung SEA TEA Bus officially began its operation on June 1, 2023 after a renewal.Gangneung SEA TEA Bus, which runs a 23 km-long course, enables tourists to enjoy the most beautiful ocean view in Gangneung with a cup of coffee and a transportation card.It starts from 8 AM every day and operates at a 40-minute interval. As its fares are same as those of a city bus, you can freely transfer to city bus, Masil Bus and SEA TEA Bus.Now, let's go on a journey byriding the SEA TEA Bus through which you can taste the essence of Gangneung sea!* SEA TEA Bus course Anmok Beach - Songjeong Beach - Gangmun - Gyeongpo Beach - Sacheon Beach - Sacheonjin-ri - Sacheonjin Beach - Yeongok Beach - Yeongjinhang Port - Filming site of Guardian: The Lonely and Great God - Juminjin Fish Market - Sodol Adeul Rocky Park - Sodol Beach - Jumunjin Beach
The first stop of the SEA TEA Bus! Anmok Beach
The most convenient! The most meaningful! The most romantic!If you are looking for a cost-efficient but fun-filled trip, we definitely recommend Gangneung SEA TEA Bus.All you need to bring is a cup of warm coffee from Anmok Beach Coffee Street and the heart of being fully prepared to enjoy the drive.
It would also be a good idea to select about three destinations and plan a SEA TEA Bus tour course for a day. Anmok Beach, the starting point of the SEA TEA Bus, is famous for its coffee street.Delicate and rich coffee aroma are carried on sea breeze to flood the street.
Anmok Coffee Street, which features over 30 cafés, leads to the beach, forming the New Coffee Road. If you are a coffee lover, how about tasting the genuine charm of coffee on a coffee pilgrimage with the SEA TEA Bus?
Sacheonjin Beach, a gem spot of the SEA TEA Bus
Gangneung SEA TEA Bus enables tourists to drive by the coast of Gangneung and check out various ports, big and small.Among them, Sacheonjin-ri Beach has an arch bridge over to a sea rock.It is visited by those who like to watch waves crashing into rocks and sprays of water, as well as those who want to enjoy the clean sea in a tranquil manner.
If you walk a little more towards the Sacheonjinhang Port, huge rocks on the beach will greet you.This group of rocks is called Gyomunam, which got its name from an ancient myth of a Gyoryong (Imugi or a dragon), which had been lying down underneath the rocks, cracking the rocks open like a gate as it flew away.This rock is also known as Yeongnakdae or Heogyun Rock.
In recent years, many people come to enjoy surfing on Sacheonjin Beach,which has led to the establishment of pubs and restaurants of youth vibes along the coastal road.The water is shallow and waves are mild, which makes it a perfect spot for novice surfers.As you can see, the list of charms and appeals of Sacheonjin Beach is endless.
Jumunjin Fish Market filled with fresh seafood and energy 365 days a year
After you drive for a while on the coastal road, you reach the energetic Jumunjinhang Port,the largest of its kinds on the East Coast where you can see and try a wide variety of freshly caught seafood.
The port features a fresh fish market, dried fish market and even snow crab center, making it a must-visit stop if you have decided to tour the northern part of Gangneung.
A delightful news is that the fifth-day market of Jumunjin, Gangneung reopened starting on November 11, 2023.Jumunjin Fifth-day Market is set up on the 300 m-long section from Gangwon Food & Ingredients Market to Gohyang Butcher Shop, and no cars are allowed on the road on market days.In addition to Jumunjin Fish Market, we hope that many people will also visit the fifth-day market, which opens on days that end in 1 or 6.
-

-
Downtown
MBTI Trip for the Extreme I (Introvert) Traveler
MBTI Trip for the Extreme I (Introvert) Traveler
MBTI, a form of a personality type test, has been popular among the young gen Zers. “I,” an introvert type, is known to be a group that maintains inner peace and pace and gains energy through conversations with oneself.In the context of traveling, they are the type that avoids famous and noisy places but instead, likes a quiet style of traveling.We introduce the best healing spots in Gangneung for introverted travelers who prefer cozy and tranquil places.
Temple Stay for a time of healing
The days of only praying at a Buddhist temple is over.131 temples nationwide currently provide temple stays with various programs.Located at the foot of Manwolsan Mountain, Temple offers programs for participants to be able to get out of stressful everyday lives and relax comfortably in nature.
Even if you are not a believer in Buddhism, it would be a precious time especially for extreme I's to look inside their own souls through silence and meditation.The first day features an evening offering, a Buddhist service, 108 times bowing, and making of Danju that resembles you,
while the second day features a forest walk and a time to converse with monks over a bowl of coffee, a unique experience only offered at Temple.From a long time ago, the temple was famous for grinding coffee beans using a millstone and drinking coffee in a bowl.You drink coffee in Dawan that resembles a huge bowl, which makes you hold it with your two hands. From this, you will be able to feel how precious and valuable coffee that you are drinking really is.
If you wish to enjoy modest luxury in a secluded mountain temple, check out the programs and fees first and enjoy a small but nice rest amidst your daily life.
Heonhwa-ro, a fantastic driving route throughout the year
An introvert who does not feel any loneliness even when traveling alone prefers to immerse him or herself in the place he or she visits for a quiet, peaceful trip alone. Simple running is great, too.For such people, a drive on Heonhwa-ro, which boasts the greatest scenic beauty among all driving routes in Gangneung, will just be perfect. The road, which originally got its name, “Heonhwaga,” after the story of an elderly man passing by who offered flowers to Lady Suro, exudes a sense of mystique thanks to a combination of this myth and the beautiful landscape.
Heonhwa-ro is a road that runs over both seashores and inland from Geumjin Beach to Jeongdongjinhang Port, Gangneung, and it is known to be the closest section to the ocean.This is why you may experience an odd sensation of driving on water.Once you begin to see the cool ocean, lower the windows and slow down your car.The sound of waves crashing and the freshness of the wind blowing will heal your soul instantly.
From Geumjin Beach, the rising surfing spot, and Geumjinhang Port to Simgokhang Port, the grandeur of unique-shaped rocks and splendid colors of the water that changes from bluish-green to light jade multiply the beauty of the road.Enjoy Gangneung to its fullest by a romantic drive on Heonhwa-ro.
Gangneung Yeongok Solhyanggi Camping Site holding the sea and pine forest
When you think about sea in Korea, what will pop up in your head faster than any other was, is and will always be Gangneung.As the final stop for introverted travelers, we introduce Gangneung Yeongok Solhyanggi Camping Site where the sounds of music and waves are all you need.
Located on Yeongok Beach, Gangneung Yeongok Solhyanggi Camping Site is right by the sea and also has a forest of pine trees.
It has recently established a glamping facility, and was also selected as a barrier-free campground for the persons with disabilities, leading to winning the “Star of Korea Tourism,” a rare commendation for camping sites.
Take a deep breath from the bottom of your heart while inhaling phytoncide spouting out of a thickly wooded pine forest along the 700 m-long beach.It will make the night a dream come true.
-

-
Downtown
MBTI Trip For Extreme Extroverts
MBTI Trip For Extreme Extroverts
A complete opposite of extreme introverts, extreme extroverts tend to derive their energy from hanging around with people and being actively involved. With a great sense of adventure and a love for activities, they need to do what they want and eat what they crave to feel satisfied. For these extreme extroverted travelers who enjoy being with others, we introduce a place in Gangneung where you can fully maximize your extrovert-ness!
Jeongdong-Simgok Badabuchae-gil Trail – The Largest Coastal Cliff in Korea
Jeongdong-Simgok Badabuchae-gil360VR
Click on the screen and move the mouse to view the foreground.
As the name suggests, Jeongdong-Simgok Badabuchae-gil Trail is shaped like a fan (buchae) spread out toward the sea (bada). As the only cliff in Korea formed by a crustal movement 2.3 million years ago, Jeongdong-Simgok Badabuchae-gil is designated as Natural Monument No. 437. It naturally evokes a sense of awe at nature, making it an ideal place for extreme extroverts to recharge their energy while traveling.
Before opening to the public in 2016, the trail was used by the military for coastal patrols. Recently, a new 214-meter coastal walkway has been added, and a 640-meter section of the once-interrupted coastal cliff now has a walking path, completing the 3.6-km Badabuchae-gil from Simgok Port to Jeongdongjin Port.Only to find it hidden for many years, Badabuchae-gil has quickly become a trendy spot since its opening.
Along with natural formations such as the triangular Fan Rock and Helmet Rock, the fantastic combination of sky, sea and waves resembles a helmet and keeps the trail endlessly interesting. The steep cliffs are dotted with wildflowers, offering different beauties each season. The place humbles you and broadens your mind, showing what true humility is. However, note that Jeongdong-Simgok Badabuchae-gil Trail is notaccessible at all times. Please check the weather conditions and operating hours before you visit.
Muscle Beach – A Sanctuary For Health and Fitness Enthusiasts
Travel is all about stamina. The excitement of the journey and the lingering joy when you return are all felt more deeply when you have the strength. On the white sandy beach by the sea, and in the middle of the pine-scented Gyeongpo Beach, you can see people exercising with just their bodies.
On the sand, you'll find a sign that reads "Muscle Beach." This spot is opened by the St. John's Hotel for travelers and Gangneung locals. Anyone can use the pull-up bars and the latest workout machines for free.
For men traveling with their girlfriends, it's a must-visit spot to show off their muscles. Calling out to all lifters, get your reps in and your tan on with the perfect combo of the sun, sea, and sweat at Muscle Beach in Gyeongpo Beach!
Gangneung Jungang Market – A Gourmet Food Street
Visiting the local traditional market has become a common activity wherever you go. In Gangneung, several traditional markets have become popular travel spots. Among them, the largest and most famous is Gangneung Jungang Market, a must-visit for a gourmet food tour. With a half-century history, Gangneung Jungang Market has around 300 stores, while Seongnam Market next to it has about 100, making it quite expansive. This means you'll be happily overwhelmed by the variety of food options available.
The underground seafood market is packed with fresh seafood, while the gukbap (rice soup) street is a must-visit for soup lovers. The refreshing jang kalguksu (spicy noodle soup) is also a staple favorite at Gangneung Jungang Market. Other popular spots include kimchi-wrapped pork belly, dakgangjeong (sweet and spicy fried chicken), and various bakeries, which are bustling on weekends. You will find determined tourists willing to wait in line, eagerly wanting to try out the foods.
On the other hand, the streets are clean, workers are friendly, and every street is filled with warm welcome. We highly recommend filling up with your favorite meal at Gangneung Jungang Market.
-

-
Downtown
Ready For The Perfect Shot?
Ready For The Perfect Shot?
Photos are all that remain. It’s a common saying, but it holds true! A single photo taken during your travels can instantly bring back the mood, weather, and emotions shared with your friends and families on that day. Gangneung has countless spots where you can capture the perfect shot, but here are three standout locations. Whether you're a skilled photographer or not, simply pressing the camera button at these photo spots will give you a perfect shot. Are you ready to press the shutter? Let’s go make some memories!
Haslla Art World – A Multidisciplinary Art Space By The Sea
Haslla Art World is nestled with the refreshing Jeongdongjin Beach in front and surrounded by Gwaebangsan Mountain behind. It is an art space where you can enjoy both nature and art, and cultural facilities include a museum hotel, outdoor sculpture park, contemporary art and marionette (Pinocchio) galleries, and a cafe.
Created by land artist Choi Ok-yeong and his wife artist Grace Park, this space is a work of art in itself. In an interview, Choi humbly said, “We just put a spoon on the great nature,” but their soul-infused works indeed enhance the natural playground connecting mountains, sea, and sky.
Haslla Art World offers not only the joy of viewing and imagining through its artworks, but also features unique photo spots that provide special memories. Setting against the nature as backdrop, the circular photo space captures a serene ambiance regardless of weather. While you might have to wait in a long line, one shot at this spot will leave you in awe. Feel the artistic spirit as you become part of the stunning artworks at Haslla Art World! It’s an essential spot to add to your must-visit list of perfect photo spots.
Gyeongpo Ecological Reservoir Metasequoia Road
A place where you can capture a treasured photo to look back on in the future.The second spot is the Gyeongpo Ecological Reservoir Metasequoia Road. In spring, it's adorned with canola flowers; in summer, lush greenery; and in autumn, delicate cosmos flowers create a fantastic landscape. The Metasequoia tree-lined road along the ecological reservoir is considered a must-visit photo spot in Gangneung.
The Gyeongpo Ecological Reservoir was created to regulate the amount of water flowing into Gyeongpo Lake during heavy rains. Besides this purpose, it features flower fields, bike paths, and exercise facilities, attracting visitors and locals alike. Famously known as a hot spot on social media, people come to take pictures only to find themselves in love with the ecological reservoir. It’s because you can encounter elegant swans between the floating mallards and the reeds.
Walking along the beautiful path with your pet, cycling couples, and strolling strangers all become part of a beautiful scene in this picturesque setting. Capturing each other within the frame create stronger bonds with magical moments to cherish.
Arte Museum – A Fantastic World of Light and Sound
A special fusion of technology and art, surpassing anything you can imagine. Experience the stunning digital waterfall dropping from 8 meters high, an endless mystical beach, lights illuminating the majestic Taebaek Mountains, and giant waves. With 12 diverse exhibitions that captivate the eyes and ears, it’s only available in Gangneung.
Recently becoming one of Gangneung's popular spots, Arte Museum is perfect for families, couples, friends, and even better if you visit alone. With intense visuals, stimulating sounds, and delicate scents enhancing the immersion, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the fantastic world created by light and sound.
Arte Museum is a media art exhibition space that opened in 2021. Unlike traditional galleries displaying paintings and sculptures, it offers an immersive experience. It is the third of its kind, following those in Jeju and Yeosu. Each of the 12 concepts is a photo spot in itself. Particularly in front of the massive “Sun,” radiating the energy of life, there’s always a long line of visitors eager to capture their perfect shot with the sun as their backdrop. Be careful not to bump into the mirrors scattered around. As you spend approximately an hour and a half exploring, you’ll end up with a collection of unforgettable photos.
-

-
Downtown
Exploring the Arts and Culture in Gangneung
Exploring the Arts and Culture in Gangneung
While Gangneung is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, it also boasts a rich tapestry of arts and culture. As you explore the traces of culture and arts scattered throughout the city, you'll find your thoughts and heart refreshed by new inspirations. Experience the engaging cultural spaces and festivals of Gangneung, making your visit truly memorable travel.
Gangneung Money Museum – Capturing the Beauty of Currency
Ojukheon House is where the famous mother Shin Saimdang and her son Yulgok Yi I were born and raised. It is a treasure-designated site from the early Joseon dynasty and a major historical landmark in Gangneung. Recently, the Gangneung Money Museum opened on the premises of Ojukheon House. Featuring Shin Saimdang and Yulgok Yi Yi, who are the faces of the 5,000 won and 50,000 won banknotes, the museum is filled with their legacy.
The exhibition hall composes of five themes with a small interactive street that offer a quiet enjoyment. The museum showcases over 700 items, including the history of Korean currency from the Goryeo dynasty to the present, world currencies, and various commemorative coins.
Using digital technology and modern sensibilities, the Gangneung Money Museum turns a potentially mundane museum visit into an engaging experience. You’ll find plenty to see and do, from learning about the anti-counterfeiting technologies in the 50,000 won note to admiring art made from discarded banknotes. Discover the harmony of people, nature, and culture at Ojukheon House while enjoying the enriched experiences the Gangneung Money Museum has to offer.
Sorol Art Museum – Where Architecture Shines
In February 2024, the art world's attention turned to Gangneung. If there was a standout architect in museum architecture from the last century, it would be Richard Meier, the master of white architecture. Designed by Richard Meier's firm Richard Partners, the Sorol Art Museum lives up to its name, becoming a work of art in itself. The museum perfectly harmonizes Meier's signature of white elements and glass facades, embodying his interpretation of connectivity between spaces, people, and the environment.
Perched on a hill with a panoramic view of Gangneung, the pristine white museum boasts an impressive structure. With two floors and one underground floor, the Sorol Art Museum opened with the exhibition "Lucio Fontana: Spatial Concept," showcasing white neon works.
This was followed by "Agnes Martin: Moments of Perfection." Since its opening, the museum has quickly become a landmark in Gangneung, enriching the city's cultural and artistic infrastructure. It is now a must-visit destination for tourists. Don't forget that Gangneung offers more than just the sea, cafes, and pine forests that are perfect for a beach stroll. Why not try exploring the beauty of art space at a stunning art museum?
Gangneung Danoje Festival – A Millennium Old Tradition
Dano is a holiday that is celebrated after rice planting to pray for a bountiful harvest, which may be fading away in other regions, but not in Gangneung. Is there any place more devoted to Dano than Gangneung?
The Gangneung Danoje Festival is registered under UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and carries a thousand years of tradition. The festival attracts over 500,000 tourists annually. Only held for just eight days each year, the festival took place in 2024 from June 6 to June 13 by the Namdaecheon Stream, coinciding with the lunar calendar’s fifth day of the fifth month. The festival features many contents, including traditional shamanistic rituals where gods and people communicate, Korea's largest marketplace, national cultural events, activities for tourists, and many folk games.
Getting to try out washing your hair with changpo (water mixed with sweet iris leaves), painting Dano fans, tasting traditional tea, and wearing Dano clothes are perfect for your family. Other recommended activities include the Korean traditional performance contest and a stamp rally, offering unique ways to enjoy Dano. In the early summer breeze, join on the once in a life time journey that can only be experienced at this time of year.
-

-
Downtown
How Much Marine Sports Have You Enjoyed in Gangneung?
How Much Marine Sports Have You Enjoyed in Gangneung?
“With a white cloth and the wind, we can go anywhere.” This famous line from the drama "Boys Over Flowers" becomes a reality in Gangneung. Not only can you enjoy the joy of being on a yacht, as seen in dramas, but you can also relax on paddleboards with the calm sea, or swift through the pounding waves on surfboards. Everything you can imagine, Gangneung is a paradise for marine sports. We’ve prepared it all for you to choose! So, which one would you like to do first?
Walking on Water with Paddleboards
Although the sea of Gangneung has many beauty, it truly shines in the summer. It’s the season when you crave to physically enjoy the vast sea you've been gazing at. Many may be unfamiliar with paddleboarding compared to surfing. It is a water sport that involves the rider to propel by using a "paddle." You can stand or sit on the thick surfboard and use a long paddle to move. You can paddle while sitting or standing—it’s up to you. You don't need to know how to swim or be particularly athletic.
Paddleboards are larger and more buoyant than surfboards, making them much safer. They don’t require much effort, making it enjoyable for both children and the elderly. With just a bit of balance, you can paddle on the refreshing sea, taking in the serene surroundings. The view from the water is distinctly different from what you see from the shore.
The endless sea, the cool breeze brushing your face,if there’s a heaven, it must be here. In the shallow waters of Gangneung's Sageunjin Beach, it’s a perfect spot for paddleboarding. Before this summer ends, be sure to feel the simple joys of life in the heart of Gangneung’s beautiful sea.
Leisure-Filled Yacht Tour
To fully experience the sea of Gangneung’s unique beauty at night, in the morning, and at sunset, head to Anmok Port! A luxurious summer vacation awaits you with the prepared yacht tours. Riding a yacht with its white sails billowing and navigating the vast ocean makes a summer day even more special.
The Gangneung yacht experience combines luxury with reasonable prices, making it even more attractive. You can enjoy it from sunrise to sunset, and no matter what time you choose, it will be filled with dreams.
Above all, the safety provided by professional yacht skippers with lifeguard certifications ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The wide blue sea, clear sky, and the perfect harmony of wind create an idyllic setting. The beautiful lighthouse views from the yacht will become unforgettable memories that you'll talk about for years to come.
Riding the Waves Surfing
When it comes to summer activities, surfing is a must-do you can't miss. With shimmering blue waves of Gyeongpo Beach is known as the mecca of surfing in Gangneung. With ideal water depth and endless rolling waves, it draws young enthusiasts to its shores.
Surf shops lined up along the beach, colorful surfboards, and the blue sea create the perfect summer scene. After two to three hours of lessons, even beginners can confidently head out to the sea. Run towards the waves with excitement! Face the thrill with new challenges! Cut through the strong currents and ride the waves!
It will be hard to escape the sheer joy it brings. Surfing provides you with a full-body workout as it engages muscles you don't usually use. It’s also known be good for your mental health. Experiencing the waves in the ocean gives you an indescribable sense of awe for nature. Especially in Gangneung, tasting the relentless waves and balancing on waves leaves you wanting to return for more.
-

-
Downtown
Gangneung's Culinary Delights
Gangneung's Culinary Delights
There are cities remembered for their unique foods. When thinking of Gangneung, the beautiful nature of the Baekdu Mountains and the East Sea comes first. But the delicious food made with ingredients harvested from this natural bounty is also famous. Alongside Jeonju, Gangneung is recognized by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a City of Gastronomy in Korea, earning acknowledgment for its culinary culture. In this era where gastronomy drives tourism, why not take on a culinary journey to Gangneung to try out the distinctive and traditional flavors that will tantalize your taste buds?
Byeongsan Ongsimi Village
Gangwon-do, where potatoes are abundant, is sometimes called the "potato country.” In times when rice was scarce, potatoes were the staple food in Gangwon-do. Gangneung locals enjoyed a dish by grinding potatoes into small balls. The locals called the dish as “ongsimi.”
Ongsimis are carefully crafted and combines a chewy texture with a refreshing broth, creating a deeply flavorful dish. You can find many restaurants specializing in this delicious ongsimi all around Gangneung.
In Byeongsan-dong, there is a village known for ongsimi restaurants. The restaurants here started by selling freshly grated potato pancakes at first, but eventually gained fame and formed Ongsimi Village. Now is the season to taste the seasonal ongsimi made from freshly harvested potatoes. Enjoy the thick and chewy texture of kalguksu (ongsimi noodles), complemented by the crispy potato pancakes to stimulate your appetite. Your anxiety of being in an unfamiliar travel location will disappear, making you want to visit Gangneung again.
Chodang Dubu Village
You can't talk about Gangneung without mentioning dubu (tofu). If you think dubu is just an ordinary ingredient, you must try Gangneung's chodang dubu. You’ll be amazed by its deep and rich flavor.
“Chodang” came from the pen name that Heo Yeop, a public servant and a Neo-Confucianist used from the mid-Joseon dynasty. Heo Yeop was also the father of Heo Nanseolheon and Heo Gyun, the author of famous Korean tale "The Story of Hong Gildong.” Chodang dubu was created when Heo Yeop was the governor of Gangneung. He made dubu using natural coagulant from seawater, and its unique taste soon became famous. It eventually became a representative dish of Gangneung. In 1986, the first restaurant specializing in dubu opened in Chodang Village. The delicate taste of soft dubu quickly gained popularity, leading to the creation of today's Chodang Dubu Village.
As more people seek the rich flavor of chodang dubu, new ideas for dubu food have also gained popularity. These include jjamppong broth combined with soft dubu, and even dubu transformed into gelato and ice cream. Traditional dishes now coexist with the innovations. Chodang Dubu Village is also close to Gyeongpo Beach, making it an excellent destination for a leisurely day. You can visit the Heo Gyun and Heo Nanseolheon Memorial Park and enjoy coffee at the nearby Gangnueng Coffee Street.
Sachon Mulhoe Village
Gangneung, a heaven of seafood paradise facing the East Sea! If you try mulhoe (spicy raw fish soup) at Sacheonjin Port in Gangneung, even the faintest appetite will awaken. Mulhoe is a dish made by finely slicing of freshly caught fish or squid, mixing it with vegetables in a sweet and sour seasoning with water. It is known as a dish that fishermen would eat on their boats to quickly satisfy their hunger. While squid mulhoe is famous, it also pairs well with other fish such as flatfish and halibut, each offering unique flavors.
Miyeokguk (sea mustard soup) is a perfect match for mulhoe that soothes the spiciness of mulhoe. It is considered as a best combo, much like how fish and chips go well together. Miyeokguk is usually served as a rockfish miyeokguk, and it can rival the main dish with its deep, savory taste. Though most restaurants in the village serve mulhoe, each has its distinct flavor. Some use beef bone broth, while others serve it in large bowls, each offering different unique tastes. The one thing in common is that mulhoe is a beloved menu for people of all ages!
Enjoy fresh air of the sea with an amazing broth and fresh seafood, together with the perfect ocean view while eating in Sachon Mulhoe Village. Eating well is one of the most important aspects of travel. So, if you come to Gangneung, make sure to fully enjoy mulhoe!