Located in the northeastern region of South Korea, Gangwon Province is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and clear rivers. Known as the country’s outdoor paradise, Gangwon Province offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation for travelers seeking to explore South Korea’s less-urbanized beauty.
Gangwon is home to several national parks, picturesque coastal areas, and traditional villages, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. This guide will take you through some of the most breathtaking spots in the province and provide recommendations for experiencing the best that Gangwon’s natural beauty has to offer.
1. Seoraksan National Park: A Hiker’s Paradise
At the heart of Gangwon’s natural allure is Seoraksan National Park, one of the most iconic and beautiful mountain ranges in South Korea. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Seoraksan is known for its jagged peaks, deep valleys, crystal-clear streams, and diverse flora and fauna.
The park offers hiking trails for all levels of experience. Ulsanbawi Rock is one of the most popular hikes in the park, with steep stairways that lead to a summit offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. For a less strenuous experience, visitors can take a cable car to Gwongeumseong Fortress, a peak with stunning vistas and easy walking paths.
In autumn, Seoraksan National Park becomes a mecca for those seeking the vibrant colors of Korean fall foliage. The combination of towering granite peaks and bright orange, red, and yellow leaves creates one of the most dramatic natural spectacles in the country. The park is equally enchanting in winter when snow blankets the peaks, transforming the landscape into a serene winter wonderland.
2. Odaesan National Park: A Tranquil Retreat
Another gem in Gangwon Province is Odaesan National Park, known for its dense forests, gentle slopes, and serene temple complexes. Odaesan is less rugged than Seoraksan but offers a peaceful escape for those looking to connect with nature.
The park is famous for Woljeongsa Temple, a tranquil Buddhist temple nestled deep in the forest. A walk through the Fir Tree Forest, a path lined with towering fir trees that leads to the temple, is one of the most peaceful experiences you can have in Korea. The quiet rustling of the leaves and the distant sound of temple bells create an atmosphere of meditation and reflection.
Odaesan is also a popular spot for forest bathing, a Japanese-inspired practice of immersing oneself in nature to promote mental and physical well-being. The park’s quiet trails, fresh air, and natural beauty make it an ideal location for those looking to unwind and recharge.
3. Sokcho Beach: The Best of Both Worlds
For those who love both mountains and the sea, Sokcho is the perfect destination. This coastal city is situated at the base of Seoraksan Mountain and offers beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and a gateway to the national park.
Sokcho Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Gangwon Province, known for its clean, soft sands and clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the fresh sea breeze. The beach is also located near Sokcho’s famous seafood markets, where you can sample hoe, Korean-style sashimi, fresh from the sea.
What makes Sokcho particularly unique is its proximity to Seoraksan National Park. Visitors can enjoy a morning hike in the mountains and relax by the beach in the afternoon, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience the best of both worlds.
4. Jeongdongjin: Sunrise Over the East Sea
Jeongdongjin, a small seaside town in Gangwon Province, is famous for its stunning sunrises over the East Sea. It’s one of the most popular spots in South Korea to welcome the New Year, with thousands of visitors gathering on the beach every year to watch the first sunrise of the year.
One of the unique features of Jeongdongjin is its sunrise train station, which is located incredibly close to the shore, offering one of the world’s closest railway stations to the sea. Visitors can take a scenic train ride along the coast or stay at one of the many seaside hotels to enjoy panoramic views of the ocean.
The area around Jeongdongjin also offers some quirky attractions, such as the Sun Cruise Resort, a hotel shaped like a giant cruise ship perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. The resort offers stunning ocean views, and its unique architecture makes it a popular spot for photos and a memorable stay.
5. Gangneung: Coffee and Coastal Charm
Gangneung, located along the eastern coast of Gangwon Province, is known for its beautiful beaches, cultural heritage, and its vibrant coffee scene. The city is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy a relaxing beachside getaway while indulging in some of South Korea’s finest coffee.
Anmok Beach, located just outside of Gangneung, is famous for its Coffee Street, a row of cafes offering stunning views of the ocean. Here, you can sip on freshly brewed coffee while watching the waves crash on the shore. The area has become a hub for coffee lovers, with cafes serving everything from traditional espresso drinks to uniquely Korean creations like Dalgona Coffee.
In addition to its coffee culture, Gangneung is also home to several historical sites, including Ojukheon, the birthplace of Yi I, one of Korea’s most famous Confucian scholars. The beautiful Gyeongpo Lake and Gyeongpodae Pavilion are also must-see spots, offering picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors.
6. DMZ Peace Trails: Walk Along History
For a more unique and thought-provoking experience, consider visiting the DMZ Peace Trails in Gangwon Province. These trails allow visitors to walk along parts of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the buffer zone that separates North and South Korea.
One of the most scenic DMZ trails is the Goseong Unification Observatory Trail, which offers stunning views of the East Sea and the northern mountains. From the observatory, visitors can look across the DMZ into North Korea, providing a rare and sobering glimpse of the Korean Peninsula’s division.
The Peace Trails offer not only a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region but also to reflect on Korea’s turbulent history and the ongoing efforts for peace. The trails are well-maintained and provide guided tours that explain the history of the DMZ and its significance.
7. Pyeongchang: A Winter Wonderland
Pyeongchang gained international fame as the host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, but even before that, it was known as one of the top destinations in South Korea for winter sports enthusiasts. Located in the Taebaek Mountains, Pyeongchang is home to some of the country’s best ski resorts, including Alpensia and Yongpyong.
During the winter months, visitors flock to Pyeongchang to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and sledding on its pristine slopes. The area also offers other winter activities, such as ice fishing and snow festivals, making it a perfect destination for families and adventure seekers alike.
In the warmer months, Pyeongchang transforms into a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch offers scenic walking trails through rolling hills dotted with grazing sheep, while the Odaesan National Park nearby provides beautiful forested hikes and stunning views.
8. Samcheok: Majestic Limestone Caves and Coastal Beauty
Located in the southern part of Gangwon Province, Samcheok is known for its breathtaking limestone caves and coastal scenery. The Hwanseon Cave is one of the largest limestone caves in Asia and offers a surreal underground experience with its massive stalactites, stalagmites, and subterranean waterfalls.
The area surrounding Samcheok is equally stunning, with the Samcheok Marine Cable Car offering visitors a bird’s-eye view of the dramatic coastline. The ride takes passengers over cliffs and the ocean, providing panoramic views of the East Sea and nearby islands.
For beach lovers, Jangho Beach is a must-visit. Known for its crystal-clear waters and rocky shores, Jangho Beach is often referred to as the “Napoli of Korea” due to its Mediterranean-like scenery. The beach is a popular spot for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, making it a great destination for water sports enthusiasts.
9. Cheongpyeong Lake: A Serene Escape
Located near the border of Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon Province, Cheongpyeong Lake is a tranquil man-made lake surrounded by mountains and lush forests. The lake is a popular destination for water sports such as boating, water skiing, and jet skiing, but it also offers a peaceful atmosphere for those looking to relax by the water.
The area around Cheongpyeong Lake is dotted with cozy cafes, pensions, and resorts, making it an ideal weekend getaway for families and couples. The lake is also close to Petite France, a French-inspired village with colorful buildings, art galleries, and cultural performances, adding a European twist to your Korean vacation.
10. Chuncheon: The City of Lakes and Dakgalbi
Chuncheon, the capital of Gangwon Province, is known for its scenic lakes and delicious dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken). Surrounded by mountains and rivers, Chuncheon is a great destination for those looking to enjoy water sports, hiking, and local cuisine.
Soyang Lake and Uiam Lake are two of the most popular spots for boating and kayaking, while the Soyanggang Skywalk offers a thrilling view of the lake from a glass-floored platform suspended over the water.
Chuncheon is also home to Nami Island, a picturesque island famous for its tree-lined paths and as the filming location for the popular Korean drama “Winter Sonata.” Visitors can take a ferry to the island and enjoy a peaceful day of walking, cycling, or picnicking amidst its beautiful scenery.
Conclusion
Gangwon Province is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering everything from towering mountains and pristine beaches to peaceful lakes and caves. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for adventure or simply want to relax and enjoy the serene landscapes, Gangwon has something for every type of traveler. Its diverse landscapes, rich history, and outdoor activities make it one of South Korea’s most captivating regions to explore.
