Things to do & places to visit in Gangwon-do, South Korea

Gangwon-do #5 destination in South Korea 2023. The average rating score is 4.31 based on 9.717 traveler reviews, of 447 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Seoul, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 23:22.

Gangwon-do Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

68°F - 51°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly with a gentle breeze

Feels like

21%

Chance of rain

101.0 millimeters

Amount

14.0 mph

Wind speed

64%

Humidity

14.1

Daylight length

5:16 AM

Sunrise

7:24 PM

Sunset

52%

Cloud cover

Sweater

What to wear

Top things to do (26)

Top destinations in Gangwon-do 18

See more 6 destinations »

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Legoland® Korea Park (98 reviews)
- everything is new, my boy loved it
Temporarily closed - Closed until Mar 23, 2023 Amusement & Theme Parks

as this is newly opened in May 2022, i just paid a visit after 2 weeks of their opening, upon arrival, i thought the LEGOLAND was not that big, but hey ....i did spent 5 hours there with my family (have a son of 7, he LOVED it of course. i went on a weekday, so nothing much i needed to wait except one game we waited for 30 mins and that was it. as suggested by the local, we had to take shuttle bus after we park our own vehicle and we did, (1 min ride) but when we left, we chosen not to take the shuttle bus and walked back to the carpark which was actually just 5 mins distance See more..
4.5 Nami Island (1.894 reviews)
- Exciting
Sunday: 7:30 AM - 9:45 PM Spent 2-3 hours Islands

No matter the season, Nami Island is a beautiful destination to visit all year round. Known for appearing in many Korean dramas, the island has numerous lanes lined with pine trees, gingko trees, redwood giants and more. Take a scenic walk along the wooden riverside path and snap a photo with the Winter Sonata statue in Gongsaengwon Garden. You can get to the island via ferry or one of the longest ziplines in Korea. Alternatively, join a popular day trip from Seoul which includes Nami Island, Petite France and Garden of Morning Calm. Some tours include attractions like Mount Seorak or Gangchon Rail Bike as well. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Seoraksan National Park (1.020 reviews)
- Breathtaking views, a must do
Spent More than 3 hours National Parks

My partner and I did this hike in winter. We took the No.7 bus from the stop about 100m down from Sokcho express bus terminal (1,700 WON each) and arrived at the entrance. It was absolutely a must to have brought our spikes for the hike, as in winter the ice is very slippy and can be dangerous. We reached the top in approximately 2 and a half hours, but my partner is not physically fit so this can definitely be done quicker. The route is moderate, so not too difficult but there are some some steep parts. The views on the way are breathtaking, and the trail itself is beautiful, particularly in the snow. Be careful at the top if it is windy, and the falls are steep! Overall, would absolutely recommend coming here and spending at least a night in Sokcho to do this hike. See more..
4.5 Gangchon Rail Park (296 reviews)
- The most enjoyable rides
Amusement & Theme Parks

Took ITX Train to Gimyujeong Station and purchased the ticket at the kiosk (since we didn't want to take risk if we were unable to manage our travelling time). It is advisable if you could purchase your ticket online via KLOOK or Trazy apps. While waiting for our slots, we spend our time at Book Station Cafe & Food and enjoying a cup of coffee. The departure time is - 9am, 10am, 11am,12am,130pm,230pm,330pm,430pm & 530pm (last slot ends at 430pm during winter) We bought a 4 seater rail bike at 48000KRW and it is for 6km rail bike course (with 4 tunnels) and end at Nanggu Village, before transfer to Romance Train ride for another 2.5km. At the end of the ride, you may take the bus shuttle to Rail Park See more..
4.5 Gyeongpo Beach (224 reviews)
- gyeongpo beach scene in mid-december 2019.
Beaches

388/5000 view of gyeongpo beach in mid-december 2019. The beach is very beautiful for children to play even though the cold wind blows very hard and big waves. the cold experience while walking paid off with a visit to a very large number of seafood restaurants at affordable prices. about 50% cheaper compared to the same menu at the hotel we stayed. See more..
4.5 Ulsanbawi Rock (197 reviews)
- Nice Scenery and Viewpoints
Hiking Trails

A good challenging hike for about 3-4 hours depending on speed. You start the hike walking through forest alongside the lake and eventually you go ascend further towards the treetop line where you gets better views of the whole national park area. The combination of staircases and bare grounds are a good switch en-route. The view from the top is really stunning. See more..
4.5 Naksansa Temple (169 reviews)
- Gorgeous Seaside Temple
Religious Sites

I’ve been to Naksansa Temple twice, one in the summer and once in the autumn and been beautiful both times. Lovely paths to the buildings and then out to the cliffs overlooking the sea. A must visit in Gangwondo.#추천웰니스관광지 #wellnesskorea #wellnesstourismsupporters #한국관광공사 See more..
4.5 Gwongeumseong Fortress (124 reviews)
- Fortress visit
Historic Sites

An excellent view and terrific photo opportunity. Arrive early to avoid the congestion of others. Cable car tickets must be purchased on site the day of use and the earlier the better. See more..
4.5 Woljeongsa Temple (104 reviews)
- Templestay was wonderful
Religious Sites

I went there for a temple stay. I am not buddhist but love to learn about other religions and cultures and this was perfect. It was relaxed (but take a book! There's a lot of down time), the food was beautiful and waking up at 4.20am (not compulsory) to pray with the monks of the temple was something I will remember forever. They take the time to explain what everything means and I can not highly recommend it enough if you want to unwind and get out of the city. Walking around the temple grounds at night was magical. It was raining, and I was the only person exploring. So peaceful! See more..
4.5 Museum SAN (98 reviews)
- More than you can imagine
Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

I first visited this museum in 2014. This year's visit was just as spectacular. The building and grounds are designed by Tadao Ando and are out of the world. The museum is perched almost on top of a mountain. World reknowned sculptures dot the landscape including the amazing "stone garden." The interior of the building is an artwork in its own, with angles and stone and light playing with each other. A wonderful display of Korean art is shown, as well as the history of papermaking. A small cafe and gift shop complement the museum See more..
4.5 Naksan Beach (74 reviews)
- Wonderful beach under a beautiful sky
Beaches

Naksan Beach is full of wonderful scenery. The beach is very wide and the waves are nice! The clouds in the sky are wonderful and big as if they eat me up. And expecially when the sun is setting, the sky is really beautiful. It will be a very pleasant memory to walk along the beach with people you like. Of course, it is nice to go there alone. There are seafood restaurants nearby. Raw fish and crabs are fresh and delicious:) See more..
4.5 Anmok Beach (71 reviews)
- Full of coffee shops
Beaches

Lovely clean sandy beach, great waves to watch. Bright sunlight just a bit cold so bring a coat. It must be fantastic in the summer. See more..
4.5 Gyeongpodae (69 reviews)
- historical visit
Historic Sites

as you get to the historical building, you would be able to see the scenery of the beautiful lake.I suggest going there at sunrise time to be able to see the take a picture of the dazzling sun reflection in the lake. See more..
4.5 Haslla Art World (57 reviews)
- Lovely setting
Sunday: 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM Speciality Museums

Great cafe. Fantastic clifftop setting. Most of the art is outdoor in the hills behind the hotel. When we visited there was a temporary exhibition on Pinocchio being shown. Make sure to fully explore the hotel building and the secret tunnel between the two sites See more..
4.5 Cheongpyeongsa Temple (56 reviews)
- Dam, boat trip, temple and walk
Religious Sites

Other reviewers have provided some good detail but not so recently. This is our first day in Korea so hard to compare the temple to others. It was certainly beautiful and in a tranquil valley. We were a little rushed having caught a late afternoon boat from the Dam, we only had about 80mins to hike up to the temple and back. I'd recommend allowing longer and being able to soak up the ambience. We caught the 150 bus (11 & 12 are fine too) from Chuncheon station to Soyang Dam and had a nice walk there before catching the boat to temple end of the lake. The bus journey was as much fun as the sights... We had to hang on for dear life around the corners... I think Keanu Reeves was driving! To get back to the temple, I would recommend it. It's an easy walk on a fairly gentle incline. The walk to the viewpoint at the Dam is significantly steeper. See more..
4.5 Charmsori Gramophone & Edison Science Museum (56 reviews)
- Missing the classic Korean Instruments
Science Museums

The collections are superb, wonderful and has a mini theater. But the problem is, should be there are some traditional Korean instruments, because i'm as a foreigner needs to see the Korean antiques collection. Not only western influence, but also the Korean heritage itself. Grade 8 out of 10 See more..
4.5 Jumunjin Beach (52 reviews)
- Embark on s Kpop tour
Beaches

Jumunjin beach has been included as part of the Kpop tour because it includes the film locations of BTS album cover as well as iconic scenes from popular K-drama - Goblin. For this trip, we decided to check out Goblin’s film site and reenact scenes in the drama. Would totally recommend bringing a bouquet of flowers to recreate the melodramatic scene between Gong Yoo and Kim Go Eun. See more..
4.5 Hwanseongul Cave (48 reviews)
- Spectacular Cave Formations
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Caverns & Caves

Hwanseongul Cave is full of various cavern formations that will be sure to interest most visitors. It is not often that you see a waterfall within a cave, no? While the excessive lighting is a little overdone, Hwanseongul Cave really is a worthwile site. Samcheok is largely off the tourist map, but as far as natural sites above and below ground, Samcheok really rivals almost anywhere in Korea. Hwanseongul equals or surpasses any of the other great caves in the country for visitor experience. While not as important as the lava tube caves on Jeju island, the caves located in Samcheok hold a variety of rare and/or unique species. I had a great time walking excitedly up and down the many metal walkways criss-crossing this incredible cavern. The temperature stays pretty even year round, but at least a light sweater or jacket is best. See more..
4.5 Jeongseon Rail Bike (48 reviews)
- Good for all ages
Scenic Railroads

We went here last Dec. 2, 2017, it was cold but we wanted to do something adventurous so we decided to try this rail bike with them. I thought it would take us an hour and a half to get to the end of the trail but it only took us 30 minutes. But even though the trail was shorter than I anticipated, the view is jaw-dropping. This is a definitely recommended activity to try in Korea. See more..
4.5 Samcheok Ocean Railbike (48 reviews)
- Fun Ride
Scenic Railroads

It was a fun and relaxing ride with a view. The ride started on time as scheduled. The sea view was beautiful and riding in the tunnels was exhilarating with the lights/music. With so much to see, we didn't really feel that the distance was long or an issue. In no time, we reached the end. However, a word of caution to be careful of your belongings during riding. I hung my expensive Rayban sunglasses on my shirt but it dropped off in the midst of my excitement and photo taking. The only sad memory of this trip. Sob! See more..
4.5 Hajodae (48 reviews)
- Beautiful sunrise at the beach, big waves and skywalk
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Beautiful beach especially the sunrise, many seafood restaurants at affordable price and convenience store. Camping areas were also available. The skywalk and seaside boardwalk were also nice, small and short yet still gives you a good view of the beach and the rock slopes. Very accessible with public transport. But beach front rooms are quite higher than normal rates. See more..
4.5 Odaesan National Park (48 reviews)
- Nice view
National Parks

Fabulous view, it took 15-20 minutes walk from observatory tower to the peak but it's a must as the scenery is fabulous!! See more..
4.5 Sokcho Lighthouse Observatory (48 reviews)
- Excellent Sokcho city and sea view.
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Lookouts • Lighthouses • Observation Decks & Towers

CYC+G ( 22.12.19 ) This observatory was very good point to enjoy view of city and sea. From Younggumjeong parking area, it was under 10 minutes to this lighthouse. The mood of lighthouse was very good, and for free. If visit anywhere, I think must visit high place to see view. If in this area, must visit to feel of Sokcho and East sea. See more..
4.5 Chotdaebawi (Candlestick Rock) (42 reviews)
- Incredible views and location
Geologic Formations

This is so unique! First time seing a cliff like this! Now I understand why it is a place of interest! Also makes a good photo opportunity. See more..
4.0 Sokcho Central Market (195 reviews)
- More than a market
Flea & Street Markets

I have been to this market many times in the past. Like most similar markets in Korea, it contains a variety of sea food items and vegetables of all kinds. This market also has a remarkable # of little restaurants (recommended) and at the lowest floor you’ll find sea animals you didn’t know existed! See more..
4.0 Jeongdongjin Beach (144 reviews)
- Pretty Beach Of East Coast Korean Peninsula
Beaches

East Cost Beach of South Korea is a wonderful blue beach colour. its very diffrent with west coast beach. If you have time, you must visit some beach at east side. It will takes more than 3 hours from Seoul. So i suggest you must stay overnight at Sokcho . Donghae side See more..
4.0 Phoenix Snow Park (136 reviews)
- Not bad for Korean skiing - not many choices or options if not skiing
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Ski & Snowboard Areas

We had a good time skiing here. The slopes are very intermediate and the lines can be long on the weekends when we went. If you’re not skiing their are very minimal options to sit or find a lounge with Wi-Fi unless you want to pay a lot of money. The staff was nice in the ski equipment and return process went smoothly. Only a couple of the slopes were open in December hopefully they get the other half open in January and February. For Korea skiing this is t bad and the prices are reasonable even if the slopes aren’t the most challenging. See more..
4.0 Ojukheon (127 reviews)
- A historical site that gives the impression of walking through history
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums

It's a really good place to walk. I felt the greatness of 신사임당 and 율곡이이 when I saw the explanations written here and there. If you make a reservation, you can listen to cultural tourism commentary. And you can see 오죽 that are black bamboo. It's a place where history seems to live. If you go to Gangneung, I recommend you to visit here. See more..
4.0 Chuncheon Myeongdong Dakgalbi Street (117 reviews)
- Oh. My. Yumminess!!!
Neighborhoods

The food here was amazing! Make sure you choose a restaurant that has lots of pictures of TV shows being filmed there. Chances are, that means it's a delicious place! See our video of it by searching 'Emily Taehee' on Youtube. Thanks! See more..
4.0 Daepo Port (117 reviews)
- Good
Points of Interest & Landmarks

It was better 10-15 years ago but still it is good because you can find a lot animals which you can ser probably first time in your life.45minutes enough if you want to eat you need little bit more. See more..