Gangneung: Korea’s East Coast Gem for Foreign Travelers
Nestled between the East Sea and scenic mountain ranges, Gangneung is one of Korea’s most beloved coastal cities. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, delicious food, and modern-meets-traditional vibe, Gangneung offers an unforgettable experience for foreign travelers who want to explore beyond Seoul and Busan.
📍 Must-Visit Places in Gangneung
1. Gyeongpo Beach (경포해변)
- Soft white sand and clear blue water
- Stunning sunrise views
- Seaside cafes and seafood spots
Tip: Visit during the Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival in April!
2. Anmok Coffee Street
- Oceanfront cafes with rooftop views
- Specialty coffee and desserts
- Perfect for sunsets and chill vibes
3. Ojukheon House (오죽헌)
- Home of Shin Saimdang and Yulgok Yi I
- Peaceful bamboo grove and historical buildings
4. Haslla Art World
- Modern art museum by the sea
- Outdoor sculptures and installations
- Includes art hotel and café
5. Jeongdongjin
- Famous sunrise view by the train tracks
- Sun Cruise hotel shaped like a ship
- Scenic train rides along the coast
🍽️ Must-Try Foods & Restaurants
1. Chodang Sundubu (초당순두부)
- Soft tofu made with seawater
- Try sundubu-jjigae or cold tofu with sauce
- Where: Chodang Halmeoni Sundubu
2. Grilled Mackerel (고등어구이)
- Crispy skin and rich flavor
- Where: Mackerel Alley near Jungang Market
3. Seafood Hot Pot (해물탕)
- Spicy soup with crab, clams, mussels
- Where: Gangneung Jungang Market
4. Coffee at Terarosa
- Local coffee brand with industrial-style café
- Top-tier espresso and pastries
🛏️ Where to Stay in Gangneung
⭐ Budget Options:
- Gangneung Guesthouse Jungang – close to market, friendly hosts
- Stay Hotel Gangneung – clean and affordable
⭐ Mid-Range:
- Skybay Hotel Gyeongpo – ocean view, rooftop pool
- St. John’s Hotel – beachfront with multiple restaurants
⭐ Unique Stay:
- Haslla Art World Hotel – stay in an art gallery
- Sun Cruise Resort – cruise-ship hotel on a cliff
🚉 How to Get to Gangneung
🚅 By KTX Train
- Seoul Station → Gangneung Station
- ~1 hr 50 min / Approx. 27,000 KRW
🚍 By Express Bus
- From Dong Seoul or Express Bus Terminal
- ~2.5–3 hrs / ~14,000 KRW
✈️ From Incheon Airport
- AREX train to Seoul Station → KTX
- Or direct limousine bus (~4 hrs, less frequent)
🚌 Getting Around Gangneung
- Local Buses: Reliable, use T-money card
- Taxis: Easy and affordable
- Rentals: Bicycles and scooters for scenic rides
🧳 Final Travel Tips
- Best Time: Spring, Summer, or Autumn
- Language: Basic English okay in tourist zones
- Payments: Card friendly, cash for markets
- Apps: Use Papago or Naver Map for navigation
✨ Why Foreigners Love Gangneung
Gangneung is the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, tradition and trend. Whether you want to sip coffee by the sea, hike through pine forests, explore ancient homes, or feast on local flavors—Gangneung has it all.
Don’t just stay in Seoul—head east and discover the magic of Gangneung!