GANGWON-DO
GMT +09:00
Time zone
KRW
currency
20+
PLACES TO VISIT IN GANGWAN DO
KOREAN
LANGUAGE
FEB - JULY
Best time to visit
Overview
Gangwon-do, located in the northeastern part of South Korea, is a land of natural beauty and cultural richness. This region boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from high mountains to pristine beaches, dense forests to tranquil rivers. It is home to numerous cultural treasures, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, traditional festivals, and unique culinary experiences. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, Gangwon-do offers a truly unforgettable travel experience.
Gangwon-do is a paradise for nature lovers, with its pristine forests, majestic mountains, and stunning coastlines. Here are some of the natural attractions that you can explore in Gangwon-do:
NATIONAL PARK
Seoraksan National Park is one of the most famous national parks in Korea, located in the northeast of Gangwon-do. It is renowned for its spectacular mountain scenery, crystal-clear streams, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to over 2,000 species of plants and animals, including the rare Asiatic black bear, Siberian musk deer, and Amur leopard. Hiking trails in Seoraksan National Park offer breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys, and waterfalls, making it a perfect destination for hikers and nature lovers.
TEMPLES
Woljeongsa Temple, Located in the scenic Odaesan Mountain, Woljeongsa Temple is one of the most beautiful temples in South Korea. Known for its stunning architecture, ancient artifacts, and serene surroundings, this temple offers a peaceful and spiritual retreat for visitors.
Nami Island
Hwanseongul Cave
Seoraksan National Park
DMZ Museum
CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS IN GANGWON-DO
Gangwon-do is also renowned for its rich cultural heritage, with its ancient temples, traditional festivals, and vibrant arts scene. Here are some of the cultural attractions that you can explore in Gangwon-do:
Woljeongsa Temple
Woljeongsa Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do. The temple was built in the 7th century, and it is one of the oldest and most important temples in Korea. Woljeongsa Temple is renowned for its stunning architecture, ancient relics, and serene natural surroundings. It is a perfect place to experience the spiritual and cultural traditions of Korea.
Gangneung Danoje Festival
Gangneung Danoje Festival is a traditional festival held in Gangneung, Gangwon-do, to celebrate the arrival of summer. The festival is held in May or June, and it features a wide range of cultural events, including folk performances, traditional games, and food fairs. The festival is a perfect way to experience the vibrant cultural traditions of Korea.
Pyeongchang Trout Festival
Pyeongchang Trout Festival is an annual winter festival held in Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do. The festival takes place on a frozen river, where visitors can enjoy ice fishing, snow sledding, and other winter activities. The festival also features traditional food stalls, cultural performances, and fireworks displays, making it a fun and exciting event for visitors of all ages.
Gangwon-do is a must-visit destination in South Korea, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational activities. Whether you are a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Gangwon-do has something for everyone. From the stunning mountains and forests of Seoraksan National Park to the ancient temples and traditional festivals of Woljeongsa Temple and Gangneung Danoje Festival, Gangwon-do is a true treasure trove of natural and cultural riches. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Gangwon-do.
Geography and Climate
Gangwon-do covers an area of 20,569 square kilometers and has a population of around 1.5 million people. The province is located on the east coast of the Korean Peninsula, and is bordered by the Sea of Japan to the east and North Gyeongsang Province to the south. The province is known for its rugged mountain terrain, which makes up over 80% of its land area. The highest peak in South Korea, Mount Seorak, is located in Gangwon-do. The province also has many rivers and lakes, including the Han River and the Bukhan River.
Gangwon-do has a temperate climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The coastal areas of the province are generally cooler than the inland areas, due to the influence of sea breezes. The province receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the heaviest precipitation occurring in the summer months.
TOURISM
Gangwon-do is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Korea, attracting millions of visitors every year. The province is known for its natural beauty, with many scenic spots and cultural attractions.
Mount Seorak National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Gangwon-do. The park is home to Mount Seorak, which is the highest peak in South Korea. The park also has many hiking trails, waterfalls, and temples that attract visitors throughout the year.
The city of Gangneung is another popular destination in Gangwon-do. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, which are popular among surfers and beachgoers. The city also has many historical sites, including the Gyeongpo Beach, the Gyeongpodae Pavilion, and the Ojukheon House.
Winter sports are also popular in Gangwon-do, with many ski resorts located in the province. The most famous ski resort in Gangwon-do is the Alpensia Resort, which was built for the 2018 Winter Olympics. The resort has many ski slopes, as well as other facilities such as a water park, a golf course, and a convention center.
Culture Gangwon-do has a rich cultural heritage, with many traditional festivals and customs that are still celebrated today. One of the most famous festivals in Gangwon-do is the Gangneung Danoje Festival, which is held every year in June. The festival is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and is known for its traditional performances, rituals, and games.
The province is also known for its cuisine, which includes many seafood dishes due to its location on the east coast of the Korean Peninsula. Some of the most famous dishes in Gangwon-do include raw fish, squid, and shellfish.
CONCLUSION
Gangwon-do is a province in South Korea that is known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage. With its rugged mountain terrain, beautiful beaches, and many cultural attractions, Gangwon-do is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to South Korea. Whether you are interested in hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the region, Gangwon-do has something to offer for everyone.
What You Need to Know Before Visiting GANGWON-DO
There are many popular tourist attractions in Gangwon-do, including Seoraksan National Park, Nami Island, Gangneung Coffee Street, and the Ojukheon House.
Gangwon-do is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including mountains, beaches, and lakes. It is also famous for hosting the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang in 2018.
Yes, Korea is a safe city for tourists. The crime rate is low, and the city is well-policed. However, visitors should still take basic precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings.
English is not as widely spoken in Gangwon-do as it is in major cities like Seoul, but many people working in the tourism industry will speak some English. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Korean phrases to help you get around.
