Located on South Korea's east coast, this coastal city hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics and draws visitors to its traditional hot springs, mountain views, and fresh seafood markets.
Located in northeastern South Korea, Gangneung-si stretches between the Taebaek Mountains and the East Sea. You can walk along its 20 kilometers of beaches, climb the wooden steps of the Gyeongpodae Pavilion built in 1326, or taste local coffee at one of the 30 roasters along Anmok Beach. In June, the city celebrates Danoje, a festival on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list, with traditional mask dances and wrestling competitions.
Transportation from Seoul to Gangneung
Take the KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station to reach Gangneung in two hours. From Incheon International Airport, eight daily airport limousine buses run to Gangneung Intercity Bus Terminal.
Exploring Gangneung's Beaches
Gyeongpo Beach extends for 1.8 kilometers, with paved cycling paths connecting it to Gyeongpo Lake. At Jeongdongjin Beach, 18 kilometers south of downtown, hundreds gather at the oceanfront railway station on January 1st to watch the year's first sunrise at 7:30 AM. Anmok Beach transforms into a coffee tasting venue in April and October, when local roasters set up stations along the shore.
Coffee Scene at Anmok Beach
The waterfront street at Anmok Beach houses 30 independent coffee shops and roasters. Watch baristas prepare single-origin beans through pour-over filters or sample cold brew coffee made from beans roasted on-site. During the April and October coffee festivals, you can join cupping sessions to learn about coffee tasting or take part in hands-on brewing workshops.
Traditional Architecture and Museums
A black bamboo grove leads to Ojukheon Museum, where 16th-century scholar Yulgok Yi-I was born. Explore the wooden buildings and artifacts from 8 AM to 6:30 PM (March-October) or 9 AM to 6 PM (November-February). Entry costs 3,000 won for adults. At Seongyojang House, walk through the 1700s residence to see the master's quarters, servants' rooms, and kitchen areas built around a central courtyard.
Annual Festivals
During the five-day Gangneung Danoje Festival in June, performers gather at the Namdae River for traditional mask dances and ssireum wrestling matches. Local shamans conduct ceremonial rituals that have continued for centuries. The International Junior Art Festival brings young musicians and dancers from multiple countries to downtown Gangneung each August, with performances in theaters and outdoor venues.
