A water-centric city on the South Korean coast of Gangwon-doo province, Gangneung is a cultural centre and favourite beach destination. From quirky museums to art galleries and outdoor activities, there’s plenty to keep you busy in Gangneung.

Things to do

Gyeongpo Beach stretches along the coastline toward Gyeongpo Lake, lined with an array of aqua-sports shops and waterfront cafes sizzling up fresh seafood. You can join throngs of locals jet skiing and tubing, or cycle the bike path around the lake. After sunset, enjoy sparkling fireworks on the beach. Korean legend holds that you can see the moon five times at the Gyeongpodae Pavilion, from the sky, sea, lake, your glass and your lover’s eyes.

Not far from the beach, Ojukheon Municipal Museum showcases varying forms of Buddhist art, ceramics and artefacts, and shares space with Ojukheon House depicting life during the Joseon Dynasty. The Chamsori Gramophone and Edison Museum harbours a fascinating collection of antique gramophones, music boxes, cameras, typewriters and lesser-known inventions by Thomas Edison. Jeongdongjin Time Museum displays more than 250 rare and eclectic clocks from across the globe.

A designated National Park, Odaesan Mountain gives you the chance to hike Nuncheunkbaek and Yew tree forests in the shadow of Bibong Peak, one of the highest points in South Korea. You can also visit Woljeongsa Temple on the eastern slope of the mountain, home to the Nine Story Stone Pagoda, a designated National Treasure.

Getting around

If you’re arriving into Gangneung by train, it’s possible to connect seamlessly to the main bus terminal for transportation throughout the city. Direct bus routes service Gyeongpo Beach and the downtown area. A tourist information centre at the bus station offers help with getting around in Gangneung.