Around the country

The cities, one by one

Pick a city: you get what makes it special, how to get there from Seoul, and the places genuinely worth the trip.

Gangneung

강릉

The largest city on the east coast, known for its summer beaches and seafront cafés. It's also a gateway to Seoraksan and Odaesan parks, and home to the Dano festival, one of the oldest in the country.

Getting thereKTX from Seoul, 2 h for around 30,000 ₩, hourly. By bus from Dongseoul, 2 h 20 for 15,000-30,000 ₩.

Ojukheon

오죽헌

One of the oldest wooden houses in Korea, surrounded by black bamboo. Birthplace of a major Confucian thinker.

Bus from the station · Maps ↗

Seongyojang

선교장

A vast aristocratic Joseon-era estate, held by the same family for generations. The pavilion over the pond is superb.

Near Ojukheon · Maps ↗

Daegwallyeong Pass

대관령

Twenty kilometres above the city, a sacred pass with sheep pastures and a 45-minute walk along the grazing land.

Bus or taxi from Gangneung · Maps ↗

Gyeongpo Beach

경포해변

The city's main beach, paired with a lake and an old pavilion with a fine sunset view.

Bus from the centre · Maps ↗