Top attractions in Gangwondo, Korea

Gangwondo is known for its mostly mountainous terrain and ski resorts. Beyond the mountains and the snow, here are 5 things to check out when you’re in Gangwondo.

Take to the slopes in Pyeongchang

The sleepy Gangwon-do town of Pyeongchang shot to global stardom in 2018 as the host city for the Winter Olympics. With the global event came world-class facilities, and although there wasn’t much to speak of until a few years ago, you can rest assured that you’ll be getting the best there is to offer. Some resorts offer amenities like heated pools, floodlights and gourmet restaurants. You might not have the same experience as you would, perhaps, in Europe, but the rush is just as thrilling and you’ll leave wanting more of the slopes and the Korean hospitality.

Nami Island

Nami Island is named for the Joseon Dynasty General Nami, whose grave is said to be located on the island. It’s a short 63km drive from Seoul but still falls within the Gangwon-do province, making it a lovely day trip for families and couples who want to get out into nature and meander along the picturesque poplar tree-lined paths. Water babies are bound to enjoy themselves here, as you can partake in motorboating and waterskiing.

Get crafty in Gangneung

Drinking craft beer might not seem like a particularly Korean pastime, especially when soju and makgeolli reign supreme in these parts. The Budnamu Brewery in Gangneung, however, is definitely worth your time if only for the adventurous names like the Ojook Stout or the Daegwallyeong Pale Ale. You can make it a boozy dinner or lunch if you’re in the mood, as there’s a great variety of food options to accompany the wide range of beers.

Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan comes alive in the mid-summer months, when warmer climes make for perfect hiking conditions. Autumn, too, is absolutely stunning as the leaves change colour to deep, rich shades of orange and red. Nature enthusiasts are bound to enjoy it here as the park boasts lush, dense vegetation, magnificent waterfalls and some eye-catching rock formations.

Visit the DMZ Museum in Goseong

Although tensions between North and South Korea have dominated global headlines in the past few years, this painful conflict dates back years to 1945, when unification efforts between the two regions failed. The DMZ Museum is a hopeful reminder that the two powers can, one day, come together. The Goseong Unification Observatory is a surreal experience in itself, as it affords views of the North Korean coastline – an extremely volatile region, but one that hasn’t seen any shots fired in decades.

See more: Best mountains to go hiking in South Korea

Source: Internet

Have you ever visited those filming locations in South Korea?

Every Korean drama fan dreams of heading to Korea for the ultimate drama pilgrimage. From beautiful scenery to theme parks and even restaurants, keep reading to find out how to get to your favorite drama sets. If you have a chance to travel to Korea, let's visit these locations.

 1. Le Petit France (You who came from the stars)

Fans of You who came from the stars will hold the scene where Min Joon confesses his love for Song Yi dear to their heart. Shot at Petite France in Gyeonggi-do, the little French village is also home to other dramas such as Secret Garden. Built around the story of The Little Prince, Petite France lets visitors experience the French culture through museums, cafes, and restaurants.

2. Nami Island (Winter Sonata)

The romance between Yu Jin and Jun Sang stole the hearts of many, with Winter Sonata going on to become one of the most popular Korean dramas to have aired. Many even claim the drama made Nami Island a popular tourist spot. There’s even a statue of Yu Jun and Jun Sang on the island.

See more: See autumn leaves and fall foliage in South Korea

3. Bukcheon Hanok Village (The Heirs)

A tiny traditional village in the heart of a bustling city, Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village dates back all the way to the Joseon Dynasty. The village is a popular tourist place for those wanting to experience traditional Korean culture. A walking tour is also available for those keen to find out more, but remember to be quiet so as not to disturb the residents.

See more: 7 Old towns in Asia you must visit at least once in a lifetime

4. Seoul Land (Strong Woman)

No Korean drama is complete without an adorable theme park date that makes us wish we had a lover too. If Bong Soon and Min Hyuk’s date in Strong Woman seemed like the perfect date, don’t forget to stop by Seoul Land with your significant other. The park features over 40 rides and many prefer this to bigger parks such as Everland because of shorter queues.

5. Olivia Garden (Something in the rain)

A romantic scene in Something in the rain, then Olivia Garden is a familiar restaurant. Known for its delicious Italian food, Olivia Garden also boasts a beautiful interior. Fans can even choose to sit at the very table Jin Ah and Joon Hee sat at on their first date.

6. Lotte Duty-Free (Secret Queen Makers)

A common location in many dramas, Lotte Duty-Free can be seen in the current web series Secret Queen Makers. Following the story of a girl one her makeover journey, most of the show was filmed at Lotte. Lotte Duty-Free carries everything from cosmetics to iconic Korean souvenirs, making it the perfect place to shop for souvenirs. The best part about shopping there? You can choose to pick up your shopping at the airport, saving you the hassle of lugging your shopping around Seoul.

7. Jumunjin Beach (Goblin)

Your Korean drama pilgrimage isn’t complete without stopping at one of Goblin’s filming sites. One of the most iconic scenes from the show is when Eun Tak first summons Kim Shin to the beach on her birthday. Since then, fans have been flocking to the breakwater to recreate that moment.

Jumunjin Beach located in Gangwon-do is home to more than 5 breakwaters, so make sure you find the right one. if you’re not sure which one it is, look out for the huge TV signboard. Rumour has it vendors on site have red scarves and buckwheat flower bouquets available for rent for those who wish to recreate the scene perfectly.

Source Internet