Gangneung is one of Korea's best coastal destinations where you can enjoy BTS album photo locations, exquisite Chodang tofu, and stunning East Sea cafes all in one trip. This coastal city in Gangwon Province is about 2 hours from Seoul by KTX, making it popular with both K-POP fans and nature-loving travelers.
Where is Gangneung? Why is it popular?
Gangneung is a city located on the East Sea coast in Gangwon Province, northeastern South Korea. Surrounded by the beautiful blue East Sea and majestic mountains, it's blessed with abundant natural beauty. With significantly improved transportation in recent years, it has become a hugely popular weekend getaway destination.
3 Reasons Gangneung is Hot
- Incredible Food: Famous for seafood and Gangneung's signature local dish, Chodang tofu
- K-WAVE Pilgrimage: Numerous pilgrimage spots including BTS album jacket photo locations and drama 'Goblin' filming sites
- Rich Nature: A healing destination with some of Korea's clearest blue seas, beautiful beaches, and magnificent mountains
How to Get to Gangneung from Seoul
- KTX (High-speed Rail): Departs from Seoul Station/Cheongnyangni Station, approx. 2 hours, from approx. ₩27,600
- Express Bus: Departs from Dong Seoul/Gangnam Express Bus Terminal, approx. 2.5–3 hours, from approx. ₩15,600
If you're nervous about arranging tickets on your first trip to Korea, advance KTX booking is recommended. Having a NAMANE Card ready makes getting around Gangneung by city bus smooth and easy.
7 Must-Visit Spots in Gangneung
1. BTS Pilgrimage Site: Hyangho Bus Stop
A must-visit for K-POP fans, Hyangho Bus Stop is the jacket photo location for BTS album 'YOU NEVER WALK ALONE'. Though it was once removed after the shoot, it was recreated by fan request and now features purple benches, making it an ARMY pilgrimage site.
Transportation: Take Bus No. 300 from Gangneung Station for about 50 minutes, get off at 'Jumunjin Beach Stop' and walk. Taking a taxi is also convenient. Check out the Seoul idol cafe pilgrimage guide too.
2. TERAROSA Coffee — A Cafe with Stunning Views
The Gangneung branch of 'TERAROSA', one of Korea's leading cafe brands, is known for its grand space. You can enjoy Gangneung's natural scenery through large windows, and the bookshelf interior and stylish cup designs make it perfect for photos.
Transportation: About 1 hour from Gangneung Station by Bus No. 101/102
3. Oars — A Stylish Select Shop
In this refined space with tree-lined street views from the second-floor windows, you can find unique souvenirs with Korean-inspired designs including hats, tote bags, and posters.
4. Chodang Tofu Village — A Gangneung Must-Eat
If you're in Gangneung, you absolutely must try 'Chodang tofu'!
- 9 Siblings Tofu House: So popular that lines form before opening. Experience the exquisite taste of authentic sundubu (soft tofu)
- Gangneung Jjamppong Sundubu: A slightly spicy jjamppong sundubu with pepper and sesame. The white sundubu has a smooth, soy milk-like flavor
5. Gangneung Jungang Market — Local Vibes Experience
Bustling with locals, Gangneung Jungang Market is the quintessential spot to soak in the local atmosphere. The famous squid sundae (Abai sundae) is made by stuffing squid with glutinous rice and vegetables and steaming it—an unforgettable taste once you try it. At the basement fish market, you can buy fresh sashimi and eat it on the spot.
6. Budnamu Brewery — Craft Beer
At the stylishly renovated former rice wine factory, 'Budnamu Brewery', you can sample Gangneung-brewed craft beers with a tasting set. The pizza is delicious too, making it the perfect way to wrap up an evening in Gangneung.
7. JANGIN THE BAKEHOUSE & Gamja Tea House
JANGIN THE BAKEHOUSE is a hanok-style cafe famous for its yakgwa (traditional honey cookies). The triangular yakgwa with its perfectly balanced sweetness is a hit. At Gamja Tea House (Potato Church), you can enjoy desserts made with Gangneung's famous potatoes and buy potato chip souvenirs.
Practical Tips for Gangneung Travel
- Buses and taxis are the main modes of transportation within Gangneung
- With a NAMANE Card, you can ride city buses and pay at cafes and restaurants all with one card
- Recommended 2-day itinerary: Day 1 — BTS pilgrimage + Terarosa cafe, Day 2 — Chodang tofu + Jungang Market + Brewery
Before your Gangneung trip, also check out the Korea public transportation guide and essential apps for traveling in Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How do I get to the BTS bus stop in Gangneung?
Take Bus No. 300 from Gangneung Station and you'll arrive at 'Jumunjin Beach Stop' in about 50 minutes. After getting off, walk toward the sea and you'll find it right away. By taxi, it takes about 20–25 minutes. The purple benches installed there make it a popular photo spot as well.
Q. How much does a 2-day, 1-night trip to Gangneung cost?
With round-trip KTX from Seoul at about ₩55,000, one night's accommodation at about ₩50,000–80,000, and including food and local transportation, ₩150,000–200,000 is sufficient. If you take the express bus, you can save on transportation costs at about ₩24,000 round trip.
Q. Can I use a transit card in Gangneung?
Yes, you can use T-money compatible transit cards on both Gangneung city buses and taxis. If you have a charged NAMANE Card, you can board right away without waiting in line at ticket machines, which is very convenient.
