A First-Timer’s Guide to Gangneung: Why Is This City So Popular Among Young Koreans?
If you’re wondering where Gangneung is and what kind of place it is, here’s everything you need to know.
Where Exactly Is Gangneung?
Gangneung is located on the eastern coast of Gangwon Province in northeastern Korea. It’s surrounded by the deep blue East Sea and beautiful mountain ranges, making it a naturally rich and relaxing destination. Although it’s a bit far from central Seoul, improved transportation has turned it into one of the most popular weekend trip spots.
How to Get to Gangneung from Seoul
There are two main options: KTX (high-speed rail) or express bus.
| KTX | Seoul Station, Cheongnyangni Station | ~2 hours | ₩27,600〜 | Fastest & most comfortable. Best for busy travelers. |
| Express Bus | East Seoul Terminal, Gangnam Express Bus Terminal | 2.5–3 hours | ₩15,600〜 | Cheaper than KTX and luggage-friendly. |
*Currency conversions are based on November 2025 estimates.*
If it’s your first trip to Korea and you’re worried about ticket booking, reserving KTX in advance is highly recommended. And if you want smooth transportation once you arrive in Gangneung, the NAMANE card will make your travel much easier. It works as a nationwide transportation card, so you can charge it beforehand and skip ticket machines entirely.
Why Gangneung Is So Popular
Gangneung attracts visitors thanks to its nature-rich environment and amazing local food.
◯ Amazing Local Food — Especially “Chodang Tofu,” one of Gangneung’s signature dishes.
◯ K-Wave Hotspot — BTS album/MV filming locations, Goblin K-drama sites, and more.
◯ Stunning Natural Spots — Crystal-clear beaches, mountain landscapes, and peaceful vibes perfect for a relaxing getaway.
7 Must-Visit Spots in Gangneung (Scenery, Cafes & K-Wave)
Here are the essential places that capture the charm of Gangneung. Pick your favorites depending on your travel style!
1) BTS Pilgrimage Spot: Hyangho Bus Stop 🚏🚌
📍 Hyangho Bus Stop
If you’re a K‑POP fan heading to Gangneung, this is the one spot you absolutely cannot miss. This bus stop was the filming location for BTS’s album “YOU NEVER WALK ALONE.”
Although the original structure was removed, it was rebuilt thanks to fan requests. Today, a purple bench stands there—making it a full-on ARMY pilgrimage site.
🚌 How to Get There:
From Gangneung Station, take Bus 300 for about 50 minutes. Get off at “Jumunjin Beach Stop” and walk toward the sea.
It’s a bit far, so taking a taxi is also convenient.
2) TERAROSA Coffee: Café + Architecture + Nature ☕
📍 TERAROSA Coffee Factory (테라로사커피공장) Instagram：@terarosacoffee
One of Korea’s most famous café brands, TERAROSA’s Gangneung location is known for its grand factory-style space. Huge windows overlook the surrounding nature, creating a calm, healing atmosphere.
The tall bookshelves, stylish interior, and beautifully designed cups make it incredibly photogenic. Perfect for coffee lovers or anyone wanting a slow, peaceful moment.
Access: From Gangneung Station, take Bus 101 or 102 for about an hour. Get off at “Odang 1-ri” or “Haksan Seolle.”
3) Oars: A Beautiful Select Shop for Gifts
📍 Oars (오어즈) Instagram：@oars.kr
A tastefully designed lifestyle shop with a view of tree-lined streets from its second floor. You’ll find Korean-designed hats, tote bags, posters, and unique gifts you won’t find elsewhere. They even had wine cooler bags that double as stylish carriers.
Gangneung Local Food Guide
One of the best parts of regional travel is tasting local specialties—Gangneung has plenty.
4) Chodang Tofu Village: The Home of Gangneung Tofu
📍 9 Siblings Tofu House (#9남매두부집)
Located in the famous Chodang Tofu Village, this restaurant often sees long lines before opening. Their sundubu (soft tofu stew) is beloved for its pure, clean flavor, without heavy seasoning. The side dishes, especially the squid jeotgal and kimchi, elevate the subtle taste of tofu.
📍 Gangneung Jjamppong Sundubu (#강릉짬뽕순두부)
If you want something a little different, try the spicy jjamppong sundubu. It has a peppery, sesame-infused broth with a bit of heat. There’s also a white (non-spicy) version that tastes creamy and mild, like soy milk.
5) Gangneung Central Market: The Heart of the City
📍 Gangneung Central Market (#강릉 중앙시장)
If you want to feel the local energy, this bustling market is the place to be. One must-try is “Squid Sundae (Abaei Sundae),” made by stuffing glutinous rice and vegetables inside a squid before steaming it. Unforgettable flavor!
The basement level is a fish market where you can buy sashimi and eat it right on the spot.
6) Budnamu Brewery: Craft Beer Night in Gangneung
📍 Budnamu Brewery (버드나무브루어리)
This stylish craft beer brewery is housed in a renovated makgeolli factory. Try a tasting sampler to compare Gangneung’s signature beers. The pizza is fantastic, making it a perfect dinner spot to end your night.
7) JANGIN THE BAKEHOUSE: Famous for Traditional Yakgwa
📍 JANGIN THE BAKEHOUSE (장인더베이크하우스)
This café is known for its yakgwa (traditional Korean honey cookies). Their triangular yakgwa is lightly sweet and addictive. The interior is inspired by Korean hanok design. Their baguettes also looked delicious—highly recommended for a café break.
Access: 15 minutes by bus from Gangneung Station.
8) Potato Cafe: A Gangneung Specialty Shop
📍 Potato Cafe (포테이토교)
This cute café specializes in potato-based desserts, a Gangneung specialty. The potato chips make great souvenirs, and you might even meet their friendly shop dog!
Access: Take a coastal-direction bus from Gangneung Station and get off near “Gammok Coffee Street.”
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Traveling in regional cities differs slightly from Seoul, but it’s easy with the right tips.
Local Transportation in Gangneung
Buses and taxis are the main ways to get around once you arrive by KTX or express bus.
Why the NAMANE Card Is Essential
The NAMANE card makes both transportation and payments super easy:
• Works as a nationwide transit card (Rail+)
• Can be charged in advance—no need for coins
• Allows prepaid card payments at markets, cafés, small shops
• Can be customized with your favorite photo or bias
With K‑POP filming sites, ocean-view cafés, and must-try local foods, Gangneung has so many experiences waiting for you.
Check out these spots and enjoy an unforgettable Gangneung trip! ✨
🛒 How to Get a NAMANE Card
① Buy in Advance (Before Traveling to Korea)
② Buy Locally in Korea
A First-Timer’s Guide to Gangneung: Why Is This City So Popular Among Young Koreans?
If you’re wondering where Gangneung is and what kind of place it is, here’s everything you need to know.
Where Exactly Is Gangneung?
Gangneung is located on the eastern coast of Gangwon Province in northeastern Korea. It’s surrounded by the deep blue East Sea and beautiful mountain ranges, making it a naturally rich and relaxing destination. Although it’s a bit far from central Seoul, improved transportation has turned it into one of the most popular weekend trip spots.
How to Get to Gangneung from Seoul
There are two main options: KTX (high-speed rail) or express bus.
*Currency conversions are based on November 2025 estimates.*
If it’s your first trip to Korea and you’re worried about ticket booking, reserving KTX in advance is highly recommended. And if you want smooth transportation once you arrive in Gangneung, the NAMANE card will make your travel much easier. It works as a nationwide transportation card, so you can charge it beforehand and skip ticket machines entirely.
Why Gangneung Is So Popular
Gangneung attracts visitors thanks to its nature-rich environment and amazing local food.
◯ Amazing Local Food — Especially “Chodang Tofu,” one of Gangneung’s signature dishes.
◯ K-Wave Hotspot — BTS album/MV filming locations, Goblin K-drama sites, and more.
◯ Stunning Natural Spots — Crystal-clear beaches, mountain landscapes, and peaceful vibes perfect for a relaxing getaway.
7 Must-Visit Spots in Gangneung (Scenery, Cafes & K-Wave)
Here are the essential places that capture the charm of Gangneung. Pick your favorites depending on your travel style!
1) BTS Pilgrimage Spot: Hyangho Bus Stop 🚏🚌
📍 Hyangho Bus Stop
If you’re a K‑POP fan heading to Gangneung, this is the one spot you absolutely cannot miss. This bus stop was the filming location for BTS’s album “YOU NEVER WALK ALONE.”
Although the original structure was removed, it was rebuilt thanks to fan requests. Today, a purple bench stands there—making it a full-on ARMY pilgrimage site.
🚌 How to Get There:
From Gangneung Station, take Bus 300 for about 50 minutes. Get off at “Jumunjin Beach Stop” and walk toward the sea.
It’s a bit far, so taking a taxi is also convenient.
2) TERAROSA Coffee: Café + Architecture + Nature ☕
📍 TERAROSA Coffee Factory (테라로사커피공장) Instagram：@terarosacoffee
One of Korea’s most famous café brands, TERAROSA’s Gangneung location is known for its grand factory-style space. Huge windows overlook the surrounding nature, creating a calm, healing atmosphere.
The tall bookshelves, stylish interior, and beautifully designed cups make it incredibly photogenic. Perfect for coffee lovers or anyone wanting a slow, peaceful moment.
Access: From Gangneung Station, take Bus 101 or 102 for about an hour. Get off at “Odang 1-ri” or “Haksan Seolle.”
3) Oars: A Beautiful Select Shop for Gifts
📍 Oars (오어즈) Instagram：@oars.kr
A tastefully designed lifestyle shop with a view of tree-lined streets from its second floor. You’ll find Korean-designed hats, tote bags, posters, and unique gifts you won’t find elsewhere. They even had wine cooler bags that double as stylish carriers.
Gangneung Local Food Guide
One of the best parts of regional travel is tasting local specialties—Gangneung has plenty.
4) Chodang Tofu Village: The Home of Gangneung Tofu
📍 9 Siblings Tofu House (#9남매두부집)
Located in the famous Chodang Tofu Village, this restaurant often sees long lines before opening. Their sundubu (soft tofu stew) is beloved for its pure, clean flavor, without heavy seasoning. The side dishes, especially the squid jeotgal and kimchi, elevate the subtle taste of tofu.
📍 Gangneung Jjamppong Sundubu (#강릉짬뽕순두부)
If you want something a little different, try the spicy jjamppong sundubu. It has a peppery, sesame-infused broth with a bit of heat. There’s also a white (non-spicy) version that tastes creamy and mild, like soy milk.
5) Gangneung Central Market: The Heart of the City
📍 Gangneung Central Market (#강릉 중앙시장)
If you want to feel the local energy, this bustling market is the place to be. One must-try is “Squid Sundae (Abaei Sundae),” made by stuffing glutinous rice and vegetables inside a squid before steaming it. Unforgettable flavor!
The basement level is a fish market where you can buy sashimi and eat it right on the spot.
6) Budnamu Brewery: Craft Beer Night in Gangneung
📍 Budnamu Brewery (버드나무브루어리)
This stylish craft beer brewery is housed in a renovated makgeolli factory. Try a tasting sampler to compare Gangneung’s signature beers. The pizza is fantastic, making it a perfect dinner spot to end your night.
7) JANGIN THE BAKEHOUSE: Famous for Traditional Yakgwa
📍 JANGIN THE BAKEHOUSE (장인더베이크하우스)
This café is known for its yakgwa (traditional Korean honey cookies). Their triangular yakgwa is lightly sweet and addictive. The interior is inspired by Korean hanok design. Their baguettes also looked delicious—highly recommended for a café break.
Access: 15 minutes by bus from Gangneung Station.
8) Potato Cafe: A Gangneung Specialty Shop
📍 Potato Cafe (포테이토교)
This cute café specializes in potato-based desserts, a Gangneung specialty. The potato chips make great souvenirs, and you might even meet their friendly shop dog!
Access: Take a coastal-direction bus from Gangneung Station and get off near “Gammok Coffee Street.”
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Traveling in regional cities differs slightly from Seoul, but it’s easy with the right tips.
Local Transportation in Gangneung
Buses and taxis are the main ways to get around once you arrive by KTX or express bus.
Why the NAMANE Card Is Essential
The NAMANE card makes both transportation and payments super easy:
• Works as a nationwide transit card (Rail+)
• Can be charged in advance—no need for coins
• Allows prepaid card payments at markets, cafés, small shops
• Can be customized with your favorite photo or bias
With K‑POP filming sites, ocean-view cafés, and must-try local foods, Gangneung has so many experiences waiting for you.
Check out these spots and enjoy an unforgettable Gangneung trip! ✨
🛒 How to Get a NAMANE Card
① Buy in Advance (Before Traveling to Korea)
② Buy Locally in Korea