Location Map of Gangwon-do: Where Is Gangwon?
On our Location Map of Gangwon-do, you'll find it tucked into the northeastern corner of South Korea.
It shares a northern border with North Korea, sitting at approximately 37.8° N latitude and 128.2° E longitude.
This province is hands-down the most popular day trip destination from Seoul because it offers everything from world-class ski slopes to surf-ready beaches in one go.
How far is Gangwon province from Seoul? It's 100 to 120 km to the nearest mountain hubs, making the Seoul to Gangwon-do travel time a breezy 60 to 90 minutes by high-speed rail.
Map of South Korea | South Korea Travel Map (2026)
Map of Gangwon-do Cities & Counties: How's the State Laid Out?
The City Map of Gangwon-do is a mix of 7 bustling cities (si) and 11 scenic counties (gun).
While cities like Gangneung and Chuncheon get the most spotlight, the rural counties are where the hidden magic happens.
| Zone | Destinations (Cities & Counties) | Best For... |
|---|---|---|
| Mountain View | Wonju, Pyeongchang, Jeongseon, Hoengseong | Skiing, alpine hiking, and premium beef. |
| East Sea Coast | Gangneung, Sokcho, Donghae, Samcheok, Yangyang, Goseong | Surfing, coastal cafes, and fresh seafood. |
| Lakes & Rivers | Chuncheon, Hongcheon, Hwacheon, Inje | Nami Island, spicy chicken, and river sports. |
| Border & Heritage | Taebaek, Cheorwon, Yanggu, Yeongwol | DMZ history, star-gazing, and highland caves. |
Sokcho Map: City Map & Seoraksan National Park Map
To navigate Gangwon-do like a local, focus on these key transit hubs where train and bus networks connect.
Gangneung Station: The main EASTERN gateway. It serves KTX trains from Seoul and offers easy bus connections to coastal spots like Jeongdongjin and Sokcho.
Wonju Station & Manjong Station: Vital hubs for SOUTHWESTERN Gangwon. Manjong is the primary KTX stop, while Wonju Station connects you to both KTX and regular trains closer to the city center.
Chuncheon Station & Bus Terminal: These twin hubs define NORTHERN Gangwon's connectivity. Use the station for direct ITX links to Seoul, then transfer to the nearby terminal for regional bus routes.
Jinbu Station (Pyeongchang): The go-to arrival point for skiers and mountain travelers heading to Pyeongchang's resorts.
Since June 2023, the province is officially known as Gangwon State (or Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province)!
Tourist Map of Gangwon-do: What to Do in Gangwon-do?
When looking at a Tourist Map of Gangwon-do, you'll notice it's split by the massive Taebaek Mountains.
To the west, it's all about chill lakeside vibes and family fun at spots like Nami Island. Hit the east side, and you're met with the wild, crashing waves of the Sokcho coastline.
Simply copy the Korean (Hangeul) names from the tables below and paste them directly into Naver Map or KakaoMap. This ensures you receive 100% accurate walking and transit directions throughout South Korea!
The Coastal East
If you want an Instagram feed that pops, this is your spot!
Think deep blue ocean shots at Jumunjin Beach and café-hopping along Anmok Coffee Street. It's where the mountains literally dive into the sea.
| Attraction | Korean Name | City/County | How to Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seoraksan National Park | 설악산국립공원 | Sokcho | Express Bus + Local Bus #7 |
| Seoraksan Cable Car | 설악산 케이블카 | Sokcho | Inside Seoraksan Park |
| Shinheungsa Temple | 신흥사 | Sokcho | 10-min Walk from Cable Car |
| Sokcho Fish Market | 속초관광수산시장 | Sokcho | Local Bus #7 or #9 |
| Sokcho Beach | 속초해수욕장 | Sokcho | 5-min Taxi from Bus Terminal |
| BTS Bus Stop (Jumunjin) | BTS 버스정류장 | Gangneung | KTX + Bus #300 |
| Anmok Coffee Street | 안목커피거리 | Gangneung | KTX + Taxi |
| Arte Museum Gangneung | 아르떼뮤지엄 강릉 | Gangneung | City Tour Bus or Taxi |
| Naksansa Temple | 낙산사 | Yangyang | Intercity Bus to Yangyang |
| Yangyang Surfyy Beach | 서피비치 | Yangyang | Taxi from Yangyang Terminal |
My first stop is always Seoraksan National Park.
Taking the Seoraksan Cable Car up to Gwongeumseong Fortress feels like flying over the clouds. And the giant bronze Buddha at Shinheungsa Temple is just awe-inspiring.
After a morning hike, you can head into Sokcho for a serious food crawl. The Sokcho Fish Market is a maze of smells and tastes. To walk it off, a stroll along Sokcho Beach is perfect.
Further south in Gangneung, go for the BTS Bus Stop. Even if you aren't an ARMY, the beach backdrop is stunning.
You can end your day at Anmok Coffee Street, sitting in a window seat with a hot latte, watching the East Sea waves. If you have more time, the Arte Museum is a mind-blowing digital art escape.
For the surfers, Yangyang Surfyy Beach has such a chill, tropical vibe!
Gangneung is living in the future! You can actually hop on a self-driving shuttle that zips from the KTX station straight to the beach.
The Mountainous West
This area is right on Seoul's doorstep!
You can feed fluffy friends at Alpaca World and be back in the city for dinner. It's perfect for travelers who want a "deep mountain" feel via the convenient ITX-Cheongchun train line.
| Attraction | Korean Name | City/County | How to Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elysian Gangchon Ski | 엘리시안 강촌 | Chuncheon | Subway Line (Baegyang-ri Stn) |
| Nami Island | 남이섬 | Chuncheon | ITX to Gapyeong + Ferry |
| Gangchon Rail Park | 강chon레일파크 | Chuncheon | Subway (Gimyujeong Stn) |
| LEGOLAND Korea | 레고랜드 코리아 | Chuncheon | KTX/ITX + Shuttle from Exit 1 |
| Alpaca World | 알파카월드 | Hongcheon | ITX to Chuncheon + Taxi/Bus |
| Museum SAN | 뮤지엄 산 | Wonju | KTX to Wonju + City Tour Bus |
| Sogeumsan Bridge | 소금산 출렁다리 | Wonju | KTX to Wonju + City Tour Bus |
Walking the tree-lined paths of Nami Island feels like stepping into a K-drama. If you're brave, skip the ferry and zipline onto the island!
For a rush, hit the Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge in Wonju. It's a steep climb, but "walking in the air" 100 meters up is a total thrill.
Nearby, Museum SAN offers a calm, minimal escape designed by Tadao Ando.
If you're with family, LEGOLAND Korea is a hit, while Alpaca World is incredibly healing—there's nothing like trekking with an alpaca to clear your head!
Take the Gyeongchun Line (standard Seoul subway) to Elysian Gangchon Ski. Get off at Baegyang-ri Station and you're at the resort.
It's the easiest, most budget-friendly ski trip in South Korea ever!
The Southern Interior
If you love snow or fresh mountain air, this is your choice.
It is home to the famous Olympic parks in Pyeongchang. Expect amazing views and some of the best local food in the country!
| Attraction | Korean Name | City/County | How to Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yongpyong Ski Resort | 용평리조트 | Pyeongchang | KTX to Jinbu + Shuttle |
| Alpensia Ski Resort | 알펜시아 리조트 | Pyeongchang | KTX to Jinbu + Shuttle |
| Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm | 대관령 양떼목장 | Pyeongchang | KTX + Tourist Taxi |
| High1 Ski Resort | 하이원리조트 | Jeongseon | KTX to Gohan Stn |
| Woljeongsa Fir Forest | 월정사 전나무숲 | Pyeongchang | KTX to Jinbu + Bus |
When I'm in Pyeongchang, I always visit the Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm. Walking on the rolling hills is so peaceful, and feeding the sheep is really fun!
For a quiet walk, the Woljeongsa Fir Forest is perfect. The huge trees there are hundreds of years old and smell amazing.
If you want to ski, Yongpyong and Alpensia are the top picks. They are very close to each other and easy to reach.
For the best snow, head to High1 in Jeongseon. It is higher up in the mountains, so the snow stays perfect for longer.
Just take the KTX train to Pyeongchang or Jinbu station.
From there, use a Foreigner-Only Taxi. For a set price, they will take you to the Sheep Farm, wait for you, and bring you back.
The Northern DMZ Zone
Visit this zone for deep history and epic mountain views. It requires a bit more planning, but seeing the border up close is an experience you won't forget.
| Attraction | Korean Name | City/County | How to Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd Infiltration Tunnel | 제2땅굴 | Cheorwon | DMZ Shuttle from Goseokjeong |
| Goseong Unification Observatory | 고성 통일전망대 | Goseong | Taxi/Car from Daejin Terminal |
| Goseokjeong Pavilion | 고석정 | Cheorwon | Bus from Cheorwon Terminal |
Walking through the 2nd Infiltration Tunnel is a thrill—you wear a hard hat and head deep underground!
For a view of North Korea's Diamond Mountains, the Goseong Unification Observatory is unbeatable.
Nearby, Goseokjeong Pavilion offers a peaceful boat ride through a rocky gorge.
This is a military zone. You MUST carry your physical passport to pass the checkpoints. No ID means no entry!
Beyond Yongpyong, More Gangwon-do Ski Resorts on Map
While Yongpyong is the "Meca" of Korean skiing, it's NOT the only game in town.
The Map of Gangwon-do Ski Resort is dotted with world-class resorts, each with its own personality and perks.
| Ski Resort | Location | Highlight | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yongpyong | Pyeongchang | 28 slopes, legendary runs | Pros & K-Drama fans |
| Alpensia | Pyeongchang | Olympic village atmosphere | Families & Beginners |
| Phoenix Park | Pyeongchang | Massive terrain park | Snowboarders & Freestyle |
| High1 | Jeongseon | Highest elevation in Korea | Long, scenic cruising |
| Elysian Gangchon | Chuncheon | Direct subway access | Day-trippers from Seoul |
| Vivaldi Park | Hongcheon | Trendy night skiing | Young crowds & Night owls |
| Welli Hilli Park | Hoengseong | Superpipe & mogul courses | Serious skill-building |
| OAK Valley | Wonju | Relaxed, wide slopes | Chill family vacations |
| O2 Resort | Taebaek | Uncrowded, high-altitude | Peaceful, quiet skiing |
| Jeongseon Alpine | Jeongseon | High-speed downhill runs | Experienced speed seekers |
Which Ski Resort Should You Choose?
If you're just starting out, I'd suggest Alpensia or Elysian Gangchon. Their slopes are wide and gentle, and you won't feel overwhelmed by crowds.
Oak Valley is also great if you want a relaxing vibe with the kids.
For the pros, Yongpyong is a must-visit for its challenging terrain. If you're into tricks and jumps, Phoenix Park has the best park setup. If you just want miles of powdery snow without drop-offs, High1 is your best bet!
The "sweet spot" is mid-January to early February for the best powder. To beat the crowds, visit on a weekday and avoid the Lunar New Year holiday entirely!
Yongpyong Ski Resort Map: How to Explore the Most Famous One?
If you only visit one ski resort in South Korea, make it Yongpyong.
- Total Slopes: 28 trails
- Lifts: 14 (including the massive 3.7km Gondola)
- Vertical Drop: 702m
- Summit Altitude: 1,458m (Dragon Peak)
To find your way around, you'll want to study the Yongpyong Ski Resort Trail Map to see how the mountain is split into different peaks.
Look at the table to pick a zone that fits your style so you don't end up on a scary cliff by mistake.
| Zone | Best For | Highlight Trail | Key Lift |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yellow & Pink Zone | Total Beginners | Yellow Run | Yellow Chair |
| Red & Silver Zone | Skill Builders | Red Paradise | Red Lift |
| Gold Zone | Smooth Cruising | Gold Fantastic | Gold Chair |
| Rainbow Zone | Pros & Experts | Rainbow 1 | Rainbow Gondola |
Go long or go wide?
If you're still a bit wobbly, head to Mega Green. It is the widest trail in Korea (180m across!), giving you plenty of room to practice.
If you want a real workout, try Rainbow Paradise. It's the longest run at 5.6km—you'll be cruising from the peak all the way to the bottom!
Even if you don't ski, you have to take the Rainbow Gondola to the top.
There's a Skywalk up there where you can see all the way to the East Sea on a clear day. It's the best photo in the house.
From 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, most people crowd the beginner areas near the main plaza. If you want shorter lines, head over to the Gold Zone during lunch—it's much quieter!
Travel Map of Gangwon-do: 3 Itinerary Plans on Map
To help you get around, we offer 3 Travel Maps of Gangwon-do that connect the mountains to the rest of South Korea.
Whether you want a quick 5-day snow trip, a 9-day coastal run, or a full 10-day loop around the peninsula, these routes make planning easy.
#1 Travel Map of Gangwon-do: Seoul - Yongpyong Ski Resort - Seoul
This is a snow escape loop between Seoul and Yongpyong.
It's a straight shot from the Seoul to the heart of the Gangwon-do mountains, giving you 5 days of pure winter fun in South Korea without wasting time on the road.
| Day | Where to Go | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seoul to Pyeongchang | Take the KTX to Jinbu Station and head straight to the resort. |
| 2 | Yongpyong Resort | Hit the slopes early! Try a beginner lesson or explore big runs. |
| 3 | Dragon Peak | Take the long Gondola up for the views and the Skywalk. |
| 4 | Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm | Visit the nearby Sheep Farm for some cute photos in the snow. |
| 5 | Pyeongchang to Seoul | One last morning ski, then hop back on the train to the city. |
5 Days Yongpyong Ski Resort Tour from Seoul: Ski Lesson, Seoul Highlights
Seoul - Yongpyong Ski Resort - Seoul
#2 Travel Map of Gangwon-do: Seoul - Suwon - Sokcho - Andong - Gyeongju - Busan
This route starts with history near Seoul, hits the rugged coast of Sokcho, and then sweeps south through ancient villages all the way to the ocean in Busan.
| Day | Where to Go | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seoul Arrival | Pick-up service and hotel check-in. |
| 2 | Seoul | Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village. |
| 3 | Seoul - Suwon - Sokcho | Walk the massive walls of Hwaseong Fortress. |
| 4 | Sokcho (Gangwon) | Hike Seoraksan Mountain and see the giant Buddha at Sinheungsa. |
| 5 | Sokcho - Andong - Gyeongju | Visit Buyongdae Cliff for panoramas of the Nakdong River. Step back in time at Hahoe Folk Village and watch a mask dance. |
| 6 | Gyeongju | See the royal Daereungwon Tomb Complex and the beautiful Bulguksa Temple. |
| 7 | Gyeongju - Busan | Taejongdae Park, Danubi Train, Huinyeoul Culture Village, Oryukdo Skywalk, Igidae Park |
| 8-9 | Busan | Visit the seaside temple and the colorful Gamcheon Village. |
9 Days Eastern Korea Tour from Seoul to Busan: Modern City, Coasts, Silla Culture
Seoul - Suwon - Sokcho - Andong - Gyeongju - Busan
#3 Travel Map of Gangwon-do: Seoul - Jeonju - Daegu - Gyeongju - Busan - Andong - Sokcho - Seoul
This is the grand loop of South Korea.
You'll savor the legendary flavors of Jeonju in the west, dive into the buzzing city center of Daegu, and soak up the 'mountains-meet-sea' energy of Sokcho before heading home.
| Day | Where to Go | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seoul Arrival | Pick-up service and hotel check-in. |
| 2 | Seoul City Tour | Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village. |
| 3 | Seoul - DMZ - Seoul | Visit the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel and Dora Observatory. |
| 4 | Seoul to Jeonju | KTX to the Hanok Village and Tabsa Temple. |
| 5 | Jeonju - Daegu | Explore Haeinsa Temple and the Seongbo Museum. |
| 6 | Gyeongju | Bulguksa Temple and the Daereungwon Royal Tombs. |
| 7 | Gyeongju - Busan | Gamcheon Culture Village and the Sky Capsule. |
| 8 | Busan - Andong | Visit the UNESCO Hahoe Folk Village. |
| 9 | Sokcho - Seoul | Mt. Seorak and the Gwongeumseong Cable Car. |
| 10 | Seoul Departure | Final check-out and airport see-off. |
10 Day South Korea Round Tour: Classic Culture Heritage and Nature Wonders
Seoul - Jeonju - Daegu - Gyeongju - Busan - Andong - Sokcho - Seoul
Seoul to Pyeongchang & Gangwon-do Map: How to Get There?
How to get to Gangwon-do? Beyond the train lines to Pyeongchang, we offer several other reliable ways to get across the Gangwon-do from Seoul.
Check out these popular transport routes on the Seoul to Pyeongchang (& Gangwon-do) Map to plan your trip:
| From | To | Transport Mode | Duration | Price (Approx.) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seoul Station | Jinbu Station | KTX Train | 1h 35m | ₩24,000 ($15.8) | Every 2 hours |
| Seoul Station | Gangneung Station | KTX Train | 1h 50m | ₩25,000 ($16.5) | Hourly |
| Yongsan or Cheongnyangni Station | Chuncheon Station | ITX-Cheongchun | 1h 05m | ₩9,800 ($6.5) | Hourly |
| Seoul Station | Manjong Station | KTX Train | 1h 15m | ₩13,000 ($8.5) | Hourly |
| Dong Seoul Terminal | Sokcho Express Bus Terminal | Express Bus | 2h 30m | ₩15,000 ($11) | Every 30-60 mins |
Note: Prices reflect standard class and fluctuate by day and booking time (weekends are pricier). Check the KorailTalk app or bus booking sites for exact, up-to-date fares before you travel.
The Bus Terminal Tip: Seoul has many bus terminals. Dong Seoul Terminal is the go-to hub for Gangwon-do routes. Always double-check your departure terminal on your ticket.
ITX-Cheongchun: South Korea's only double-decker express train. Depart from Cheongnyangni if staying in northern or central Seoul like Myeongdong, or choose Yongsan if you are near Hongdae or Seoul Station.
Book KTX Early: Trains sell out fast on weekends. Use the KorailTalk app to grab your seat 2 weeks ahead.
Use T-Money: Keep your T-Money card charged. It works on local buses and taxis across all Gangwon cities.
Seasonal Peak: Winter weekends (from December through February) are busy for Pyeongchang. Expect higher demand and plan your travel time accordingly.
Transport Map of Gangwon-do: How to Get Around the Region?
Navigating within Gangwon-do relies on local transit.
As you can see on the Transport Map of Gangwon-do, while trains connect major cities like Gangneung and Chuncheon, intercity buses or taxis are necessary for moving between coastal towns like Gangneung and Sokcho.
| From | To | Transport Mode | Travel Time | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gangneung Intercity & Express Bus Terminal | Sokcho Intercity Bus Terminal | Intercity Bus | 1h 10m | ₩8,000 ($5.3) |
| Chuncheon Intercity Bus Terminal | Sokcho Intercity Bus Terminal | Intercity Bus | 2h 40m | ₩17,000 ($11.2) |
| Wonju Intercity Bus Terminal | Gangneung Intercity & Express Bus Terminal | Intercity Bus | 1h 30m | ₩11,000 ($7.2) |
| Manjong Station (Wonju) | Gangneung Station | KTX Train | 40m | ₩14,000 ($9.2) |
| Gangneung Station | Jinbu Station (Pyeongchang) | KTX Train | 20m | ₩7,000 ($4.6) |
Note: Prices and travel times are estimates and subject to change based on scheduling and booking class.
In Gangneung, the Intercity Bus Terminal and the Express Bus Terminal are located in the same building while they are technically two separate systems.
Many Gangwon-do cities feature separate bus terminals.
For instance, Sokcho's Intercity and Express terminals are 3.5 km apart, requiring a 10-minute taxi ride or 20-minute local bus journey. Double-check your departure station!
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