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East Coast Bliss: Discover the Calm of Gangneung
Embark on a serene journey to Gangneung aboard the KTX, witnessing Korea's iconic mountainous landscapes. Explore Gangneung's rich traditional heritage, visit a tranquil cabbage field set over 1,000 meters high, and savor the region’s authentic local dishes. With private vehicle convenience, this immersive tour blends natural beauty, cultural depth, and culinary delights, offering a unique East Coast experience.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Seoul KTX station
- Please meet me at the Mc Donald on 2nd floor of the station!
Leaving Seoul station for Gangneung by KTX
The train speeds through South Korea's diverse landscapes, covering approximately 229 kilometers in under two hours. You can enjoy views of mountains, rural areas, and glimpses of the coastline as you approach Gangneung.
Gangneung station
After arriving in Gangneung by the fast and comfortable KTX, we'll step straight into a private vehicle via Socar.
Visiting Anbandegi Village – A Journey Above the Clouds!
Nestled 1,100 meters above sea level, Anbandegi Village is a breathtaking alpine paradise. Known as the "Land of Clouds," this serene village offers panoramic views of lush cabbage fields and rolling hills that seem to touch the sky. It's a photographer's dream and a nature lover's haven.
Lunch: Exploring Gangneung's local dish
Gangneung is a culinary treasure trove with a mix of seafood, agricultural delights, and traditional Korean dishes. My suggestions are as below...
-Gangneung Bulgogi: a local specialty where tender beef is marinated with a unique blend of flavors, often incorporating regional ingredients. Grilled to perfection, it offers a rich and savory taste that reflects Gangneung's culinary heritage.
- Makguksu: Spicy buckwheat noodles served cold with a tangy sauce, vegetables, and sometimes seafood. It's refreshing and perfect for summer.
- Chodang Sundubu: Soft bean curd made with seawater, giving it a unique flavor. You can find it in Chodang Dubu Village.
- Gamja Ongsimi: Potato dumpling soup with a savory broth, vegetables, and sometimes meat. It's comforting and ideal for chilly weather.
- Ojingeo Sundae: Stuffed squid filled with a mix of ingredients like vegetables and noodles. A seafood lover's delight
- Gamja Jeon: Crispy potato pancakes, golden-brown and delicious, often paired with a dipping sauce. A simple yet irresistible comfort food.
Visiting Seongyojang House – Step Back in Time
A Living Legacy: Built in the early 18th century, Seongyojang House is not just a historical site—it's a portal to the Joseon Dynasty. Imagine walking through the elegant hanok structures where noble families once lived, surrounded by serene gardens and a tranquil pond.
What Awaits You:
- Hwallaejeong Pavilion: Picture yourself standing in this picturesque pavilion, overlooking the shimmering pond as gentle breezes carry the whispers of history.
- Hidden Stories: Discover tales of the noble family who lived here, their traditions, and the significance of the house's name, "Seongyojang," which ties to the nearby Gyeongpo Lake.
Unique Experiences:
- Nature's Embrace: Stroll through the lush surroundings, where the harmony of architecture and nature creates a peaceful retreat.
- Timeless Elegance: Marvel at the intricate woodwork and design that showcase the craftsmanship of the Joseon era.
Visiting Gyeongpo Beach – Where Land Meets the East Sea
A Coastal Paradise: Imagine stepping onto a 6-kilometer stretch of soft, white sand, with the sparkling blue waters of the East Sea on one side and a lush pine forest on the other. Gyeongpo Beach is not just a beach—it's a sensory escape.
What Awaits You:
- Breathtaking Views: Witness the sun rising over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink—a moment that feels almost magical.
- Relaxation & Fun: Whether you want to sunbathe, take a refreshing dip, or try thrilling water sports like jet skiing, Gyeongpo Beach has it all.
- Cultural Charm: Stroll along the nearby Gyeongpo Lake or visit the historic Gyeongpodae Pavilion, where scholars once gathered to admire the moonlit scenery.
Coffee break at Myeongju-dong – A Coffee Lover's Paradise with a Historic Twist
A Blend of Past and Present: Myeongju-dong is where Gangneung's rich history meets its vibrant modern culture. Stroll through charming streets lined with traditional hanok-style cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries, all infused with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
What Awaits You:
- Coffee Culture: Known as the birthplace of Korea's coffee craze, Myeongju-dong offers a chance to sip on expertly brewed coffee while soaking in the area's unique ambiance.
- Hidden Gems: Explore quirky cafes with creative themes, each telling its own story, and discover local art and crafts that reflect Gangneung's creative spirit.
- Historic Charm: Wander through streets that preserve the essence of old Gangneung, with traditional architecture and a sense of timelessness.
Going back to Seoul by KTX
Ending Point
Seoul KTX Station
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- English speaking driving tour guide
- Transportation fee (KTX fare, toll & parking, gas)
- Clean & Brand-new Air-conditioned Vehicles
- If you are a group of 3, it will be Hyundai New Avante. If you are a group of 4~6, it will be KIA New Carnival.
- All Admission fees
- Bottle of water
Lunch & Beverage
Tour Important Information
- The primary transportation for this tour is the KTX and a private car, designed to provide a more immersive local experience.
- This tour does not involve a lot of walking, but wearing comfortable shoes is recommended.
Important message from the supplier
Basically available all days! However, as I have multiple job, please let me know in advance and I can flexibly schedule it!
Also, let me know your preferences! I will help you customize your own itinerary!
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Kwan J.
Hello, and welcome to Korea!
My name is Kwan, and I have been an authorized tour guide with the Korean Tourism Organization (KTO) since 2019. My tour programs are designed to provide you with authentic and meaningful experiences of Korea, focusing on its rich culture, history, and traditions rather than fleeting trends. If you're looking for a leisurely and relaxed itinerary filled with captivating stories about our heritage and people, I am the guide for you!
Additionally, I bring over 13 years of experience delivering exceptional service to VIP clients during my tenure at Cartier, the world-renowned jewelry brand. With this background, I ensure that your journey will be marked by an unparalleled level of care and attention.
Reviews
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Jori H.
“A wonderful day with Kwan!”
We really enjoyed our trip to Andong with Kwan. He picked us up promptly and was a very safe driver. The morning was bitterly cold, and he gave us hand warmers. Kwan was always attentive and showed us many kindnesses. We enjoyed visiting and learning about neo Confucian seowons, Bongjeongsa Temple with the oldest wooden building in Korea, and the Hahoe Folk Village in Andong. We also watched the Mask Dance. Kwan was a very knowledgeable guide, and you could tell he really loves the places on his tour. The scenery of the whole area was gorgeous, even in winter. It must be breathtakingly beautiful in other seasons. The restaurant we had lunch at was quaint and the food was delicious! Kwan took a lot of nice photos. By the end of the day, we felt like Kwan was our good friend. Andong is not to be missed and Kwan is the perfect guide to take you there! Thank you Kwan, for a wonderful day trip!
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Kwan J.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. I truly appreciate your kind words and the way you mentioned each place we visited together. It was my great pleasure to guide you both—such a warm, humorous, and thoughtful couple. I especially enjoyed our conversations about family and the hopes we share for our sons as parents. Moments like those make guiding meaningful for me. I’m grateful for the time we spent together in Andong, and I’m delighted to hear the day was memorable for you as well. Wishing you both many more beautiful travels ahead, and I hope our paths cross again someday.
M J.
“Very Memorable Trip in Seoul, Thank you! ”
Kwanyoung wasn't just a guide - he became like a big brother to me during our time in Seoul. From the moment we met, there was an immediate sense of connection and trust that went far beyond a typical guide-client relationship. What made our experience so special was how Kwan treated us like family rather than tourists. We shared meals together like locals, explored neighborhoods side by side, and he opened up his knowledge of Seoul in a way that felt like a friend showing you around his home city. His warmth, humor, and genuine care created moments of real brotherhood that I'll always treasure. His expertise in Seoul's dining scene and hidden gems was exceptional - he secured impossible-to-get reservations and provided insights only a true local could offer. But more importantly, he read our energy levels, adapted to our needs (including my partner's medical considerations), and created experiences that felt authentic and personal. When unexpected circumstances arose, he was incredibly understanding, handled everything with grace and professionalism. I didn't just gain a guide in Seoul - I gained a friend. I'll absolutely reach out to Kwan every time I return to Korea, and I'd recommend him without reservation to anyone seeking not just a tour, but a genuine human connection and authentic Korean experience. Thank you, Kwan. You made this trip unforgettable.
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Kwan J.
Hi, MJ! Thank you so much for your wonderful words. It was truly my pleasure to prepare every detail of your itinerary and share insights on the places you were curious about. I genuinely enjoyed our time together—especially the dinners, drinks, and the chance to introduce you to the local vibe and hidden corners of Seoul that many visitors never get to experience. Guiding you never felt like work; it felt like spending time with good friends. I appreciated how open you were to trying new things, exploring different neighborhoods, and embracing the culture with such enthusiasm. Your positive energy made the entire journey memorable for me as well. I’m grateful for the trust you placed in me throughout the trip, and I’m glad I could support you and your partner’s needs along the way. If you ever return to Korea, I’ll be more than happy to welcome you back and create even more meaningful experiences together. Thank you again for making this tour truly special. Warm regards, Kwan
Ashley L.
“Outstanding 6am Transit Tour with Kwan - Starfield Library & Local Market Highlights”
Kwan was an excellent guide, and this transit tour exceeded my expectations. He met me right on time at 6:00am, which I truly appreciated given my early arrival, and everything from that point on was seamless and stress-free. The tour was perfectly paced and very flexible. Highlights included visiting the Starfield Library, exploring a local market, and trying mung bean pancakes, which were amazing and something I wouldn’t have found on my own. Kwan did a great job balancing must-see spots with local experiences. He was a calm, safe, and attentive driver, and navigating the city during a transit layover felt effortless. He was friendly and knowledgeable without being overwhelming, and he made sure the day was tailored exactly to what I wanted. If you’re looking for a reliable, professional guide for a private or transit tour, Kwan is an excellent choice. I would absolutely book with him again.
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Kwan J.
Thank you so much, Ashley. It was truly a pleasure guiding you yesterday — I also had a wonderful time. You’re such a kind and caring person, and I really appreciated your positive energy throughout the tour. I only wish we had a bit more time so we could have explored even more places together. I hope you have an amazing and memorable time in Palawan, and I’d be delighted to welcome you back to Seoul again in the future. Safe travels, and thank you once again for a great day.
$250/ per group
More tours by Kwan J.
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Private DMZ tour
Step into one of the most unique and historically significant places in the world -- the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This remarkable tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the division between North and South Korea, blending history, tensions, and the hope for reunification. With expert guides and immersive storytelling, your DMZ journey will deepen your understanding of Korea's history while standing on the very frontier of its future.
Private DMZ tour
Heritage and Flavors of Andong
Embark on a cultural and culinary adventure to Andong, the heart of Korean heritage. Travel effortlessly by KTX from Seoul to discover Andong's rich traditions. Visit iconic landmarks like Hahoe Folk Village and Bongjeongsa Temple, and indulge in the region's famous salted mackerel. Immerse yourself in the charm of ancient Korea, its art, history, and flavors, all tailored for a seamless, unforgettable journey. Perfect for culture and food enthusiasts!
Heritage and Flavors of Andong
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K-Food Trip Version 1: Black-bean noodle & Marinated blue-crab in Incheon
Korean cuisine, much like its rich culture and long history, showcases remarkable diversity, reflecting the country's daily life and environment. To truly explore Korea, I recommend experiencing local foods at their place of origin. Discover how these dishes have evolved over time and the unique stories behind the regions you visit. K-Food Trip Version 1 takes you to Incheon's Chinatown and fish market, offering a immersive journey into the area's culinary traditions and vibrant food culture.
K-Food Trip Version 1: Black-bean noodle & Marinated blue-crab in Incheon
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K Food Trip Version 2: Namdaemun & Hanyang Fortress Walk - A journey Through Time and Flavor
Start at Namdaemun Gate, a historic landmark, then ascend to the Hanyang Fortress remains, where ancient stone walls and scenic park offer a peaceful retreat. Wander through hidden alleys, uncovering old Seoul's charm, before arriving at Namdaemun Market, loved by locals for its ling-standing family-run shops, authentic flavors, and rich history.
K Food Trip Version 2: Namdaemun & Hanyang Fortress Walk - A journey Through Time and Flavor
Other Popular Car Tour (driving guide) Tours in Seoul
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Private DMZ tour
Step into one of the most unique and historically significant places in the world -- the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This remarkable tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the division between North and South Korea, blending history, tensions, and the hope for reunification. With expert guides and immersive storytelling, your DMZ journey will deepen your understanding of Korea's history while standing on the very frontier of its future.
Private DMZ tour
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Private One-Day Tour in Seoul – Partially Customizable Itinerary + Free Photography Service
If it’s your first time in Seoul, this full-day private tour is a great way to fall in love with the city — where old traditions and modern life come together beautifully. As you explore and enjoy the day, I’ll capture your special moments with a high-resolution camera and provide professionally edited photos after the tour. The itinerary is flexible and can be customized to match your interests. Just let me know what you’d like to see or do!
Private One-Day Tour in Seoul – Partially Customizable Itinerary + Free Photography Service
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Seoul in a day, private tour
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Amazing Western Seoul Tour
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Amazing Western Seoul Tour
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