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
Diyana A.
“I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!”
I highly recommend Kwan as your tour guide. It was the 3 of us, my mother, my sister, and I. He went above and beyond from itinerary planning, to driving, to last minute adjustments, it was all so wonderful. He was very happy to cater to our wants and needs, from dietary to activities. Kwan was also so knowledgeable of Korea and shared so many insights. He was very happy to learn on our culture and religion during the trip as well. Kwan was very chivalrous - assisted my mother with her door every time, help carry our bags, and even brought us bottled waters and Korean tangerines! We had an amazing time and we look forward to return to Seoul and reserve a tour with Kwan again!
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Kwan J.
Thank you so much, Diyana, for your wonderful review! It was also such a cheerful and memorable time for me. This was my first opportunity to learn more about Islamic culture, and I truly enjoyed visiting the mosque in Itaewon, exploring halal restaurants, the mart, and even the prayer room. I learned so much and it was amazing! You and your lovely mother and sister are such kind and delightful people. I was so glad to see you really enjoying an autumn day in Seoul. I sincerely hope you will come back again in January—I would be very happy to guide you once more!
John F.
“An informative and very enjoyable day.”
We had a delightful day with Kwan J. He is a knowledgeable, considerate and helpful guide. His command of English is excellent, as is his level of knowledge. He displays a deep understanding of his clients’ needs. We had an extremely enjoyable and informative day and recommend him unhesitatingly.
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Kwan J.
Dear John, Thank you so much for your kind words. I truly enjoyed spending time with you and your wife—it was a pleasure guiding such a genuinely curious and appreciative couple. I’m grateful for your sincere interest in Korea and hope the memories you made here stay with you for a long time. Wishing you all the best, and I hope you’ll visit again in the future!
Stanford K.
“Amazing Seoul with Kwan J.”
Touring with Kwan was the best. He is the consummate professional tour guide. From pick-up to drop- off at our hotel, Kwan did an amazing job of driving, guiding and educating us about this vibrant metropolis. His knowledge of the sights we visited was impressive and provided us with a better understanding of South Korea. He made sure at all times that we were well cared for. Our visit to the National Folk Museum was extremely interesting. So much to see ! Kwan took us to a wonderful Korean restaurant where we had the most divine dumplings and Korean noodle soup. The visit to the Changdeokgung Palace was inspiring, especially watching the visitors who were dressed in traditional Korean dress. Because of our limitations, Kwan was very considerate and redirected our tour to be less physically demanding and provided an interesting drive around of nearly two hours to see the city sights from the comfort of his luxury vehicle. We highly recommend Kwan to be your guide In Seoul.
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Kwan J.
Thank you so much, Linda & Stanford! It was truly a pleasure spending the day with you both. You’re such a warm, kind, and fun couple—I felt like I was touring with my own parents! I really appreciated your genuine interest in Korean culture and history, and it was so rewarding to share those stories with you. I’m glad we could adjust the tour to make it comfortable and enjoyable, and I hope the memories stay with you for a long time. Wishing you both continued health and happiness—and I truly hope to welcome you back to Korea again someday!
$400/ per group
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