Pyeongchang

평창

Famous as the host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, this mountainous town offers world-class ski resorts and stunning Alpine scenery year-round. It's the premier winter sports destination in South Korea and a gateway to mountain hiking.

Things to do

• Alpensia Resort Skiing — South Korea's largest ski resort with multiple runs suitable for all skill levels and the main venue for the 2018 Winter Olympics alpine events.
• Yongpyong Resort — A premier ski destination featuring the Sung-Sang slope and Olympic slalom course, offering both winter sports and summer alpine activities.
• Pyeongchang Olympic Stadium Tour — Visit the iconic Olympic venues and museum to relive the 2018 Winter Games history with guided tours available year-round.
• Daegwallyeong Pension Valley Hiking — Explore scenic mountain trails through valleys and forests surrounding Pyeongchang with varying difficulty levels suitable for casual to experienced hikers.
• Five-Color Mineral Spring — Soak in natural hot spring baths believed to have therapeutic mineral properties, a popular relaxation spot for visitors.
• Odaesan National Park — A vast protected mountain area featuring ancient Buddhist temples, pristine forests, and well-maintained hiking trails with panoramic views.

Food to try

• Dakgangjeung — Glazed chicken pieces seasoned with soy and served as a beloved local comfort food, particularly popular in Gangwon region restaurants.
• Memil Guksu — Buckwheat noodles served cold or in hot broth, a traditional Gangwon specialty that originated in the mountainous regions.
• Jjukumi — Small grilled octopus seasoned with garlic and butter, a delicacy found at local Pyeongchang restaurants and mountain lodges.
• Mountain Vegetables Bibimbap — Rice bowl topped with wild seasonal mountain vegetables, gochujang, and egg, utilizing local farm-fresh ingredients specific to Pyeongchang.
• Trout (Songeo) Grilling — Fresh-caught trout from local mountain streams grilled whole with salt, a signature dining experience at riverside restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Winter Sports Culture — Pyeongchang residents are passionate about skiing and winter sports; showing interest in local resorts and Olympic heritage is appreciated by locals.
• Book Accommodations in Advance — Winter months and holiday periods fill rapidly due to ski season demand, so reservations should be made well ahead to secure lodging.
• Understand Mountain Weather Changes — Mountain weather in Pyeongchang shifts rapidly; visitors should prepare for sudden temperature drops and carry layers regardless of season forecasts.
• Learn Basic Korean Ski Terminology — While many resort staff speak English, learning simple Korean phrases for skiing instructions and directions enhances the experience at local slopes.