A One-Day Winter Trip to Gangneung from Seoul – A KTX Journey to a Stunning Sunrise
If you want to experience the charm of a winter sea, Gangneung is the perfect destination. Just two hours away from Seoul, it’s an ideal spot for a short getaway, even for a day trip. In the peak of winter, the ocean in Gangneung becomes clearer and bluer, offering a picturesque backdrop for a breathtaking sunrise.
🚄 From Seoul to Gangneung – Just Two Hours by KTX!
If you take the early morning KTX train from Seoul Station at 5 AM, you can arrive in Gangneung just before sunrise. By the time you wake up from a quick nap on the train, the deep blue waters of the East Sea will be there to greet you.
- KTX Fare: Round trip - approx. $40 (One-way: 27,600 KRW)
- Travel Time: About 2 hours
- Gangneung Station → Beach Transfer: Taxi - approx. $7 (One-way: 5,000 KRW)
Upon arrival at Gangneung Station, take a short taxi ride to the beach to witness an unforgettable sunrise.
🌅 A Picturesque Sunrise at Gyeongpo Beach
Gyeongpo Beach is one of the most famous spots in Gangneung, offering the perfect view of the sunrise.
Around 7 AM, as the sun rises over the horizon, you’ll feel the warmth in your heart despite the crisp winter air. Since the seaside breeze can be quite chilly, wearing a thick coat and gloves is highly recommended.
- Best Sunrise Viewing Time: 7:30 AM – 7:50 AM (varies by season)
- Top Sunrise Spots: Gyeongpo Beach, Jeongdongjin, Anmok Beach
- Tip: Watching the sunrise from the second floor of a seaside café is a great option!
☕ A Cozy Coffee Break at a Seaside Café
After enjoying the sunrise, sipping a warm cup of coffee in a beachfront café is a must. Gyeongpo Beach and its surrounding areas are dotted with charming cafés, where you can sit by the window and admire the vast ocean.
- Coffee Price: Around $3 (4,200 KRW)
- Recommended Cafés: Terarosa, Bohemian, and various roastery cafés along Anmok Coffee Street
🏝️ A Tranquil Midday Walk by the Winter Sea
Even after sunrise, Gangneung's winter sea continues to enchant visitors. As the sun climbs higher, the ocean appears even more vivid, making a stroll along the shore a peaceful and refreshing experience.
- Recommended Walking Routes: Gyeongpo Beach Trail, Gangmun Beach, Anmok Beach
- Bonus: Exploring the scenic Gyeongpo Lake area is also a fantastic option!
🍜 A Must-Try Lunch in Gangneung – Local Delicacies
No visit to Gangneung is complete without trying its famous local specialties, such as Chodang Sundubu (soft tofu stew) or fresh Hoe Deopbap (sashimi rice bowl).
- Chodang Sundubu Meal: Around $10 (14,000 KRW)
- Recommended Restaurants: Chodang Halmeoni Sundubu, Dongwha Garden (Chodang Jjamppong Sundubu), Fresh Hoe Deopbap stalls at Gangneung Jungang Market
Strolling through Gangneung’s central market and sampling local snacks is also a delightful experience!
🚆 Returning to Seoul by KTX
For a smooth day trip, you can head back to Gangneung Station after lunch and catch an afternoon KTX train to Seoul.
- Recommended Departure Time: Between 2 PM – 3 PM
- Arrival in Seoul: Around 4 PM – 5 PM
If you're looking for a short yet meaningful getaway, spending a day at Gangneung’s winter beach is the perfect choice.
Breathe in the crisp sea breeze, witness a mesmerizing sunrise, and enjoy a peaceful moment with a cup of warm coffee.
📌 A dreamy day trip from Seoul – Discover the beauty of Gangneung's winter sea!
