A Winter Journey to the Pyeongchang Trout Festival, Following the Glittering River and the Thrill of the Catch
Introduction
When I think of Odaecheon with winter light settled over it, I first recall the cold air seeping through the ice and the gentle sound of flowing water. Laughter gathers around the small holes drilled in the clear ice above the river, and the movement of trout felt at your fingertips deepens the excitement of a winter trip even more.
Table of Contents
- Guide
- Program Information
- Visit (Planned) Impressions
- Accommodation Recommendations
- Restaurants & Cafés
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Get There
- Closing
- Photo Snapshots
- Videos
- Related News
Guide
- Festival Name : Pyeongchang Trout Festival
- Period : 2026-01-09 ~ 2026-02-09
- Opening Hours : 09:00 ~ 17:00
- Venue : 3562 Gyeonggang-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Odaecheon Pyeongchang Trout Festival Grounds)
- Admission Fee : Paid (fees vary by program such as ice fishing, tent fishing, rides, etc.)
- Main Programs : Ice fishing, tent fishing, bare-handed trout catching, indoor fishing, winter leisure sports and experience facilities
- Host / Organizer : Pyeongchang Trout Festival Committee
- Inquiries : 033-336-4000
- Official Website : www.festival700.or.kr
- 10:00 Arrive at the festival grounds, then head to the ice fishing or tent fishing area to enjoy trout fishing.
- 12:00 Warm up over lunch at the food zone with trout sashimi, grilled trout, spicy fish stew, and more.
- 13:30 Join the bare-handed trout catching experience and feel the dynamic pull of the fish in the icy water.
- 15:00 Explore winter leisure facilities such as sledding, snow rafting, ice bikes, and argo rides, and enjoy free-time activities.
- 16:30 Stroll around the indoor fishing area or photo spots, take your time snapping pictures, and browse nearby shops.
Operation of ice fishing may change depending on the condition of the ice at the festival site.
*The food information below is based on the previous year’s (2025) festival and is currently being updated for the 2026 festival.*
The Pyeongchang Trout Festival is a celebration reborn from the memories of our ancestors enduring long, harsh winters, retold as a winter story of snow, ice, and trout. Every winter, when the thick ice forms over Odaecheon, visitors can gaze at the fish swimming in the clear river below and enjoy trout fishing on the ice, experiencing the thrilling bite along with a variety of winter activities all in one place.
Held around 3562 Gyeonggang-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, this festival is a cultural tourism event encompassing not only ice fishing but also winter leisure sports, hands-on experiences, food, and performances. Even in the cold river wind, the grounds are filled with warmth and laughter, offering time to create lasting memories of your winter trip.
Program Information
This is the festival’s signature program, where you drill a hole through the thick ice on Odaecheon and fish for trout. As you drop your line while watching the trout swimming beneath the clear ice, you can feel both the chill of the winter river and the electrifying tug at your fingertips.
For those who find the outdoor cold a bit too much, tent fishing and an indoor fishing area are also available. You can enjoy fishing in a sheltered, warm space, making it especially popular with families with children and older visitors.
This hands-on program invites you to step into water about 50 cm deep and catch trout with your bare hands. The cold of the winter water will shock your body at first, but the moment you hold a live trout in your arms, a special sense of accomplishment and laughter comes naturally.
A separate children’s fishing area is operated so kids can enjoy fishing safely. With shallow water and relatively easy conditions, it’s a great place for their first fishing experience.
Various winter play facilities such as sledding, snow rafting, ice bikes, argo rides, and skating are prepared. The speed of gliding over the snow and the echoes of laughter throughout the grounds enhance the joy of winter fun.
With an all-inclusive pass covering multiple winter activities, you can efficiently enjoy sledding and other experiences. If you plan to try many activities within a set time, using this pass is a good choice.
At the festival’s food court, you can enjoy a variety of trout dishes such as trout sashimi, grilled trout, and spicy fish stew. There’s also an option to have the trout you personally caught prepared on-site, satisfying both the thrill of the catch and your appetite at once.
The ice fishing area only operates when the ice thickness meets safety standards, so it’s best to check beforehand, especially around the opening period or when temperatures fluctuate.
Families with children or those who feel the cold easily will have a more relaxed experience if they plan mainly around tent fishing or the indoor fishing area.
The food zone offers various menu options centered on trout dishes, so allow enough time to enjoy the unique experience of eating trout you caught yourself on-site.
If you’re sensitive to the cold, consider planning your schedule mainly around tent and indoor fishing.
Take advantage of the option to have the trout you catch cooked on the spot.
Visit (Planned) Impressions
There’s still a little time before the Pyeongchang Trout Festival (January 9 – February 9, 2026) begins, so I’m planning to visit soon. As we wait for winter to settle in in earnest, I find myself imagining the scenery of small ice holes appearing one by one on a pure white snowfield, and I’m filled with anticipation. Even if my fingers go numb in the cold air, a warm cup of coffee and the aroma of freshly grilled trout are sure to feel all the more comforting.
From what I’ve found recently, the festival takes place at Odaecheon Pyeongchang Trout Festival Grounds in Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, and it runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tent fishing reservations must be made online at least two days in advance, with a daily limit on participants, so popular time slots can fill up quickly. Trout is a cold-water fish that grows in clean water, so people say both the sashimi and grilled trout are excellent, with the flavor deepening in the crisp winter air.
Personally, I’m especially looking forward to the leisurely pace of winter activities and the sound of people’s laughter. When I imagine the sound of sled wheels gliding over snow, the tap of fishing rods on the ice, and the steam rising from hot soup in the tent all mingling together, my heart feels warmer already. There are many accommodations around the festival site, but weekends tend to book up quickly, so it’s best to secure a place to stay in advance. I’m already tucking this festival into my heart as a soon‑to‑be memory of a beautiful winter day.
Accommodation Recommendations
Around the festival grounds you’ll find a wide range of options, from pensions by Odaecheon to lodgings nestled along the mountainsides. Many are within roughly a 10 km drive, making it easy to plan a one‑day or overnight (two‑day, one‑night) itinerary centered on the festival.
264-56 Bangadari-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A private pool‑villa‑style accommodation ideal for trips with family or friends.
Rooms can sell out quickly on weekends and during peak season, so advance reservations are recommended.
Distance: 5.6 km
64 Yangji-gil, Yongpyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A tranquil lodging surrounded by a pine forest.
If you’re seeking a quiet retreat, consider staying on a weekday.
Distance: 5.9 km
233-2 Ganpyeong-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A nature‑friendly pension tucked between mountains and forest.
If you’re driving, it’s a good idea to check the exact location on your navigation system in advance.
Distance: 6.7 km
108-16 Tapdong-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A modest, homely guesthouse‑style lodging.
During peak‑season weekends, it’s safer to check room availability by phone or online in advance.
Distance: 6.8 km
1012 Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Located near Daegwallyeong, making it convenient to combine with nearby sightseeing.
Great for planning a trip that includes skiing or viewing snow‑covered landscapes.
Distance: 8.6 km
14-9 Hwae 1-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A cozy pension‑style lodging located in the Jinbu-myeon area.
If you’re driving, consider the route between the festival grounds and the lodging when you book, for easier travel.
Distance: 9.1 km
47 Odaesan 3-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Located near Odaesan, ideal for trips combined with hiking.
As this area often gets snow in winter, it’s best to bring snow chains and other winter gear if you’re driving.
Distance: 9.8 km
2 Odaesan 3-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A nature‑focused lodging themed around meditation and relaxation.
If you prefer a quiet atmosphere, consider planning a more leisurely stay before or after your festival visit.
Distance: 9.9 km
If you’re driving, prepare winter gear in advance for snowy road conditions.
Restaurants & Cafés
Around Jinbu-myeon and centered on the festival grounds, you’ll find not only trout specialty restaurants but also buckwheat noodle places, Korean eateries, and cafés. It’s best to look for spots that are easy to stop by in line with your route and timing.
109 Cheongsong-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Close to the festival grounds, convenient for a simple meal or drink.
During the festival, there may be waits at mealtimes, so it’s better to visit with some time to spare.
Distance: 0.4 km
15 Jinbusijang Dwit-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A modest café where you can enjoy both coffee and traditional rice cakes.
A good place to warm up and take a short break after fishing.
Distance: 0.5 km
100-5 Jinbu Jungang-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A Korean restaurant located in the center of Jinbu-myeon.
It can get crowded at lunch and dinner, so visiting a bit earlier can be helpful.
Distance: 0.8 km
1857 Odaecheon-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A restaurant specializing in trout sashimi, perfectly matching the festival mood.
Consider travel time before and after your meal and plan your visit with some leeway.
Distance: 1.5 km
36-29 Jingogae-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A Korean restaurant located on the way to Odaesan.
Ideal for planning meals together with sightseeing around the Odaesan area.
Distance: 5.4 km
58 Mangwabong-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A restaurant near Daegwallyeong known for its refreshing buckwheat noodles (makguksu).
It’s a manageable distance to travel for a meal after visiting the festival.
Distance: 5.7 km
144-16 Shinyaksoo-ro, Yongpyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A Korean restaurant where you can dine surrounded by nature.
In winter, it’s best to allow extra travel time, taking road conditions into account.
Distance: 6.2 km
377-81 Unduryeong-ro, Yongpyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A Korean restaurant in Yongpyeong-myeon that pairs well with a scenic drive.
It’s a nice stop to include when planning your festival schedule and driving route.
Distance: 8.2 km
If you’re planning to eat trout dishes, allow enough time for travel after fishing.
Nearby Attractions
The area around the Pyeongchang Trout Festival grounds is dotted with both natural and cultural sites, making it easy to explore on a half‑day or full‑day schedule. Considering travel distances, we recommend choosing just one or two places and visiting them at a relaxed pace.
110 Songjeong-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A space where you can find local tourism information and exhibitions together.
Good to visit before or after the festival to help plan nearby travel routes.
Distance: 1.8 km
52-77 Neunggol-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A place where you can enjoy healing programs in nature.
If you want a quiet time, consider visiting on a different day from your festival outing.
Distance: 4.3 km
10-6 Eokdudong-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A pleasant walking route along the scenery of a rural village.
It can be slippery after snowfall, so bring suitable walking shoes.
Distance: 4.6 km
279-16 Duel-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A lavender‑themed farm where you can enjoy different scenery each season.
Operating periods and programs may vary by season, so be sure to check before visiting.
Distance: 5.0 km
231 Jingogae-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A garden space featuring European‑style landscaping and photo zones.
There are many photo spots, so bring a camera and spare battery if you can.
Distance: 7.3 km
147 Suhang Jeolteo-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A historical site with a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.
In winter the area becomes even more serene, making it pleasant for a stroll.
Distance: 7.3 km
1011-26 Bangadari-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A multi‑purpose space offering rest and activities in nature.
Ideal for families to enjoy walks and photo‑taking together.
Distance: 8.2 km
330 Tapdong-gil, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A traditional village preserving Pyeongchang’s rural scenery.
A nice stop on a quiet winter drive to take in rural landscapes.
Distance: 8.5 km
After snowfall, some roads and walking paths can become slippery, so please be mindful of safety.
How to Get There
Public Transportation — The festival address is 3562 Gyeonggang-ro, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Odaecheon Pyeongchang Trout Festival Grounds). If you take the KTX Gyeonggang Line, get off at Jinbu Station (Odaesan Station). Travel time is about 1 hour 40 minutes from Seoul Station, about 1 hour 20 minutes from Cheongnyangni Station, and about 1 hour 10 minutes from Sangbong Station. Intercity buses to Jinbu also run from Seoul’s Dong Seoul Bus Terminal and Nambu Bus Terminal, and you can access the area by intercity bus from Gangneung and Wonju as well.
By Car — From the Seoul metropolitan area, enter the Yeongdong Expressway toward Gyeonggang, exit at Jinbu IC (Jinbu TG), and drive about 3 minutes to reach the festival grounds. From the Chungcheong, Jeolla, and Gyeongsang regions, the typical route is also to take the Yeongdong Expressway and exit at Jinbu IC.
If snow is in the forecast, consider taking public transportation such as trains or buses.
Closing
The Pyeongchang Trout Festival offers the thrill of the catch on the frozen surface of Odaecheon and a chance to share warmth and laughter even in the cold winter river breeze. As you cast your line while watching trout swim beneath the clear ice, you’ll find that even the icy air transforms into a special kind of excitement.
If you’re planning a winter trip, consider spending a slow, unhurried day at this festival where snow, ice, and trout come together. The small tremor you feel at your fingertips and a single warm meal will make this winter one you’ll remember for a long time.
Photo Snapshots
Videos
