The Retro Vibes of a Gangneung Seaside Alley
Introduction
The sea in Gangneung takes on different colors with each season, but the walk down the old alleys toward the water always carries a similar warmth. As you follow the sea breeze weaving between worn-out signs and freshly painted walls, you naturally find your own pace in a landscape layered with traces of time.
The Retro Vibes of a Gangneung Seaside Alley
Table of Contents
- Guide
- Program Info
- Visit (Planned) Impressions
- Where to Stay
- Restaurants & Cafes
- Nearby Attractions
- Getting There
- Closing
- Photo Snapshots
- Videos
- Related News
Guide
- Trip Course Name — A Retro-Chic Gangneung Trip Filled with Hands-on Experiences!
- Trip Theme — Newtro vibes · Alley strolls · Experience-based travel
- Schedule — 2 days, 1 night / total travel distance approx. 50 km
- Main Course — Gangneung Myeongju-dong Street, Gangneung Curling Centre, Beoldnamu Brewery, Jeongdongjin Railbike, Gangneung Wolhwa Street, Gangneung Jungang Market
- Key Spot — Gangneung Curling Centre (32, Jonghapundongjang-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyodong))
- Contact — No separate main contact information is provided.
- Day 1 — Morning Stroll through the old alleys of Gangneung Myeongju-dong Street, trying on modern and contemporary outfits and visiting cafes, small museums, and cultural venues.
- Day 1 — Afternoon Head to Gangneung Curling Centre to enjoy curling and skating while soaking up the atmosphere of the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games.
- Day 1 — Evening Wrap up the day at Beoldnamu Brewery, touring the craft brewery and tasting beers that capture the “essence of Gangneung.”
- Day 2 — Morning Ride the Jeongdongjin Railbike along the shore, taking in cool sea breezes and coastal views.
- Day 2 — Afternoon Take a leisurely walk along Gangneung Wolhwa Street, enjoying its retro-inspired street scenery and photo spots.
- Day 2 — Late Afternoon Finish your trip at Gangneung Jungang Market, sampling local specialties and snacks at a relaxed pace.
For the Jeongdongjin Railbike, bring an outer layer and comfortable shoes to prepare for seaside wind and weather.
This hands-on trip to Gangneung, full of “newtro” hot spots, follows a route where old alleys and modern vibes naturally blend together. The first stop, Gangneung Myeongju-dong Street, has become a popular area where a fresh breeze has swept through time-worn alleys. You can roam the streets in modern and contemporary outfits, or linger in minimally renovated cafes that retain their old charm, as well as small museums and cultural spaces.
Next, at Gangneung Curling Centre, where the excitement of the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games still lingers, you can enjoy curling and skating. At Beoldnamu Brewery, a renovated traditional makgeolli brewery, you can observe the craft beer brewing process up close and sample beer infused with the flavors of Gangneung. The following day, you can soak in refreshing coastal scenery on the Jeongdongjin Railbike that runs along the sea, then conclude your trip by enjoying retro-inspired street views and a variety of snacks at the newly developed Gangneung Wolhwa Street and Gangneung Jungang Market.
Program Info
Walking through the alleys of Myeongju-dong, which has been a center of administration and culture since the Goryeo era, you’ll encounter a landscape where old buildings and modern spaces harmonize. It’s a great place to try on period outfits, stroll every nook and cranny of the alleys, and take photos.
At venues such as Myeongju Arts Yard, Sunshine Museum, and small theaters, you can enjoy exhibitions and performances. During the Myeongju Flea Market and Gangneung Coffee Festival, the area becomes even more vibrant with things to see and do.
At Gangneung Curling Centre, which hosted ice events during the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, you can experience curling and indoor skating. Enjoy a unique sports experience while soaking up the atmosphere of an Olympic venue.
Beoldnamu Brewery, created by converting an old takju (unrefined rice wine) factory, allows you to see the craft beer brewing process up close. Savor “Gangneung-style” beers infused with the city’s sensibility while immersing yourself in the atmosphere of a newtro hot spot.
The Jeongdongjin Railbike runs from Jeongdongjin Station along the sea for its entire length, offering both cool sea breezes and open coastal views. It’s a leisure program that creates special memories for couples and families.
Wolhwa Street, created based on the legend of Namdaecheon’s Wolhwajeong Pavilion, is a romantic promenade filled with stories of love and many photo spots. When the lights come on in the evening, the atmosphere becomes even more romantic.
Jungang Market, a traditional public market in downtown Gangneung, is packed with local specialties, snacks, eateries, and food stalls, making it perfect for a food crawl. Throughout the year you can feel the everyday life of Gangneung in its lively atmosphere.
Curling and skating programs at Gangneung Curling Centre may require advance reservations, so it’s best to check the official information and operating schedule before your visit.
Myeongju-dong alleys and Jungang Market are full of food and photo spots and tend to take longer than expected, so leaving at least one afternoon free will let you explore at a more relaxed pace.
Because of the seaside location, the Jeongdongjin Railbike area can be quite windy and temperatures can fluctuate. Check the weather in advance and bring a windproof outer layer and comfortable shoes for a more pleasant ride.
A relaxed schedule works best, as Myeongju-dong alleys and Jungang Market are ideal for slow walks.
Check the seaside weather and how cold it will feel before riding the Jeongdongjin Railbike.
Trip Impressions
I took a trip to Gangneung where various hands-on experiences are mixed into a newtro atmosphere. My first impression was a comfortable yet constantly intriguing blend of old and new. In particular, the coexistence of old hanok houses and newly decorated accessory shops in the alleys of Myeongju-dong felt endearing, and the gentle music and aroma of coffee in the cafes added a sense of leisure to the trip. Many people were walking along the beach and promenades, each at their own pace, taking photos and smiling, and that scene stayed with me for a long time.
There was also a good variety of things to see and do. At Ssangdungi Zoo, you can see many kinds of animals and enjoy experiences like feeding them or riding donkeys, making it a well-rounded full-day course for families with children. On the Myeongju-dong alley tour, emotional accessory shops, galleries, and renovated cafes line the streets, making it fun to walk around and providing plenty of great photo spots. As for food, dishes like Chodang soft tofu, fried chicken in sweet sauce, and cockle bibimbap were especially memorable, and the wide range of cafes made it easy to spend a laid-back afternoon. Walking near the sea, the sound of the waves and the salty scent of the ocean combined to deepen the unique atmosphere of Gangneung.
There was ample parking near our accommodation, and it seemed fairly easy to reach major attractions by public transport as well. I definitely want to visit again. It felt like a destination where couples, friends, or families could all have a good time, and I think those who enjoy taking aesthetic photos will be particularly satisfied. However, popular cafes and restaurants tend to have long waits on weekends and during the day, so planning your time well will make your trip more relaxed and fulfilling. Overall, I was very satisfied and would love to return in a different season if I get the chance.
Where to Stay
If you plan to move mainly around Gangneung Curling Centre, Myeongju-dong, and Wolhwa Street, it’s a good idea to consider both Gyodong and the beachfront for accommodation. Downtown offers convenient public transport and restaurant access, while hotels along the coastal road provide sea views and easy access to promenades, so you can choose according to your preferences.
6, Hasulla-ro 192beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyodong)
A city hotel in central Gyodong that offers convenient access to downtown.
Located close to Gangneung Curling Centre, it’s a great base for a 2-day, 1-night newtro course.
Distance: 1.7 km
8-6, Gyodonggwangjang-ro 100beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyodong)
A business hotel near Gyodong Square, convenient for shopping and dining.
Close to key downtown routes with good public transport access, making it easy to get around without a car.
Distance: 1.7 km
8, Gyodonggwangjang-ro 100beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyodong)
Located near Gyodong Square, ideal for exploring downtown Gangneung.
Convenient for both walking and driving, making it a good place to stay before or after visiting Myeongju-dong and Jungang Market.
Distance: 1.7 km
St. John’s Hotel, 307, Changhae-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A resort-style hotel featuring a beachside infinity pool, perfect for enjoying sea views.
Well suited for itineraries that combine seaside walks with swimming.
Distance: 3.2 km
30-5, Gyeongpo-ro 463beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Located in the Gyeongpo area, ideal for enjoying both the lake and the beach.
Adjacent to Gyeongpo Lake Plaza, making it a pleasant spot for morning walks.
Distance: 3.4 km
32, Haean-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyeonso-dong)
A hotel near the sea on Haean-ro, perfect for seaside walks and watching the sunrise.
Especially convenient for travelers getting around by car.
Distance: 4.4 km
5, Jinrihanggu 2-gil, Sacheon-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
An ocean suite hotel near Sacheon Port, ideal for enjoying tranquil sea views.
Though a bit removed from downtown, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a quiet retreat.
Distance: 7.2 km
255, Yeomjeon-gil, Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A combined leisure facility where you can enjoy both golf and resort-style relaxation.
Ideal for itineraries based on car travel, allowing for plenty of downtime.
Distance: 8.0 km
Downtown accommodation is convenient for visiting Myeongju-dong and Jungang Market, making it ideal for a newtro alley trip.
Restaurants & Cafes
If your schedule includes Myeongju-dong, Wolhwa Street, Gyeongpo, and Chodang, you can mix downtown restaurants with beachfront and Chodang cafes. Plan relaxed meal times with a balanced selection of Gangneung-style seafood and tofu dishes, dessert cafes, and coffee shops.
2959-1, Yulgok-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyodong)
A seafood and meal-specialty restaurant with good accessibility from downtown Gangneung.
Conveniently located near major attractions, making it a good stop between destinations.
Distance: 0.8 km
2934, Yulgok-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyodong)
A mood-filled cafe with a memorable bus-stop concept, perfect for unique photos.
A convenient place to pop in for a coffee break while traveling around downtown Gangneung.
Distance: 1.0 km
45, Dongbusijang-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Okcheon-dong)
A coffee-specialty cafe in downtown Gangneung, great for rich espresso and brewed coffee.
Easy to combine with a visit to Dongbu Market, making it a nice stop after a market stroll.
Distance: 1.5 km
178, Nanseolheon-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Chodang-dong)
A dessert cafe where you can try tiramisu made with Chodang tofu, highlighting a local specialty.
Great to pair with a meal at a soft tofu restaurant in the Chodang area.
Distance: 2.4 km
40, Chodang Sundubu-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Chodang-dong)
A cozy cafe known for pudding desserts made with Chodang corn.
Perfect for a light dessert after a soft tofu meal in Chodang.
Distance: 2.4 km
89-8, Chodang Sundubu-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Chodang-dong)
A snack and gift shop selling traditional glutinous rice cakes and rice cake desserts.
Ideal for picking up light treats to enjoy at your accommodation or to give as gifts.
Distance: 2.8 km
21, Changhae-ro 350beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gangmun-dong)
A cafe near Gangmun Beach where you can enjoy coffee with ocean views.
Visiting around sunset makes for an especially atmospheric experience.
Distance: 3.3 km
25, Changhae-ro 350beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gangmun-dong)
A local favorite where you can enjoy both buckwheat noodles (makguksu) and soft tofu noodle soup (sundubu kalguksu).
An ideal place to eat before or after a walk along Gangmun Beach; be prepared for waits during meal times.
Distance: 3.3 km
The Chodang and Gangmun areas are perfect for a leisurely cafe-hopping course after lunch.
Nearby Attractions
Downtown Gangneung, Gyeongpo, Chodang, and the coastal road area are easy to reach by car, making it convenient to bundle multiple spots into a single day. Combine retro-style alleys with the sea, the lake, and hands-on attractions to create a comfortable circular route.
9, Dongbusijang 3-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Okcheon-dong)
A space where you can experience traditional and creative culture centered around hanbok.
Great to combine with Myeongju-dong if you’d like to take photos in traditional attire.
Distance: 1.8 km
131, Nanseolheon-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Chodang-dong)
An indoor tourism and experience space where you can explore digital content and the metaverse.
A good all-weather stop when visiting the Chodang area.
Distance: 2.0 km
415, Haean-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Chodang-dong)
A lakeside park with well-developed walking paths and rest areas around Gyeongpo Lake.
Great for bike rentals or light walks, with beautiful views around sunset.
Distance: 3.1 km
14, Nambu-ro 163beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Noam-dong)
An interactive animal space where children can interact with animals.
A good half-day experience to include in family itineraries.
Distance: 3.3 km
66, Saimdang-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Hongje-dong)
An indoor playground space for children, enjoyable regardless of the weather.
Ideal for spending time with kids on rainy or snowy days.
Distance: 3.6 km
226, Nambu-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Noam-dong)
A soccer park equipped with grass fields and sports facilities for everyday use.
A nice spot for sports activities or a light walk combined with some downtime.
Distance: 3.8 km
536, Haean-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Anhyeon-dong)
A hotel pool facility where you can enjoy swimming with the sea as a backdrop.
Perfect for adding a water-play day to your summer itinerary with family or a partner.
Distance: 3.8 km
7, Gwansol-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Hoesan-dong)
A themed experience and exhibition space dedicated to liquor brands.
For adult travelers, it pairs well with a visit to Gangneung breweries.
Distance: 4.2 km
When traveling with children, balance indoor and outdoor attractions and allow plenty of rest time.
Getting There
Public Transport — The address of Gangneung Curling Centre is 32, Jonghapundongjang-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyodong). From Gangneung Express/Intercity Bus Terminal or Gangneung Station, you can take a city bus or taxi. It is relatively well connected to major attractions in the city.
By Car — Enter downtown Gangneung via the Gangneung IC on the Yeongdong Expressway, then follow signs toward the main sports complex. There is parking available at and around Gangneung Curling Centre, making it convenient to plan a 2-day, 1-night course centered on car travel.
Closing
A newtro-style trip to Gangneung weaves together old alleys, the sea, and modern cultural spaces in a way that makes you feel more relaxed just by walking. From the alley scenes of Myeongju-dong and Wolhwa Street to the curling centre, railbike, brewery, and market, the route lets you experience both Gangneung’s old-time charm and its present-day vibrancy.
The itinerary is easy to cover in two days and one night, making it enjoyable at each person’s own pace whether you’re with a partner, family, or friends. As you follow this course filled with the sea, alleys, flavors, and experiences, take your time to create your own personal picture of Gangneung.
