Gangwon-do(Samcheok-si)

Hwanseongul Cave is the biggest lime stone cave in Korea. Its length is 6.5 km and it features fantastic stalagmites, stalactites, and about 10 lakes and waterfalls. Some spots of interest include stalactites that look like the Great Wall of China and many other uniquely shaped figures.The mercury inside of the cave keeps it at a cool 12-24℃ in the summer and 8-9℃ in the winter. It takes about 30-40 minutes to the entrance and approximately one hour to look around the cave. Keep in mind that the steep slope at the entrance may be difficult for the elderly and young children.


Gangwon-do(Wonju-si)

Chiaksan National Park (치악산국립공원) was designated as a national park in December 1984. For years Chiaksan has inspired hikers with its towering mountain sides and magnificent deep valleys. Its was once referred to as "Jeokak," but the name has since changed over time, due in large part to a mythical story. There once a man that rescued a pheasant from being eaten alive by a snake. When the man later found himself in danger, that pheasant saved his life in return. Because of this story the name became "Chiaksan."The temple connected to that story is Sangwonsa Temple. South of Sangwonsa Temple in Sangwon-gol is the Natural Monument Seonghwang Forest. To the west are Sejondae, Mangyeongdae and Mun Stone and Adeul (Son) stone. You can also see fortress walls from the myth of Jeonransa Temple such as Yeongwon Fortress, Haemi Fortress and Geumdu Fortress. Near the main peak Birobong is Seokgyeongsa Temple, where the soul of Ungok Won Cheon-Seok is said to be resting, and Ipseokdae, Sinseondae, Tejongdae and Nogoso. Behind them you can enjoy the magnificent landscape of Seryeom Waterfall, Sadari Byeongchang, Changde Rock and Tugubong Peak.Also on the top of Birobong are the famous three stone pagodas (10m high). Guryongsa Temple was established by Monk Uisang (625~702) of the Silla Kingdom (BC 57∼AD 935), during the reign of King Munmu. Other attractions include Daewungjeon (Local Tangible Cultural Property No.24), Guryong Waterfall, the Turtle Stone, Tiger Stone and Dragon stone nearby.For many years, Chiaksan was dotted with numerous temples. However, as time wore on, only Guryongsa Temple along with seven others remain today. At Guryong Valley there is a forest of pine trees that are hundreds of years old. The main ridges of Chiaksan are steep to the west but slope gently in the east.


Gangwon-do(Pyeongchang-gun)

Located within the clear air and fresh canyon waters of Gangwon-do, Phoenix Park’s Blue Canyon is a water theme park reminiscent of the Mediterranean Sea with various themed rest areas and fun water rides. These rides include the ‘Up Hill Slide,’ the first of its kind in Korea, as well as the largest and longest family slide, which are some of the most popular entertainment rides among visitors.  


Gangwon-do(Sokcho-si)

Ulsanbawi is composed of six granite peaks, each bearing a x_width of 4km. You can see the spectacular scenery of Seorak Mountain, the East Sea, Dalma Peak, and Haksapyeong Reservoir from the top. There are three varying theories as to what the name Ulsanbawi implies: that it looks like a fence, that its name was copied from Ulsan of Gyeongsangnam-do, and that the Korean term of “crying mountain” was translated into Chinese characters. Because of the way the whole mountain reverberates the sound of thunder in rain, it is also referred to as Cheonhusan.The arduous 4km hike up that takes roughly two hours to reach the peak is worth it. Views from the top are simply breathtaking.


Gangwon-do(Chuncheon-si)

The Gangchon Resort (강촌유원지) is a small village nestled along the Bukan River in Chuncheon, Gangwon-do. The river is on one side of the village, while Bongwhasan Mountain and Samaksan Mountain are on the opposite side, creating a beautiful scenery from all directions.Gangchon Station is conveniently located near the entrance to the recreational area. Many young couples enjoy taking the romantic train rides to this cozy little village. Therefore, this spot has became a popular place for college students to go to on weekend trips.The village area has campgrounds, a youth hostel and other lodging facilities, bicycle paths, bungee jump facilities and many other recreational areas.In addition, the area is especially famous for mountain biking. There are many places to rent bicycles; for those are not accustomed to mountain biking, motorized bicycles are also available. The most popular bicycle course is the well-made route to Gugok Waterfall. Bicycles can be left in the parking lot located near the entrance to the waterfalls. From the entrance, it is just a short hike up to the waterfall. As there will be many people using this popular bike route, follow the crowds and do not worry about getting lost. The 67 meter high waterfall is a natural wonder. People flock to this spot in the summer to escape the heat and in the winter to see the ice sheets gracefully frozen in time.


Gangwon-do(Yangyang-gun)

Located in the Eastern part of Taebaeksan mountain range, Micheongol Recreational Forest is known for its rich forest where the natural ecology is well preserved. In secluded areas, thick stands of trees rise, and clean valleys have been undisturbed by human activity, providing breathtaking scenery. The forest is also home to Seollimwonji, a cultural asset of the Silla period (BC57~AD935), the Bulbaragi mineral springs, and a honeybee yard. While offering an experience in both culture and nature, one can tour Micheongol on foot or while riding a mountain bike. As accommodations in the forest offer only bedding, visitors must make sure to bring toilet articles, cooking utensils, and tableware. Prices range between 30,000 and 50,000 won. To get there, take a bus for Yangyang at the Dong Seoul Bus Terminal. In Yangyang, take a local bus for Galcheon and get off at the entrance to Micheongol. Walk up about 2 kilometers and you will see the entrance to Micheongol Recreational Forest.


Gangwon-do(Pyeongchang-gun)

Alpensia Resort located at Daegwallyeong in Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do is a tourism & leisure complex open year round, allowing visitors to enjoy the area’s pristine natural beauty throughout each of the four seasons. The name ‘Alpensia’ is a combination of the words ‘Alpen,’ (German term for ‘the Alps’), ‘Asia,’ and ‘Fantasia’—together they reflect the resort’s scenic view of the ‘fantastic Alps of Asia.’Standing on a lot measuring around 1,480,000 pyeong (4,892,562m²), the complex boasts a variety of super deluxe luxury accommodations and topnotch leisure facilities such as a 45-hole golf course, convention center, water park and ski slopes. The resort successfully hosted the IBU Biathlon World Cup Pyeongchang in 2008 and boasts excellent ski jump and biathlon facilities, a monorail, cross-country ski slopes, and a large stadium.After a hard day out on the slopes or golf links, visitors can head to the sky lounge, ecology learning center, or Retail Village shopping mall. The resort is also adjacent to many other tourist attractions such as Odaesan Mt., Samyang Sheep Ranch, Korea Botanic Garden, Lee Hyo-Seok Literature Museum, and Herb Nara.


Gangwon-do(Chuncheon-si)

Jade Garden, created under the theme of ‘Small Europe in the Forest,’ is located near Jade Palace Golf Club on a plot of land measuring 160,000 square meters. The 24 distinctively-themed areas in the garden boast a total of 3,000 plant species including rhododendron, maple trees, irises, and blueberry bushes as well as patches of thick, natural forests. The arboretum makes the most out of its natural valley topography and presents visitors with a mix of tidy gardens, graceful flowers, and an array of European-style architecture.For the convenience of its guests, Jade Garden operates a Tuscan-style visitor’s center where patrons can enjoy a simple snack or beverage and purchase souvenirs. Visitors may choose from three different walking courses (each 2 hours in length) around the arboretum and there a gardening program is also available for aspiring gardeners.


Gangwon-do(Pyeongchang-gun)

Phoenix Park is a vacation resort, surrounded by nature 700m above sea level. Less than two hours away from Seoul, it is a perfect mountain area resort, containing everything from hotels, condominiums, ski resorts, and a golf course. Phoenix Park, which was designated as an official Tourist Site in 1999, is open all year round, but it is especially crowded in winter during the ski season. The runs are divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced level so that people can ski by their corresponding level.The ski range makes maximum use of the surrounding mountains. Therefore from any one of the twelve courses, you can clearly see the 500 meter-wide ski base at the bottom of the slope. The ski range also has a mogul run, an 8-person gondola, a 500 meter ski base which is the largest in Asia, cliff-style ski slopes, and the best quality facilities, which all adds to its popularity. Even the facilities are of international level. A wide variety of slopes, the highest quality rental service, a large cafeteria that can seat 1,000 persons, meeting rooms, children’s play room, and many more are offered for your comfort and enjoyment.


Gangwon-do(Jeongseon-gun)

Gangwon Land Casino is Korea’s first ever casino to allow the admission of Koreans. It was established under the ‘Special law regarding support for the development of abandoned mine areas,’ which was passed in 1995 with the purpose of resuscitating the economy of such abandoned mine areas. Gangwon Land is a hotel resort with 199 rooms at present, priding over its superior casino facilities with 960 slot machines and 100 tables. Gangwon Land Casino has skilled dealers and serves free beverages to players.