Last Updated on April 8, 2022
Looking for a South Korea getaway filled with mountains for hiking, a beach for surfing, a cabin-stay by a river, and spas for relaxing? Sounds too good to be true, right? Although, I love to daydream, I promise I did not make this place up. You can find all of this and more in Yangyang, South Korea!
Where is Yangyang, South Korea and how do I get there?
Yangyang, South Korea is in the northeast corner of the country. There are many ways to get here depending on where you are coming from. Though, the easiest option is to drive via personal vehicle.
To get to Yangyang by car:
Use the address below to input Yangyang into either Naver or Waze for directions. This address will take you to Yangyang Intercity Bus Terminal, which is central to most things in the area.
English Address:
25 Yangyang-ro Yangyang-eup Yangyang-gun Gangwon-do
Korean Address:
강원 양양군 양양읍 양양로 25
Military Travel Tip:
If traveling from Kunsan Air Base in Gunsan, I suggest breaking up the trip with a stop at either Osan Air Base or Camp Humphreys. The route to Yangyang will take you right past both bases.
To get to Yangyang using public transportation:
Getting around South Korea without a car is not a problem. The country offers an abundance of transportation options that can get you to where you need to go via bus, train, plane, or taxi. Though, note that travel time may take longer than if using a personal car.
Depending on where you are traveling from, typically taking a bus to Yangyang is the cheapest and most-direct option. If you are coming from further south in the country, taking a train (and bus), or flying to Yangyang International Airport may be a faster option.
You can search for your travel options here or make your decision based on the major South Korea cities below.
How far is Yangyang, South Korea from Seoul?
Car: ~2 hours
Bus: ~2.5 hours
Train: N/A
How far is Yangyang, South Korea from Busan?
Car: ~5 hours
Bus: ~7 hours
Train + Bus: ~7 hours
Plane: ~1 hour
Things to do in Yangyang, South Korea
Hike or visit Seoraksan National Park
Plan to spend a morning, or the whole day hiking and exploring Seoraksan National Park. It’s absolutely stunning! In fact, it’s even home to the largest bronze seated Buddha in the world. The buddha signifies the wish for reunification between North and South Korea.
There are many different hiking trails to choose from ranging from easy to difficult. Seoraksan National Park is also a UNESCO Biosphere Protection Site. This protects its beautiful landscapes and wildlife, which includes Korea goral, Musk deer, otters, and over 2,000 other animal species, as well as over 1,400 plant species.
Visit waterfalls
There are tons of waterfalls in the area of Yangyang, many of which are right in Seoraksan National Park. Others are a little more off-the-beaten-path and require a little hiking to reach. Note that not all waterfalls are flowing throughout the year but are more prevalent after heavy rain.
Visit the 8 best sights of Yangyang
Want to know more about Yangyang, its culture, and what makes locals and visitors love the area? Visit the 8 best sights of Yangyang.
- Namdaecheon Stream
- Daecheongbong Peak
- Osaekryeong Pass
- Osaek Jujeongol Valley
- Hajodae Pavilion
- Jukdojeong Pavilion
- Namae Harbor (location of the movie, “Whale Hunting”)
- Naksansa Temple Uisangdae Terrace
Wander around Sokcho for lunch or coffee
Sokcho is a nearby town convenient to Seoraksan National Park. It’s a great place for a brief stop to wander around, grab lunch, or check out one of the many cafes. I suggest grabbing lunch to go and sitting by the lake to eat then stroll around. This is also a good place to stop on your way back to your cabin to grab groceries or other necessities for your stay.
Bathe in the Osaek Carbonated Hot Springs
Head to the Osaek Carbonated Hot Springs for a relaxing and invigorating experience. This isn’t the best activity if you’re body shy; every guest must strip down to use the hot springs. Though, they are segregated into a male and female side. Each side has the same variety of eight hot springs to dip in with each having a different pH and temperature level. The experience can be a bit confusing and overwhelming, but just plan to go into it with an open mind and follow the other bather’s leads.
Hang out at one of the many beaches
The best part about visiting Yangyang, South Korea is the vast variety of beaches to bathe, relax, and even surf at.
One of my favorite beaches in Yangyang is Surfyy Beach. Surfyy beach is a perfect spot for all of your Insta-worthy beach posts. It has plenty of space to lounge, relax, and catch some rays. It offers a beachside restaurant that sells refreshing drinks and delicious food. And did I mention the surf?
Did someone say surfing?
Give surfing a try at one of the many beaches along the coast of Yangyang. I highly suggest heading to Surfyy Beach. It’s perfect for beginners (you can even get English surfing lessons!). If surfing is not your thing, an appealing alternative option is to grab a drink/food on the beach and watch the surfers from a comfy beanbag chair.
Check out the food scene
Yangyang has a pretty good selection of restaurants and pubs, as well as cute and trendy cafes. Check out Singlefin Aleworks for their beer and pizza, as well as Burger Stage for their burgers!
Where to stay in Yangyang
You’ll notice on your visit that many locals enjoy playing and staying right on the beach. There are certain beaches that allow visitors to tent camp right on the sand.
Another fun and fabulous option is to stay in a cabin/pension by the river. I highly recommend checking out the Osaekyunga Pension for an authentic Korean experience – 강원 양양군 서면 관대문길 23-26
You can find more information on how to book your stay here or contact us to help you book your next South Korea getaway!
What is the best time of year to visit Yangyang?
Aim to visit in the late spring, summer, or early fall months. Summer is peak tourist season for Yangyang – and for a good reason. Think of this region as the San Diego of South Korea.
How long should I stay in Yangyang, South Korea?
There are so many things to do in Yangyang, South Korea that suggest planning your stay for at least 3 nights if possible.
The length of your stay also heavily depends on what your plans are for your trip.
If visiting for the hiking, plan at least one or two days for exploring Seoraksan National Park.
If going for the beaches (or adding a beach day to your hiking trip), I would suggest spending at least one day on Surfyy Beach or exploring other beaches in the area.
Don’t forget to make some time for the food and café scene in Yangyang, as well as general sightseeing around town!
What to bring on your trip
- Beach gear (swimsuit, sandals, sunglasses, beach towel, etc.)
- Hiking gear (clothes, shoes, backpack, water bottle, etc.)
- Layers/warm clothes for nights (even if visiting in the summer months)
- If staying at Osaekyunga Pension, find my packing list here.
Military Spouse Travel Tips:
A trip to Yangyang, South Korea is great for couples, families, or even a squadron/large group trip. Check out group accommodations here. You may need to find a translator to help you book – but the experience is worth it!
*This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase an item through a link on this page, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. You can read the full disclaimer here.
Calling all military spouses!
In order to provide the best experience for all military spouses, I need YOUR help! I am looking for guest posts on things to do or places to travel around different bases around the world. If you have a base you would like to contribute, please send me an email!
