Winter is the best of all four seasons in Pyeongchang County, Gangwon Province. Living up to its nickname ‘Winter Kingdom’, Pyeongchang has a lot to offer in the winter. Here are some of the best things to do in Pyeongchang during this season.
Skiing: Pyeongchang’s Mona Yongpyong Ski Resort is already blanketed in powdery snow, ideal for skiing. “The slopes are currently in very good condition, thanks to the recent natural snowfall,” a staff member said. “On Nov. 24, the first day of the season, we welcomed over 8,000 visitors.”
‘Museum Deep Dive’ Pyeongchang, a realistic video media art exhibition center, located near the ski slopes of the resort, offers an immersive experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in snow and light, making it a popular spot for both children and young adults. ‘Journey to the Mysterious World’ spans 3600 square meters and features 12 different themes, showcasing the allure of media art. The ‘Air Tram’ simulates the experience of traveling through virtual space, complete with optical illusions that might make you feel as though you’re watching a 3D video.
After exploring the ‘Motion Canvas’ where Vincent van Gogh’s masterpieces come to life, you’ll enter the ‘Waterfall’ theme hall. Here, giant sea creatures seem to swim across the screen, creating an undersea illusion. Large sharks and killer whales appear to lunge at visitors, thrilling children and adults alike. Don’t forget to try the ice cream at the Mapping Cafe after the exhibit.
Trekking: The Woljeongsa Temple Fir Forest Trail near Odaesan is a must-visit. It’s considered one of Korea’s top three fir forest trails, along with the fir forest at Gwangneung National Arboretum in Gyeonggi Province and Naesosa Fir Forest on the Byeonsan Peninsula. The 1-kilometer path from Iljumun Gate of Woljeongsa Temple to Geumgang Bridge is a ‘barrier-free trail’, welcoming visitors of all ages, including those in wheelchairs and strollers. It’s beautiful year-round, but particularly stunning in winter when snow blankets the fir branches. This scenic beauty was featured in the Korean drama ‘Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin).’
With over 1,700 beautiful fir trees, the path invites a full day of exploration. The presence of freshly fallen, yet unmelted snow enhances the enjoyment of the walk. The sounds of the Odaechun stream flowing under the ice, coupled with the crunch of snow beneath your feet, contribute to the tranquil atmosphere. Signs along the trail bearing messages like ‘Walking meditation is simply noticing that you are walking now’ and ‘Silence helps you to fully enjoy your walk,’ promote mindfulness and quiet contemplation. The Odaesan Fir Forest Path, in contrast to the carefully tended Mill Bridge Fir Forest, offers a raw and calming environment. It features ancient trees such as ‘Fallen Fir’ and ‘Grandfather Fir,’ which remain as part of the forest landscape even after being toppled by a typhoon on Oct. 23, 2006.
Festivals: The Daegwallyeong Snow Flower Festival runs from Jan. 27 to Feb. 11, 2024. The Pyeongchang Trout Festival, scheduled from Dec. 22 to Jan. 28, is weather-dependent. “We plan to release 70 tons of farmed trout,” Yoon Seoung-il, general manager of the festival committee, said. “Ice fishing, grilled trout, and snowmobiling and rafting on ice are popular among our visitors.”
This article was originally published on Dec. 10, 2023.