A Journey Where Nature, History, and Reflection Meet
The final morning of our Gangwon journey began with a gentle sunrise over Korea’s east coast. With daylight arriving early, the last day felt unexpectedly long—in the best possible way. This day was dedicated to closing our trip with a harmonious blend of nature, history, and culture, traveling through Gangneung City and Pyeongchang County.
Ojukheon: Walking in the Footsteps of Great Scholars
Ojukheon (Gangneung)
📍 Gangneung, Gangwon-do
🔗 https://www.gn.go.kr/ojukheon
Alt text: Ojukheon traditional Korean house in Gangneung
Ojukheon is one of Gangneung’s most historically significant sites and the birthplace of Shin Saimdang and Yi I (Yulgok). As one of the oldest surviving wooden residential buildings in Korea, it preserves the Jusimpo architectural style of early Joseon Dynasty homes and is designated as National Treasure No. 165.
Walking through the sarangchae and anchae, reading excerpts from Yulgok’s writings, and viewing his personal artifacts offered an intimate look into the daily life and philosophy of Joseon-era scholars. The calligraphy by Kim Jeong-hui hanging in the sarangchae invited quiet contemplation about timeless values that still resonate today.
Sacheon Beach: A Short Pet-Friendly Walk
Sacheon Beach, Gangneung
Alt text: Sacheon Beach Gangneung winter coastline
Sacheon Beach was chosen mainly for convenience and a brief walk with our pet. While calm and uncrowded, the steep slope near the shoreline and coarse sand mixed with stones made it less ideal for extended pet walks. The waves rose quickly onto the shore, so extra caution is advised.
A Satisfying Meal with an Ocean View
Gossi’s Donghae Makguksu & Soft Tofu Noodles (Main Branch)
📍 Gangneung
Alt text: Pet-friendly restaurant in Gangneung with ocean view
This restaurant was selected based on two simple criteria: soft tofu dishes and pet-friendly seating. Pets are welcomed on the third floor, a space thoughtfully designed with wide table spacing and panoramic ocean views.
The highlight was undoubtedly the perilla oil makguksu, whose deep aroma filled the table the moment it arrived. Combined with soft tofu rice bowls and buckwheat keto gimbap, the meal felt indulgent yet comforting—an ideal way to slow down and savor the moment.
Gangmun Beach: Quiet Moments by the Sea
Gangmun Beach, Gangneung
Alt text: Gangmun Beach Gangneung peaceful winter scenery
Gangmun Beach carries a quiet elegance. Pigeons wandered freely among strolling visitors, and laughter drifted softly in the winter air. It was the kind of place where time seems to pause, making it perfect for reflection—and for capturing a family photo that now holds the sound of waves and winter sunlight.
Woljeongsa Temple: A Spiritual Closing in Pyeongchang
Woljeongsa Temple, Odaesan National Park
📍 Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do
Alt text: Woljeongsa Temple in Odaesan National Park
The drive to Pyeongchang passed mountain streams beginning to thaw and the steep ascent of Jingogae Pass, offering moments of quiet reflection. Woljeongsa, founded in 643 during the Silla Dynasty, stands today as a rebuilt but deeply spiritual site within Odaesan National Park.
The temple’s Octagonal Nine-Story Stone Pagoda is a remarkable example of Goryeo-era artistry. Listening to the soft chime of bronze wind bells echo through the forest made the final moments of this journey feel complete.
⚠️ Pets are not permitted within the national park or temple grounds.
This journey through Gangneung and Pyeongchang was not about dramatic transformation, but about being present—with nature, with history, and with oneself. Though I cannot claim to have completely changed, I return with a deeper resolve to keep trying, carrying the memory of winter seas and mountain temples with me.
