Travelers from around the world, this winter we invite you to explore a hidden gem in Korea: Pyeongchang in Gangwon Province. If you’re looking to experience authentic local life and nature rather than K-pop or the hustle and bustle of Seoul, Pyeongchang is the perfect destination.
Although it gained global recognition as the host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang has long been a winter favorite for Koreans. With snow-covered mountains, vast meadows, and the thrill of ice fishing, its winters capture true beauty over flashiness. Here are three local highlights to fully experience a Pyeongchang winter.
Snow-Covered Sheep Paradise: Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm
No winter in Korea is complete without a visit to Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm. While the expansive pastures are beautiful year-round, they transform into a fairy-tale landscape in winter, blanketed in pristine snow. Shy sheep wandering across the white fields create picture-perfect moments at every turn. For travelers seeking a break from the bustling city and a chance to embrace the serenity and purity of nature, this farm offers an unforgettable experience.
How to Get There from Seoul Experiences at the Sheep Farm
Feeding the Sheep: A highlight of the visit. Purchase a basket of hay at the entrance and feed the gentle sheep. Watching them approach and nibble the hay is a delight for visitors of all ages. Just be careful—some sheep can be ticklish!
Walking the Farm Trails: The farm has a circular trail that takes about 40 minutes to complete. Stroll through snow-blanketed meadows and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. There are plenty of scenic spots for photos along the way.
Enjoying the View from the Summit: From the highest point of the farm, take in the sweeping white ridges of Daegwallyeong. On clear winter days, the crisp air adds an invigorating sense of freedom to the panorama.
Getting to the Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm from Seoul
KTX Train (Fastest Option)
• Departure: Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni Station on a train bound for Gangneung
• Arrival: Jinbu (Odaesan) Station, ~1 hr 20 min to 1 hr 40 min
• Fare:
• Seoul Station: First Class – ₩26,300, Standard – ₩21,900
• Cheongnyangni Station: First Class – ₩24,400, Standard – ₩20,300
To the Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm:
• Taxi: About 20 minutes; the fastest but slightly more expensive (~₩20,000).
• Bus: From Jinbu Public Bus Terminal, take a local bus bound for Hoenggye-ri. The ride takes about 30 minutes, and once you arrive at Hoenggye Terminal, you’ll need to take a taxi to reach Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm. If you have extra time, the bus is a convenient and more affordable option.
Express Bus
• Departure: Dong Seoul Terminal
• Arrival: Hoenggye (Pyeongchang), ~2 hr 30 min to 3 hr
• Fare: Deluxe – ₩21,000
• To the Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm: you’ll need to take a taxi to reach Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm.
Rental Car
For a more flexible trip, rent a car. It’s roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Seoul via the Yeongdong Expressway, with opportunities to stop at rest areas for snacks along the way. Be sure to equip your car with winter tires or snow chains, as heavy snow is common in winter. Safety comes first!
Tips for Visiting
What to Bring: Daegwallyeong is windy and cold. A thick coat, scarf, gloves, and hat are essential. Wear waterproof, non-slip shoes for snowy paths, and dress in layers for warmth.
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings are quieter and ideal for photos, as the sun illuminates the sparkling snow.
Nearby Dining: There are plenty of restaurants serving Hoengseong beef near the farm. Warm up with a hearty soup or a filling meat dish after your snowy adventure.
Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm is more than just a scenic spot. It’s a place where you can feel warmth in the cold, enjoy the peace of pure white landscapes, and create a truly special winter memory in Pyeongchang. This winter, make a day with the sheep a highlight of your journey.
Essential Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm Information
Operating Hours: 09:00 – 18:00
Address: 483-32 Daegwallyeongmaru-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Contact: +82-33-335-1966
Lockers: Not available
Website: https://www.yangtte.co.kr/
Admission Fees (2025)
Individual Visitors:
• Adults: ₩9,000
• Children: ₩7,000
• Seniors/Discounted: ₩6,000
Groups (30 or more):
• Adults: ₩7,000
• Children: ₩5,000
• Seniors/Discounted: ₩6,000
Admission Notes and Discounts
• Free Entry: Children under 36 months (3 years old) and residents of Daegwallyeong-myeon
• Children (for pricing purposes): Ages 36 months (3 years) and older, including elementary, middle, and high school students
• Group Rates: Applicable for groups of 30 or more (schools, workplaces, clubs, or pre-established organizations)
• Discounted Admission (Special Rates):
• Seniors aged 65 and above
• Persons with disabilities (grades 1–3) and one accompanying guardian
• Pyeongchang residents
• National merit recipients
Important: To receive free or discounted admission, visitors must present valid documentation verifying eligibility.
Source:
Pyeongchang County Office website – www.pc.go.kr
Korea Tourism Organization website – korean.visitkorea.or.kr
Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm website: www.yangtte.co.kr
