To truly experience Korea in winter, the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival in Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province is a must. Known among Koreans as the “Land of Snow,” Daegwallyeong transforms each year into a magical playground where massive snow and ice sculptures turn into works of art. It’s more than sightseeing—this festival immerses you in the season with countless winter delights.
Festival Highlights: Snow and Ice Sculptures
The moment you step into the festival grounds, your eyes are immediately drawn to the giant snow sculptures. Each year, professional artists meticulously craft new creations, impressing visitors with both their scale and intricacy. Sculptures depicting characters from Korean folklore or animals create an exotic and enchanting atmosphere. At night, when the sculptures are illuminated, the scene transforms into a breathtaking spectacle, offering photographers the perfect opportunity to capture unforgettable shots.
Thrilling Winter Activities
Once you’ve gotten your fill of beautiful sculptures, be sure to take part in the fun-filled activities! Popular favorites include sledding and ice slides. Zooming down giant slopes or sliding on ice brings out the inner child in visitors of all ages. You can also join traditional sledding games or snowball fights alongside locals for a more interactive experience.
Warm Local Delights to Melt the Cold
After spending time outdoors in the frigid winter air, nothing is more satisfying than warm food. The festival grounds are dotted with food stalls that provide the perfect refuge. Treat yourself to hot fish cakes, steaming soups, or try Pyeongchang’s renowned buckwheat with some savory buckwheat pancakes all ideal for warming up frozen fingers and toes. These dishes are more than just snacks; they offer a firsthand taste of Korea’s charming winter festival culture.
Getting to the Festival 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 Festival:
• Taxi: ~20 minutes from the station; convenient but around ₩20,000
• Bus: From Jinbu Public Bus Terminal, take a local bus heading toward Hoenggye-ri. The ride takes about 30 minutes, after which you’ll arrive at Hoenggye Terminal. From there, it’s roughly a 10-minute walk to the festival grounds. If you have extra time, taking the bus is a convenient and budget-friendly option.
Express Bus
• Departure: Dong Seoul Terminal
• Arrival: Hoenggye (Pyeongchang), ~2 hr 30 min to 3 hr
• Fare: Deluxe – ₩21,000
• To the Festival: ~10-minute walk from Hoenggye Terminal
Essential Festival Information
• Dates & Location: Late January to early February, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang; check the official website for exact dates
• What to Wear: It is extremely cold and windy. Bring a thick padded jacket, waterproof shoes, gloves, hat, and earmuffs
The Daegwallyeong Snow Festival is the epitome of a winter getaway, blending the pristine beauty of snow with lively festival excitement. Experience Korean warmth and hospitality even amidst Pyeongchang’s biting cold, making your winter trip truly unforgettable.
Admission Fees (2025)
• Festival Entry: ₩10,000
• Snow Sledding (5 rides): ₩5,000
No combined discounts; adult and child same price; children under 24 months free; sledding not discounted
Operating Hours: 09:00 – 18:00
Address: 135-9 Daegwallyeong-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Contact: +82-33-335-3995
Lockers: Not available
Website: https://www.snowfestival.net/
Source:
Pyeongchang County Office website – www.pc.go.kr
Korea Tourism Organization website – korean.visitkorea.or.kr
Daegwallyeong Snow Festival website: www.snowfestival.net
