The Winter Wonderland of Pyeongchang Ski Resorts
Discover the ultimate winter escape at Pyeongchang Ski Resorts, where world-class skiing meets stunning landscapes and rich Korean culture.
Nestled in the rugged mountains of South Korea, Pyeongchang Ski Resorts offer an unparalleled winter sports experience. Famous for hosting the 2018 Winter Olympics, these resorts have world-class facilities that cater to both beginners and experienced skiers. The snowy slopes are complemented by stunning winter landscapes, providing a perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Pyeongchang offers a variety of other activities such as snowshoeing, sledding, and ice fishing. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the area features numerous hot springs and spas where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. The local cuisine, rich in flavors and tradition, is another highlight, offering everything from hearty Korean BBQ to the unique tastes of traditional mountain dishes. Pyeongchang is not just about winter sports. The region is also home to several cultural attractions, including ancient temples and vibrant festivals that showcase Korean heritage. The blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture makes Pyeongchang Ski Resorts a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of winter in South Korea.
Local tips in Pyeongchang Ski Resorts
- Visit during the winter sports season from December to March for the best skiing conditions.
- Book accommodations well in advance, as rooms fill up quickly during peak season.
- Try local delicacies like Hwangtae (dried pollock) and Makguksu (buckwheat noodles) for an authentic culinary experience.
- Consider purchasing a ski pass that includes multiple resorts to explore different slopes.
- Check out the nearby Alpensia and Yongpyong resorts for additional activities and dining options.
When is the best time to go to Pyeongchang Ski Resorts?
Local Phrases about Pyeongchang Ski Resorts
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- Hello안녕하세요
[annyeonghaseyo] - Goodbye안녕히 가세요
[annyeonghi gaseyo] - Yes네
[ne] - No아니요
[aniyo] - Please/You're welcome부탁합니다/천만에요
[butakhamnida/cheonmaneyo] - Thank you감사합니다
[gamsahamnida] - Excuse me/Sorry죄송합니다/미안합니다
[joesonghamnida/mianhamnida] - How are you?어떻게 지내세요?
[eotteoke jinaeseyo?] - Fine. And you?잘 지내요. 그리고 당신은?
[jal jinaeyo. geurigo dangsineun?] - Do you speak English?영어 할 수 있어요?
[yeongeo hal su isseoyo?] - I don't understand이해하지 못해요
[ihaehaji mothaeyo]
- Hello안녕하세요
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- I'd like to see the menu, please메뉴를 보여주세요
[menyureul boyeojuseyo] - I don't eat meat고기를 먹지 않아요
[gogireul meokji anayo] - Cheers!건배!
[geonbae!] - I would like to pay, please계산을 해주세요
[gyesan-eul haejuseyo]
- I'd like to see the menu, please메뉴를 보여주세요
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- Help!도와주세요!
[dowajuseyo!] - Go away!가라주세요!
[galajuseyo!] - Call the Police!경찰을 불러주세요!
[gyeongchal-eul bulleojuseyo!] - Call a doctor!의사를 불러주세요!
[uisaleul bulleojuseyo!] - I'm lost길을 잃었어요
[gileul ilh-eoss-eoyo] - I'm ill아파요
[apayo]
- Help!도와주세요!
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- I'd like to buy...사고 싶어요...
[sago sip-eoyo...] - I'm just looking둘러보고 있어요
[dulleobogo isseoyo] - How much is it?얼마에요?
[eolmaeyo?] - That's too expensive너무 비싸요
[neomu bissayo] - Can you lower the price?가격을 깎아줄 수 있어요?
[gageog-eul kkaj-ajul su isseoyo?]
- I'd like to buy...사고 싶어요...
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- What time is it?지금 몇 시에요?
[jigeum myeoch sieyo?] - It's one o'clock한 시에요
[han sieyo] - Half past (10)10시 반
[sip si ban] - Morning아침
[achim] - Afternoon오후
[ohu] - Evening저녁
[jeonyeog] - Yesterday어제
[eoje] - Today오늘
[oneul] - Tomorrow내일
[naeil] - 1하나
[hana] - 2둘
[dul] - 3셋
[set] - 4넷
[net] - 5다섯
[daseot] - 6여섯
[yeoseot] - 7일곱
[ilgob] - 8여덟
[yeodeol] - 9아홉
[ahop] - 10열
[yeol]
- What time is it?지금 몇 시에요?
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- Where's a/the...?...이 어디에 있어요?
[...i eodie isseoyo?] - What's the address?주소가 뭐에요?
[jusoga mwoeyo?] - Can you show me (on the map)?(지도에) 보여주세요
[(jido-e) boyeojuseyo] - When's the next (bus)?다음 (버스는) 언제와요?
[daeum (beoseuneun) eonjewayo?] - A ticket (to ....)(...으로) 표 하나 주세요
[(...eulo) pyo hana juseyo]
- Where's a/the...?...이 어디에 있어요?
History of Pyeongchang Ski Resorts
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The history of skiing in Pyeongchang dates back to the late 20th century when the South Korean government began to invest in winter sports infrastructure. The first ski resort, Yongpyong Resort, was established in 1975. It quickly became a popular destination for local and international skiers, thanks to its pristine slopes and modern facilities.
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Pyeongchang gained international recognition when it hosted the 1999 Asian Winter Games. The event showcased the region's capability to host large-scale winter sports competitions and highlighted its potential as a future Olympic venue. This event marked a significant milestone in the development of winter sports in South Korea.
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Pyeongchang made three consecutive bids to host the Winter Olympics, in 2010, 2014, and 2018. Although the bids for 2010 and 2014 were unsuccessful, the efforts helped to significantly improve the region's infrastructure and international profile. The successful bid for the 2018 Winter Olympics was announced on July 6, 2011, in Durban, South Africa.
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The 2018 Winter Olympics, held from February 9 to 25, marked a historic moment for Pyeongchang. The event brought together athletes from around the world to compete in various winter sports. The Alpensia Resort served as the main venue, featuring state-of-the-art facilities such as the Alpensia Ski Jumping Centre, Alpensia Biathlon Centre, and Alpensia Cross-Country Centre.
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Pyeongchang is not only known for its winter sports but also for its rich cultural heritage. The region is home to several historical sites, including the Woljeongsa Temple, which dates back to the 7th century. The temple is a significant cultural landmark and offers visitors a glimpse into South Korea's Buddhist traditions and history.
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In preparation for the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang focused on environmental sustainability. Efforts included the development of eco-friendly infrastructure and the preservation of natural landscapes. These initiatives have helped to maintain Pyeongchang's status as a pristine winter sports destination while promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Pyeongchang Ski Resorts Essentials
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Pyeongchang Ski Resorts are located in Gangwon Province, South Korea. The nearest international airport is Incheon International Airport in Seoul, approximately 180 kilometers away. From Seoul, you can take a high-speed KTX train from Seoul Station to Jinbu Station, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take an express bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Pyeongchang, which takes around 2.5 hours. Car rentals and shuttle services are also available for more direct travel.
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Within Pyeongchang, local buses and taxis are the primary modes of transportation. Shuttle buses are available to transport visitors between the major ski resorts such as Alpensia, Yongpyong, and Phoenix Park. Renting a car can provide flexibility, but be aware of winter driving conditions. For those staying at resort accommodations, many offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the slopes.
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The official currency of South Korea is the South Korean Won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses and rural areas. ATMs are available in major ski resorts and towns, but ensure your card is compatible with Korean ATMs. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and major banks.
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Pyeongchang is generally a safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, but standard precautions should always be taken. Avoid leaving belongings unattended and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always wise to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
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In case of emergency, dial 112 for police assistance and 119 for fire and medical emergencies. Major ski resorts have medical facilities and first aid stations on-site. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Local hospitals and clinics are available in Pyeongchang for more serious health issues.
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Fashion: Do dress warmly and in layers for cold weather. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a bow or a handshake. A slight bow is a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Pyeongchang like a local, visit local markets and try traditional Korean dishes such as bibimbap and kimchi. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area. Don't miss visiting the nearby attractions such as the Odaesan National Park and the Woljeongsa Temple. For a unique experience, try a jjimjilbang (Korean sauna) after a day on the slopes.
Trending Landmarks in Pyeongchang Ski Resorts
- Monapark Yong Pyong Ski Resort
- Phoenix Pyeongchang Hotel
- Holiday Inn & Suites Alpensia Pyeongchang, an IHG Hotel
- InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort
- Hanwha Resort Pheonix Park
- RAMADA Hotel & Suites Gangwon PyeongChang
- Alpensia Ski Resort
- Dragon Valley Hotel - Yongpyeong Resort
- Phoenix Pyeongchang Resort
- Odaesan National Park
- Bliss Hill Stay - Yongpyeong Resort
- Yongpyeong Ski Resort
- Phoenix Pyeongchang Snow Park
- Hoengseong Welli Hilli Park Ski Resort
- 레인보우 3
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