• Heavy winter coat • Thermal inner layers • Thick sweaters • Warm pants • Scarf, hat, gloves • Winter boots • Warm socks • Moisturizer • Lip balm • Sunscreen • Hand warmers • Backpack • Reusable water bottle • Snacks • Camera or smartphone • Portable charger • Umbrella or poncho • Ear muffs • Face mask • Comfortable outfit • Reusable shopping bags • Entertainment (books or headphones) • Neck pillow and blanket

TRAIN

My Review of the Pyeongchang Day Trip Recently, I had the pleasure of embarking on a beautifully organized day trip from Seoul to Pyeongchang. The trip blended nature, culture, and history seamlessly, offering something for everyone. Here’s my take on this unforgettable experience: Morning at Woljeongsa Fir Tree Forest Trail Our journey began early, taking the KTX from Seoul Station to Pyeongchang Station. From there, we boarded a connecting vehicle to Woljeongsa Temple in Odaesan. The highlight was the Fir Tree Snow Scene Forest Trail, which is breathtakingly serene. Surrounded by thousand-year-old trees and fresh mountain air, this trail felt like a natural detox for both the body and mind. Walking through it, you could truly feel the essence of “phytoncide,” a term often associated with the beneficial oils emitted by trees. Learning and Lunch at Jeonggangwon: Korean Traditional Food Experience Center Our next stop was Jeonggangwon, a location known for being featured in the Korean drama Sikgaek. Here, we were immersed in traditional Korean food culture. Watching the live demonstrations of bibimbap making, injeolmi pounding, and tteok (rice cakes) brought the process alive in a way that made it more meaningful. Tasting the food was a delight—each bite was rich with history and flavor. Highlight: Traditional Market – Bongpyeong 5-Day Market This part of the trip stood out as the most fascinating experience for me. The Bongpyeong Traditional Market gave me a true glimpse into the everyday lives of local Koreans. The market is alive with activity, featuring a variety of local goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It’s not just about the products—it’s about the stories and history behind them. One of my favorite parts was the overwhelming hospitality of the vendors. They were eager to share samples, offer recipe tips, and explain the origins of their goods. The food stalls were the star of the show! I indulged in pajeon (savory pancake) and makgeolli (rice wine), which felt like a warm hug on a chilly day. The scents of freshly cooked tteokbokki, grilled fish, and sweet hoddeok filled the air. It’s not just a place to shop; it’s a cultural hub where locals and visitors gather to exchange smiles, stories, and laughter. This market exuded a sense of tradition and authenticity that made it my favorite part of the trip. Afternoon at Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch Later, we visited the Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch, a stunningly peaceful attraction ranked as one of CNN’s 50 Must-Visit Tourist Spots. The landscape was picture-perfect—rolling green hills dotted with fluffy sheep grazing lazily. It was a tranquil way to wrap up the trip, offering beautiful photo opportunities and some downtime in nature. Closing Thoughts This day trip was a journey through Korean culture and landscapes, blending historical significance with natural beauty. The Bongpyeong 5-Day Market remains the heart of this experience for me, as it encapsulated the vibrant traditions and hospitality of the region. If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience near Seoul, this itinerary is highly recommended. I hope you enjoyed this review! Let me know if you want me to refine or add anything!