As a traveler fascinated by both history and winter sports, visiting the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympic sites felt like stepping into a living postcard. Nestled in South Korea’s Gangwon Province, this mountainous region blends Olympic grandeur with serene natural beauty—a must-see for any foreign visitor. Here’s my immersive experience!
⛷️ The Heart of Action: Alpensia Sports Park
This valley-shaped hub hosted ski jumping, biathlon, and cross-country skiing. The Ski Jump Tower dominates the skyline—take the elevator up for panoramic mountain views. Nearby, the Alpensia Sliding Centre (used for bobsleigh/luge) offers thrilling public rides (book ahead!). Don’t miss the Olympic Museum, where interactive exhibits and athlete stories bring the Games to life.
🏂 Adrenaline Central: Phoenix Snow Park
Where snowboarders and freestyle skiers made history! Now a year-round resort, its Olympic Halfpipe remains intact. In winter, ski or snowboard the same slopes as Olympians; summer transforms it into a mountain biking/hiking paradise. The vibe here is electric—locals cheer beginners from chairlifts!
🏟️ Iconic Symbol: PyeongChang Olympic Stadium
Though temporary (dismantled post-Games), its legacy lives on. The site—marked by a striking Five-Ring Monument—is perfect for photos. Nearby Jinbu Station features Olympic murals and a mini-exhibition about the stadium’s eco-friendly design.
🚆 Beyond the Games: Hidden Gems
- Odaesan National Park: Hike trails dotted with Olympic art installations.
- Local Eats: Warm up with hoddeok (sweet pancakes) or makguksu (buckwheat noodles) in PyeongChang town.
- K-Pop Connection: BTS filmed their “Snow Flower” MV here—ask locals about filming spots!
✨ Visitor Tips
- Getting There: Take a 2-hour KTX train from Seoul to Jinbu Station, then shuttle buses to venues.
- Timing: Winter (Dec–Mar) for snow sports; spring/summer for lush greenery and festivals.
- Guided Tours: Join English-friendly tours (offered at Alpensia) for behind-the-scenes insights.
💭 Final Thoughts
PyeongChang isn’t just about frozen moments in time—it’s a dynamic region where Olympic spirit thrives in friendly locals, adrenaline-pumping activities, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a sports fanatic or a curious wanderer, this snowy wonderland promises an unforgettable Korean adventure. Gamsahamnida for the memories!
Have you visited PyeongChang? Share your stories below! 🗨️❄️