Most first-time visitors to Pyeongchang make the same mistake: they book based on photos, not reality. I’ve lived in Korea for 25 years. I know Pyeongchang inside out. I’ve watched countless tourists overpay for inconvenient locations, trapped far from anything authentic. Don’t be one of them.
You’ll waste time and money on transport. You’ll eat overpriced, mediocre food. Your ‘convenient’ resort will feel isolated. This isn’t a place for guesswork. You need honest advice, not glossy brochures promising a ‘perfect escape’ that doesn’t exist.
I looked at 3 options covering Alpensia, Also Worth Considering in Pyeongchang to save you from a bad booking. We’ll examine if they’re truly worth your money or if you should look elsewhere. Let’s cut through the marketing fluff.
| District | Top Pick | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Alpensia | Holiday Inn Resort Alpensia Pyeongchang By IHG | Location & Value |
| Also Worth Considering in Pyeongchang | White House Pension | Location & Value |
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Table of Contents
Alpensia — Winter Sports, Family Resort
I step out at Alpensia and the air hits you – that crisp, cold mountain smell mixed with a faint hint of chlorine from the water park. The ski slopes are alive with shouts and the swish of skis, a real energy buzz.
Then you get the quiet moments, like the drive to the sheep farm where the only sound is the wind. It’s a constant shift, a bit chaotic but always interesting, and I dig that real, raw feeling of the place.
🚇 Getting There: 2 hours 15 min by KTX from Incheon Airport Terminal 1/2 to Jinbu Station, then taxi. Nearest station: Jinbu Station (KTX).
📍 Nearby: Alpensia Ski Resort · Alpensia Ocean 700 (Water Park) · Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm · Odaesan National Park · Woljeongsa Temple
Holiday Inn Resort Alpensia Pyeongchang By IHG
💡 Editor’s Verdict: You'll love it here if you're big on skiing or golfing, since it's got both right there. It's a solid pick for families or anyone wanting that full resort experience.
- ✅ Location
- ✅ Excellent room comfort & quality
- ✅ Highly Rated by Family Traveller
Also Worth Considering in Pyeongchang
These top-rated hotels in Pyeongchang are excellent alternatives worth considering.
White House Pension
💡 Editor’s Verdict: They've got free parking, which is a huge plus if you're driving around Pyeongchang. This spot's great for road-trippers or anyone looking for a comfy stay without breaking the bank.
- ✅ Top Value
- ✅ Excellent room comfort & quality
- ✅ Check-in [24-hour]
Healing Wood Pension
💡 Editor’s Verdict: It's super close to all the good food and cool spots in Bongpyeong-myeon, so you won't be bored. Definitely a smart choice if you want to explore the area and save some cash.
- ✅ Full-sized bathtubs
- ✅ Attentive host service
- ✅ Great View
Frequently Asked Questions
The fastest way is by KTX (Korea Train eXpress) from Seoul Station to Jinbu Station (진부역) or Pyeongchang Station (평창역), which takes about 1.5-2 hours. From these stations, you can take local buses or taxis to your accommodation, and using a T-money card (티머니 카드) for public transport is highly recommended.
Many tourists choose to stay around Alpensia Resort (알펜시아 리조트) or Yongpyong Resort (용평 리조트) for convenient access to ski slopes and leisure facilities. For a more local experience or if you’re exploring the Daegwallyeong (대관령) area, there are guesthouses and pensions also worth considering in other parts of Pyeongchang-gun (평창군).
While major resorts and tourist information centers often have staff who speak some English, it’s less common in smaller shops or local restaurants. It’s helpful to learn a few basic Korean phrases (한국어) or use a translation app to assist with communication.
No, tipping is generally not expected or customary in South Korea, including Pyeongchang. Service charges are usually included in prices, and attempting to tip might even cause confusion or be politely refused.
Public transportation primarily consists of local buses, which can be paid for with a T-money card (티머니 카드) or cash. Taxis are also readily available, especially around major resorts and train stations, and some resorts offer shuttle services to key attractions or train stations.
Final Tips
Hope this helps you pick a spot in Alpensia, Also Worth Considering in Pyeongchang. Seriously, both are fantastic! My advice: Book early if you’re coming in spring/fall, as those seasons fill up fast. Have an amazing trip exploring!
