Introduction
Gangneung Solhyang Arboretum spans approximately 78.5 hectares (about 240,000 pyeong) and features 23 diverse themed sections with 1,127 species and approximately 220,000 individual plants. From the entrance, visitors can enjoy the sounds of water, the fragrance of flowers, and the scent of pine trees. The arboretum includes a forest ecology observation trail formed by colonies of spicebush and snowbell trees, the “Millennial Breath Healing Path” that embodies a thousand years of waiting, the Pine Forest Plaza embraced by Geumgang pine trees, and themed gardens such as the Hosta Garden, Daylily Garden, Medicinal Plant Garden, and Dye Plant Garden showcasing a wide variety of wildflowers.
Tour Guide
Nearby attractions include Gyeongpodae, the largest scenic site in Gangneung; Seongyojang House, a traditional noble residence from the late Joseon Dynasty; Ojukheon House, the birthplace of scholar Yulgok Yi I; and Imyeonggwan Sammun Gate, where visitors can see government buildings from the Goryeo and Joseon periods. Visitors can also explore the Gangneung Coffee Museum to learn about the coffee production process and the Daegwallyeong Museum to view various stone artifacts. Other nearby attractions include the Charmsori Gramophone Museum, Jeongdongjin, Chilsadang Shrine, and Unification Park.
Travel Tips
Gangneung Solhyang Arboretum consists of 23 attractions, including the Subtropical Plant Garden, Hosta Garden, Four Seasons Garden, Hydrangea Garden, Rock Garden, Medicinal Plant Garden, Dye Plant Garden, Daylily Garden, Iris Garden, Millennial Breath Healing Path, Azalea Garden, and Sky Garden. Among these, the most notable highlights are the Forest Ecology Observation Trail, Pine Forest Plaza, Sky Garden, Rock Garden, and Tropical Greenhouse. The Forest Ecology Observation Trail features elevated wooden decks running through the forest alongside a stream, where snowbell trees form a tunnel-like canopy, offering a refreshing walk accompanied by the soothing sound of flowing water. The Sky Garden is located at the highest point of the arboretum, offering panoramic views of Gangneung city and the blue sea, while the cool breeze at the summit relieves fatigue. It also preserves the natural harmony of various plants growing among rocks. The Rock Garden was created using stones excavated during the construction of the arboretum and features coniferous trees and plants that thrive in barren conditions, creating a beautiful harmony with the rocks. The Tropical Greenhouse is the newest addition, decorated with palm trees and tropical plants, and includes a second-floor deck with tables and chairs where visitors can relax like in a café. Since 2023, nighttime landscape lighting has been installed, allowing the arboretum to operate into the evening, where visitors can enjoy beautifully illuminated trees during a night stroll. One of the biggest reasons to visit Gangneung Solhyang Arboretum is that all of these experiences are completely free. There are no parking or admission fees, making it easy to enjoy everything at no cost. The arboretum is closed every Monday (or the next weekday if Monday is a holiday). During the summer season (March–October), admission is from 09:00 to 22:00 and viewing hours are from 09:00 to 23:00. During the winter season (November–February), admission is from 09:00 to 21:00 and viewing hours are from 09:00 to 22:00. Please note that pets, bicycles, motorcycles, tents, and picnic mats are not allowed inside the arboretum.