Reflections on a Journey to Gangneung
As January passes, I reflect on wrapping up 2025.
It was a year that can't be summed up in a single word,
but nothing in this world is truly useless.
If things go well, that's great; if not, it's just a good experience.
In the end, it's all about the memories we create.
Looking back, I hope I can smile at the memories of 2025.
I hope 2026 brings even more moments that make me smile.
So!!
I decided to end 2025 with a romantic train trip to Gangneung.
I originally planned to depart from Seoul Station, but changed it to Cheongnyangni.
Yes, I missed the train, and it was fully booked!
Fortunately, there was a train from Cheongnyangni to Gangneung, so I hurried there.
I even managed to buy a sandwich before boarding the train.
While dreaming of a train romance, I wondered who would sit next to me.
I walked to my seat, excited, but it turned out to be an elderly lady sleeping while watching a rib recipe on YouTube.
Maybe I've watched too many movies.
I enjoyed my sandwich comfortably while wearing my glasses, and soon we arrived in Gangneung.
I arrived at my accommodation safely while checking the map!
But why are there no traffic lights at the crosswalk here?
I desperately sent a longing gaze to cross the street.
Finally, I crossed the road and was amazed by the scenery on my way to eat.
I couldn't resist taking pictures here.
I prefer places with low buildings over tall skyscrapers.
I wonder if this alley and scenery look beautiful to the locals too?
This is my favorite photo taken in Gangneung.
On my way to the Ongsimi restaurant, I encountered cat murals in the alleys.
I couldn't move forward because I was so captivated.
I intended to visit the Ongsimi restaurant I found on the train, but it was closed despite being listed as open online.
So, I found another nearby Ongsimi restaurant.
It seemed to be a famous spot.
I ordered Ongsimi and potato songpyeon, thinking that since I was alone, I should order two dishes.
I noticed others were sharing one Ongsimi and one potato pancake between two people, but I was alone, so I finished it all myself.
The potato songpyeon came sprinkled with sesame oil and salt, creating a sweet and salty combination.
It was delicious, truly.
Once I started, I couldn't stop.
I promised myself not to eat yakgwa, but how could I resist?
I bought a pack of yakgwa and wrote a solid review, earning myself an extra piece.
I wanted to experience the Christmas festival in Gangneung, and I finally did.
Although it wasn't anything special, I took a lot of pictures.
The reason I came to Gangneung was to eat squid sundae.
When I returned to my accommodation, I realized I had bought the wrong item; I needed egg wash, but I ended up with nurungji.
It didn't taste like what I had before!
While excitedly thinking about the squid sundae, I returned to my accommodation.
I encountered a little boy who kept staring at me while I was eating alone.
Was it his first time seeing a sister eating alone?
His mother told him to stop staring and eat, embarrassed.
When I greeted him, he blushed, and it was amusing, so I kept greeting him.
By the time I finished my meal, the little boy waved goodbye.
I felt like I was popular with kids.
After eating, I went to a cafe, but I almost cried because I got lost.
But I didn't cry.
I took a picture in a stylish manner.
Cheers to a good day, good coffee, and good scenery!
While enjoying the view of the sea, a couple asked me to take their picture.
I took a cute picture of them.
I took pictures like a photographer, suggesting different poses.
I enjoyed taking pictures for them.
I should have brought a box of this chicken gangjeong home; it was the best I've ever had.
As night fell, it was time for bar hopping.
The bar sign was hilarious!
The owner probably used the old sign out of laziness.
How did they name the bar 'Modern Water Purifier'?
When I first entered, I was the only customer, which felt awkward.
But soon, another solo traveler came in.
The owner helped us start a conversation.
It turned out to be a really fun time.
The person next to me was also traveling alone from Seoul, and we found out we were the same age.
We fist-bumped in excitement!
Time flew by as we chatted, and we almost stayed until closing time.
I can't remember exactly what made our conversation so enjoyable.
I was recommended Kavalan whiskey, and I plan to try it later.
This trip to Gangneung was a perfect way to end my 20s.
I feel grateful that 2025 ended in such a beautiful place.
I can't believe how many wonderful experiences I packed into this trip.
I love Gangneung!
As I write this, I'm excited about my upcoming trip to Mukho next week.
I have a feeling that the start of 2026 will be just as romantic.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/record_hyeon-/224154887311
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