Gangneung’s Tradition

History and tradition at the heart of Gangneung

Gangneung-daedohobu Government Office

• Daedohobu refers to a regional government office, equivalent to the current provincial offices. Gangneung was recognized with this title from the late Goryeo period onward. Today’s Gangneung-daedohobu Government Office encompasses restored buildings from the Joseon era, centered around the impeccably preserved Chilsadang Government Office and the Main Gate of Imyeonggwan Guesthouse. It stands as the prime location to experience the history and tradition of Gangneung at the city’s core.



Gangneung-daedohobu Government Office
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Chilsadang Government Office
• Located to the left of the main gate, the Chilsadang Government Office derives its name from “Chilsa,” indicating that the officials managed seven (chil) distinct types of tasks (sa). Annually, it hosts the “Sinjubitgi (brewing of the sacred liquor)” ceremony, which is crucial for brewing the liquor for the Gangneung Danoje Festival on lunar April 5. This tradition underscores its significance to the Gangneung Danoje Festival. On May 12 (Sunday), a month prior to the Gangneung Danoje Festival, a special event will occur where rice donated by Gangneung residents is transformed into ceremonial liquor. A 600-year-old ginkgo tree standing in front of the Chilsadang Government Office bears witness to its history and cultural legacy.



Magistrate’s Office



Uiunru Pavilion
• Beyond the main gate of the Gangneung-daedohobu Government Office, visitors can observe the Magistrate’s Office and the restored Uiunru Pavilion behind it. The Uiunru Pavilion offers vistas of Gangneung’s ancient city center.



Main Gate of Imyeonggwan Guesthouse
• Opposite the pavilion lies a modest yet striking wooden structure, the Main Gate of Imyeonggwan Guesthouse, designated as a National Treasure of Korea. The guesthouse has been recently restored and served historically as official lodging for central government officials or ambassadors. Today, the Main Gate is the sole survivor of the era.



Main Gate of Imyeonggwan Guesthouse: Entasis Pillars
• The Main Gate features entasis pillars characterized by their concave mid-sections. While the wooden roof, eaves, and pillars might seem simple at first glance, the sophisticated construction techniques highlight late Goryeo and early Joseon architectural styles.



• Gangneung-daedohobu Government Office marks Gangneung’s initial spot to witness the new season. Plum blossoms peering over the wall signal the onset of spring, with spring flowers blooming at historical sites throughout the city. Embrace the new season with a spring picnic at Gangneung’s historical and traditional heart.
• • Fees Free of charge
  • Opening Hours 9:00~18:00(Open all year round)
  • Nearby Sights Myeongju-dong Alleyway, Imdang-dong Catholic Church, Wolhwa Street, Gangneung Jungang Market

Gangneung-daedohobu Government Office : 6, Imyeong-ro 131beon-gil, Gangneung-si