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Balwangsan Skywalk

4.6
·4k reviews·Pyeongchang-gun, South Korea

Walk among the clouds on a thrilling glass skywalk with breathtaking panoramic mountain views.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Clear skies, mild temps

CrowdLow
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Balwangsan Skywalk - Image 1

Balwangsan Skywalk

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Clear skies, mild temps

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Walk among the clouds on a thrilling glass skywalk with breathtaking panoramic mountain views.

4.6
(4k reviews)

"Amazing walk with amazing view. Can see through the floor as well. Scary experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Dress for the Cold

It's often windy and cold, even in milder seasons. Pack layers, a windbreaker, and gloves for comfort.

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your cable car tickets online in advance.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Balwangsan Skywalk

Balwangsan Skywalk

Summit

Walk among the clouds on this thrilling glass-bottomed skywalk offering panoramic mountain vistas.

Observatory Deck

Observatory Deck

Summit Building

The top tier provides awe-inspiring, 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks. A must-see for any visitor.

Yew Tree Trail

Yew Tree Trail

Near Summit

Enjoy a serene and easy stroll through a peaceful park dotted with ancient yew trees.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Winter visits can be freezing and windy, impacting visibility. Check the weather forecast before you go, as fog or clouds can obscure the spectacular mountain views. Plan your ascent to avoid missing the last cable car down at 5:45 PM, especially in colder months.

Cable Car & Parking

The cable car is the primary way up, and it can get busy. Arrive early to secure parking, as lots can fill up quickly, particularly during peak ski season. Consider purchasing tickets online for potential savings and to streamline your entry.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Clear skies, mild temps
Crowd
Low
When
Winter afternoons (early)
Why
Potential for snow, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🧥 Dress for the Cold

It's often windy and cold, even in milder seasons. Pack layers, a windbreaker, and gloves for comfort. Reddit

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your cable car tickets online in advance. Reddit

🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking

Parking lots fill up fast, especially during ski season. Aim to arrive before peak hours. Reddit

☁️ Check Weather Forecast

Views are weather-dependent. Fog or clouds can significantly obscure the scenery. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Dress for the Cold

It's often windy and cold, even in milder seasons. Pack layers, a windbreaker, and gloves for comfort. Reddit

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your cable car tickets online in advance. Reddit

🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking

Parking lots fill up fast, especially during ski season. Aim to arrive before peak hours. Reddit

☁️ Check Weather Forecast

Views are weather-dependent. Fog or clouds can significantly obscure the scenery. Reddit

⏰ Mind the Last Cable Car

The last cable car down is at 5:45 PM. Plan your visit accordingly, especially in winter. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the spectacular mountain views and the unique experience of the glass-bottomed skywalk. The well-maintained cable car system and the serene yew tree trail are also frequently highlighted as positives. However, some find the winter weather to be extremely cold and windy, which can impact visibility and the overall enjoyment of the trails.

"Cold and windy, but view is good. Did not manage to go to the trail as it was freezing. The last cable car end at 5pm and visitors need to come down by 5:45pm. It’s a little too dark to go up after 4pm during winter. There is a cafe and souvenir shop."

Young Gun

"A very nice place. A beautiful scenery. I am a little bit disappointed when I came here today because there was no snowfall for the past few days. So all the snow are slowly showing the sign of melting. No fluffy snow there when I visited."

Fakhurudin Rosli

"It has a good observatory deck with beautiful view across the mountains. Enjoyed an easy stroll among the yew trees. Serene and a great spot to recharge in between ski sessions."

Ree-Gent H'ng

What People Like

Spectacular mountain views
Unique skywalk experience
Serene yew tree trail

What People Dislike

Extreme cold/wind
Limited visibility in fog

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Balwangsan Skywalk is by taking the Balwangsan Cable Car from the base station. Parking is available at the base, though it can get crowded. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the base of the cable car station. However, it's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, as it can fill up quickly. Reddit

No, you cannot drive directly to the Balwangsan Skywalk. The ascent to the summit is primarily done via the cable car for environmental and safety reasons. Reddit

From cities like Seoul, you can take a KTX train to Pyeongchang or Gangneung, and then a local bus or taxi to the Balwangsan Cable Car base. Renting a car offers more flexibility. Reddit

While possible, it requires multiple transfers. Taking a KTX to a nearby station and then a local bus or taxi is the most feasible public transport route. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are for the cable car ride. While specific prices can vary, purchasing online through platforms like Yanolja can offer discounts. Reddit

Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office at the base of the cable car station or online through various travel platforms. Reddit

Yes, booking tickets online through platforms like Yanolja often provides more affordable rates compared to on-site purchases. Reddit

The cable car typically operates until 5:00 PM, with visitors needing to descend by 5:45 PM. It's crucial to check the exact operating hours, especially during winter. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially online, is highly recommended to secure your spot and potentially get better prices, particularly during busy periods. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The skywalk itself offers dramatic shots with the glass floor. The top observatory deck provides expansive panoramic views. Don't miss the serene yew tree trail for different perspectives. Reddit

It can be a bit challenging due to the movement of people and the need to capture the depth. Holding your phone or camera steady and being mindful of others is key. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the glass skywalk and enhance sky colors. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed. However, be respectful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Professional photography might require permits. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting. However, be mindful of the cable car's operating hours. Midday can be good for clear, bright shots if the weather is good. Reddit

🎫 ❄️ Winter Experience

In winter, Balwangsan can be very cold and windy, with potential for snow. The views can be stunning if clear, but fog and clouds are also common. Reddit

Yes, Balwangsan Skywalk and the cable car generally operate during winter, offering a unique snowy landscape experience. However, always check operating status due to weather. Reddit

Dress in warm layers, including thermal wear, a heavy coat, waterproof outer layers, a hat, gloves, and sturdy, waterproof boots. Reddit

Yes, it's highly likely to see snow during winter months, especially at higher elevations. The landscape transforms into a winter wonderland. Reddit

Be aware of icy conditions on paths and stairs. The extreme cold and wind can be hazardous, so limit exposure time if necessary and stay hydrated. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Balwangsan Skywalk offers a unique adventure for families. The cable car ride is exciting for children, and the yew tree trail provides a safe and easy space for them to explore. The skywalk itself can be a thrilling experience, though some younger children might find the glass floor a bit daunting. Reddit It's advisable to gauge your child's comfort level with heights and transparent surfaces. Ensure everyone is dressed warmly, as mountain weather can be unpredictable and cold, especially for little ones. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers

For those who appreciate natural beauty, Balwangsan is a gem. Beyond the main attractions, the yew tree trail offers a peaceful walk amidst ancient trees. Reddit While the skywalk is the primary draw, the surrounding mountain scenery is spectacular, especially during autumn foliage or winter snow. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and potentially clearer views. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Balwangsan provides incredible photographic opportunities. The skywalk itself is a unique subject, especially when capturing the interplay of light and glass. The observatory deck offers sweeping panoramic shots of the mountain ranges, perfect for landscape photography. Reddit Aim for golden hour for the best light, but be mindful of the cable car's operating hours. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the vastness of the scenery. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of the Skywalk

The Balwangsan Skywalk is the star attraction, a transparent walkway that extends from the summit building, offering a unique perspective of the mountains below. Walking on the glass floor can be a thrilling, albeit slightly scary, experience for some, providing a sense of walking on air. Reddit The views from the skywalk are breathtaking, especially on a clear day, allowing visitors to see for miles across the undulating peaks. It's a popular spot for photos, capturing the dramatic landscape and the daring act of walking on glass. Reddit

It's important to note that the experience on the skywalk is highly dependent on the weather. On foggy or cloudy days, visibility can be severely limited, diminishing the impact of the transparent floor. Visitors have noted that the view can be obscured, making it less of a spectacle. Reddit Therefore, checking the weather forecast before your visit is crucial for maximizing the enjoyment of this unique attraction. The skywalk is designed to be safe, but the psychological effect of the transparency is what makes it memorable. Reddit

Navigating the Ascent: The Cable Car Experience

The Balwangsan Cable Car is the primary mode of transport to reach the summit and its attractions. The ride itself is quite scenic, offering increasingly expansive views as you ascend. The system is described as new and well-maintained, providing a smooth and exciting journey to the top. Reddit The ride is longer than some might expect, adding to the overall experience of reaching the mountain's peak. It's a comfortable way to bypass the strenuous hike and directly access the skywalk and observatory. Reddit

However, the cable car can be a bottleneck, especially during peak times. Visitors have reported that parking lots at the base can become jam-packed, requiring patience to find a spot. Reddit Furthermore, there are strict operating hours, with the last cable car descending at 5:45 PM. This means visitors need to plan their time at the summit carefully to avoid being rushed or missing the last ride down, particularly during winter when daylight hours are shorter. Reddit

Beyond the Skywalk: Serenity and Scenery

While the skywalk is the main draw, Balwangsan offers more than just a glass-bottomed thrill. The summit area features a pleasant park with yew trees, providing a serene environment for a leisurely stroll. Reddit This offers a peaceful contrast to the excitement of the skywalk and is a great spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. The lower overhanging decks also provide excellent vantage points for appreciating the scenery without the height-induced anxiety of the skywalk. Reddit

The observatory deck on the top tier of the building is another highlight, offering truly awe-inspiring, unobstructed views across the mountains. Reddit This is where you can truly appreciate the scale and beauty of the landscape. For those who enjoy a bit of nature and tranquility, the yew tree trail is a perfect addition to the visit, making Balwangsan a well-rounded destination for both adventure and relaxation. Reddit

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