Can I visit Bongpyeong Traditional Market and use its shops around 8 PM?

According to the article, when visiting Bongpyeong Traditional Market close to 8 PM, most shops were closed, with only a few remaining open. Therefore, it might be difficult to access many shops if you visit late in the evening.

How much does an iced Americano cost at 'Sigol Cafe' within Bongpyeong Traditional Market?

An iced Americano sold at 'Sigol Cafe' located within Bongpyeong Traditional Market costs ~$3. The article mentioned that it felt relatively expensive due to the abundance of cheaper franchise coffee shops.

When can I see buckwheat flowers in full bloom at Moonlight Serene Romantic Park?

Buckwheat flowers are said to be in full bloom at Moonlight Serene Romantic Park in September. The article recommends visiting again at that time to see the buckwheat flowers and revisit the market.

What kind of buckwheat-related foods can I taste at Bongpyeong Traditional Market?

Bongpyeong Traditional Market had several Makguksu (buckwheat noodles) restaurants, and you could taste Memil-jeonbyeong (buckwheat crepes) and Susu-bukkumi (sorghum pancakes) at specialized buckwheat food establishments. In addition, various other products made from buckwheat were also on sale.

Pyeongchang's Bongpyeong Market & Moonlight Park: An…

Planning a trip to Pyeongchang, South Korea? You absolutely have to check out Bongpyeong Traditional Market and the enchanting Moonlight Romantic Park in Bongpyeong-myeon. I recently had the chance to visit these charming spots, and I’m excited to share my experience!

My adventure began when I arrived in Pyeongchang yesterday, August 5, 2026. After settling in, I looked for a local church near Phoenix Park for Saturday evening mass. Bongpyeong Cathedral popped up, so I headed to Bongpyeong-myeon. Conveniently, Bongpyeong Traditional Market was right across from the cathedral, making for a perfect post-mass stroll.

Bongpyeong Traditional Market

Bongpyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Province

While I was a little late to the party — it was almost 8 PM — most of the market stalls were already closed for the day. However, a few resilient shops were still open, so I decided to wander around and see what hidden gems I could find.

Right in front of the market, I spotted a quaint spot simply called "Countryside Cafe." An iced Americano here was ~$3. In an era of budget-friendly chain coffee shops, it felt a little on the pricier side, but the charm of a local cafe often makes up for it.

One of the first places that caught my eye was a Makguksu (buckwheat noodle) restaurant. Bongpyeong is famously associated with Lee Hyo-seok's novel, "When the Buckwheat Flowers Bloom," so it's no surprise that buckwheat-related products are a staple here. You'll find a variety of delicious items made from buckwheat throughout the traditional market.

This shop was a treasure trove of local specialties and diverse buckwheat products.

There was something truly nostalgic about this particular store, evoking a sense of stepping back in time.

On a chilly evening, a warm bowl of Sundaegukbap (Korean blood sausage soup) would hit just the spot!

Even at this late hour, some eateries were still bustling with customers, a testament to their local popularity.

I also found a traditional shop selling bedding, shoes, and clothing – a common and essential sight in any authentic Korean market.

The market street had this wonderfully rustic and inviting atmosphere.

You can even find wild ginseng here, a highly prized traditional Korean herb!

With several specialty restaurants, Bongpyeong Market is the perfect place to explore the diverse and delicious world of buckwheat cuisine.

Don't miss the chance to try Me-mil Jeonbyeong (buckwheat crepes) and Susu Bukkumi (pan-fried millet cakes) – they're local favorites!

Every good traditional market needs a mill, and this one looked like the perfect spot to grab some freshly made rice cakes.

Pyeongchang is also renowned for its Hanwoo, or Korean beef. I spotted a Hanwoo Gopchang (beef intestine) specialty restaurant that also offered delicious-looking Hanwoo Seomori Gukbap (beef head soup) and Gamjajeon (potato pancakes).

Of course, no Korean town is complete without a trusty Chinese restaurant!

A "Fashion House" promising to make you look stylish after a visit!

I tried to pop into this Dakgangjeong (sweet and sour fried chicken) place, but they were already closing up for the night.

Another inviting Makguksu restaurant, perfect for a taste of local flavor!

Luckily, the snack bar was still open, offering a late-night bite. After my quick tour of the quiet Bongpyeong Traditional Market, I stumbled upon the beautiful Moonlight Romantic Park on my way out.

Moonlight Romantic Park

This park is renowned for its breathtaking display of buckwheat flowers, which reach full bloom in September. Imagine a field of white flowers under the moonlight – truly magical!

I really wanted to get out and explore, but it was quite chilly, so I opted to capture some photos from the warmth of my car instead.

The park was beautifully lit, making it look like a wonderful spot for a romantic evening stroll, even if I couldn't experience it fully this time.

My Final Thoughts

Bongpyeong Traditional Market, while not massive, offers an authentic glimpse into local life, with a fantastic array of buckwheat-related foods, regional specialties, and everyday goods like bedding and clothing. Right nearby, Moonlight Romantic Park awaits, promising an even more spectacular experience when the buckwheat flowers are in full bloom. I highly recommend planning your visit for September 2026 to witness the stunning floral display and enjoy the market at its liveliest!