In contrast to the hustle and bustle of Seoul, a two-and-a-half-hour bus journey to South Korea’s east coast transports nature enthusiasts to Sokcho, a coastal city that’s also a steppingstone to Korean paradise: Seoraksan National Park. A feature on the peninsula, it’s filled with all essential national park requisites: peculiarly shaped mountains; native fauna; and ancient temples dating to the Shilla era.
There’s no wonder it was recently dubbed a Biosphere Protection site by UNESCO.
Read ahead for details on getting there and choosing what to explore.
Getting to Seoraksan National Park
Getting to the Biosphere Protection site and National Park is straightforward. From Sokcho city, take local bus 7 or 7.1. Both take a similar route, and heave along several roads for approximately sixty-minutes before dropping passengers at the park entrance (the final stop).
Once on board, pay the fare to the driver, take a seat, and watch in awe as the mountains gradually increase in size.
See the information at the bottom of this article (under the heading ‘Getting to Sokcho’) for detailed instructions on getting there from Seoul.
Seoraksan National Park Layout
The park is immense! Stretching for several hundred kilometres through the region, there are multiple sections to visit, but only one that’s advisable if short on time: Outer Seorak. It’s the most accessible part of Seoraksan … close to Sokcho and home to many noteworthy natural sights.
The other two areas, which are further afield (yet equally notable), include Inner and Southern Seorak. They, too, have landscapes that inspire awe, but access takes longer as they’re more remote.
I spent my day wandering and hiking through the sites of Outer Serak and I left feeling completely satisfied I’d had a full nature-immersion experience.
Although I couldn’t summit Seoraksan Mountain, its peak – Daecheongbong, the third highest point in South Korea – can be reached in the same day as exploring sections of Outer Seorak. Set out early so there’s ample time to see everything on your wish-list.
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Must-Have Seoraksan National Park Adventures
Biryong Falls
With backpack, camera, snacks, and drink in tow, I made haste for the park entrance at seven am, purchased a ticket and found the trail to Biryong Falls. Before long, peace, solitude and tranquillity infused the crisp mountain air, punching a bounce into my mountain-stride.
Named the ‘flying dragon’, the falls’ reputation precedes them. After crossing a large white bridge and turning left, it’s time to walk through a bamboo forest. Bird chatter, pristine flora and the occasional mysterious animal crossing the path are commonplace.
Cautiously traverse a suspension bridge and climb stone steps for a while. Once there, the sight of the cascading water is refreshing (the loud water said to resemble dragons flying towards the sky) – the perfect setting for a much-needed break.
Take a seat in the shade, hydrate and snack while being enveloped by serenity.
There is a track that continues from the falls to a viewing platform much higher in the mountain. Be ambitious, walk to the platform, and be rewarded: the view, despite the sweat-drenched ascent, is other-worldly.
Gwongeumseong via Cable Car
The next tick-list item is slightly less strenuous: Seorak Cable Car, with a short twenty-minute hike to Gwongeumseong (at the top). Once at the peak, note the striking rock formations with a backdrop of Sokcho in the hazy distance.
There’s a temple and fortress a short walk downhill from the upper station.
Dining Options and Sinheungsa Temple
If hunger strikes, then dine in one of the restaurants scattered throughout the park. The morning walk may conjure an appetite, so indulge - choose an establishment (by following the lunchtime aromas) and replenish lost calories with some bibimbap.
Filled to satiety on starchy goodness, walk past giant bronze Jwabal Buddha and over an exquisitely decorated bridge on the way to Sinheungsa Temple.
The intricate architecture and stunning surroundings of Sinheungsa Temple are remarkable - a testament to the craftsmanship of its builders. The temple’s beauty is complemented by the mountainous backdrop.
Built during the late sixth century, Sinheungsa has a rich history with several renovations to its name. The temple complex consists of multiple buildings, each with its own architectural signature.
Take time to explore and admire the peaceful surroundings. Be converted, not to religion, but to the beauty of nature.
Daecheongbong
It goes without saying that hiking to Korea’s third highest peak makes it on to this list. I was unwell and couldn’t hike so high, so I cannot personally recommend the experience.
Sokcho Attractions
Although many - if not most - visitors make the trip east to visit the highly acclaimed National Park or the demilitarised zone (a short distance north of the city), Sokcho’s leisurely pace and raw seafood menu should still be enough to entice aficionados, especially those with developed palettes. In fact, the squirmy creatures delivered daily to restaurants throughout the city are perhaps the most (or only) enticing drawcard for some.
I’m not personally a fan of eating animals that are still taking their final breaths, but I came to understand – by visiting a market - how devoted seafood-eaters would get hooked on Sokcho.
Aside from restaurants in town and small market stalls peppered along the shore, the large market by the northern harbour teems with blue buckets of sea-dwelling creatures: crab; rubbery shellfish; various types of fish; squid; and prawns – all of which are perpetually sliced and diced by the smile-and-knife wielding ajumma (middle aged women from Korea).
Carry the delicacies on your plate up the stairs, for a feast with a view.
Buy a drink of soju to wash the suckers down.
Sokcho – despite its constitution as a city – is no more than a sleepy hollow. For a view of the region, one that stretches to the National Park on a haze-free day, take an uphill hike to Sokcho Lighthouse Observatory. Breathe in the salty aroma and soak in the 360-degree view.
Another itinerary feature is the Sokcho Tourist and Fishery Market (found after strolling along the main shopping street). Opened in 1982, it has expanded and now boasts an array of shops, ranging from food – and more seafood as the name infers – to wholesale items, clothing, and all kinds of knickknacks. It’s a treasure trove of delight for the forager at heart.
Try dakgangjeong - sweet and sour chicken pieces – which are delivered in a cardboard box with a skewer (to avoid a sticky mess).
How to Get to Sokcho
From Seoul, getting to Sokcho is straightforward:
- Take the metro to Gangbyeon Station (the green line, or line two) in Seoul.
- Leave the station via exit four.
- Dong Seoul bus station is directly across the road from the exit.
- Buy a ticket (for any Sokcho-bound bus) and enjoy the ride.
Where to Stay in Sokcho
Budget
The House Hostel - During my stay at The House Hostel in Sokcho, I found it to be incredibly welcoming and cost-effective. It’s located conveniently in the city, which allowed easy access to public transportation and local attractions like Sokcho Beach and Seoraksan National Park.
The staff there were super friendly and helpful, going out of their way to ensure that my stay was comfortable and enjoyable. They provided tips on the best spots to visit in Sokcho and helped with directions and transportation options.
Midrange
Sokcho Marine Pension - The inclusion of a hot tub and on-site restaurant, along with activities like hiking and windsurfing, make it a solid choice for those wanting a bit more comfort and recreational options without moving into the high-end price bracket.
High End
Lotte Resort Sokcho - It is a luxurious resort known for its excellent facilities, including an outdoor pool, spa services, and various dining options. The resort offers elegant rooms with spectacular views of the sea or mountains.
Ready to Visit?
Take time away from Seoul to move east and explore Seoraksan National Park and Sokcho. They will not disappoint!
