So, you’ve decided to visit Seoraksan National Park—Korea’s very own Middle Earth! Close to Sokcho, this National Park is home to endless trails, awe-inspiring views, cascading waterfalls, and views from Korea’s third-highest peak. Read on as I provide the ultimate guide for maximizing your visit to Seoraksan National Park and Sokcho!
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Where to Stay
If you’re making the trek all the way out to Seoraksan, look no further than Sokcho for lodging. From resorts to bed-and-breakfasts, Sokcho offers the best possible launch pad for your Seoraksan exploration.
Pro tip: For shopping, tourist attractions, and nightlife, stay near Cheongcho Lake
When I visited Seoraksan in August, I stayed at the Skysea Resort near the Sea Cruise Hotel for two nights totaling $130 USD. The best part was the view from my room. From my window, I was able to see the sunrise over the East Sea and the sunset over the Taebaek mountain range.
This spot was perfect for accessing the local nightlife, shopping, markets, public transportation, and tourist attractions. From this area, you’ll be within a few minutes’ drive to attractions like the Yonggeumjeong Sunrise Pavilion, Seolak Bridge, the Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market, the Expo Tower, and of course, the Cheongcho Lake itself.
Pro tip: For a quiet, romantic, and closer stay to Seoraksan National Park, Casa Seorak Bed and Breakfast is a must
A Guide to Sokcho and Seoraksan isn’t complete without an exact lodging location. If I had the chance to go back to Sokcho again, each and every time I would choose to stay at Casa Seorak Bed and Breakfast.
The owner is incredibly nice and speaks fluent English, making the stay even more welcoming. Every morning, you get a western-style, made-from-scratch breakfast delivered straight to your room, which you can enjoy on the walk-out patio, surrounded by the serenity of the mountains.
The bed is insanely comfortable, and I’m very picky about my mattresses, so that’s saying something. The lodge has a unique, homely feel, quite unlike a typical hotel, making it the most unique place I’ve ever stayed in Korea, besides the Four Seasons in Seoul.
Situated at the base of the mountains, it’s just a 15-minute drive to the trailhead, which makes it an ideal location for hikers. Despite being so close to the natural attractions, it remains quiet and peaceful, perfect for a relaxing stay. Every room is equipped with whole coffee beans and a hand-turn grinder for making pour-over coffee each morning, which delighted my inner coffee snob.
It’s no surprise that Casa Seorak has a 5/5 rating on Trip Advisor from every single visitor. Plus, it’s very reasonably priced, making it an excellent value for all the unique features and comforts it offers. Pictures just doesn’t do this place justice; you have to book a room and visit it for yourself!
Where to Eat
A Guide to Sokcho and Seoraksan has to include food recommendations, right? Disclaimer: I am a vegetarian, so the places I list here are geared towards vegheads. HOWEVER, some of the best-tasting food I’ve ever had in my life was in Sokcho, and it was entirely plant-based.
Matsu
The best Italian food in Sokcho can be found at Matsu. From the ambiance of the quiet neighborhood to the insanely delicious three-course meal for ~$18, I would eat here every day if I could!
Jeombongsan Sanchae
I ate at Jeombongsan Sanchae until I nearly popped, no joke! This family-owned gem is a haven for plant-based food lovers. The chef, who has dedicated over 35 years to researching traditional Korean wild herbs, masterfully incorporates these ingredients into every dish. The variety of kimchi, pickled vegetables, and other small dishes, all made with locally sourced ingredients, is nothing short of mastery. You HAVE to give this place a shot to truly appreciate how delicious and diverse plant-based cuisine can be.
The dishes are designed for a minimum of two people, which adds to the communal and authentic dining experience. However, when I told them I was starving, they graciously accommodated me, and I was able to enjoy the feast solo.
The best way to find this gem is to first, download the Happy Cow app. From there, search for “Jeombongsan Sanchae”, grab the address, and navigate to it using whatever app you choose!
Where to drink
Sokcho has two main breweries that are perfect after a long hike. Each one had its own unique flare so you can’t go wrong choosing either one.
Montbeer
Located near the resorts on the northwestern side of Sokcho, Montbeer has impeccable views of Seoraksan National Park from their western-facing windows. Not only is the beer delicious and available to take home, but the restaurant is great and free popcorn is delivered to your table by a little robot!
Craft Root
Craft Root is an inconspicuous brewery just five minutes south of Montbeer. Personally, I found the environment at Craft Root more relaxing because of it’s lesser-known location. More importantly though, I found the beers here to be superior to Montbeer. If you make you way to Craft Root, try the 9pm IPA, you won’t be disappointed!
Park Jiyoung’s Hand Drip Coffee
I’m sure you thought a guide to Sokcho and Seoraksan would stop at food and drink, but I have to mention this coffee place! I know a good Ethiopian pour over when I have one and I can PROMISE you that Park Jiyoung’s coffee is the best in all of Sokcho, hands down!
Located at 134, Jungang-ro, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-Do, near the eastern end of the downtown main street, Park Jiyoung’s Hand Drip Coffee is a must visit. Basically, it’s at the very eastern end of the downtown main street near the tourist market just as the road bends and curves to the north.
Top 5 Attractions (what to see/what to do)
Now for the real guide to Sokcho and Seoraksan. Sokcho has plenty to offer for anyone, especially if you’re visiting for a four-day weekend like I was.
- Towangseong Falls
- Ulsanbawi Rock
- Gyejoam Temple
- Daechongbong Peak
- Cheongcho Lake
- (BONUS) Yeonggeumjeong Pavilion
1. Towangseong Falls
A no-brainer of course; you have to visit the National Park if you’re in Sokcho! From relaxing or strenuous hikes to cascading waterfalls and mile-high scenery, Seoraksan National Park has it all.
When I visited Seoraksan in August, I wrote an in-depth review of my hike up Mt Seorak, Korea’s 4th-tallest mountain. Click here and read what it was like standing a mile above sea level while still being able to see the sea!
On my second visit to Seoraksan, I wanted to hike a different portion of the park. This time, I wanted to check out the Towangseong Falls and the Ulsanbawi Rocks.
Towering 320 meters (150m in the upper, 80m in the middle, and 90m in the lower parts), Towangseong Falls is like something right out of a Lord of the Rings movie.
This hike took about 3 hours round-trip with lots of stopping along the way for photos. From the peaceful walk along the river to the Towangseong Falls observation post, each turn offered a unique view
While on your way, you’ll also hit Biryong Falls, an amazing spot to rest and gather yourself before you climb the 900+ stairs up to the Towangseong Falls. Yes, you read that right, it’s a lot of stairs lol but just look at that photo, isn’t that worth it?!
2. Ulsanbawi Rock
This guide to Sokcho and Seoraksan wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Ulsanbawi. Ulsanbawi Rock is must-see, especially at sunrise. The hike takes about 3 hours round-trip and offers breathtaking views of the East Sea and Daechongbong Peak.
Not only is the view of the East Sea and Daechongbong Peak in the same frame breathtaking, but the journey here is also FULL of picturesque moments! For the majority of the hike, you follow along a peaceful river on a gravel path that’s suitable for any age.
At about the halfway point, the trail does get a bit more strenuous, but nothing I’d consider challenging.
If you truly want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, hike to Ulsanbawi Rock at sunrise. It’ll change your life. Read my blog post about hiking Ulsanbawi Rock at sunrise here!
2.1. Gyejoam Temple
Located about 30 minutes before the end of the Ulsanbawi hike, this temple offers serenity with its carved stone characters and drinkable spring water.
Gyejoam translates to “inheriting the progenitor’s grotto”. This temple got its name because when the Buddhist masters inherited this place, the hermitage was a round grotto (i.e., cave) established under the rock.
3. Daechongbong Peak
A guide to Sokcho and Seoraksan wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t mention the highest peak in Seoraksan National Park. While standing over a mile high, you can still see the sea from here, making it a unique experience.
Like I’ve mentioned before, I wrote extensively about my trip to Seoraksan back in August so, I won’t belabor that story again. To summarize though, here’s a short snip from that article to help amp you up to take on this 10+ kilometer trek:
4. Cheongcho Lake
Located in the heart of Sokcho, Cheongcho Lake is a great spot to start for exploring nightlife and other tourist attractions.
Not only is Cheongcho Lake in the center of the town, but it’s also a gorgeous spot to stroll along or watch boats cruise in and out of the harbor. You could also just relax and enjoy the grand Taebaek mountain range off in the distance!
5. Yeonggeumjeong Pavilion
Yeonggeumjeong is where you want to be for a sunrise, if not Ulsanbawi Rock. It’s tranquil, peaceful, quiet, and awe-inspiring.
Yeonggeumjeong derives its name from the sound of a geomungo, a traditional Korean stringed instrument. Legend has it that the crashing waves against the rocks near the pavilion resemble the soothing melody of a geomungo. Additionally, “jeong” translates to a traditional pavilion in Korean.
Yangyang Day Trip
Other guides to Sokcho and Seoraksan will most certainly mention Yangyang: the surf capitol of Korea.
From my experience, there are only a handful of things to do in Yangyang. So, if you’re going to visit, only make Yangyang a daytrip.
Launch to Yangyang from Sokcho, not the other way around. Here’s a great itinerary for you if you decide to make the trek down to Yangyang for a day:
Stop 1: Surfyy Beach
Begin your adventure at Surfyy Beach, where you can either take surfing lessons or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, soaking in the vibrant surf culture. There are dozens of surf shops lining the short near Surfyy Beach that offer lessons, most of which are in English and Hangul!
Stop 2: Jugdojeong Pavilion
Next, hike up to Jugdojeong Pavilion for breathtaking coastal views. Accessible via a short and scenic trail, you can relax on a park bench overlooking the ocean and savor the peaceful ambiance.
Stop 3: Flowbeach Cafe
Want to enjoy a ginger latte from a rooftop patio overlooking the ocean? Then look no further than Flowbeach Cafe.
Perched on the fourth floor near the beach, this cafe offers a serene setting to unwind with a coffee and panoramic sea vistas.
Quite honestly, with all the cafes around Korea, it’s hard to narrow down which one is “best”. But, if I had to choose, this one surely earns that title in Yangyang!
Stop 4: Hajodae Beach
Just off the beaten path, the Hajodae Beach area is a striking landscape.
Near the beach and perched on top of a sea cliff, you’ll find Hajodae Lighthouse. This unmanned solace is surrounded by jagged rocks thrusting out of the sea.
Furthermore, you can see the pine forest that crawls out from the Taebaek mountain range and up to where the ocean means the land.
In summary
Writing a guide to Sokcho and Seoraksan is easy because of how amazing these two place are. In my entire year here in Korea, Sokcho was my favorite destination. Too many people say “one of my favorites” when talking about places like this. I think it’s because too many people are afraid of commitment lol. I’ll say it again: Sokcho is my favorite place in all of South Korea.
From the towering Taebaek Mountains to the tranquility of the East Sea, this town has everything to feel both at home and on vacation.
So, if a 4-day weekend comes, or a break in your schedule allows, visit Sokcho–you won’t be disappointed!
Hi
Came across this post upon planning my two months trip to South Korea in 2025
Did you plan your hiking route prior to visiting Ulsanbawi and Towangseong Falls? Or is it easy to navigate as a first timer to these to mountains?
Would you have any recommendations on citites to visit afterwards? I have been to Seoul before, and planning to visit Daegu, Busan and Jeju Island
Also, is your experience that South Korea is safe travelling in alone (and as a woman?) My impression is though that Seoul feels so safe
Best regards
Sille
Thank you! My husband is vegetarian and since Sokcho is a seafood town, I now know we have options. I’m going in 2 weeks and would appreciate any advice. Did you rent a car, take public transit, or take taxi to get to all these places? Can you kindly recommend the best way to get here from Seoul, and from Sokcho to Sereoksan?
If you were to do it again, would you stay at Seoraksan instead? (Since most spots are in Seoraksan
Your photos have no people, what time did you have to go to have no people in photos
Any tips will be appreciated, thank you!
You can get everywhere by bus, if for some reason you change your mind, take a taxi. Also get so sokcho by bus from many other cities (intercity/express), you can get the tickets at the bus terminals one or two days in advance, the ride itself ist just 2,5h from Seoul. Also to get to the mountains, just use your tmoney card on one of many public busses…
If you want no people, just get up as early as possible. Around 8-9 the crowds start coming in.
Hi Jade, thanks for reading!
I had my own car, so I drove there from Pyeongtaek each time I went. The drive was beautiful ❤️.
If you have a car, that will give you the most freedom to explore Sokcho and the surrounding areas. If not, you can take a train or a bus to the main city center and then take a taxi to the National Park, no problem. There’s also a lot of buses you can take around the town.
If I could do it again, I’d still stay at Casa Seorak Bed and Breakfast. The experience they provided made my trip so memorable–moreso than the park I’d say!
I visited the park very, very early to get photos without people; like 5:00am early 😵💫. I wrote about the entire experience in a different blog post here if you’re interested: https://globetrotterkyle.com/a-sunrise-over-ulsanbawi-rock/
Check it out if you want tips for one of the most beautiful sunrises you’ll ever see!
Have fun on your trip!