Donghae/Samcheok

Top Attractions in Donghae/Samcheok

Chuam Chodae-bawi Rock (추암 촛대바위)

A candlestick-shaped rock formation carved by waves rising above the sea, famously featured in the South Korean national anthem video. It is Donghae's best sunrise spot. You can cross a suspension bridge along the coastline to enjoy the spectacular view of the rock formations right before your eyes.

Chuam Chodae-bawi Rock (추암 촛대바위) 1Chuam Chodae-bawi Rock (추암 촛대바위) 2Chuam Chodae-bawi Rock (추암 촛대바위) 3Chuam Chodae-bawi Rock (추암 촛대바위) 4Chuam Chodae-bawi Rock (추암 촛대바위) 5

Mureung Valley (무릉계곡)

A 12km long valley stretching between Samcheok's Dutasan and Cheongoksan Mountains. It boasts such stunning scenery with wide Mureung flat rocks, jade-colored pools, and multiple waterfalls that it is called the 'First Mureung Seonwon of Gwandong.' The gentle walking trail along the valley is perfect for summer vacations and trekking.

Mureung Valley (무릉계곡) 1Mureung Valley (무릉계곡) 2Mureung Valley (무릉계곡) 3Mureung Valley (무릉계곡) 4Mureung Valley (무릉계곡) 5

Mukho Port Nongoldam-gil (묵호항 논골담길)

Known as the 'Art Museum with a Sea View,' the alleys leading up to Mukho Lighthouse are painted with murals depicting the lives of old fishing village residents. Reaching the Mukho Lighthouse at the top offers a panoramic view of the blue East Sea and the harbor, making it a great photo point.

Mukho Port Nongoldam-gil (묵호항 논골담길) 1Mukho Port Nongoldam-gil (묵호항 논골담길) 2Mukho Port Nongoldam-gil (묵호항 논골담길) 3Mukho Port Nongoldam-gil (묵호항 논골담길) 4Mukho Port Nongoldam-gil (묵호항 논골담길) 5

Jangho Port (장호항)

Known as the 'Napoli of Korea' due to its jade-colored sea and rocky cliffs, this East Sea gem allows for unique experiences like transparent kayaking and maritime cable cars to look into the clear water. Its shallow depth and clear water make it a top snorkeling spot.

Jangho Port (장호항) 1Jangho Port (장호항) 2Jangho Port (장호항) 3Jangho Port (장호항) 4Jangho Port (장호항) 5

Hwanseongul Cave (환선굴)

The largest limestone cave in Korea, featuring majestic stalactites, waterfalls, and ponds reached after a 6-minute monorail ride. As a representative attraction of the Samcheok Daeiri Cave Zone, it maintains a temperature of 10-14 degrees year-round, making it a comfortable visit in both hot summers and cold winters.

Hwanseongul Cave (환선굴) 1Hwanseongul Cave (환선굴) 2Hwanseongul Cave (환선굴) 3Hwanseongul Cave (환선굴) 4Hwanseongul Cave (환선굴) 5

Taebaeksan Mountain (태백산)

A famous mountain with an altitude of 1,567m spanning Samcheok and Taebaek. In January and February, when snow flowers bloom on the Janggunbong Peak, the Taebaeksan Snow Festival attracts hikers from across the country. In May and June, royal azaleas dye the ridges red. With gentle courses from Yuilsa or Danggol Square, even beginners can challenge this national park.

Taebaeksan Mountain (태백산) 1Taebaeksan Mountain (태백산) 2Taebaeksan Mountain (태백산) 3Taebaeksan Mountain (태백산) 4

Samcheok Jukseoru Pavilion (삼척 죽서루)

The only National Treasure among the Eight Scenic Views of Gwandong. Built on a cliff where the Osipcheon Stream winds around, it harmonizes nature and artificial beauty. Rebuilt in 1403, it features a unique construction method where pillars match the height of natural rocks. It was elevated to the 13th National Treasure in 2023.

Samcheok Jukseoru Pavilion (삼척 죽서루) 1Samcheok Jukseoru Pavilion (삼척 죽서루) 2

Samcheok Ocean Cable Car (삼척해상케이블카)

Korea's first maritime cable car connecting Yonghwa-ri and Jangho-ri in Samcheok. It crosses 874m above the sea without middle towers. Since 2017, the glass-floored cabins have allowed passengers to enjoy the emerald sea and rocky cliffs of Jangho Port, known as the 'Napoli of Korea'.

Samcheok Ocean Cable Car (삼척해상케이블카) 1Samcheok Ocean Cable Car (삼척해상케이블카) 2

Recommended Routes in Donghae/Samcheok

Donghae & Samcheok Nature Exploration Course

Admire the Chodae-bawi Rock, trek through the jade waters of Mureung Valley, and explore the mysterious stalactites of Hwanseongul Cave.

  1. 1Chuam Chodae-bawi Rock (추암 촛대바위)
  2. 2Mureung Valley (무릉계곡)
  3. 3Hwanseongul Cave (환선굴)
  4. 4Samcheok Jukseoru Pavilion (삼척 죽서루)

Donghae & Samcheok Coastal Village Course

Look down at the sea from Mukho Lighthouse via mural alleys, and see the clear waters of Jangho Port via transparent kayak.

  1. 1Mukho Port Nongoldam-gil (묵호항 논골담길)
  2. 2Jangho Port (장호항)
  3. 3Samcheok Ocean Cable Car (삼척해상케이블카)

Taebaeksan National Park Trekking Course

A healing trekking course along the gentle ridges of Taebaeksan Mountain, famous for snow flowers and royal azaleas.

  1. 1Taebaeksan Mountain (태백산)