SEORAKSAN NATIONAL PARK
Seoraksan National Park is South Korea’s majestic heart, a realm of granite peaks, ancient forests, and crystal streams. Its landscapes transform dramatically with each season, offering profound natural beauty.
This sacred region, often called “Snowy Peaks Mountain,” is a sanctuary for unique flora and fauna and a spiritual haven, home to historic Buddhist temples nestled in its valleys.
Most Popular Attractions
Seoraksan Valley & Temple Area
Sinheungsa Temple (신흥사): A historic Zen Buddhist temple founded in the 7th century, famous for the colossal, bronze Jaeum Tongsang (Great Bronze Buddha) statue at its entrance.
Biryong Falls (비룡폭포): A powerful waterfall accessible via a well-maintained hiking trail through the valley.
Yukdam Falls (육담폭포): A series of beautiful, cascading waterfalls and pools located near Biryong Falls.
Biseondae Rock (비선대): A wide, flat rock near a beautiful stream crossing, said to be where a fairy ascended to the heavens. It marks the start of more challenging inner-mountain trails.
Geumganggul Cave (금강굴): A small Buddhist hermitage cave nestled high on a cliff face, offering spectacular views of the valley.
Seoraksan Cable Car & Ulsanbawi
Seoraksan Cable Car (설악 케이블카): A popular and scenic cable car ride from the park entrance up to the high ridge of Gwongeumseong Fortress.
Gwongeumseong Fortress (권금성): The site of a former mountaintop fortress, now offering phenomenal panoramic views of the entire park, including the sea and surrounding valleys.
Ulsanbawi Rock (울산바위): A dramatic, massive formation of six granite peaks, one of Seoraksan’s most recognizable icons. Reached via a challenging but popular trail with a long, steep set of stairs at the end.
Heundeulbawi (흔들바위): The “Shaking Rock,” a giant, perfectly balanced boulder located on the trail leading up to Ulsanbawi, which visitors try to push.
Inner Seorak (Osaek Area)
Osaek Mineral Spring (오색약수터): A natural spring with water rich in iron and other minerals, known for its unique taste and purported health benefits.
Jujeongol Valley (주전골): A scenic and relatively gentle valley trail famous for its autumnal foliage and surrounded by towering, colorful rock formations.
Osaek Hot Springs (오색온천): Natural thermal springs, often used for relaxation and rejuvenation after a day of hiking.
Osaek Seoksa Temple (오색석사): A small, quiet temple located in the Osaek area, offering a more secluded spiritual experience.
Outer Seorak (Difficult Peaks & Trails)
Daecheongbong Peak (대청봉): The highest peak in Seoraksan and the third highest in South Korea. It is a multi-day hike requiring permits and is a major challenge for serious trekkers.
Tohwangseong Falls (토왕성 폭포): A magnificent three-tiered waterfall, one of the tallest in Asia, visible from a dedicated viewing platform at the end of a scenic trail.
Cheonbuldong Valley (천불동계곡): The “Valley of a Thousand Buddhas,” famous for its stunning rock peaks resembling Buddhist statues, offering one of the park’s most iconic and strenuous hikes.
Madeungnyeong Ridge (마등령): A challenging high-altitude pass connecting Inner and Outer Seorak, famous for its dramatic, jagged rock scenery.
Seoraksan Surrounding Areas
Sokcho Beach (속초해변): A popular East Sea beach near the park’s main entrance, offering a coastal contrast to the mountains.
Daepo Port (대포항): A bustling fishing port near Sokcho, famous for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere.
Naksansa Temple (낙산사): A historic coastal Buddhist temple famous for its seaside location, the giant Haesu Gwanseum Daebul (Bodhisattva of Compassion) statue, and stunning sunrises.
Yangyang Beach (양양해변): Another beautiful beach area south of Sokcho, popular for surfing and a relaxed coastal vibe.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Ulsanbawi Rock Trail: Tackle this iconic, challenging 3.8 km round-trip hike to a stunning granite peak. The trail involves steep stairs but offers unparalleled panoramic views of the park and the East Sea.
Ascend by Seoraksan Cable Car: Take the cable car from the main park entrance (Sogongwon) up to Gwongeumseong Fortress. This is an excellent option for non-hikers, providing easy access to spectacular views.
Visit Sinheungsa Temple and the Bronze Buddha: Explore the historic Buddhist temple located near the park entrance. Marvel at the enormous Tongil Daebul (Great Unification Buddha), a massive bronze statue.
Trek the Biryong Falls Course: Follow the valley trail (approximately 2.4 km one-way from Sogongwon) to the beautiful Biryong (Flying Dragon) Falls, a relatively easy and rewarding hike.
Experience the Daeseung Falls: Hike to the spectacular three-tiered Daeseung Falls, considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region.
Explore the Jujeongol Valley and Osaek Area: Walk along the gentle trail in the Jujeongol Valley, known for its unique rock formations and clean stream, ending at the Osaek Hot Springs village.
Take on the Daecheongbong Peak Challenge: For experienced, fit hikers, tackle the multi-day trek to Daecheongbong (1,708m), the highest peak in the park, often requiring an overnight stay in a mountain shelter.
Seek Out the Geumganggul Cave: Hike a relatively steep path up to this small Buddhist hermitage cave nestled into the cliffs, offering unique photo opportunities and a moment of quiet reflection.
Photograph the Autumn Foliage: Visit during the peak autumn season (late September to mid-October) to witness the entire park ablaze with vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges—a bucket-list experience.
Discover Baekdamsa Temple: Visit this remote and tranquil temple located in the Naeseorak (Inner Seorak) area of the park, often reached via a local shuttle bus or a scenic walk.
Enjoy a Traditional Korean Meal (Sanchae Jeongsik): After a long day of hiking, indulge in a Sanchae Jeongsik (Mountain Vegetable Set Meal) at a restaurant near the park entrance or in the nearby city of Sokcho.
Local Tips & Transport
Main Hub is Sokcho: The nearest major city and transport hub is Sokcho (속초시), a coastal city offering excellent accommodation and dining options. Direct intercity buses connect Sokcho to major cities like Seoul.
Getting to the Park: From Sokcho Intercity Bus Terminal or the city center, take local Bus No. 7 or 7-1 directly to the Sogongwon (소공원) entrance, which is the main gateway for the park. The ride is affordable and takes about 30-40 minutes.
Within the Park: The park itself is primarily explored on foot. While there are roads to some outer sections (like Osaek), hiking trails are the main form of transportation. A small shuttle bus runs from the main entrance to the Baekdamsa Temple area in the Naeseorak section.
Parking: Ample paid parking is available at the Sogongwon entrance, but it fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and during the peak autumn season. Arrive before 8 AM for the best chance of securing a spot.
Park Entry and Fees: Seoraksan is a National Park, and there is a small entry fee (Culture/Heritage fee) collected at the entrance gate to help maintain the cultural sites and trails.
Dress in Layers: The weather in the mountains is highly unpredictable. Even in summer, the peaks can be cool and windy, and in spring/autumn, mornings are chilly. Always pack rain gear and wear sturdy hiking boots.
Peak Season Overcrowding: Avoid visiting on weekends, or during the Chuseok or Lunar New Year holidays, and especially during the peak foliage season (usually mid-October) if you dislike crowds. Trails, cable cars, and parking lots will be extremely busy.
Trail Difficulty: Korean trail ratings are often conservative. Be prepared for steep, sustained climbs, often involving steel staircases or rocky scrambles, even on trails labeled “moderate.” Check the official park maps before heading out.
Mountain Shelters (Piro-Am): For the multi-day hike to Daecheongbong Peak, you must reserve a spot at the mountain shelter (Piro-Am) months in advance through the National Park Service website. Walk-ins are not permitted.
Food and Water: While some popular trailheads have vending machines and small restaurants, there are very limited facilities once you start hiking. Carry sufficient water and snacks, as it is against regulations to litter or leave food waste.
Hidden Gem: Donghae and Sokcho’s Coast: After your mountain experience, take a day to relax by the sea. Sokcho is famous for its Abai Village (a North Korean refugee settlement area) and its fresh seafood markets, particularly the Jungang Market.
Top Restaurants
Gamja Kkot [$10-$20] – A humble, local favorite specializing in Gangwon-do’s potato dishes, like Gamja Ongsimi (chewy potato ball soup) and savory potato pancakes.
Gim Yeong-Hae Halmuhni Soon Dubu [$8-$15] – A highly-regarded, classic soft tofu restaurant in the Haksapyeong Tofu Village, known for its ultra-smooth, traditional Soon Dubu (soft tofu hot pot).
Jaelaeshik Chodang Soon Dubu [$8-$15] – Another excellent, traditional spot in the Tofu Village, specializing in freshly made soft tofu served simply with minimal seasoning.
Hwangtae Hoegwan [$15-$25] – Famous for Hwangtae (dried pollack), a regional specialty, often served as a spicy grilled fish dish or in a rich, restorative soup.
Jeombongsan Sanchae [$20-$35] – A rustic, family-owned gem near the park known for its Sanchae Jeongshik (set meal of mountain vegetables), masterfully prepared with wild herbs and locally sourced ingredients.
Nonseondae [$15-$25] – Located near the park entrance, this restaurant is a go-to for hearty Korean mountain cuisine, including classic Sanchae Bibimbap (mixed rice with wild vegetables).
Gonggam [$12-$20] – A cozy restaurant focusing on fresh, regional ingredients, with a popular menu featuring potato dishes and other Gangwon-do staples.
Bokgol Sundubu [$10-$20] – Another excellent, authentic Soon Dubu restaurant in the Haksapyeong area, popular with locals for its fresh taste.
Jongdun Sigdan [$10-$20] – Known for its hearty Jongkal Guksu (handmade noodle soup) and rich broth, often paired with savory potato or meat dumplings.
Manna Sikdang [$10-$20] – A simple, local-style eatery offering homestyle Korean dishes, including comforting stews and side dishes made with local vegetables.
Sokcho Hansang [$15-$25] – Offers a traditional Hansang (full-table Korean set meal) experience, showcasing the diverse flavors of the region’s mountain and sea bounty.
Seoraksan Sikdang [$10-$20] – A no-frills restaurant located near the Seoraksan entrance, serving classic post-hike meals like Pajeon (savory pancake) and Doenjang Jjigae (soybean paste stew).
Goseong Makguksu [$8-$15] – While technically just north of Sokcho, this place is famous for its Makguksu (buckwheat noodles), a cool and refreshing regional staple.
Gaesil Maeul Jjimdak [$15-$25] – Specializing in Jjimdak (braised chicken with vegetables and glass noodles), a hearty, flavorful, and slightly spicy dish perfect for sharing.
Cheonnyeon-ui Haru [$10-$20] – A local spot specializing in Korean home-style meals, often featuring seasonal stews and fresh-made side dishes.
Beolbong Sikdang [$10-$20] – A simple, highly-rated spot for authentic Korean soups and stews, often a favorite for locals seeking a homemade taste.
Myeongsikdang [$15-$25] – Known for its very fresh, daily-caught seafood and traditional Korean preparations, popular for its no-nonsense, local atmosphere.
Sokcho Gamja-tang [$15-$25] – Specializing in Gamja-tang (spicy pork spine soup), a hearty, warming dish that is perfect after a cold hike.
Deungdaepo Sikdang [$10-$20] – Famous for its traditional Korean breakfast and simple, nourishing soups, favored by early-rising locals.
Dancheon Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located in Abai Village, this spot specializes in Sundae Gukbap (Korean sausage and rice soup), a classic North Korean refugee-style dish.
88 Saengseon Gui [$20-$40] – Located in the Grilled Fish Alley, this popular, decades-old restaurant offers a set menu of various fresh fish grilled over charcoal right at your table.
Cheongchosu Mulhoe [$15-$30] – Known for its signature Mulhoe (iced raw seafood soup), a refreshing and spicy broth filled with various raw fish and crunchy vegetables.
DehPoRee-HwetJip [$30-$50] – A well-known raw fish restaurant in the Daepo Port area, where you select your fish and have it prepared immediately.
Mogu-ri Hoetjip [$25-$45] – Another excellent choice for Hwe (Korean-style raw fish), focusing on the freshest catch of the day from the East Sea.
Gwangin Jjim [$20-$40] – Highly praised for its A-gu Jjim (spicy braised anglerfish) or Haemul Jjim (spicy seafood stew), packed with local seafood.
Nakcheon Hall [$15-$25] – Famous for its unique Hongge Hoe Naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles with red crab sashimi), a regional specialty.
Jangsa Port Live Fish Center (Various Stalls) [$25-$50] – Less crowded than Daepo, this is a prime spot to buy fresh seafood directly from the tanks and have it prepared at an adjacent restaurant.
Dongmyeong Port (Various Stalls) [$20-$40] – A traditional port area known for smaller, more intimate raw fish stalls and stunning views of the seawall.
Abai Sundae [$10-$20] – Various restaurants in Abai Village specialize in the local delicacy Ojingeo Sundae (squid stuffed with rice and vegetables) and Abai Sundae (North Korean-style sausage).
Sokcho Fish Market (Saeu Twigim Stalls) [$10-$20] – Located in the market, several stalls specialize in Saeu Twigim (deep-fried shrimp), a perfect casual snack.
The Crab Village [$40-$70] – Specializing in Red Crab ($Hongge$), a highly-prized local delicacy often served steamed or in a spicy soup.
Gyeongwon Maru [$20-$35] – Known for its rich and comforting Seopguk (hot seafood soup), perfect for a chilly day.
Jeil Sikdang [$15-$25] – A local’s favorite for simple, fresh Baekban (set meal with rice and various side dishes) featuring daily seafood.
Chodang Halmae Jangeo-Guk [$15-$25] – Specializes in Jangeo-Guk (eel soup), a nutritious and flavorful dish, popular with locals for its health benefits.
Sokcho Eodong-Pocha [$15-$25] – A bustling local Pocha (street food tent/bar) near the port, excellent for cheap, fresh fish and Anju (drinking snacks).
Dae-po Sashimi Restaurant [$25-$45] – A highly-rated spot near Daepo Port known for its fresh, high-quality Hwe and excellent side dishes.
Geumgang Mulhoe [$15-$25] – Another great location for Mulhoe, often praised for its generous portions and refreshing broth.
Manseok Dakgangjeong (Jungang Market) [$15-$25] – The most famous spot for Dakgangjeong (sweet and crispy fried chicken), a must-try local specialty to eat there or take on a hike.
Jungang Market (Street Food Stalls) [$5-$15] – Numerous stalls offer cheap and cheerful Korean street food favorites like Hotteok (sweet pancake), Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and fried snacks.
Abai Village Sundae Alley (Various Stalls) [$10-$20] – A collection of small restaurants specializing in the Abai Sundae and Ojingeo Sundae, a unique and essential Sokcho experience.
Niko-Niko Diner [$10-$20] – A late-night spot (local late-night depending on season) with exceptional, elevated Korean street food like Tteokbokki with smoked brisket, favored by a younger crowd.
Montbeer [$15-$25] – A popular local craft brewery and restaurant near the resorts, serving house-brewed beers alongside elevated pub food and Western-style meals, with views of Seoraksan.
Craft Root [$15-$25] – Another excellent craft brewery that serves superior beers along with simple, hearty food. More focused on the beer than the food.
Matsu [$25-$45] – Widely considered the best non-Korean food in the area, offering a high-quality Italian-inspired menu in a refined setting.
Park Jiyoung’s Hand Drip Coffee [$5-$10] – Not a restaurant, but an excellent spot for high-quality, specialty coffee with a focus on expertly brewed hand-drip varieties.
Cafe Seoraksanro [$5-$15] – A scenic cafe near the park with beautiful views, offering light snacks, pastries, and a variety of teas and coffees.
Kensington Hotel Restaurants (Various) [$30-$60] – The hotel near the park entrance offers a variety of dining options, from buffet-style to Western a-la-carte for a more formal or international meal.
Solhyang [$25-$40] – A modern Korean restaurant offering a more curated and upscale take on traditional cuisine, emphasizing presentation and quality ingredients.
Sokcho Pizza Place [$15-$25] – A locally favored spot for Western-style food, particularly well-made pizza and pasta, offering a break from Korean cuisine.
Waikiki Beach Grill & Pub [$15-$25] – A casual spot near Sokcho Beach offering burgers, fried chicken, and a range of beers, popular with tourists and young locals.
The East Sea Sushi [$25-$40] – A contemporary spot specializing in high-quality Japanese-style sushi and sashimi, utilizing the fresh local catch.
Annyeong Bapzip [$10-$20] – A trendy, casual Korean diner with a focus on modern twists on classic dishes, popular for a quick and satisfying meal.
Seorak Sanbang [$15-$25] – A charming, cafe-like spot that offers traditional Korean teas and light meals like Bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) and Kalguksu (knife-cut noodles).
Bada Hyanggi Jangeo-Guk [$15-$25] – Another reputable spot focusing on nutritious and flavorful Jangeo-Guk, often praised for its clean and modern interior.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Podo Pocha (포도포차): Located in the bustling Sokcho Expo Park area, this popular spot offers a contemporary pocha (tent bar) experience with an extensive menu of Korean food and various drinks, making it a lively, modern take on traditional Korean drinking culture.
The 30 Bar (더 30 바): A sleek and modern bar found in the Sokcho city center, known for its sophisticated atmosphere, extensive whiskey selection, and premium cocktails, offering a refined option away from the beach crowds.
Rooftop 9 (루프탑 나인): Situated in a hotel complex near Sokcho Beach, this stylish rooftop bar provides excellent views of the East Sea. It’s the perfect spot for classic cocktails and a relaxed, upscale evening.
Gaehang-ro Pub (개항로 펍): Found in the increasingly trendy area of Sokcho’s Jungang-dong (Old City), this pub offers a unique vintage and industrial interior, specializing in local and international craft beers alongside simple pub fare.
Bar Harbor (바 하버): A classic, intimate cocktail bar located near the Sokcho Lighthouse Observatory, favored for its knowledgeable bartenders and dedication to crafting high-quality, bespoke drinks.
Beer Factory (비어 팩토리): Located in the Yangyang-gun area, this large, modern brewery and pub is a haven for craft beer lovers, offering freshly brewed beer on tap in a spacious, factory-inspired setting.
Sokcho Brewing (속초 브루잉): A must-visit brewpub near Sokcho Expo Park, known for its local, unique craft beers that often incorporate regional ingredients. It’s a great place to sample local flavors in a casual environment.
The Anchor (디 앵커): A themed pub near the Sokcho Port area, offering a nautical atmosphere, a wide array of bottled beers, and a cozy environment for late-night conversation.
Hwajinpo Club (화진포 클럽 – Noodle Shop & Bar): Despite its name (which refers to the location, not its function), this spot near Ganseong in Goseong-gun (north of Sokcho) is a quirky evening spot famous for combining traditional Korean noodles with an array of imported beers and soju.
700 Bar (700 바): A retro-style bar and pub popular with the younger crowd in Sokcho’s downtown area, offering cheap drinks, good music, and a lively, unpretentious atmosphere.
Osaek Hot Spring Pubs: In the small village of Osaek (on the south side of Seoraksan), visitors will find small, cozy pubs integrated into the local Minbak (guest houses) that are excellent for enjoying local Makgeolli (rice wine) and traditional Pajeon (pancakes) after a day of hiking.
Yangyang Surf Pubs: Scattered throughout the Jukdo Beach and Ingu Beach areas of Yangyang, these casual, often beach-themed pubs cater to the surfing community, offering a laid-back vibe, simple cocktails, and beer right by the ocean.
The Classic (더 클래식): Located in a boutique hotel near Naksansa Temple in Yangyang, this bar is known for its elegant ambiance and quiet setting, perfect for enjoying a classic gin and tonic or wine.
Daepohang Sunset Lounge: While primarily a seafood market area, the upper floors of some buildings in Daepohang Port in Sokcho host small, modern lounges where you can enjoy basic cocktails or soju with a beautiful sunset view over the fishing boats.
Ryu Guesthouse Bar: Found within a popular guesthouse in the Sokcho Old Town area, this bar is often a meeting point for backpackers and young travelers, offering affordable drinks, board games, and a sociable atmosphere.
Club D (클럽 디): A prominent late-night spot situated in the heart of Sokcho’s main entertainment district. Known for its energetic atmosphere, large dance floor, and playing a mix of K-Pop, EDM, and commercial international hits.
Boom Box (붐 박스): A popular venue near the Sokcho Intercity Bus Terminal area, it functions as a lounge and club with a focus on electronic and hip-hop music. It often features local DJs and theme nights.
Jukdo Beach Clubbing: During the peak summer season, several beach shacks and bars on Jukdo Beach in Yangyang transform into open-air ‘clubs,’ hosting weekend DJ sets and beach parties that last until the early morning.
Monster Pit (몬스터 핏): Located in the Yangyang Jukdo Beach area, this is a known late-night venue favored by the surf community, offering an edgy atmosphere, strong drinks, and diverse music, often leaning towards rock and alternative.
E-Land Sokcho Resort Night Pub: Within the larger E-Land Resort complex near Seoraksan’s East Entrance, a designated pub or entertainment venue often offers live music or a DJ on weekends, catering to resort guests with a sophisticated club-like setting.
The Wave (더 웨이브): A newly opened, trendy club-lounge in the Sokcho central area, distinguished by its modern lighting and sound system, specializing in house and techno music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Nakseo Club (낙서 클럽): A more underground, indie-music-focused spot located slightly off the main street in Sokcho’s downtown. It hosts live bands and DJs playing alternative genres, offering a less commercial club experience.
Sokcho’s Noraebang (Singing Rooms) Complex: While not strictly a club, the large commercial buildings in Sokcho’s main city center house multiple high-end Noraebangs (Karaoke rooms) which are a crucial, lively, and late-night part of Korean social nightlife, offering private rooms with club-like lighting and sound systems.
Bar Pyeonui-jeom (바 편의점): A unique, late-night convenience store concept bar near Sokcho Beach. While it sells cheap convenience store food and alcohol, the loud music, open seating, and late hours create a highly social, casual, and lively atmosphere akin to a communal, informal club.