Having visited Sokcho multiple times during my year living in Korea, I can confidently say this coastal city offers some of the country’s most stunning natural beauty.
Whether you’re planning a day trip from Seoul or wondering if Sokcho is worth visiting, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this gateway to Seoraksan National Park.
Is It Worth Visiting Sokcho?
Sokcho perfectly combines mountain adventures with coastal relaxation. Located on Korea’s east coast, it serves as the main gateway to Seoraksan National Park while offering beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and unique cultural experiences.
From my visits, I’ve found Sokcho offers experiences you simply can’t get in Seoul – dramatic mountain vistas, pristine beaches, and some of Korea’s best seafood.
How Many Days Do You Need in Sokcho?
Based on my experience and what I’ve observed from other travelers:
1 Day: Perfect for a focused Seoraksan cable car trip and quick beach visit
2 Days: Ideal for most visitors – one day for Seoraksan hiking, one day for beaches and local culture
3-4 Days: Comfortable pace with time for winter sports (in season), multiple hiking trails, and thorough exploration of local attractions
Getting to Sokcho: Seoul to Sokcho Transportation
By Bus (Recommended)
Duration: 2.5-3 hours Cost: 15,000-20,000 KRW Frequency: Every 30 minutes from Express Bus Terminal
From my experience, buses are the most convenient option. They’re comfortable, affordable, and drop you right in central Sokcho near major attractions.
By Train + Bus
Take KTX to Gangneung (2 hours), then local bus to Sokcho (1 hour). More expensive but potentially faster during peak traffic periods.
Sokcho Day Trip from Seoul: My Recommended Itinerary
6:00 AM: Depart Seoul Express Bus Terminal
9:00 AM: Arrive Sokcho, head straight to Seoraksan
9:30 AM – 2:00 PM: Seoraksan cable car and hiking
2:30 PM: Quick lunch at Sokcho Fish Market
3:30 PM: Sokcho Beach walk and photos
4:30 PM: Abai Village exploration
5:30 PM: Return bus to Seoul
This packed itinerary covers the highlights, though I personally recommend staying overnight for a more relaxed experience.
Things to Do in Sokcho: Complete Activity Guide
Seoraksan National Park: The Main Attraction
Sokcho to Seoraksan: Only 15 minutes by bus from central Sokcho
Seoraksan Cable Car
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by season)
- Cost: 10,000 KRW round trip
- Duration: 15 minutes to Gwongeumseong Fortress viewpoint
My personal experience: The cable car offers incredible views even for non-hikers. On clear days, you can see both the mountains and the East Sea. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during autumn foliage season.
Hiking Options:
- Biryong Falls Trail: 2-3 hours round trip, moderate difficulty
- Ulsanbawi Rock: 4-5 hours round trip, challenging but rewarding
- Sinheungsa Temple: Easy 30-minute walk, perfect for families
Sokcho Beach Activities
Main Beach Features:
- Clean sandy coastline perfect for walking
- Numerous cafes and restaurants with ocean views
- Water sports rentals during summer
- Beautiful sunrise viewing spot
I love the contrast between mountain adventures and beach relaxation. After hiking in Seoraksan, the beach provides perfect recovery time.
Cultural Attractions
Abai Village This unique North Korean refugee settlement offers:
- Traditional North Korean-style architecture
- Authentic North Korean cuisine restaurants
- Historical significance and cultural insights
- Ferry ride across Cheongho Lake (500 KRW)
Personal Note: Abai Village provides fascinating cultural education about Korea’s division. The elderly residents often share stories about their experiences crossing from North Korea.
Sokcho Fish Market (Jungang Market)
- Fresh seafood directly from local boats
- Live octopus, various fish species, and sea urchin
- Restaurants that cook your purchased seafood on-site
- Best prices for fresh seafood in the region
Market Tips: Visit early morning for best selection, negotiate prices politely, and don’t miss the famous market ajumma (aunties) who are incredibly knowledgeable about seafood preparation.
Here are my must-visit places in Seoul and here you can visit and see the 10 famous temples of Seoul that are very close to you.
Things to Do in Sokcho at Night
Night Market Scene
Sokcho’s evening food scene comes alive around Jungang Market and the beach area:
- Street food stalls selling hotteok, tteokbokki, and fresh seafood
- Beachside bars with ocean views and local makgeolli
- Night fishing opportunities from various piers
- 24-hour seafood restaurants serving incredibly fresh catches
Entertainment Options
- Karaoke (noraebang) rooms near the bus terminal area
- Late-night cafes with ocean views – perfect for reflection after busy sightseeing days
- Beach walks under stars – surprisingly romantic and peaceful
- Local bars where you can meet fishermen and hear fascinating sea stories
From my experience, Sokcho’s nightlife is more subdued than Seoul’s, but it offers authentic local experiences you won’t find in big cities.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May): Mild weather, fewer crowds, moderate prices
Summer (June-August): Beach season, busiest period, highest prices
Autumn (September-November): Peak foliage, most crowded, premium pricing
Winter (December-March): Peaceful, budget-friendly, unique experiences
Budget Estimates
Day Trip from Seoul: 50,000-70,000 KRW including transportation, meals, and activities Overnight Trip: 100,000-150,000 KRW per person including accommodation
Budget: Guesthouses near bus terminal (30,000-50,000 KRW) Mid-range: Hotels with ocean views (80,000-120,000 KRW) Luxury: Resorts near Seoraksan (150,000+ KRW)
Food Specialties to Try
- Fresh raw fish (sashimi) at Jungang Market
- Dakgangjeong – Sokcho’s famous sweet crispy chicken
- Sundae – local blood sausage variety
- Makgeolli paired with seafood pancakes