The Deunggisan Skywalk in Uljin offers an exhilarating experience along with stunning coastal views in Korea. This remarkable attraction allows visitors to walk above the crashing waves of the East Sea, creating unforgettable memories and perfect Instagram-worthy moments that will last a lifetime.
What Makes Deunggisan Skywalk Special?
Deunggisan Skywalk is an impressive structure that towers 20 meters (about 65 feet) above the ocean and stretches 135 meters (443 feet) in length. The most thrilling feature is the 57-meter section with transparent tempered glass flooring, which allows you to see directly down to the churning waters below. It’s an exhilarating experience that’s not for the faint of heart!
Located behind Uljin Hupohang Port on the eastern coast of South Korea, this relatively new attraction has quickly become one of the must-visit destinations in the Gyeongsangbuk-do region. The skywalk extends out over a cliff, offering visitors stunning views of the East Sea and the surrounding mountainous landscape.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Walking across the glass-bottomed sections can be both terrifying and thrilling. Many visitors report feeling their hearts racing as they step onto the transparent floor, but the experience is completely safe and well worth conquering your fears. The panoramic ocean views are absolutely spectacular, especially during sunset when the sky transforms into brilliant shades of orange and pink reflecting off the water.
The skywalk is designed to accommodate a steady flow of visitors, and there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the incredible views!
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Nearby Attractions You Shouldn't Miss
Hupo Lighthouse and Observatory
Located on the hill behind Hupo Port, the Hupo Lighthouse offers an excellent vantage point for viewing the East Sea during the day.
The observatory provides panoramic views, and there’s also a children’s playground and rest area near the lighthouse. The lighthouse has been guiding boats safely into port at night for years and remains a picturesque landmark worth visiting.
Hupo Beach
Hupo Beach is one of the few beaches where you can enjoy views of both the port and the lighthouse simultaneously. It’s a perfect spot to relax after walking the skywalk, and you can take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or simply sit and watch the waves roll in.
Uljin Snow Crab Promotion Exhibition Center
Uljin is famous for its snow crabs, and this exhibition center offers insights into the local fishing industry and the region’s most prized seafood. It’s an educational and interesting stop for food lovers.
Hupo Fisheries Distribution Center
This three-story seafood market is shaped like a passenger ship and is located on Hupo Port’s east end. The market specializes in snow crabs, octopuses, squid, sea snails, flounder, cod, and mackerel. It’s the perfect place to try incredibly fresh seafood or purchase some to take back to your accommodation.
Where to Eat
When you’re in Hupo, you absolutely must try the fresh seafood. The area around Hupo Port has numerous raw fish (hoe) restaurants where you can enjoy the catch of the day. The snow crab is particularly famous here, and many restaurants offer it prepared in various ways.
Local tip: Visit the Hupo Fisheries Distribution Center where you can purchase fresh seafood directly from vendors and have it prepared at nearby restaurants for a fraction of the cost of ordering from the menu.
How to Get There
From Seoul
TxBus operates hourly buses from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Uljin. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and tickets cost around 22 USD. Once you arrive at Uljin, you’ll need to take a local bus or taxi to Hupo Port.
Alternatively, you can take a train from Seoul Station to Gangneung Station, then transfer to reach Uljin. The journey with transfers takes approximately 4 hours and 23 minutes.
By Car
If you’re driving, it takes about 3.5 hours from Seoul to Uljin via the Donghae Expressway. The drive along the coast is scenic, making it a pleasant road trip option.
From Other Major Cities
From Busan or Daegu, you can take an intercity bus to Uljin with transfers. The journey from Busan takes approximately 4 hours.
Local Transportation
Once in Uljin, local buses and taxis can take you to Hupo Port where the skywalk is located. Taxi fares are reasonable, and the drive from Uljin city center to Hupo takes about 15-20 minutes.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be quite cold with strong coastal winds.
Operating Hours: The skywalk typically operates from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but hours may vary seasonally. It’s best to check ahead or arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Admission: There is a small entrance fee to access the skywalk.
What to Wear: Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Avoid high heels or slippery footwear, especially if you’re visiting on a windy day.
Weather Considerations: The skywalk may close during severe weather conditions, heavy rain, or strong winds for safety reasons. Check the weather forecast before your visit.
Photography: The lighting is best in the morning or late afternoon for photographs. The sunset views are particularly stunning.
Nearby Accommodation
There are several hotels and guesthouses in the Hupo and Uljin area catering to various budgets. Staying overnight allows you to explore the area more thoroughly and enjoy fresh seafood for dinner and breakfast.
Final Thoughts
Deunggisan Skywalk offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experience. Combined with the fresh seafood, charming port atmosphere, and nearby attractions, it makes for an excellent day trip or weekend getaway from Seoul or other major Korean cities.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for that perfect adrenaline rush or a nature lover wanting to experience Korea’s stunning coastline, Deunggisan Skywalk in Uljin will not disappoint.
The combination of walking on glass high above the ocean, exploring the historic lighthouse, savoring the freshest seafood imaginable, and experiencing the authentic charm of a Korean fishing village creates a memorable travel experience that showcases a different side of Korea beyond the bustling cities.