Welcome back to my travel series about Sokcho, my hometown on the east coast of South Korea.
In my previous articles, I introduced Sokcho, Sokcho Beach, Sinheungsa Temple, and Abai Village.
Today, I would like to introduce one of my favorite walking courses in Sokcho: Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro to Daepo Port. This easy coastal walk starts at the wooden boardwalk of Oeongchi and leads you south to Daepo Port.
If you enjoy walking by the sea, this route offers the perfect combination of ocean views, fresh sea air, and the relaxing sound of the waves.
At a Glance
- Location: Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro to Daepo Port, Sokcho-si, Gangwon State, South Korea
- Key Landmarks: Oeongchi Boardwalk, Saemaul area, Daepo Port, and nearby resort hotels
- Atmosphere: A scenic coastal walking trail blending clear blue ocean views, rocky shores, a former military-protected coastline, local seaside communities, and a modernized fishing port.
- Best For: Walkers, nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a relaxing seaside stroll extending from Sokcho Beach.
Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro
How to Get There & Parking
You don't necessarily have to make Oeongchi your primary destination. Instead, it is a natural extension of a coastal stroll.
- Walking from Sokcho Beach: If you get off at the Sokcho Express Bus Terminal and walk south along Sokcho Beach for about 15 minutes, you will naturally reach Oeongchi.
- Passing Through Saemaul: As you walk south along Sokcho Beach and head toward Oeongchi, you will also pass through a local area known as Saemaul.
- The Walking Flow: From Oeongchi, you can step right onto the wooden boardwalk of Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro. Walking south along this trail for another 20 minutes will lead you directly to Daepo Port. In short, if you simply walk south along Sokcho Beach, the trail and views unfold naturally before you.
- Parking: If you prefer driving, there is a public parking lot located near the entrance of Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro.
What to See & Do
Why Visit Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro?
Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro is one of the most beautiful coastal walking trails in Sokcho. For many years, this area was closed because it was a military-protected zone. After years of requests from local residents, the military restrictions were lifted, allowing the public to enjoy this beautiful stretch of coastline.
The wooden walkway gives visitors many chances to stop, take photos, and enjoy the clear blue sea, rocky shore, and fresh air.
Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro
Walking to Daepo Port
As you follow Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro south, it leads you straight to Daepo Port. Daepo Port used to be a quiet fishing harbor lined with informal open-air food stalls known as nanjeon.
Following a major redevelopment project, those old stalls disappeared.
Today, the waterfront features modern seafood restaurants and is surrounded by a line of famous hotels and resorts. The area has evolved from a traditional fishing harbor into one of Sokcho's most popular waterfront destinations.
Although many visitors simply drive to Daepo Port, walking this coastal route allows you to experience a quieter and more scenic side of Sokcho that many people miss.
Daepo Port
Things to Do
- Enjoy the Coastal Views: Take your time along the boardwalk and enjoy the clear blue East Sea, rocky shoreline, and open ocean views.
- Take Coastal Photos: The wooden walkway and rocky coast offer plenty of opportunities for scenic photographs.
- Explore Daepo Port: Continue south to discover the modern seafood restaurants and waterfront atmosphere around the port.
Best Time to Visit
You can enjoy this walking course in every season.
- Spring & Autumn: These are the most comfortable seasons because the weather is cool and pleasant.
- Morning vs. Late Afternoon: Morning is usually quieter, while late afternoon offers beautiful sunlight over the sea.
- Duration: Most people spend about 1.5 to 2 hours enjoying the trail and Daepo Port.
Facilities & Parking
- Parking: A public parking lot is available near the entrance of Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro.
- Trail Facilities: Wooden boardwalks, clear signposts, and viewing platforms are available along the coastal route.
- Accessibility: The boardwalk is mostly flat and easy to walk, making it suitable for families, couples, and visitors of all ages.
- Important Notice: At the time of writing this article, Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro is temporarily closed for maintenance work. Please check the latest information on the official Sokcho City website or the Korea Tourism Organization website before your visit.
Local Tips
If you want a quieter experience, I recommend visiting on a weekday. I live in Sokcho, so I often enjoy this walking course, but I usually avoid weekends because many people visit Sokcho for short trips. Weekdays make it much easier to enjoy the sea and take photos in peace.
Tip for Visitors: Always check the trail's opening status before you come, as temporary maintenance can restrict access to the boardwalk.
Nearby Attractions
- Sokcho Beach: The vibrant sandy beach serving as the closest starting point and directly connected to your walk.
- Cheongcho Lake: Located near Sokcho Beach, offering lovely walking paths and a relaxing lakeside atmosphere.
- Abai Village: Situated a bit further north, this historic refugee village is famous for its unique Gaetbae ferry and traditional North Korean-style sundae.
Conclusion
Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro and Daepo Port offer a different side of Sokcho. Walking slowly along this coastline, starting from Sokcho Beach, passing through Saemaul, and heading down through Oeongchi to the port, is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere of Sokcho.
As a local resident, I often recommend this route to friends who visit Sokcho for the first time. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I do.
In my next article, I will introduce Yeonggeumjeong Pavilion, one of the best places in Sokcho to watch the sunrise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the walk take?
Most people spend about 1.5 to 2 hours enjoying the trail and Daepo Port.
Can I walk from Sokcho Express Bus Terminal?
Yes. It takes about 15 minutes to walk to the entrance of Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro.
Is the trail difficult?
No. The boardwalk is mostly flat and easy to walk, making it suitable for families, couples, and visitors of all ages.
Is Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro open now?
The trail may be temporarily closed for maintenance work. Please check the latest official information before your visit.
Related Guides
Continue exploring Sokcho with these local travel guides:
Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market
Sunny | Sharing Local Stories from Sokcho, Korea
Discover the real charm of Sokcho with local stories and travel tips from a Sokcho resident.
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