Looking for a refreshing escape from the bustling city life in South Korea? Hop on the KTX and discover Donghae City, a coastal gem on Korea’s east coast. Whether you depart from Seoul or Busan, this gorgeous destination is just a quick train ride away. In this blog, we’ll lay out the perfect 1-night, 2-day itinerary to make the most of your adventure.
Getting to Donghae City
From Seoul: Board the KTX at Cheongnyangni Station at 07:16. Arrive in Donghae City by 09:30
From Busan: Take the KTX from Bujeon Station at 05:33. Reach Donghae City at 09:44
Day 1
1. Chuam Suspension Bridge, Chotdaebawi Rock & Sculpture Park
| Address: San 70 Chuam-dong, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
Start your Donghae City trip at one of Donghae’s most iconic areas: Chuam. Walk across the thrilling Chuam Suspension Bridge, then marvel at Chotdaebawi Rock, a dramatic sea stack famous for sunrise views. Finally, stroll through the nearby Sculpture Park, where quirky artworks meet ocean breezes.
LUNCH: Mureung Hall
| Address: 533 Samhwa-ro, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Daily 10:30-20:00
| Recommended Menu: Mountain Bibimbap (10,000 won), Pajeon (15,000 won)
View this post on Instagram
Grab lunch at Mureung Hall near the famous Mureung Valley. Known for using fresh mountain ingredients, you won’t want to miss their delicious bibimbap and freshly made pajeon!
2. Mureung Byeolyucheonji & Samhwasa Temple
| Address: 97 Igi-ro, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
After lunch, explore Mureung Byeolyucheonji, a hidden gem with crystal-clear streams, lush forests, & thrilling nature adventures. Take a peaceful walk to Samhwasa Temple, nestled in the mountains. Originally founded in 642 AD, the temple received its current name during the Goryeo dynasty after King Taejo prayed there for the unification of the Later Three Kingdoms.
3. Eodal Port
| Address: 190 Eodal-dong, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
Next, head to Eodal Port. Watch fishing boats come and go, & snap photos with the harbor’s colorful Tatrapods. This spot is especially beautiful at sunset, making the perfect dinner appetizer.
DINNER: Chodang Jjolmyeon Soft Tofu
| Address: 515-1 Haean-ro, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Daily 11:00-16:00, Closed Tuesdays
| Recommended Menu: Soft Tofu Noodle Stew (10,000 won)
View this post on Instagram
Beloved by locals and even appearing on various TV shows, the soft tofu stew at Chodang Jjolmyeon Soft Tofu is a must-try while in the area.
4. Hamseom Gamsung Sea Trail
| Address: 31 Cheongok-dong, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
After dinner, walk through one of the prettiest coastal paths the East Sea has to offer at the Hamseom Gamsung Sea Trail. At night, the wooden path is even lined with stunning light displays to enhance the gorgeous beaches & the sound of waves to wrap up your first day in Donghae City!
Finish your day by checking in for the night at the locally famous Donghae Boyang Hot Spring Convention Hotel.
Day 2
1. Donghae Boyang Hot Spring Convention Hotel
| Address: 396-18 Mangsang-dong, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
Start your day with a rejuvenating soak at the Boyang Hotel‘s famous hot spring spa. Filled with natural mineral-rich waters, it is sure to energize you for another day of adventure in Donghae!
2. Dojjaebigol Sky Valley & Haerang Observatory
| Address: 2-109 Mukhojin-dong, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
From the hotel, head over to Dojjaebigol Sky Valley. Named after folk goblins, this quirky theme park is sure to have you smiling! Test your nerves by walking out onto the glass-floored skywalk for breathtaking views of the ocean, or ride across the valley from above on their Sky-cycle.
Don’t forget to stop by the over-water walkout at the Haerang Observatory while you’re in the area for even more panoramic ocean views!
LUNCH: Kitoria
| Address: 2-2 Nongolgil, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Daily 9:00-19:00, Closed Tuesdays
| Recommended Menu: Red Crab Burger Set (13,500 won)
View this post on Instagram
Stop by this local burger joint for some unique eats before exploring Nongoldamgil. With crab-shaped bread & tasty bright red flavoring – we know you won’t regret stopping by!
3. Nongoldamgil & Mukho Lighthouse
| Address: 2 Nongol 1-gil, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
After lunch, stroll through Nongoldamgil, famous for its colorful murals and art installations. The area was repainted by the local community in 2010, and tells the story & lives of its residents. At the top of this area, you’ll find Mukho Lighthouse. Established in 1963, it has guided ships safely into Muho Harbor & provided residents with unmatched views of the area for years.
4. Gamchu Beach & Gamchusa Temple
| Address: 120 Haean-ro, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
Next, make your way to Gamchu Beach, home to the Gamchusa Temple. Although not as famous or large as some others in the region, its unique coastal location offers an unmatched peaceful atmosphere for visitors.
5. Cheongok Golden Bat Cave
| Address: 1003 Cheongok-dong, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Kakao Map)
Finish your trip by visiting the natural limestone cave in the heart of Donghae City at Cheongok Golden Bat Cave. Estimated to have formed 400 to 500 million years ago, the cave was discovered during construction work in 1991. The cave stretches a total of 1,510 meters and is home to a rare species of bat designated as a first-class natural monument in Korea.
Returning Home
To Seoul: KTX departs Donghae at 19:04, arriving at Cheongnyangni by 21:27.
To Busan: KTX leaves Donghae at 17:59, reaching Bujeon at 22:31.
Tips for Your Donghae City Trip
Book KTX tickets in advance, especially during weekends.
Bring comfortable shoes for walking and light hiking.
Don’t forget your swimsuit for the hot springs.
Check local restaurant hours on KakaoMaps or Naver, as some places may close early.
Read More About What to Do in Donghae City on Our Blog:
We hope your next trip to South Korea’s east coast is filled with fun, feed-worthy adventures. Book your tickets and tours now at Trazy.com, Korea’s #1 Travel Shop!
[Photo Credit]
- Donghae Boyang Hot Spring Official Site