Donghae Travel Guide

Explore the culturally significant attractions, natural wonders, food and drink scene, and more in Donghae. Plan your trip with our week-long itinerary and learn about local customs and transportation options.


Introduction to Donghae

Donghae is a city situated in the province of Gangwon, located on the east coast of South Korea. It is known for its beautiful coastline, which offers stunning views and attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. Donghae is also rich in history and culture, with plenty of museums and historical sites to explore. With so much to offer, Donghae is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for a magical experience in Asia.

List of Places to Visit in Donghae

Donghae has something to offer for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure. Here are some of the top places to visit in Donghae.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mangsang Beach Cultural Center
  • Cheongok Cave
  • Samcheok Maengbang Beach
  • Mukho Port

Natural Attractions of Donghae: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jeongdongjin Sunrise Park
  • Mukho Lighthouse
  • Parasailing
  • Seokjeong Beach

Hiking/Biking Routes of Donghae

Donghae is a hiking and biking paradise, with plenty of options that offer stunning views of the city’s coastline and mountainous terrain. Here are some of the most popular routes for hiking and biking enthusiasts.

  • Jeongdong-san Mountain Trail
  • Mangsangjang Trail
  • Samcheok Coastal Bicycle Road

Best Things to Do in Donghae: Activities and Tours

To make the most out of Donghae’s tourist attractions and outdoor activities, here are some of the best tours and things to do for your visit:

  • Kayaking and canoeing at Jeongdongjin Stream
  • Visit the Mukho Fish Market
  • Take a sunset tour to Mukho Port
  • Try the traditional Korean sauna at Samcheok Blue Road Fitness Insil

Week-Long Itinerary for Donghae

Here’s a week-long itinerary that will help you explore the best places in Donghae:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Jeongdongjin Beach and Jeongdongjin Railbike
Day 2 Hike the Mangsangjang Trail or visit Samcheok Beach
Day 3 Explore the Maengbang Beach and try the zip-line
Day 4 Visit Mukho Lighthouse and Mukho fish market
Day 5 Enjoy the scenic views of Parasailing in Jeongdongjin
Day 6 Visit Mukho Port and Blue Road Fitness Insil sauna
Day 7 Explore the Seokjeong Beach and its Seokjeong Johchon Museum

Food and Drink Scene of Donghae

Donghae is a heaven for food lovers, offering various local dishes that you should not miss out on!

Must-Try Dishes

  • Grilled Calamari
  • Fresh Sea Urchin
  • Monkfish Stew
  • Donghae-style Fried Rice

Local Beverages

  • Apple-based Soju
  • Donghae Sikhye (Sweet Rice Drink)

Where to Stay in Donghae: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Donghae, ranging from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Here are a few options:

  • Ramada Plaza Donghae Hotel
  • Dolphin Hotel
  • Mukho Village Hotel

What to Buy in Donghae: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenir and local products to take home from Donghae:

  • Dried seaweed
  • Sea salt
  • Woodcraft products
  • Korean paper lanterns

Local Culture and Customs of Donghae

Donghae is a proud local culture and customs. You may hear from the friendly locals that you should know about:

  • Greetings
  • Table etiquette
  • Respect for elders

Best Time to Visit Donghae

The best time to visit Donghae is during the summer season from June to August, where outdoor activities are most enjoyable. You may also visit in the autumn season when the weather is still warm and the scenic views are breathtaking. Avoid visiting in the winter season as the temperature plummets.

Do’s and Don’ts of Donghae

It’s also essential to be aware of the do’s and don’ts of Donghae to show respect to the locals and their traditions.

Do:

  • Learn at least a few basic Korean phrases
  • Visit the local fish market early in the morning to find the freshest seafood
  • Take off your shoes before entering traditional Korean-style restaurants

Don’t:

  • Point your feet towards people or objects
  • Enter a sauna or spa with tattoos
  • be loud and rowdy in public places

Safety and Health

It is important to be aware of safety and health concerns during your visit to Donghae.

Safety in Donghae

  • Watch out for strong winds when near the coast
  • Sunblock, especially in the summer season
  • Be careful when biking or hiking alone

Health in Donghae

  • Always carry drinking water and stay hydrated
  • Purchase travel insurance
  • Get vaccinations before your visit if necessary

Getting to Donghae: Transportation Options and Logistics

Donghae is accessible through different transportation options, depending on your preference and location:

Airports Near Donghae

  • Yangyang International Airport

Bus Stations Near Donghae

  • Donghae Central Bus Terminal
  • Samcheok Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • You can take the train or drive from Seoul to Donghae

How to Get Around in Donghae

Getting around Donghae is convenient with a variety of transportation options available such as buses, taxis, and rental cars. You may also rent bicycles to explore the city at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Donghae: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Donghae is an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations, especially for travelers who crave more outdoor adventures. Here are some of the nearby destinations that you can visit from Donghae:

  • Seorak Mountain National Park
  • Odaesan National Park
  • Jeongseon Rail Bike

Conclusion

Donghae is a beautiful city with natural wonders, rich in culture and history, and fascinating cuisine that makes it a must-visit destination in South Korea. Travelers of all ages will find plenty of ways to explore and enjoy the city’s diverse attractions. Plan your trip to Donghae with this comprehensive guide to experience everything it has to offer.

Donghae Donghae Winter in Donghae Winter in Donghae