Jeongdongjin Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Jeongdongjin in Gangwon, South Korea with this comprehensive travel guide. From top tourist destinations to local food and culture, this guide has everything you need to plan your trip.


Jeongdongjin: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Jeongdongjin is a picturesque coastal town located in Gangwon province in South Korea. It is renowned for its stunning sunrise and scenic views of the East Sea. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Jeongdongjin, including a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more.

Introduction to Jeongdongjin

Jeongdongjin is a small town located between Gangneung and Donghae. It is famous for being the first place in Korea where the sunrise can be seen. It is also home to the world’s largest hourglass, which was recognized by Guinness World Records. Jeongdongjin is a popular destination for tourists and locals, and it is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Jeongdongjin

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jeongdongjin Station: This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jeongdongjin. The station is located right on the beach and offers a stunning view of the sunrise. It was built in 1939 during the Japanese occupation of Korea.
  • Jeongdongjin Time Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of timekeeping and features many interesting exhibits, including ancient timepieces and clocks.
  • Jeongdongjin Jinjumaeul: This is a traditional Korean village that has been well preserved over the years. Visitors can experience what life was like in rural Korea in the past.

Natural Attractions of Jeongdongjin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jeongdongjin Sunrise Park: This is the perfect place to watch the sunrise. The park offers a stunning view of the sun coming up over the horizon, and visitors can also enjoy a morning walk along the beach.
  • Jeongdongjin Beach: This is a beautiful sandy beach that stretches over 3 kilometers. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the clear blue waters or taking a leisurely walk along the shore.
  • Jeongdongjin Rail Bike: This is a fun and unique way to explore Jeongdongjin. Visitors can pedal along an old railway track while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jeongdongjin

There are many hiking and biking trails in and around Jeongdongjin, and they offer stunning views of the coast and the surrounding mountains.

  • Jeongdongjin Coastal Walk: This is a scenic route that stretches along the coastline. The trail is well marked, and visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.
  • Hoseok Mountain: This is a popular hiking destination in Jeongdongjin. The mountain offers fantastic views of the town and the sea. Visitors can also explore the nearby traditional Korean village.

Best Things to Do in Jeongdongjin: Activities and Tours

  • Sunrise Watching: Watching the sunrise from Jeongdongjin is a must-do activity for visitors. The view is spectacular, and it is a great way to start the day.
  • Korean Traditional Music Performance: Visitors can enjoy a traditional Korean music performance at Jeongdongjin station every night. The music is beautiful, and it is a great way to experience the local culture.
  • Paragliding: Visitors can go paragliding in Jeongdongjin to get a bird’s eye view of the town and the surrounding landscape.
  • Fishing: Fishing is a popular activity in Jeongdongjin, and visitors can rent equipment and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jeongdongjin

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Jeongdongjin and settle into accommodations
Day 2 Jeongdongjin Beach and Rail Bike
Day 3 Sunrise Watching and Coastal Walk
Day 4 Jeongdongjin Time Museum and Jinjumaeul
Day 5 Paragliding and Hoseok Mountain
Day 6 Fishing and Korean Traditional Music Performance
Day 7 Departure from Jeongdongjin

Food and Drink Scene of Jeongdongjin

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood: Jeongdongjin is famous for its seafood, and visitors should not miss the chance to try some of the freshest seafood in the country.
  • Jeongdongjin Rice Wine: This is a unique local drink made from rice. It is light and refreshing, and it is the perfect drink to cool down on a hot summer day.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: Jeongdongjin has many cafes that offer freshly roasted coffee. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the beautiful scenery.
  • Soju: Soju is a traditional Korean alcoholic beverage. Visitors can enjoy a glass of soju while dining at a local restaurant.

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

Jeongdongjin has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget.

  • Goodstay Hug Inn: This hostel is located right on the beach and offers stunning sea views. It is a great option for budget travelers.
  • Seaview Pension: This guesthouse is located in a quiet area and offers beautiful views of the sea. It is perfect for those looking for a relaxing getaway.
  • Jeongdongjin Time Hostel: This hostel is located near the time museum and offers easy access to many tourist attractions. It is a great option for those looking for a central location.

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

  • Seafood: Visitors can bring home some of the freshest seafood from Jeongdongjin as souvenirs.
  • Jeongdongjin Rice Wine: This unique local drink makes a great souvenir to bring home to family and friends.

Local Culture and Customs of Jeongdongjin

Jeongdongjin is a small town that is steeped in local culture and customs. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting cultural attractions.

Best Time to Visit Jeongdongjin

The best time to visit Jeongdongjin is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors can also enjoy the town during the off-season when the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jeongdongjin

Do:

  • Do watch the sunrise from Jeongdongjin Station or Sunrise Park.
  • Do try the local seafood and rice wine.
  • Do visit the cultural attractions and learn about the local culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t dress inappropriately when visiting cultural attractions.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t disrespect the locals or their customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jeongdongjin

Jeongdongjin is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should take normal precautions when traveling, such as locking their belongings and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Jeongdongjin

Jeongdongjin has several clinics and hospitals that can provide medical assistance in case of an emergency. Visitors should also check with their doctor before traveling to ensure that they are up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations.

Getting to Jeongdongjin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jeongdongjin

The nearest airport to Jeongdongjin is Yangyang International Airport, which is located about 30 kilometers away. Visitors can reach Jeongdongjin from the airport by bus or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Jeongdongjin

Jeongdongjin can be reached by bus from major cities such as Seoul and Busan. Bus tickets can be purchased online or at the bus station.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Jeongdongjin by train from Seoul or Busan. Train tickets can be purchased online or at the train station.

How to Get Around in Jeongdongjin

Jeongdongjin is a small town, and visitors can easily explore it on foot. Taxis and buses are also available for those who prefer not to walk.

Where to Go Next from Jeongdongjin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Gangneung: This is a larger city located about 20 kilometers from Jeongdongjin. It is a popular tourist destination and offers many attractions such as beaches, temples, and museums.
  • Donghae: This is another coastal town located about 40 kilometers from Jeongdongjin. It is famous for its seafood and beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

Jeongdongjin is a hidden gem in South Korea that offers stunning natural scenery, rich culture, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled trip, Jeongdongjin has something to offer for everyone. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of Jeongdongjin, and we hope that it will help you plan your trip to this beautiful town.

View over Jeongdongjin View over Jeongdongjin Jeongdongjin station Jeongdongjin station North Korean Sang-O submarine that ran aground in South Korean waters near Gangneung, in 1996 North Korean Sang-O submarine that ran aground in South Korean waters near Gangneung, in 1996 Sun Cruise Resort Sun Cruise Resort