Jumunjin District
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Jumunjin Area
Sogeumgang Valley
Scenic Site No. 1 of the Republic of Korea
Introduction Sogeumgang (Small Geumgang) in Cheonghak-dong, Myeongju, is a scenic site located in Yeongok-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon State. It was designated as a national heritage site on November 23, 1970. Covering an area of approximately 22 km², it forms part of Odaesan National Park and accounts for about one-quarter of the park’s total area. The first landscape encountered upon entering Sogeumgang is Mureung Valley (Mureung-gye), which stretches about 300 meters. Here, visitors are greeted by a valley where rapid streams and clear, blue pools flow in succession. The site began to gain recognition in 1569 when Yulgok Yi I explored Cheonghaksan Mountain and wrote “Yucheonghaksan-gi” (Record of a Journey to Cheonghaksan). He subsequently named the mountain, formerly known as Cheonghaksan, “Sogeumgang.” In 2021, the Odaesan National Park Office and the Yulgok Research Institute renovated a section of the Sogeumgang trail (a 6.2 km round trip from Sogeumgang Parking Area to Guryong Falls) based on historical research and field surveys, naming it the “1569 Yulgok Heritage Trail” as part of a project to promote it as a major attraction. Tourist Guide It is said that the three characters “小金剛” engraved on a large rock in the valley in front of Geumgangsa Temple were written by Yulgok, although this has not been confirmed. The nickname “Sogeumgang” (Small Geumgang) was given because the mountain’s terrain and its water and rock formations resemble a miniature version of Geumgangsan Mountain. In addition to its magnificent scenery reminiscent of Geumgangsan, the site is also rich in historical significance. The stream here flows through narrow gorges where the cliffs nearly meet, and the water is exceptionally clear and transparent. Mureung Valley lies low along the hiking trail and may easily be overlooked, while Sipjaseo (Cross Pool) is a deep rock waterway where both sides and the bottom are formed from a single continuous stone. Such formations are rare in gorges, offering a unique charm distinct from waterfalls or rapids. Travel Tips Designated as a national heritage site on November 23, 1970, Sogeumgang covers an area of approximately 22 km². The first scenic highlight, Mureung Valley, stretches about 300 meters, where rapid streams and clear pools unfold beautifully. The site became widely known through Yulgok Yi I’s “Cheonghaksan-gi.” The 21 km route from Sogeumgang to Woljeongsa Temple in Odaesan offers a series of breathtaking views. At the mountain summit, the remains of what is believed to be a fortress built by Prince Ma-ui, who sought to lament the fall of his kingdom, can still be found and are worth exploring. The dramatic rock formations and grand waterfalls harmonize with dense forests, creating outstanding scenery. There are plans to connect this area with Gyeongpodae, making it a major tourist destination on the East Coast. Regular buses operate between Gangneung and Cheonghak-dong, and there are many accommodations available in Cheonghak-dong for a comfortable stay.[Hiking Course: Management Office → Cheonghak Mountain Lodge → Guryong Falls → Manmulsang → Nagyeong Falls → Noinbong Peak → Jingogae Pass (15 km, approx. 5 hours 50 minutes)]
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Jumunjin Area
Jumunjin Beach
Where you can catch clams as the water is shallow and clean
Introduction Sandy Beach that is 700m in length, and 9,608㎡ in total area is a suitable vacation spot for group tourists who would like to catch clams because the water is shallow and clean. There is Hyangho Lake next to the beach, which gives another option, 'freshwater fishing for all four seasons.' Within dense pine forests of 6,600㎡ behind the beach is a sports park that allows camping. Tourist guide Jumunjin Port next to Jumunjin Beach is a port mostly for cargo ships and is also one of the major fishing ports in the East Sea where about 350 fishing boats come and go. In the East Sea where warm and cold currents meet, the most common fish species are squid, lance-fish, Pollack, herring, and anchovy. The raw fish just offloaded from a boat are so fresh that stimulate appetite of tourists. You can enjoy high-quality raw fish at a reasonable price. Tourist Tips Jumunjin is a famous tourist attraction for its beach as well as the port. Jumunjin boasting deep and clear water plays an important role as a port. To some people, seafood market comes to mind first when hearing the word Jumunjin. If you feel hungry after a cup of coffee with a blue-colored sea of Jumunjin, make sure to visit the market and taste snow crab. You can taste the real Gangneung snow crab.
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Jumunjin Area
Jumunjin Port
A port located in Jumunjin, Gangneung City
Introduction Jumunjin Port is primarily used by cargo ships entering and leaving the harbor, and it serves as a major fishing base on the East Coast. Approximately 350 fishing vessels operate here, and due to the meeting of warm and cold currents in the East Sea, a wide variety of seafood such as squid, sand lance, pollock, herring, and anchovies are abundantly caught. Fresh sashimi prepared directly from the catch unloaded from boats is exceptionally fresh, making it highly appealing to visitors. High-quality raw fish dishes can be enjoyed at reasonable prices. Tourist Guide With a sandy beach stretching 700 meters and covering an area of 9,608㎡, the shallow waters and clear sea make it an ideal group summer vacation spot where visitors can even gather shellfish. Adjacent to Hyangho Lake, freshwater fishing is possible year-round. Behind the beach lies a dense pine forest spanning 6,600㎡, which includes a sports park and allows for camping. A short distance further north from Jumunjin is the Jumunjin Lighthouse, which is highly recommended to visit. The port is also conveniently located near a bus terminal, making it easily accessible by public transportation. Travel Tips Jumunjin Port is well known as one of the representative ports of the East Coast. Its proximity to a bus terminal ensures excellent accessibility, making it a popular destination among tourists. Right next to the port is Jumunjin Beach, known for the signature blue waters of the East Sea. The surrounding area is filled with various shops and markets, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh and affordable sashimi without traveling far. After exploring both Jumunjin Port and the beach, visiting the nearby Jumunjin Lighthouse offers a unique additional experience. If you have enjoyed all three attractions and tasted reasonably priced sashimi at the local fish market, consider extending your trip by visiting other beaches located slightly south of Jumunjin, either by car or bus, for an even more enriching coastal experience.
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Jumunjin Area
Yeongjin Beach
A Quiet and Pristine Beach
Introduction Located in Yeongjin 2-ri, Yeongok-myeon, this quiet and clean beach is an ideal destination for clubs or families seeking a relaxing getaway. It is a small fishing village filled with the refreshing scent of the sea, where visitors can enjoy both swimming and boat fishing. The gently sloping coastline and calm, shallow waters make it perfect for family vacations, while the warm hospitality of the small fishing village offers an unexpected charm. Tourist Guide Yeongjin-ri is where streams flowing from the Sogeumgang Valley and the ridges of Jingogae meet the sea. Across the stream lies Yeongok Beach, while Yeongjin Beach is located right next to the harbor, attracting many visitors during the summer season. Around 60 fishing households operate approximately 35 fishing boats, catching flounder and shellfish from February to October. Nearby ports include Jumunjin Port, located about 2–5 km by land and 2 km by sea. About 1 km west of the port, prehistoric burial sites have been excavated and designated as cultural heritage, making it an excellent destination for family history exploration. Travel Tips Yeongjin Beach is a small seaside village known for its peaceful and serene beauty, with a simple and charming coastline. There are many nearby pensions (guesthouses), making it an ideal place for a comfortable family vacation—reservation in advance is recommended for an even more enjoyable stay. Yeongjin Port, located next to the beach, is famous for its abundant fish, attracting many visitors who enjoy boat fishing. A traditional “Pungeoje” (a ritual for a bountiful catch) is held once every three years, offering a unique cultural experience for tourists.The area where the sea meets the stream around Yeongjin Port creates a mystical atmosphere. Although not large, Yeongjin Beach is a beloved destination for families and couples alike. Since around 60 fishing households make a living catching flounder and shellfish, visitors are encouraged to try grilled shellfish when they visit.The area around Yeongjin Beach is also rich in local cuisine. Be sure to try spicy seafood soft tofu soup (Jjamppong Sundubu), Makguksu (buckwheat noodles), Mulhoe (cold raw fish soup), and squid-shaped bread. These dishes are essential to fully experience a trip along the East Coast. In particular, the rich and refreshing taste of Jjamppong Sundubu and the cute appearance of squid bread are unique specialties of Gangneung that you should not miss.Beyond its beaches and ports, Gangneung offers many other attractions. Visitors can experience traditional culture and rural life in villages such as Hak Village and Haesari Village. If traveling with children, it is recommended to make reservations in advance for a more engaging experience.One important tip when traveling in Gangneung is to plan your route along the coastline in one direction—either north or south—to minimize travel time and maximize your experience. Also, while visiting the seaside, don’t limit yourself to raw fish; be sure to explore Gangneung’s diverse culinary offerings. The area also features various attractions such as historical sites, golf courses, resorts, and recreational forests, so planning ahead will help you enjoy a more fulfilling trip.
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Jumunjin Area
Yeongok Beach
An ideal beach for group camping.
Introduction Yeongok Beach is located in Dongdeok-ri, Yeongok-myeon, and it has a sandy beach that is 700 meters long and 56,000㎡ wide. In particular, the dense pine grove makes it an ideal place for camping. Visitors can enjoy fishing sweetish in the clean waters of Yeongokcheon Stream flowing from Sogeumgang Valley and Jin Gogae(Ridge), and children as well as grown-ups can have a great time swimming in the water and fishing. Tourist guide Yeongok Beach is a natural tourist summer resort where visitors can enjoy both climbing and swimming, because there is Sogeumgang Valley in the vicinity. There is a 1,000㎡ long temporary parking lot that can hold 40 cars a day, and a camping site where 881 tents can be put up in a pine grove of 13,220㎡. Yeongok Beach is famous for its camping site, so you will be able to make special memories while camping overnight. Tourist Tips The waters of Yeongok Beach is clean and shallow, so it is perfect for swimming; if you dive under water, you can see fish passing by, and the water is so clean and clear that you can see the ocean floor. Scuba diving will also offer you a special memory. The eateries around the Yeongokcheon Stream are always crowded with visitors. Hearty meals such as floating goby soup, delicious Korean chicken, Korean set menu with wild vegetables, buckwheat noodles, etc. welcome the gourmets.
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Jumunjin Area
Sodol Port
A harbor located in Jumunjin, also home to a hands-on experience village
Introduction Sodol Port is a fishing harbor located at 791-23 Jumun-ri, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung-si, Gangwon State. It was designated as a local fishing port on May 4, 1972, and has since been managed accordingly. The facility is administered by the Mayor of Gangneung. Tourist Guide Local residents requested Gangwon State and the city of Gangneung to change the name to something more practical and widely preferred, as Uamjin Port—located north of Jumunjin and well known for Adeul Rock and the grilled shellfish complex—had already become more familiar to the public as “Sodol Port.” In response to this request, the Governor of Gangwon State officially announced the name change from Uamjin Port to Sodol Port on June 5, 2008, aligning it with the region’s specialty branding. Travel Tips Far removed from crowded and bustling atmospheres, Sodol Port offers a tranquil setting. In the mornings, small fishing boats return daily with modest catches. As the fishermen unload their boats, the women sort the fish into large rubber tubs and wait for customers. Quiet negotiations take place between travelers and the women over the limited amount of fresh seafood, and transactions are usually completed quickly.
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Jumunjin Area
Jumunjin Lighthouse
A scenic spot famous as a drama filming location, known for its beautiful sunrise
Introduction Located about a 7-minute walk from Jumunjin Port. As it is relatively close, it is said that about 30% of travelers visiting Jumunjin Port or Jumunjin Fish Market also stop by this lighthouse. Tour Guide If you expect too much from the appearance of the lighthouse, you may end up feeling disappointed. However, if you stop by with the mindset of “just passing through,” you can enjoy the charm of travel with the thought that “it’s better than not seeing it.” Travel Tips As everyone knows, a lighthouse serves as a guide for ships, helping them navigate safely. Just as traffic lights guide cars and pedestrians by changing from red to green when crossing the street, a lighthouse acts as an essential “eye” for vessels. Just as cars and people rely on traffic signals, it would not be an exaggeration to say that lighthouses play an indispensable role for ships.
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Jumunjin Area
Sodol Adeulbawi Rock
A coastal rock formation that rose above ground due to tectonic movements, located near the coastal road
Introduction Located beyond the white lighthouse of Jumunjin at the end of a hill along the coastal road north of Gangneung, Sodol Adeulbawi Rock Park features a collection of uniquely shaped and bizarre rock formations sculpted by wind and waves. Viewed from the road, the dark, sharply angular rocks resemble a powerful bull, while other naturally formed rocks—such as Elephant Rock—create a fascinating and unusual landscape. The Sodol Coastal Circular Walking Trail is connected around Adeulbawi Rock, allowing visitors to climb to the top of the rocks and enjoy panoramic views of the various formations scattered along Sodol Beach, making it one of the area’s most notable attractions. Tourist Guide Adeulbawi Rock dates back approximately 150 million years to the Jurassic period, when it lay beneath the sea before rising above ground due to tectonic activity. According to legend, an elderly couple was blessed with a son after offering 100 days of prayer, and since then, it has been believed that childless couples who pray here will have their wishes granted. For this reason, the site is especially popular among newlyweds. Travel Tips The village where this park is located is called Sodol (牛岩), a name said to derive from the overall shape of the village resembling a cow. The symbolic feature of Sodol is the “Bull Rock” located within Adeulbawi Rock Park. Its dark, angular form closely resembles a massive and powerful bull. The park offers the unique experience of exploring various rock formations, with stone bridges connecting the rocks, allowing visitors to walk from one rock to another while closely observing their shapes.
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Jumunjin Area
Yeongjin Port
A seaside vacation destination close to the beach
Introduction Yeongjin Village is located north of the lower stream of Yeongokcheon, where salmon return and fragrant sweetfish are abundantly caught. The name signifies “embracing the sea.” A traditional fishing ritual known as the Pungeoje (a ceremony for a bountiful catch) is held once every three years, on a selected day in the fourth lunar month. Yeongjin-ri is where streams flowing from Sogeumgang Valley and the Jingogae mountain range meet the sea. Across the stream lies Yeongok Beach, and right next to the port is Yeongjin Beach, making it a popular summer destination for visitors from other regions. Around 60 fishing households operate approximately 35 fishing boats, catching flounder and shellfish from February to October. Nearby ports include Jumunjin Port, located about 2–5 km by land and 2 km by sea. About 1 km west of the port, prehistoric burial mounds have been excavated and designated as cultural heritage sites, making it an excellent destination for family historical exploration. Tourist Guide Located in Yeongjin 2-ri, Yeongok-myeon, this quiet and clean destination is ideal for club members and families seeking a relaxing seaside getaway. It is a small fishing village filled with the scent of the sea, where visitors can enjoy swimming as well as boat fishing. The gentle coastline and shallow waters make it perfect for family vacations, while the warm hospitality of the small fishing village offers a unique and memorable experience. Travel Tips Yeongjin Port is famous for its abundant catch of high-quality fish, making it a popular destination for boat fishing enthusiasts. This is also why the Pungeoje ritual is held once every three years, offering visitors a unique cultural experience. The area where the sea meets the stream creates a mysterious and scenic atmosphere. Although Yeongjin Beach is not large, it is beloved by families and couples seeking a peaceful retreat. With around 60 fishing households catching flounder and shellfish, visitors are highly recommended to try grilled shellfish when visiting.Nearby attractions include Gyeongpo Provincial Park, Jumunjin Port, and golf courses, making it worthwhile for travelers with cars to explore the area thoroughly. Gangneung is also famous for its diverse food offerings. Visitors can enjoy fresh sashimi and snow crab at the port, try soft tofu in Chodang Sundubu Village, savor popular handmade burgers, visit coffee factories for freshly roasted coffee, dine at renowned spicy seafood noodle restaurants, or explore Jungang Market for dakgangjeong (sweet crispy chicken), ice cream hotteok, and tteokgalbi (grilled short rib patties).Beyond its ports and beaches, Gangneung offers many other attractions. Visitors can experience traditional culture and rural life at places such as Hak Village or Haesari Village. Families traveling with children are encouraged to make reservations in advance for unique hands-on experiences.
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Jumunjin Area
Jangcheon Village Managed Recreation Area
A Representative Recreation Area Located at the Entrance of Sogeumgang Valley
Introduction The “Jangcheon Village Managed Recreation Area” is a recreational site located in Samsan 1-ri, Yeongok-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon State. It lies above the three-way junction leading into Sogeumgang Valley, and the Yeongokcheon Stream, which originates from Odaesan Mountain, flows through this area and continues into the East Sea. The site is known for its beautiful natural scenery harmonized with pine trees and attracts many visitors every year. Tour Guide The “Jangcheon Village Managed Recreation Area” is situated at the entrance of Sogeumgang, a national park, and is well known as a comfortable and relaxing tourist destination thanks to the clear and clean Yeongokcheon Stream and the dense pine forests surrounding the valley. Nearby attractions include Sogeumgang and Songcheon Mineral Spring, both of which are highly recommended for visitors. Travel Tips Jangcheon Village Managed Recreation Area is located in a beautiful village that is home to Sogeumgang, Scenic Site No. 1 of Jangcheon Village. Samsan 1-ri Jangcheon-dong Village was designated as a managed recreation area on August 14, 1989. Visitors can enjoy a variety of foods, attractions, and hands-on experiences here. The village attracts tourists with its refreshing waters flowing from Odaesan National Park and its wide flat rocks, creating a harmonious natural setting. Visitors to Jangcheon Village leave with unforgettable memories, touched by the beautiful nature and the warm hospitality of the residents. Near the recreation area is Sogeumgang, often referred to as “Little Geumgangsan,” where hiking trails offer unique natural scenery in all four seasons. Before crossing Jingogae Pass, visitors can also find Songcheon Mineral Spring. By paying the usage fee at Jangcheon Village Managed Recreation Area, visitors can participate in various experience programs, including making chocolate, natural soap, pizza, mozzarella cheese, tofu, and traditional rice cakes. Wood-burning crafts and sheep farm experiences are also available, and visitors are highly encouraged to try them.