Sokcho in a Day: Seoraksan, Temples & East Sea Views
Sokcho tour: Seoraksan cable car, Naksansa Temple, Gangneung Market, and Sokcho Eye.
Why Take This Sokcho Shore Excursion?
Nestled on Korea’s northeast coast, Sokcho is the gateway to Seoraksan National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famed for its granite peaks and autumn colors. This shore excursion blends natural beauty with seaside relaxation and authentic local flavor:
- Seoraksan Mountain Cable Car (설악산 케이블카) — Ride up the slopes of Korea’s most celebrated mountain for dramatic views of jagged peaks and valleys.
- Gangneung Central Market (강릉 중앙시장) — Browse food stalls and enjoy a hearty Korean lunch, from seafood pancakes to spicy noodles.
- Naksansa Temple (낙산사) — A serene cliffside Buddhist temple overlooking the East Sea, known for its massive standing Buddha and sweeping ocean vistas.
- Gosung Bada Jungwon Café (고성 바다정원 카페) — Relax at a modern beach café, sipping coffee with panoramic views of the shoreline.
- Sokcho Eye Ferris Wheel (속초아이) — End the day with a ride on this seaside landmark for night views of Sokcho’s coast and city lights.
- Dinner in Sokcho — Cap off your day with fresh local seafood or Korean barbecue before returning to port.
Together, these highlights bring you the best of Korea’s east coast in a single day.
Sample Itinerary: Sokcho Shore Excursion
From mountain peaks to seaside lights, Sokcho blends Korea’s nature, culture, and coastal charm
09:00 – Pickup at Sokcho Port
Meet your private driver/guide at the cruise terminal and head toward Seoraksan National Park.
09:30 – 11:00 – Seoraksan Mountain Cable Car
Glide up into the peaks of Seoraksan. From the Gwongeumseong Fortress site, admire rugged cliffs, valleys, and the famed Ulsanbawi Rock.
11:30 – 12:30 – Gangneung Central Market & Lunch
Explore a lively Korean marketplace and enjoy a traditional lunch — try local specialties like seafood pancakes, dak-gangjeong (crispy chicken), or spicy noodle dishes.
13:15 – 14:15 – Naksansa Temple
Visit this oceanside Buddhist temple, home to the towering Haesugwaneumsang Buddha statue and sweeping East Sea panoramas.
15:00 – 16:00 – Sokcho Eye Ferris Wheel
Take in panoramic views of Sokcho’s coast and harbor from this seaside landmark.
16:15 – 17:00 – Return to Sokcho Port
Relax on the comfortable drive back, with optional time for a quick stop if desired before boarding your ship.
