A Day Trip from Seoul to Korea’s Stunning East Coast: Hyangho Beach, Abai Village, and Seoraksan
If you’re looking to escape Seoul’s hustle and explore some of Korea’s most beautiful coastal scenery and cultural sites, this Seoul to Hyangho Beach Mt Seorak Abai Village Tour offers a well-balanced day of natural beauty, local history, and delicious food. For $119 per person, you get roughly 14 hours of sightseeing, with comfortable air-conditioned transport, a friendly guide, and several iconic stops that showcase Korea’s diverse east coast.
What we love about this tour is how smoothly it combines different experiences—relaxing at Hyangho Beach, learning about post-war history at Abai Village, savoring local flavors at Sokcho Central Market, and marveling at Mt. Seorak’s rugged beauty. The inclusion of photographic props and Korean sunsticks adds a thoughtful, fun touch, making it clear this tour aims for memorable moments.
One possible consideration is the long day’s duration — it’s a full 14 hours, so it’s best suited for those with decent stamina and a love for varied experiences. Also, the tour has a minimum booking requirement of five travelers, so it’s ideal for those planning ahead or traveling in a group.
This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Korea’s east coast without the hassle of planning multiple transportation legs — especially if you prefer guided tours that handle logistics and provide insights along the way.
Key Points
- Comprehensive day trip covering beaches, cultural villages, markets, and mountain scenery.
- Comfortable transportation and a friendly guide make the experience easy and enjoyable.
- Authentic local experiences like Sokcho Market and Abai Village provide cultural insight.
- Stunning natural sights including Hyangho Beach and Mt. Seorak’s diverse landscapes.
- Balanced schedule with enough time at each stop to appreciate the location.
- Good value for those wanting to see Korea’s east coast without extra planning hassle.
Exploring Korea’s East Coast: What to Expect
This tour offers a well-curated itinerary that allows you to experience the diverse highlights of Korea’s east coast in a single day. We found it to be an ideal option for travelers who want to avoid the difficulties of public transportation but still see key sites.
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Hyangho Beach: The Coastal Beauty
The tour begins at Hyangho Beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the east coast. Expect soft sands and clear blue waters, perfect for photos at BTS-inspired stops and the unique purple benches designed for memorable snapshots. The one-hour stop here offers enough time for a leisurely walk along the shore or just soaking in the scenery. Travelers noted the stunning views and the chance to create unforgettable holiday photos.
Abai Village: A Window into Korea’s History
Next, you’ll visit Abai Village, a poignant reminder of Korea’s turbulent past. Located across from Sokcho Market, this village was settled by displaced people after the Korean War. As one reviewer shared, walking through here is a chance to “indirectly feel the resilience and history of the villagers.” The 30-minute stop is brief but meaningful, offering a glimpse into local life and history. You won’t get long lectures, but the atmosphere and the stories whispering from the streets are enough to leave an impression.
Sokcho Central Market: A Foodie’s Paradise
For lunch or just to enjoy local flavors, the Sokcho Central Market provides a lively atmosphere and a chance to taste fresh snow crab dishes, squid sundae, and potato pancakes. The market’s vibrant ambiance and variety of food stalls are perfect for those who want an authentic taste of local cuisine. The 1 hour and 10 minutes here allow ample time to wander, sample, and maybe pick up some souvenirs.
Mt. Seoraksan and Beyond
The highlight for many is Mt. Seorak, famous for its colorful scenery and natural beauty. The tour includes admission to Seoraksan National Park, and you’ll spend about two hours exploring. Travelers can choose to trek or take the cable car, with the latter offering spectacular views of the rugged mountain peaks. One reviewer mentioned using the cable car and enjoyed the breathtaking vistas.
Extras and Convenience
Included in the tour are photographic accessories, Korean sunsticks (a thoughtful touch to protect skin during outdoor activities), and round-trip Gaet-bae Boat tickets. The transportation is air-conditioned, making the long day much more comfortable, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
Limitations and Considerations
While the tour is well-organized, it’s a long day, so travelers should be prepared for plenty of walking and standing. The physical activity is moderate, but those with severe car sickness might find the bus ride challenging. Also, lunch and Mt. Seorak’s cable car are not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget accordingly.
Authenticity and Value
Travelers like Chloe praised the guide, Jayce, for being informative and helpful, making the experience richer and more engaging. The cost seems justified given the inclusive entries, transportation, and guided insights, especially for travelers who prefer a hassle-free way to see a lot in a day.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience suits travelers who crave a combination of natural beauty, cultural insights, and local flavors without the stress of independent planning. It’s ideal for those who value guides’ knowledge, appreciate stunning scenery, and want to experience Korea’s east coast highlights in a compact schedule. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with a group, as the minimum booking size ensures a lively, shared experience.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you’re visiting Korea and want a well-organized day of sightseeing with a focus on authentic sites and natural splendor, this tour offers great value. It’s especially good for those who prefer guided experiences to maximize their time and learn about the places they visit. The combination of scenic beaches, historical villages, bustling markets, and mountain vistas makes this a varied, rewarding journey.
For travelers who want to relax and let someone else handle logistics, this tour delivers a balanced introduction to Korea’s east coast—with enough time at each stop to truly soak in the atmosphere. Just be prepared for a full day, and bring your camera, appetite, and sense of adventure.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes. The tour provides air-conditioned transportation, which makes covering the long distances comfortable and stress-free.
What is the start time?
The tour departs from Myeongdong Station at 6:45 am, so expect an early start to make the most of the day.
Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food at Sokcho Market.
Can I choose to take the cable car at Mt. Seorak?
The cable car is available but not included in the tour price. You can opt to purchase a ticket separately if you wish.
What does the tour include?
The tour includes a local guide, transportation, photographic props, Korean sunsticks, and round-trip boat tickets at Gaet-bae.
Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Those with severe car sickness might want to consider other options.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, and some cash for souvenirs or extras.
How many people typically book this tour?
On average, travelers book about 40 days in advance, and the tour has a maximum of 88 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group.
Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking at least several weeks ahead is recommended, especially since a minimum of five people is needed to operate each departure.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This guided day trip from Seoul offers a well-rounded glimpse of Korea’s stunning east coast, perfect for those who want a balanced mix of scenery, history, and local flavor—all comfortably managed and ready for you to enjoy.