Things to do in  Sokcho

With its magnificent, towering hilltops and more than 2,000 species of animals, Seoraksan National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Protection site and ranks among the most beautiful parks on the Korean Peninsula. Well-marked trails lead past Buddhist temples as they wind through the picturesque landscape.

Sinheungsa Temple, the oldest Zen temple in South Korea, was built by a traveling Shilla monk by the name of Jajang Yulsa in AD 652 and has been destroyed by fire and rebuilt many times since. The current structure dates back to 1648. Located in Seoraksan National Park, the temple features a 3-level pagoda and two Buddha statues.

Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market buzzes with energy. It's where locals come to haggle over daily catches while tourists savor local delights such as crispy dak gangjeong sweet and sour chicken, chewy susu-bukkumi rice cakes, and savory seafood tempura. Renowned for its seafood, this market is a foodie's haven in Sokcho, a taste of authentic Korean flavors at every turn.

Formerly Jungang Market, Sokcho Central Market is the ultimate representation of the city’s vibrant cultural scene. In this huge commercial space, stalls are piled high with everything from clothing to clams. Here you can sample hot and cold street food, raw fish, seafood, Korean fried chicken, and traditional blood sausage.

Nestled within the mountains of the Seoraksan National Park, Gwongeumseong Fortress is the ruins of a natural stone castle from the Goryeo dynasty. You won’t find much of the former fortress remaining here, but visitors tend to come for the views alone—from its elevated position 2,624 feet (800 meters) above sea level, you can enjoy stunning vistas of the UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve below.

Towering over the UNESCO-listed landscapes of Seoraksan National Park, Ulsanbawi Rock is a jagged granite peak that offers panoramic views from its perch 266 meters (873 meters) above sea level. The 2-hour hike to the top might be strenuous, but it’s worth it for vistas of otherworldly rock formations, ancient temples, and thick forests.