Hot Spot

Riding the Spring Breeze, Walking along the Waves

Jeongdong-simgok Badabuchae Trail

• In Gangneung, the changing seasons reveal themselves in the color of the sea. As spring approaches, the waters grow endlessly bright and clear. If you wish to welcome spring a little sooner, head to the coast of Gangneung. We recommend the Jeongdong-simgok Badabuchae Trail course, where you can stroll above the blue sea, carried by the gentle spring breeze.


• The Jeongdong-simgok Badabuchae Trail, a part of the Marine Terrace in Jeongdongjin(Natural Monument No. 437), has been a major attraction in Gangneung since its opening in 2016, drawing over 200,000 visitors annually. It is the only marine terrace in Korea where visitors can observe crustal movements that occurred 2 to 3 million years ago, making it a site of great geological significance. With breathtaking coastal cliffs, waves crashing against striking rock formations, and awe-inspiring natural scenery, this dynamic trail offers an experience that never grows dull.



• Selected as one of the “2025–2026 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots of Korea” by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization, Jeongdongsimgok Badabuchae Trail has recently undergone new changes. A 640-meter extension has been added, expanding the trail to 3.1 km and now linking Simgok Port and Jeongdong Port. The Jeongdong Ticket Office, previously located inside the Sun Cruise Resort, has also been relocated to the Jeongdong Port, allowing visitors to begin their journey with a panoramic sea view instead of a steep mountain path.



• What does the new section of Jeongdongsimgok Badabuchae Trail, which opened last April and is now entering its second spring, look like? After passing the Jeongdong Ticket Office, visitors embark on the trail, greeted by the gleaming white Sun Cruise Resort perched atop the hill.



• Following the decked path along the coastal cliffs, the waves surging below feel more alive than ever. As winter recedes, the deep blue sea becomes lighter, like shedding its heavy coat.



• The emerald waters are stunningly clear and transparent, blending seamlessly with the dramatic rock formations to create an ever-changing masterpiece. The rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the cliffs awakens the senses, filling the eyes, ears, and heart with a refreshing sense of freedom.


• Even footsteps feel lighter, as if one could reach Simgok Port from Jeongdong Port in no time. Yet, the allure of photo spots tempting visitors to capture the perfect shot against the sea makes it hard to resist stopping. Marine Square and Sky Stairway are new photo spots added with the extended section of the trail.


• After passing the Path of Wishes, where stone stacks are built, visitors are greeted by a unique photo spot shaped by nature itself—majestic rock formations sculpted by the relentless force of waves and wind. Their names are as intriguing as their shapes: Tugubawi, Buchaebawi, and Geobukbawi Rocks, named for a helmet, a fan, and a turtle, respectively, each with a shape that sparks the imagination and is stepped in hidden stories. In particular, Tugubawi Rock is steeped in the legend of General Gang Gam-chan, who defeated the Six-Toed Tiger. If you look closely, it really looks like a valiant general wearing a helmet.



• While heading toward Buchaebawi Rock, another breathtaking sight unexpectedly appears. Like a delicate white wildflower blooming between the rocks, a quaint little building draws the eye. For visitors in need of a short break after a long walk, Cafe Yunseul is a true gift.


• “YunSeul” is a uniquely Korean term describing the shimmering ripples on the water caused by sunlight or moonlight. True to its name, Cafe Yunseul offers an enchanting sea view that sparkles like a gem under the morning sunlight. Starting in May, parasols and sunbeds will be temporarily set up on the beach in front of the café, allowing visitors to relax even closer to the water. A café this close to the sea feels almost surreal, as if romance here has no bounds.



• Even the drinks at Cafe Yunseul capture the essence of the ocean. Its signature menu item, “Yunseul Ade,” mirrors the refreshing deep blue of the sea, while the grapefruit ade resembles the vibrant hues of a sunset over the waves. Watching, sipping, and enjoying the sea here, I almost forgot my next destination.


• About two minutes from Cafe Yunseul toward Simgok Port stands Buchaebawi Rock, a unique formation shaped like an open fan. A local legend speaks of its mysterious patterns, adding to its enigmatic charm. Passing the Pebble Beach from Buchaebawi Rock and climbing the Observation Tower means you’ve almost reached Simgok Port.



• I pause for a moment and look back at the path I have traveled. I feel a quiet gratitude for the vast embrace of nature, which has welcomed every footstep along the way. The wind gently touches my shoulders. It’s time to head back. But on the way back, the scenery will surely feel different. With the spring breeze cheering me on, I set off once again!
  
  
• • Jeongdong-simgok Badabuchae Trail Opening Hours
  • * Summer season(April–October) 09:00–17:30 (Ticket Booth closed at 16:30)
  • * Winter season(Nov–March) 09:00–16:30 (Ticket Booth closed at 15:30)
    
    
  • ※ Notes
  • * The opening and closure of the trail depend on the weather conditions to ensure the safety of visitors. Please check in advance on the day of your visit.
  • (Website: https://searoad.gtdc.or.kr/ Tel. +82-33-641-9444~5)