Top 10 Things to Do in Uljin: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Korea's East Coast
Uljin is a stunning destination where you can experience the full charm of Korea's East Coast at a glance. It is highly popular as a healing getaway where you can enjoy the ocean, lush forests, and soothing hot springs all in one trip. In this article, we introduce 10 must-visit places in Uljin, featuring nature, the sea, and quiet relaxation, which are essential to know before your trip. Let's explore the various spots in Uljin that both families and couples can enjoy comfortably.
Recommended Uljin Attractions: Top 10 Best Places to Visit
Deunggi Mountain Skywalk
Located on a cliff near Hupo Port, the Deunggi Mountain Skywalk is a representative coastal observatory in Uljin. You can walk along the promenade made of tempered glass floors and admire the refreshing scenery of the East Sea right beneath your feet. There is a section that protrudes over the sea, giving you the thrilling sensation of walking in the sky. On clear days, Hupo Port and the surrounding beaches are visible at a glance. Nearby, there are raw fish centers (seafood markets) and a cafe street, making it a great place to explore together.
- Admission: Free
- Hours: 09:00~18:00 (Extended operation in summer)
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| Deunggi Mountain Skywalk |
Wolsongjeong Pavilion
Wolsongjeong is a traditional Korean pavilion located on a coastal cliff in Pyeonghae-eup. Historically, it served as a watchtower to monitor Japanese pirate invasions during the Goryeo Dynasty. Today, it is a famous sunrise spot in Uljin, perfect for a walk along the pine forest path that stretches along the coastline. The sunrise viewed from the pavilion overlooking the sea is also famous as a travel photography spot. With its secluded and quiet atmosphere, it is a great place to stay for a while and feel the relaxation of the East Sea.
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| Wolsongjeong Pavilion |
Wangpicheon Park
Wangpicheon Park is a complex ecological and experiential park created in the lower reaches of Wangpicheon Stream in Geunnam-myeon, Uljin-gun. The park houses a cable car, aquarium, insect travel hall, and safety experience center, making it a highly recommended family travel destination with children as you can enjoy nature experiences and indoor education all at once.
The Wangpicheon Cable Car runs about 900 meters across the estuary of Wangpicheon Stream. During the ride, you can enjoy an aerial view of the scenery where the river meets the East Sea. After getting off, there is an observatory and a short walking trail, making it good for a light tour.
The Uljin Aquarium is an indoor aquarium exhibiting representative fish, corals, and marine life of the East Coast. Although the facility is not massive, you can observe about 10,000 creatures of 150 different species.
At the Insect Travel Hall, you can directly observe living insects and specimens, while the Uljin Safety Experience Center operates as an educational facility where you can experience various safety situations such as earthquakes and fires. Since these are indoor-centered attractions usable regardless of the weather, they are great for rainy day travel itineraries.
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| Wangpicheon Park |
| Facility Name | Key Details | Fee (2025 Basis) |
|---|---|---|
| Wangpicheon Cable Car | Approx. 900m estuary crossing, connects to observatory/trail | Adult 10,000 KRW (approx. $7.40) / Child 9,000 KRW (approx. $6.65) |
| Uljin Aquarium | Exhibits 150 marine species, Kids Experience Zone | Adult 7,000 KRW (approx. $5.20) / Child 5,000 KRW (approx. $3.70) |
| Insect Travel Hall | Insect specimens & live exhibitions, learning programs | Adult 4,000 KRW (approx. $3.00) / Child 2,000 KRW (approx. $1.50) |
| Safety Experience Center | Practical education on earthquake, fire, traffic safety | Adult 6,000 KRW (approx. $4.45) / Child 3,000 KRW (approx. $2.20) |
Mangyangjeong Pavilion
Mangyangjeong is a representative sunrise spot on the East Coast, located in Sanpo-ri, Geunnam-myeon, Uljin-gun. Counted as one of the "Eight Scenic Sites of the Gwandong Region," it features an open view of the sea, just as its name "Gazing at the Vast Ocean" implies. In front of the pavilion, Mangyangjeong Beach spreads out widely.
Deck walking paths and photo zones are established around the pavilion, attracting many travelers who want to capture the sunrise. It is also a great stopover on a drive along the surrounding coastal roads.
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| Mangyangjeong Pavilion |
Seongnyugul Cave
Seongnyugul is a limestone cave located in Geunnam-myeon, Uljin-gun, designated as Natural Monument No. 155. It was formed by the erosion of limestone strata created about 250 million years ago, and the interior preserves stalactites and stalagmites very well. The general exploration section is about 270 meters long, and lighting and guide signs are installed for convenient movement.
The temperature inside the cave is maintained at 15~17°C year-round, making it cool in summer and warm in winter. After viewing the cave, it is nice to take a light stroll around the entrance area.
- Admission: Adult 5,000 KRW (approx. $3.70) / Teen 3,000 KRW (approx. $2.20) / Child 2,500 KRW (approx. $1.85)
- Hours: Mar-Oct 09:00~18:00 / Nov-Feb 09:00~17:00
- Tour Duration: Approx. 20 minutes
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| Seongnyugul Cave |
Deokgu Oncheon (Hot Spring)
Deokgu Oncheon is a natural hot spring located in Deokgu Valley, Buk-myeon, Uljin-gun. About 2,000 tons of hot spring water naturally gushes out daily from the foot of the mountain at an altitude of about 900m. It is known as a 'naturally sourced hot spring,' which is rare in Korea. The water temperature is about 42°C, and it is rich in sodium bicarbonate, which is less irritating to the skin and effective for relieving fatigue.
The hot spring complex is divided into the Grand Bathhouse and Spa World. The Grand Bathhouse follows a traditional bath style (gender-separated, no swimwear) with open-air and indoor baths. Spa World is a water park-style spa facility where families can enjoy together (swimwear required), available all year round. It is especially popular in winter as you can enjoy hot spring bathing along with a walk along the valley.
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Grand Bathhouse
- Hours: 06:00~22:00
- Fee: Adult 11,000 KRW (approx. $8.15) / Child 8,000 KRW (approx. $5.90)
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Spa World
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Hours:
- Weekdays 10:00~19:00
- Weekends 10:00~20:00
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Fee:
- Weekdays (Off-peak): Adult 26,000 KRW (approx. $19.25) / Child 17,000 KRW (approx. $12.60)
- Weekends (Off-peak): Adult 32,000 KRW (approx. $23.70) / Child 23,000 KRW (approx. $17.00)
- Peak/High Peak Season: Adult 38,000 KRW (approx. $28.15) / Child 30,000 KRW (approx. $22.20)
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Hours:
- Child Criteria: 24 months ~ Elementary student (Free for under 24 months with proof)
- Peak Season: Mid-Dec ~ Mar 1st of next year, Mid-July ~ Aug, Lunar New Year/Chuseok holidays
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| Deokgu Oncheon |
National Ocean Science Museum
The National Ocean Science Museum is a marine-specialized exhibition hall located on the coast of Jukbyeon-myeon, Uljin-gun. As the largest marine science complex cultural facility in Korea, it hosts permanent exhibitions on themes such as marine ecology, climate, exploration, and marine technology. The interior is divided into children's experience zones, ocean exploration halls, and underwater observatories, and since it is an indoor facility, it can be visited regardless of the weather.
In particular, in the Ocean Exploration Hall, you can see deep-sea exploration equipment, submersible models, and marine life specimens, and VR experience programs are also available. The building structure facing the sea and the outdoor observatory are also popular photo spots.
- Admission: Adult 4,000 KRW (approx. $3.00) / Teen 3,000 KRW (approx. $2.20) / Child 2,000 KRW (approx. $1.50)
- Hours: 09:30~18:00 (Last admission 17:00)
- Closed: Every Monday, Jan 1st, Lunar New Year/Chuseok Day
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| National Ocean Science Museum |
Geumgang Pine Forest Path
The Geumgang Pine Forest Path is an eco-tour trail created in Sogwang-ri, Geumgangsong-myeon, Uljin-gun, following the area where Geumgang Pine trees (Natural Monument No. 103) grow wild. The total length is about 13km, and the slopes are gentle in sections, making it easy for anyone to walk. Designated by the Korea Forest Service as a representative forest path, it is the best place to experience Uljin's pristine nature.
The forest path is operated in 'Courses 1 to 4', which you can choose according to your purpose. The most popular section is Course 2, which follows the Wangpicheon Stream, allowing you to pass through the Geumgang Pine colony while listening to the sounds of the valley. The forest path is a protected area, so the number of daily visitors is limited, and entry is only possible through advance reservation.
- Trails: Course 1 (Sogwang-ri), Course 2 (Wangpicheon), Course 3 (Bukbakgok), Course 4 (Samgeun)
- Total Length: Approx. 13km (Takes 2~4 hours per course)
- Reservation: Advance reservation via Korea Forest Service 'Forest Trip (Supnadeul-e)' website
- Operating Period: Mar~Nov (Closed in winter)
- Fee: Free
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| Geumgang Pine Forest Path |
Jukbyeon Coast Skyrail
The Jukbyeon Coast Skyrail is a monorail that runs along the coastal cliffs of Jukbyeon-myeon, Uljin-gun. It operates a 2km round trip along the cliffs around Jukbyeon Port, and during the ride, you can enjoy the coastline of the East Sea, waves, and cliff scenery all at once. The structure moves directly above the sea, making it one of the most popular experiential tourism courses in Uljin.
The boarding section starts at Jukbyeon Port, passes Deunggi Mountain Observatory, and continues towards the coastal road. The rail cars move via an automatic system, and the large windows are excellent for taking photos. Operation may be suspended on windy days or due to bad weather, so it is recommended to check the operation status before visiting.
- Fee: Adult 12,000 KRW (approx. $8.90) / Teen 10,000 KRW (approx. $7.40) / Child 8,000 KRW (approx. $5.90)
- Hours: 10:00~18:00 (Ticket closing 17:30)
- Route: Jukbyeon Port ⇄ Deunggi Mountain Observatory (Round trip approx. 2km)
- Duration: Approx. 20 minutes
- Closed: Every Monday
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| Jukbyeon Coast Skyrail |
Buryeongsa Temple
Buryeongsa is a millennium-old temple located deep inside Buryeong Valley in Geumgangsong-myeon, Uljin-gun. It is known to have been founded during the reign of King Munmu of the Silla Dynasty and is a branch temple of Bulguksa Temple.
The temple is quietly situated along the mountain terrain, with Daewungbojeon Hall as the center, accompanied by Geungnakjeon, Eungjinjeon, and Myeongbujeon halls. Most of the buildings are wooden structures reconstructed during the Joseon Dynasty and have high cultural heritage value. The approach path along Buryeong Valley has a gentle slope, making it easy to walk, and transforms into a cherry blossom road in spring and a maple leaf road in autumn.
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| Buryeongsa Temple |
Recommended Travel Courses
Uljin has short travel distances between spots, making it easy to plan courses. You can leisurely explore by dividing your schedule into family, kids-friendly, or couple trips, either as a day trip or a 1-night 2-day itinerary.
Family Travel Course
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National Ocean Science Museum → Jukbyeon Coast Skyrail → Deokgu Oncheon
- An itinerary where you can enjoy indoor experiences, coastal views, and hot spring relaxation together.
Course with Children
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Wangpicheon Park → Ocean Science Museum → Mangyangjeong Pavilion
- Composed mainly of experiential facilities, this course can be enjoyed regardless of the weather.
Couple Travel Course
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Deunggi Mountain Skywalk → Wolsongjeong → Geumgang Pine Forest Path →
Buryeongsa Temple
- A quiet healing itinerary encompassing the sea, forest, and a serene temple.
1-Night 2-Days Tip
- Day 1: Deunggi Mountain Skywalk → Wolsongjeong → Wangpicheon Park
- Day 2: National Ocean Science Museum → Deokgu Oncheon → Buryeong Valley
We have introduced 10 places worth visiting in Uljin. Uljin is a travel destination with plenty to enjoy, including the East Sea, forests, hot springs, and temples. You can feel different charms in each season, and there are various spaces for families to enjoy. It is also a great place to stay quietly away from the city and enjoy nature. Before planning your trip, please check the operating hours and closed days of each facility to enjoy a fulfilling trip to Uljin.
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