Sokcho Date Ideas: Top 5 Activities for a Memorable Couple's Trip
What to Do on a Romantic Trip to Sokcho?
The best date ideas for couples on a romantic trip to Sokcho range from breathtaking mountain views to delicious foodie fiestas around this exciting South Korean city. You can combine your trip to the top of a mountain with a unique spa experience and enjoy stunning scenery as you relax in hot spring pools.
City dwellers will appreciate Sokcho’s stellar selection of fine dining venues, seaside cocktail lounges, and quaint food stalls to fuel your late-night walks along the city streets. Read on to discover where to experience the best of Sokcho together.
1. Biryong Falls
A serene oasis with spectacular views
Good for: Couples, Photo
If you and your partner love nature, a visit to the Seoraksan National Park and Biryong Falls is a must. Walk from the entrance to Seoraksan National Park, and follow the signs, you will reach Yukdam Falls, which consists of 6 small waterfalls and a pond. Crossing the suspension bridge so you can fully appreciate Yukdam Falls, then continue along the valley to arrive at Biryong Falls, famous for its own dragon legend.
Take your time to watch the water falling from Biryong Falls and meandering through the clear valley. After the hustle and bustle of the city, this place feels tranquil and magical. Stop here for a couple of romantic photos with the waterfall as your backdrop.
Location: Seoraksan-ro, Seorak-dong, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Open: 24/7
Phone: +82 (0)33-636-7700
Biryong Falls
2. Seorak Waterpia
Hot springs and mountain views at a celebrated resort
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Seorak Waterpia is a large, year-round hot spring theme park near Mt. Seorak, and a part of Hanwha Resort. It features a variety of water attractions, saunas, and hot spring pools using natural, mineral-rich water from a local hot spring. The park is divided into indoor and outdoor zones, offering activities like wave pools, slides, a lazy river, and spa facilities, making it a popular destination for both families and couples.
The park utilizes alkaline mineral water from a natural hot spring, which is considered beneficial for recuperation. Soak together in one of the outdoor hot spring pools while you admire the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Location: 111 Misiryeong-ro 2983beon-gil, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Open: Daily from 10 am to 9.30 pm
Phone: +82 (0)33-630-5800
Seorak Waterpia
3. Abai Village
Where to learn about the North Korean refugee culture
Good for: Couples, Food, Unusual
Abai Village is celebrated for its unique cultural heritage as a settlement for North Korean refugees from the Hamgyeong Province during the Korean War. The residents have maintained their distinct culture, including their dialect and culinary traditions. Foodies flock here to enjoy unique North Korean food such as abai sundae (blood sausage) and experience Sokcho’s famous Gaetbae (raft-like boat).
The village also offers a nostalgic atmosphere, mural paintings depicting the refugees’ lives, and it served as a filming location for the Korean drama Autumn in My Heart. Be sure to check out the Restaurant Alley, a street filled with restaurants serving authentic North Korean and local dishes, including cold noodles, squid, and fish.
Location: 550-14 Cheongho-dong, Sokcho-si, South Korea
Phone: +82 (0)10-6374-7355
Abai Village
4. Sokcho Food Stall Street
Nighttime views and local street food
Good for: Couples, Food, Nightlife
Head to the food stalls at Yeopngrang-dong, Sokcho, to share some stellar street food and take in the beautiful nocturnal sea views. For budget-friendly and delicious treats, try teokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (filled pancakes), kimbap (seaweed and rice rolls, “Korean sushi”) and eomuk (fishcake).
The food stalls are often open until late so you can enjoy a late-night meal while watching boats and go from the harbor. A glass of wine or soju under the stars is a wonderful way to conclude a busy day of sightseeing. For a more traditional experience, visit a pojangmacha (tent-like food stall) to share a selection of small dishes called anju.
Location: Yeongranghaean-gil, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do , South Korea
Sokcho Food Stall Street
5. Seoraksan Native Botanical Garden
For romantic walks in nature
Good for: Budget, Couples, Photo
The Seoraksan Native Botanical Garden is a space created to preserve the native plants of the Seoraksan area and to experience nature. Enjoy a quiet stroll together through a picturesque landscape, relax by a natural stream, or explore themed gardens like the unique Maze Garden. You’ll discover seasonal wildflowers along the vibrant walking trails, or you can visit the cactus and tropical greenhouse for a more exotic botanical experience.
The garden is a year-round destination, offering different blooms and scenery, from vibrant wildflowers in the warmer months to a peaceful retreat in the cooler seasons. Visit during spring when the cherry trees are in full bloom for an ultimately romantic backdrop for your holiday photos.
Location: 1000-396, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Open: Daily from 9 am to 5.30 pm
Phone: +82 (0)33-639-2928
Seoraksan Native Botanical Garden
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