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We had hoped to hike Seoraksan’s ‘Ulsanbawi Rock’ (read previous post here) on the second day of our 2-day trip to Sokcho. The tiredness of the previous day and the change in temperatures took a toll on us and we couldn’t wake up before six. The weather also changed drastically and clouds engulfed the mountains. There was a strong possibility of rain and we didn’t think we’d have enough time to hike the mountain and catch our bus back to Seoul. So we changed our plan and decided to explore Sokcho City instead. The bus ride from Seoraksan to the bus terminal was pretty quick on a Sunday morning.
We didn’t want to wander too far away from the bus terminal and got off at the harbour. With no mountains to block them and only an endless horizon in the distance, the clouds took over the blue sky and hid the sun. Fortunately, we had our rain jackets to protect us from the cold and rain. We walked through narrow lanes lined with stalls dedicated to fresh catch from the sea (not in pic). We saw sea creatures squirm in their tiny tanks while they waited for their sorry fate.Β En route, when the rain poured down, we stepped into a convenience store to pick up a warm drink and seek shelter from the rain. Finally, we reached our first stop.
Yeonggeumjeong Sunrise Pavilion
The rain had decreased in intensity by the time we reachedΒ Yeonggeumjeong Sunrise Pavilion. There were very few people at this time. I guess the rain had kept most visitors away from the coast. I’ve always loved the sea and it felt like coming home. We had about 3 hours to take in the sights and sounds of this coastal city.
1. Try not to let the wind carry you along
It was pretty windy as we climbed the steps that lead us to the pavilion. The wind took a whole new form here. My rain jacket didn’t help me at all and I thought the wind would take me with it. The slippery floor of the bridge didn’t do much for our balance. After a few unsteady steps, we finally made it to the pavilion.
2. Watch gulls enjoy a choppy glide
While we were having a tough time manoeuvringΒ our bodies to the wind, the gulls seemed to have a good time being airborne. They screeched, circled around the pavilion, and added their own character to the roaring waves. I must have even seen them smile.
3. Listen to the waves lash across the rocks
The sea can be soothing even in its most terrifying form. Waves kept lashing across the rocks with an occasional salty shower. While we struggled to stand still or be swept by the wind; the sea continued to entertain us with its rocky ballad.
4. Play hide-and-seek with the sun
The rain eventually stopped, but the clouds refused to fade away. The sun made its presence felt whenever it found an empty patch of sky. When the sun came out, the colour of the water changed from navy blue to teal.
5. Climb the highest pavilion in sight
There was another pavilion on top of a small hill. We climbed up to reach the vantage point. Over here, the wind was howling and it got really difficult to stand still. There were few Korean families who tried to take pictures here. They smiled as we struggled with our balance.
6. Imagine lifeforms in sleeping rocks
We still had over 2 hours to kill. The lighthouse isn’t very far from the Sunrise Pavilion and we followed the coastal trail. The water hadn’t reached the edge of the coast and it exposed rocks within the seabed. We followed others and walked over the rocky trail. At some angles, the rocks transformed into shapes of sleeping amphibians or prehistoric creatures.
7. Channelise your inner photographer
With the wind more manageable on this side, many travellers explored risky photography angles. Basil found a rock that gave him a vantage view of the sea.
8. Strike a Pose
It is a bit tricky when you try to pose on a rocky surface. That didn’t stop many, including me, from trying out precarious settings. I managed to get over my fear, find the right direction of the wind, and balance on a gigantic rock. The sea didn’t look very inviting below — for a non-swimmer like me and I wouldn’t recommend this pose to anyone.
9. Try some fishy stuff
It’s hard to ignore the strong smell of fish when you’re next to the sea. And even before we could see the shore — we could smell it in the air. We couldn’t try any local delicacy because we had to get back to the terminal.
10. Get a bird’s eye view from Sokcho Lighthouse Observatory
Β Sockcho Lighthouse Observatory is perched on another hill. There’s a long winding staircase that leads to a bridge — connecting another set of stairs. This time, I was terrified by the wind and height. It might not seem like much on normal day.
The base of the lighthouse is pretty high up and we took a break here. Inside, there are two levels to enjoy the view of the city below. It was strange because there was no sign of any mountain in this view and had we not visited Seoraksan on the previous day; we’d believe this city to be nothing more than a rocky shoreline.
There’s always something nice to see and try in a new place if you are open enough. I love your pictures, Cheryl. I suppose you capture a lot with a smartphone!
Thank you so much for making my day! π Yes, I’ve started clicking pictures too. In this case, we didn’t want to get Basil’s camera wet in the rain. I prefer to capture pics on my phone. I guess it’s easier when the weather’s not great or it’s a hike.
For blog a good smartphone helps. It’s more about capturing the moments. Which make do you use?
I started capturing pictures as a backup. I don’t know when I got hooked by it. π Currently, I’m using a Samsung phone. No surprises there! π
Well, I’m also using my phone quite a lot these days because that’s always accessible especially when you are in a social situation. I guess Samsung, LG and iPhone must be most popular in S. Korea.
Samsung is very common here. No surprises there! lol.
Well, I’m not surprised, Cheryl! π
π
This place looks utterly amazing, but would I ever be able to pronounce Yeonggeumjeong?
hahah..Neither can I. I didn’t even know about it. We just followed huge signboards indicating a pavilion. We got lucky! Sokcho is pretty scenic. We could have spent a day or more there. π
The photos are lovely but I especially enjoyed the video. Beautiful coastal scenery!
Thanks, Helen! It was tricky capturing a video when the wind was howling and I could barely hold my phone. I love it too! I love the sea. π
You caught some beautiful shots.
Awww!! Thanks a bunch! I got lucky. π
I could feel the cold and the wind, from your description and the photos. Looks positively blustery out there! Love the video though. It is amazing how many people will pose at the edge of the rocks or whatever to get there perfect shot without regard for the danger and then one reads about all the accidents in taking selfies and instagram shots.
Love the photos and how you managed to use your time so well.
Peta
It was a super windy day and the rain didn’t make things better.
I guess, we’re also guilty of standing in dangerous positions to capture pictures of the sea. I don’t recommend though. I agree with you that we need to be more careful of our surroundings whilst trying to capture that perfect shot. π
Thanks you so much for stopping by and your words of encouragement.
Cheryl
Fishermen have a saying, “the worst day fishing is better than the best day working.” I think you might say the same about hanging out by the ocean.
I couldn’t agree more. π I love the sea!
Ah, so beautiful. Yes, I do believe weβre kindred spirits Cheryl. I also feel like Iβm coming home anytime that Iβm near the sea. So soothing even in its raging form. Yes, you were brave standing there, no doubt. Loved this. xo π
We don’t get to visit the sea very often here. π We’re surrounded by mountains. It was dangerous standing on that rock and oddly, very liberating. π Don’t recommend it though. xo
Wow, it all looks so beautiful!
Thanks, Jona! Korea has some hidden gems. π Happy to share them.