Jangho Sunrise event
- Date of Visit2025.01.01Time Spent21 hours
- AreaGangwon-doExpensesKRW(₩) 9,000
Warm, comfortable clothing Compression socks for the long train ride A nice cushion/pillow Portable chargers
BUS, SUBWAY, TRAIN
Our journey to welcome the first sunrise of 2025 began aboard the Education E-Train from Seoul to Donghae at 11:05 pm on December 31st. The train was bursting with energy, filled with games and activities that kept everyone entertained. As the clock struck midnight, we rang in the New Year with a deafening countdown and the quirky tradition of eating grapes for good luck. (Sadly, there were no tables to crawl under—next time, maybe? 🤭✨). Here's hoping all our wishes come true! By 5:30 am, we arrived at Samcheok Jangho Port, often dubbed the "Naples of the East." It was still chilly and dark, so we stayed on the bus until the horizon began to glow. With warm coffee in hand ☕️, we ventured out to find the perfect spot to witness the sunrise. At exactly 7:37 am, the first sunrise of the year unfolded before us—a breathtaking display of light and color that felt even more special because I got to share it with one of my best friends in Korea. It was a magical way to start the year. 🌅✨ Traditionally, Koreans enjoy rice cake dumpling soup on New Year’s Day, and that was offered for breakfast. However, as a vegan, I was given bibimbap, which I had to pay for myself. While it was delicious, it was disappointing that dietary restrictions weren’t better accommodated—especially since this information is usually collected during the application process. I hope this oversight is addressed in future events, as food inclusivity is essential, particularly for those with allergies or medical needs. Next, we headed to Donghae Hot Spring. While many braved the experience, I opted out due to health and hygiene concerns (Sri Lankan conservatism + high hygiene standards for the win! 😂). Instead, my friends and I crossed the overpass bridge outside the hot spring to visit the nearby beach. The beach was stunning, stretching endlessly along the coastline with snowy mountains framing the backdrop. For a moment, it felt like I was back home in Sri Lanka. That connection to the ocean brought a sense of peace and comfort I hadn’t felt in a while. 😌 I even treated myself to a chestnut latte at a cozy café overlooking the beach—definitely a highlight of the day. 🍵 Our next stop was Mukho Port, home to the largest fish market on the East Coast. As a vegan, I didn’t explore much of the food scene, but I used the free time to visit Nongsil Dam Village’s "Wind Hill" and Dochaebi-gol Sky Valley. The two skywalks offered breathtaking views of the ocean, and we even climbed up the lighthouse! For a bit of humor, we tried the subtly fat-shaming "Health Gate," which had us laughing. 😂🤭 We ended the day with some warm bunggeoppang (fish-shaped pastries) before heading back to the train station for our return to Seoul. The ride back felt endless—probably because we all had work the next day—but the beautiful moments throughout the trip far outweighed the exhaustion. Here’s to a fantastic start to the year! May this year bring all the joys and good things you wish for all year around. 🌸✨
Before the Trip • Pack Warm Layers: It gets very cold in the early morning, especially near the coast. Bring plenty of layers, gloves, and a scarf to stay warm while waiting for sunrise. • Prepare Snacks: If you have dietary restrictions, pack some snacks or light meals since there might not be suitable food options available at every stop. • Charge Your Devices: The train ride is long, so make sure your phone, camera, and power bank are fully charged to capture memories and stay connected. During the Trip • Be ready to shift around for seats: Since the tickets are already purchased and assigned by Funday, talk to others and move around so that you can sit next to your friends. If not, sitting next to a stranger will help you make a new friend. • Be Ready for the Countdown: Bring grapes (or other lucky charms) for the New Year countdown if you want to join in the traditions. It’s a fun way to engage with others! • Scout the Sunrise Spot: Arrive a little earlier at the viewing location to secure a good spot for sunrise photography. Food & Drink • Dietary Preferences: To avoid surprised despite mentioning your dietary needs during the booking process, bring along a good meal with you and some snacks. • Try Local Treats: If you’re not vegan, the traditional rice cake soup is a must-try for an authentic experience. Hot Spring & Beach Tips • Know Hot Spring Etiquette: If you plan to try the hot spring, be prepared for the traditional Korean setup (nudity is standard). Bring a towel and toiletries if needed. • Explore Alternatives: If hot springs aren’t your thing, the nearby beach is a peaceful and scenic alternative. Time Management • Plan Ahead for Free Time: Use your free time wisely to explore nearby attractions like Wind Hill or the skywalks at Mukho Port. • Don’t Overpack the Day: While there’s plenty to do, try not to cram too much to avoid feeling rushed or missing out on the beauty of each stop. Miscellaneous • Bring a Thermos: Warm drinks are lifesavers in the cold morning. Consider bringing a thermos filled with tea or coffee. • Stay Flexible: Delays or unexpected changes can happen, so go with the flow and enjoy the experience. • Make Friends: These trips are a great way to meet people from different cultures—strike up conversations and share the experience!
