Course Overview
Gangwon Nature Road Course 6, the 'Sea Drive,' covers 134 km from Samcheok through Gangneung to Pyeongchang. This signature East Coast route lets you experience the sea up close, with a unique journey starting at the ocean and finishing in the mountains.
Beginning at Donghae's Chuam Candlestick Rock, drive along the Saecheonnyeon Coastal Road, savor Jeongdongjin's sunrise and Gangneung's Anmok Coffee Street, then continue to the fir tree-lined path of Woljeongsa Temple on Mt. Odaesan.
Section Highlights
Section 1: Donghae Chuam Rock to Saecheonnyeon Road (approx. 15 km)
Start from the iconic Chuam Candlestick Rock, featured in Korea's national anthem video. The 5 km Saecheonnyeon Road is a compact showcase of East Sea beauty.
Section 2: Samcheok to Jeongdongjin (approx. 35 km)
Head north along the Samcheok coast past Maengbang Beach and Heonhwaro. At Jeongdongjin Station, experience the world's closest train station to the sea.
Section 3: Jeongdongjin to Gangneung Anmok Coffee Street (approx. 30 km)
Enter Gangneung and arrive at Anmok Coffee Street, Korea's premier coffee destination lined with artisan cafes and specialty roasters.
Section 4: Gangneung to Pyeongchang Woljeongsa (approx. 54 km)
Leave the coast for the inland mountains and reach Woljeongsa Temple. The fir tree forest path, stretching 1.9 km with 1,700 fir trees forming a natural tunnel, is the grand finale.
Driving Tips
- Total driving time about 3.5 hours; 1 night 2 days recommended with sightseeing
- Anmok Coffee Street is crowded on weekends; visit on weekdays
- Woljeongsa fir tree path is a 30-minute walk
- Chuam Rock is a sunrise spot; consider early morning visits
- Many restaurants (sashimi, sundubu) between Jeongdongjin and Gangneung