Things To Do
in Tonghae
Tonghae, Korea, South (also known as Donghae-si) sits along the East Sea in Gangwon Province, where rugged coastlines meet calm fishing harbors. The city blends fresh seafood culture with easy seaside walks, family-friendly beaches, and a relaxed pace that invites slow exploration. Visitors can sample pristine ocean flavors, stroll scenic promenades, and use Tonghae as a gateway to nearby national parks and mountain trails.
Year-round, the coast offers photo-worthy sunsets, coastal hikes, and welcoming locals with a proud maritime heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Donghae Airport and proceed to your accommodation in the heart of Tonghae. Check in and freshen up before stepping out to explore your neighborhood. Grab a traditional Korean breakfast at a local eatery to fuel up for the day ahead.
Visit the Donghae City Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Take a short walk to the nearby Donghae Ocean Park, where you can enjoy picturesque views of the coastline. Don't forget to take photos of the beautiful sculptures and installations throughout the park.
Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a seaside restaurant, tasting the fresh seafood that Tonghae is famous for. After dinner, stroll along the beach as the sun sets, creating a perfect backdrop for a memorable evening. End the night at a cozy café with a view of the ocean.
Wake up early and head to Naksan Temple, located on a beautiful coastal cliff. Spend some time soaking in the tranquility of the temple grounds and participate in a morning meditation session. Enjoy the stunning views of the East Sea from the temple's vantage point.
Have lunch at a local restaurant near Naksan Beach, where you can try their famous grilled fish. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy beach or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. Collect seashells or just savor the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.
Return to Tonghae and enjoy a traditional Korean BBQ dinner with a variety of meats and side dishes. After dinner, visit the Tonghae Night Market to experience local shopping and street food. Conclude your evening with a vibrant atmosphere, enjoying live music and performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🚆Local transit day pass | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and coastal scenery at every turn
- Relaxed pace and family-friendly attractions
- Limited international dining options in some areas
- Public transit beyond the city center is less extensive
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "메뉴 추천해 주세요" - Please recommend a menu
- "영어 가능하신가요?" - Do you speak English?
- "화장실이 어디에 있나요?" - Where is the restroom?
- "도와주세요" - Please help
Places to Visit in Tonghae
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over moored boats and fishing nets creates a classic East Sea scene.
Wide sandy shore with sea spray and expansive horizons perfect for long-exposure seascapes.
Iconic coastal views and lighthouse silhouettes popular with sunrise photographers; a short drive from Donghae.
A dramatic contrast of rugged cave interiors and coastal light along the surrounding trails.
Curving shoreline road with overlooks offering panoramic East Sea panoramas, especially at golden hour.
Food in Tonghae
Tonghae Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sashimi-style assortment of thinly sliced fish and seafood, served with a dipping sauce and fresh vegetables; best sampled at the coastal markets.
Must-Try!
Braised hairtail fish in a spicy-sweet gochugaru-based sauce, typically served with rice and side dishes.
Spicy stir-fried squid with vegetables and gochugaru, a popular shareable dish in seaside restaurants.
A hearty seafood stew featuring shrimp, squid, clams, and vegetables in a savory broth.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling harbor market where you can pick fresh seafood and have it prepared on the spot or take it to a nearby restaurant.
A local market offering produce, prepared foods, and quick bites after a beach stroll.
Try hotteok (sweet pancakes), twigim (fried snacks), and eomuk (fish cake) skewers sold from carts along the promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light bow is common; use polite language (존댓말) with strangers and elders.
Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional spaces; avoid pointing feet at people or sacred spaces.
Speak softly in buses and trains; refrain from loud conversations on public transport and in sacred places.
Safety
Tipping in Tonghae
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Korean eateries or markets; many places include a service charge in larger establishments, and small cafés rarely expect tips.
Cash is widely accepted, and major credit cards are commonly used. Mobile payments (KakaoPay, Naver Pay, Samsung Pay) are increasingly supported in shops and restaurants, including many market stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers along the coast, and comfortable hiking conditions. Pack a light jacket for ocean breezes.
Warm to hot with higher humidity and occasional rain; enjoy beaches, early-morning hikes, and seafood festivals. Sunscreen and hydration are essential.
Crisp air, clear skies, and vibrant fall colors on mountains and along the coast; ideal for photography and hiking.
Cold winds from the East Sea with possible snowfall; some outdoor spots are less accessible, but coastline views and museum visits remain enjoyable. Dress in layers.
Tonghae at Night
Hiking in Tonghae
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic granite peaks with a range of trails from easy boardwalks to challenging climbs; dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife.
Lush cedar forests and well-preserved trails—great for long-day hikes and tranquil nature walks.
Moderate coastal hikes offering sea views, cliffs, and opportunities to spot seabirds along the East Sea.
Airports
How to reach Tonghae by plane.
Located to the south of Donghae, Yangyang Airport offers domestic flights and limited international services, with car or bus access to Donghae.
Major international hub west of Donghae; connects to many global destinations and offers onward travel by train, bus, or plane to Gangwon region.
Secondary international hub near Seoul; convenient for domestic flights and shorter international connections to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily ethnic Koreans with a mix of working-age locals and families; a growing number of domestic visitors seasonally, plus a small expatriate presence.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular team sports across Korea, with local leagues and school-level enthusiasm visible in city parks and stadiums.
A natural fit on the East Sea; many residents enjoy fishing, kayaking, and occasional surfing along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tonghae.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seafood-heavy menus are common; look for vegetable banchan, tofu dishes, and noodle soups. Ask for dishes prepared with minimal oil and fish sauce; many places can accommodate with advance notice.