Seoul to Hyangho Beach Mt Seorak Abai Village Tour

If you’re craving a break from the hustle and bustle of Seoul, this Seoul to Hyangho Beach Mt Seorak Abai Village Tour offers a well-rounded escape filled with stunning scenery, cultural insights, and delicious local flavors. While it packs a lot into one day, it’s designed to make everything manageable and enjoyable, especially for those who want a taste of Korea’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail.

What immediately stands out about this trip are its beautiful coastal views, the charming and historically significant Abai Village, and the iconic mountain scenery of Seoraksan. We love that the tour offers comfortable transportation, an experienced local guide, and thoughtful touches like sunsticks and photo props—perfect for making the experience memorable and Instagram-worthy.

However, a potential consideration is the long day’s duration—at around 14 hours, it’s quite full, so travelers should be prepared for an energetic schedule. This tour suits those who enjoy outdoor activities, cultural exploration, and scenic photography, and who don’t mind spending a full day on the go.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines beaches, cultural villages, markets, and mountain scenery in one day.
• Comfortable Transport & Guide: Air-conditioned minivans and friendly guides make the long day feel relaxed.
• Authentic Local Culture: Visits to Abai Village and Sokcho Market reveal Korea’s history and food scene.
• Stunning Views & Photo Ops: BTS-inspired stops at Hyangho Beach and scenic mountain vistas.
• Value for Money: At $119, including transportation, guide, and some tickets, offers good value for a comprehensive day trip.
• Physical Fitness Needed: Moderate activity levels required; not ideal for those with severe car sickness.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Early from Seoul

The tour kicks off bright and early at 6:45 am from Myeongdong Station, with pick-up from Exit no. 3. This early start is typical for full-day excursions, and it’s a smart move to maximize daylight hours and avoid traffic on the way to Sokcho. Coach transportation is air-conditioned, which makes the lengthy drive more comfortable. While the trip is lengthy, the guides do their best to keep everyone engaged and informed, making the hours pass more quickly.

Hyangho Beach – Korea’s Coastal Gem

The first stop is Hyangho Beach, renowned for its pristine sands and scenic beauty. The tour allows about an hour here, enough for a stroll along the shore, some photos, or a quick dip if you’re feeling brave (though there’s no specific swimming included). Reviewers like Chloe_C appreciated the beach’s beauty, mentioning the BTS stops and special benches—these pop culture touches make the scenery more fun and memorable.

What makes Hyangho Beach special is its reputation as one of Korea’s most beautiful east coast beaches, with sweeping views and a calm, inviting atmosphere. Tourists often find it a peaceful spot for photos, especially around the BTS-themed stops that add a playful, contemporary touch to the natural landscape.

Abai Village – A Window into Korean History

Next up is Abai Village, a place that’s both picturesque and poignant. Historically, it was settled by displaced Koreans after the Korean War, and it retains a sense of nostalgia and resilience. The 30-minute stop allows for a quick exploration—enough to wander the narrow streets, admire the sea views, and get a glimpse of the local lifestyle.

According to reviews, the guide’s explanations help visitors understand the village’s backstory, making the visit more meaningful. It’s a special place for those interested in Korea’s modern history and the ways communities have adapted over time.

Sokcho Central Market – A Foodie Hotspot

Sokcho’s central market is a highlight for many, offering a sensory overload of sights, smells, and tastes. You’ll have about 1 hour and 10 minutes here to indulge in local specialties like snow crab, squid sundae, and freshly made potato pancakes. The market is lively, with vendors eager to share their regional delicacies.

Reviewers like Chloe_C praised the market’s variety and the chance to sample authentic Korean street food. It’s an excellent opportunity to see how locals shop and eat, making it more than just a tourist stop but an immersive experience.

Seoraksan National Park – Mountain Majesty

The final major stop is Seoraksan National Park, a favorite among hikers and nature lovers. The tour includes 2 hours here—more than enough to enjoy the park’s colorful landscape and natural beauty. While the cable car ride is optional and not included in the price, the park itself offers stunning views, and the guide can help you choose the best spots to photograph.

Our review sources mention that the guide, Jayce, was particularly well-received, with visitors appreciating his knowledge and friendly demeanor. The park’s natural beauty, with its vibrant foliage and rugged peaks, makes it worth the visit—even if you don’t hike.

Additional Inclusions & Considerations

The tour also provides photographic accessories and a sunstick, adding convenience and safety during outdoor activities. The Gaet-bae boat ticket (round-trip) is included, giving you a chance to see the coast from the water—a fun, relaxing addition to the day.

Not included are lunch and the Mt. Seorak cable car (round-trip), so you’ll want to plan for a meal during the day or bring snacks. The guide can likely recommend nearby options.

Group Size & Booking

This tour is capped at 88 travelers, ensuring it’s large enough to be lively but still manageable for the guides. Booking in advance is recommended, with an average reservation time of about 40 days ahead, reflecting its popularity. Keep in mind, the tour departs only if there are at least 5 people booked, which is typical for such group tours.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $119 per person, the tour covers transportation, guide services, tickets for the boat and Seoraksan Park, and extras like photo props and sunsticks. Considering the full day of diverse attractions and the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off, it’s a practical choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive East Coast experience without the hassle of planning.

The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide, who can answer questions and provide context, elevates the experience. The comfort of air-conditioned transport means you can relax during the long drive, and the variety of stops keeps the day dynamic and engaging.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor scenery, cultural insights, and local cuisine. It’s suited to those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and outdoor activity are involved. If you’re prone to car sickness, be prepared accordingly, since the day involves a lengthy coach ride.

It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a well-organized, all-in-one experience of Korea’s east coast. It also works well for those short on time but eager to see multiple highlights in a single day.

Final Thoughts

This Seoul to Hyangho Beach Mt Seorak Abai Village Tour offers a well-balanced mix of beautiful landscapes, cultural history, and local flavors. The included transportation, friendly guides, and thoughtfully curated stops make it a hassle-free way to explore some of Korea’s most beloved spots.

While the day is packed, the diverse scenery—from beaches to mountains—keeps the experience fresh and engaging. It’s particularly great for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of Korea’s east coast, with enough comfort and insight to make the long day worthwhile.

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural richness, this tour is a solid choice—especially if you value expert guides and authentic experiences over purely self-guided exploration.

FAQ

Is transportation air-conditioned?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned minivans or buses, making the long drive comfortable.

What time does the tour start?
It departs from Myeongdong Station at 6:45 am, so early risers will need to be ready for an early start.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or purchase food at the market or near Seoraksan.

Does the tour include the cable car at Mt. Seorak?
No, the cable car ride is not part of the package, but the guide can help you decide if you’d like to add it.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts approximately 14 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, as long as participants are moderately fit and comfortable with a full day of outdoor activity.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (like the provided sunsticks), and a camera. A light jacket might be helpful for mountain areas.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Exploring Korea’s east coast in one day might seem ambitious, but with this well-organized tour, you’ll come away with a rich collection of memories—beautiful scenery, cultural stories, and tasty bites—all without the stress of planning every detail.