Things To Do
in Tonghae

Tonghae, located in the eastern part of South Korea, is known for its stunning coastal scenery and rich cultural heritage. The city, surrounded by mountains and the sea, offers a blend of natural beauty and urban life. It is home to various historical sites and Buddhist temples that showcase its cultural significance.

With its friendly locals and vibrant atmosphere, Tonghae is an excellent destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the Tonghae Donghae Cathedral, an iconic landmark known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Explore the Tonghae Culture and Arts Center, where you can enjoy local exhibitions and performances.

evening
:

Stroll along the scenic Donghae Beach, followed by dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a hike at the nearby Mureung Valley, renowned for its beautiful landscapes and waterfalls.

afternoon
:

Visit the picturesque Naksansa Temple, a Buddhist temple located on a hill overlooking the sea.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife with drinks at a bar in the city center and enjoy some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$7
Coffee at a cafe$3
🚖Taxi fare (within city)$5
🏨Budget hotel per night$50
🎟️Attraction entrance fee$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Friendly locals and delicious cuisine.
  • Limited English signage may be challenging for non-Korean speakers.
  • Public transportation may not reach some tourist attractions.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "얼마예요?" - How much is it?
  • "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "도와주세요" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Tonghae

Visit one of these nice places.

Donghae Beach

A picturesque beach with golden sands and clear blue waters, perfect for sunset photography.

Naksansa Temple

A stunning temple perched on a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.

Mureung Valley

A scenic valley with beautiful trails, waterfalls, and lush greenery, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tonghae

Tonghae offers a culinary adventure with its fresh seafood and traditional Korean dishes, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Tonghae Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sundae

A type of Korean blood sausage made of pig's intestines stuffed with various ingredients.

Must-Try!

Dae Gu Jorim

Braised cod fish cooked with soy sauce and vegetables, a popular dish in the region.

Kimchi

A staple side dish made from fermented vegetables, usually seasoned with chili pepper, garlic, and ginger.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tonghae Traditional Market

A bustling market where you can try local street food and buy fresh produce.

Donghae Seafood Street

Famous for its variety of seafood stalls offering everything from grilled octopus to fresh sashimi.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tonghae experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters can be cold with temperatures dropping to around -5°C (23°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, using polite language and gestures.

Removing Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional restaurants.

Table Manners

Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles a funeral custom.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tonghae is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take common safety precautions such as securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Tonghae

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not a common practice in South Korea, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming cherry blossoms, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is hot and humid, perfect for beach activities but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, especially in the mountains, creating beautiful landscapes.

Winter

Winter can be cold, with occasional snowfall, ideal for those who enjoy winter sports or visiting hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Tonghae at Night

Tonghae's nightlife is vibrant, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Many locals enjoy karaoke and socializing over drinks. The city’s coastal location also offers beach parties during the summer months, attracting both locals and visitors.

Hiking in Tonghae

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mureung Valley Trail

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of waterfalls and rock formations, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Naksansa Temple Trail

A moderate hike leading to the historic Naksansa Temple, providing beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Tonghae by plane.

Yangyang International Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Tonghae, this airport offers domestic flights and some international routes, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tonghae is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and walking is a pleasant way to explore the area, especially in the warmer months.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Tonghae's population consists of local Koreans who are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Tourists

A growing number of domestic and international tourists visit Tonghae, especially during summer for beach activities and cultural festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport in Tonghae, with local teams and matches drawing significant crowds.

Taekwondo

As a martial art native to Korea, Taekwondo is widely practiced in Tonghae, with many schools and dojos available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tonghae is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, providing efficient ways to navigate the city. Many locals prefer using bicycles or walking for short distances, promoting a more relaxed pace of travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tonghae.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While Korean cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as bibimbap without meat.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be limited, but rice dishes and certain soups are usually safe.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Tonghae is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and visitors. Emergency services can be reached easily, and many medical facilities are equipped to handle various health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare expenses.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide