Nestled along the eastern coast of South Korea, Pohang emerges as a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable adventure. From pristine beaches to cultural landmarks, this city offers a plethora of activities that cater to diverse interests. Dive into this ultimate Pohang travel guide by discovering the top things to do in Pohang including must-see attractions, the best places to eat and more.
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Background on Pohang
Located on the eastern coast of South Korea, Pohang is a captivating coastal city that is known for its industrial prowess and a blend of culture and history. Whilst this city is often overlooked by the main cities of Busan or Seoul, Pohang has a unique charm that offers visitors a more authentic and laid-back experience of South Korea. From its seafood markets, beaches, and mountains, visitors will be treated to a variety of fun things to do in the city of Pohang. Read this travel guide to discover the hidden gems and top things to do in Pohang for your trip.
If you’re visiting Korea for the first time make sure to read these 10 must-know tips for your trip including visa requirements, how to travel around Korea, and other essential travel information.
When is the best time to visit Pohang?
Pohang is beautiful all year round to visit and depending on your personal preferences on weather and what attractions to see will influence when you should visit. Each season has its own unique charm, different weather as well as seasonal events and festivals that you can enjoy. I visited Pohang during autumn (September to November) and was treated with cool crisp air and clear skies. I also got to see the autumn foliage which added to the charm of Pohang.
Personally, I think the best times to visit South Korea are spring or autumn however these are popular travel times in Korea. Note if you travel during these times you can expect large crowds and inflated prices for accommodation. If you’re looking for more information on the seasons and weather in Korea check out my Korea Survival Guide.
Want to find the best cheap flights & accommodation for your travels? Read these must-know travel tips.
Planning a trip to Seoul for the first time? Save hours of planning with this one-stop Seoul Travel Guide.
- +300 places to explore in Seoul and outside the capital city (with Naver Map links)
- Local guide to using and booking transport in Korea
- Best places to eat in Seoul (cafe & restaurant recommendations)
- Best photo spots in Seoul (tourist traps & local recommendations)
- Insider tips on where to stay, shop & things to do in Seoul
- … and more!
Important Tips for Traveling in Pohang
Public Transport
If you’re planning a visit to Pohang it’s important to note that a lot of the attractions in the city are quite spread out. Most of the attractions can be reached by public transport (mainly by bus) however it can be time-consuming waiting for the buses if you only rely on this mode of transport. This is especially true if you’re only planning a day trip to Pohang. I recommend you download the app Kakao Taxi (Apple Store or Google Play) so you can rent a taxi to get to different places in Pohang. It’s a great efficient way to get around the city and is a reasonable price when split with a group of friends.
Important tip: Do not use Google Maps for navigation in South Korea. There is limited data available on Google Maps resulting in inaccurate directions and a lot of places (eateries, attractions) are not updated on Google Maps. Instead, use Naver Map or Kakao Maps. If you want to save time planning, check out my interactive map guides for South Korea.
How long to visit Pohang?
It’s possible to do a one-day trip from Seoul or Busan to Pohang however you won’t be able to explore and experience all the places the city offers. I personally recommend spending at least one night in Pohang to see all the main attractions. If you’re able to spend two nights in Pohang you’ll be able to cover more places in Pohang and explore without rushing it in a single day. Pohang is a great weekend trip or two-day trip for those wanting to explore South Korea’s more laid-back and coastal vibes compared to the main cities of Seoul and Busan. If you’re looking for where to stay in Pohang there is a section further in this post that discusses where to stay in Pohang.
Looking for another day trip from Seoul? Don’t forget to check out Ganghwado Island in Incheon. Read on to find out everything about Ganghwa in this travel guide.
Things to do in Pohang
Pohang is a captivating coastal city that offers a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and modern marvels. Dive into the ultimate Pohang travel guide to discover the top things to do in Pohang from hidden gems and must-see attractions to explore throughout the city.
POSCO Art Museum (포스코 역사관)
Opening Hours: 9:00 – 18:00 (Monday to Friday), 10:00 – 17:00 (Saturday & Public Holidays)
Address: 14, Donghaean-ro 6213beon-gil, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 포항시 남구 동해안로6213번길 14)
Pohang is home to one of the world’s biggest steel companies, POSCO. Opened in 1995 the museum was created as a cultural space to showcase the evolution of POSCO and its journey in the global steel industry. The art museum also holds a variety of exhibitions that feature a variety of artworks showcasing traditional culture as well as contemporary art. If you’re a history buff or art lover this museum is a must-visit attraction in Pohang.
Pohang Museum of Steel Art (POMO) (포항시립미술관)
Address: 10 Hwanhogongwon-gil Buk-gu Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do (경북 포항시 북구 환호공원길 10 포항시립미술관)
If you’re looking for a free place to visit in Pohang head to Pohang Museum of Steel Art. As indicated by its name, the museum is characterised by its collection of artworks through the theme of steel, the backbone of Pohang culture. The museum is nestled in a park that overlooks Yeongil Bay and Pohang. It’s worth spending at least an hour here to enjoy the museum’s four galleries, library, cafe, museum shop, and a beautiful forest to enjoy both art and nature.
Naeyeonsan County Park (내연산군립공원)
Admission: Free.
Address: 523, Bogyeong-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 포항시 북구 송라면 보경로 523)
Naeyeonsan County Park is a great place for nature lovers and hikers. Found near the coast its highest peak Hywangrobong Peak stands at 930m above sea level. A visit to this park will allow you to explore attractions including 12 gorgeous waterfalls, Cheonghagol Valley, and the ancient Bogyeongsa Temple.
If you take the Naeyeonsan 12 Waterfalls (내연산 12 폭포) trail you’ll be treated to scenic views including a suspension observation deck and the famous waterfalls of Sangsaeng (상생), Gwaneum (관음) and Yeonsan (연산). It’s about 6.8km there and back and takes about 2 hours to complete.
Oeosa Temple (오어사)
Opening hours: Open all year round.
Address: 1 , Oeo-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 포항시 남구 오천읍 오어로 1)
Head to Oeosa Temple located in southern Pohang, to the east of Mount Unjesan. This temple was originally built during the reign of King Jinpyeong (579-632), the 26th ruler of Silla. A visit here will allow you to see a picturesque temple surrounded by lush greenery, a lake, and uniquely shaped cliffs. In addition to the natural beauty is the Bronze Bell of Oeosa Temple inside the temple museum, and Daeung-jeon Hall with its Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals). This temple is an ideal place to experience the tranquillity and more laid-back charms of Pohang. If you’re lucky to visit Korea during autumn (September to November) make sure to visit this temple to see the stunning autumn foliage with all the red, orange, and yellow leaves.
If you’re travelling to Korea in autumn don’t miss out on these 20 must-see fall foliage spots in Korea.
Japanese Houses Street (구룡포 일본인 가옥 거리) & Guryongpo Park (구룡포 공원)
Address: 145 Guryongpo-gil, Guryongpo-eup, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
경북 포항시 남구 구룡포읍 구룡포길 145 (구룡포읍 구룡포리 249-36)
If you’re a fan of Korean dramas you’ll want to tick off Japanese Houses Street which was a filming location for When the Camellia Blooms. If you’re a fan of this K-drama you’ll want to head to Guryongpo Park Stairs (구룡포공원계단) and grab a photo where the background for the K-drama was used for the show. At the base of the stairs about 100m southwest is also Munhwa Masil (문화마실) which you might recognise as the bar Camellia in the K-drama.
Don’t forget to head to Guryongpo Park [구룡포 공원] where additional scenes of When the Camellia Blooms were also filmed. There is also a map that highlights the alleys and buildings that were featured in the K-drama. If you visit you’ll get to see the unique Japanese architectural design of the shops and houses here which reflects its construction during the Japanese occupation.
Homigot Sunrise Square (호미곶해맞이광장) & Hands of Harmony (상생의손)
Admission: Free
Opening hours: 24 hours.
Address: 286-1, Daebo-ri, Homigot-myeon, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경북 포항시 남구 호미곶면 대보리)
Begin your trip to Pohang by heading to Homigot Sunrise Square for a sunrise. This spot is located on the easternmost point in all of Korea and is a popular place where the locals see the sun come up over the horizon on January 1st and the first morning of the lunar new year. Don’t worry if you can’t make it around this time it’s beautiful to see at any time of the year.
Upon arrival you’ll see a stretch of road that leads to two hands face to face; one on land and one above water. The “Hand of Harmony” sculpture, symbolizes the union of the West Sea and East Sea, which represents nature’s beauty. If you visit at sunrise or sunset on a clear day you’ll hopefully be treated with the sun painting the sky decorated with golden hues.
Pohang Canal (포항운하) & Pohang Cruise (포항크루즈)
Admission:
Pohang Inner Harbor Exhibition: Free Entry
Pohang Cruise: Payment Admission
Day time: ￦12,000 for Adults & ￦10,000 for Children
Night time: ￦15,000 for Adults & ￦12,000 for Children
Opening hours: Pohang Inner Harbor Exhibition (9:00 – 18:00), Pohang Cruise (10:00 – 18:00)
Address: 1040, Huimang-daero, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 포항시 남구 희망대로 1040)
Pohang Canal (Pohang Inner Harbor) is recognized as 1 of 12 scenic spots in the city of Pohang. It is an estimated 1.3km in length and connects the seawater of Yeongilman Bay and Hansangang River. In order to best explore the canal I recommend trying the Pohang Cruise. There are two routes offered by the cruise including Course A, which takes visitors around Songdo Beach and Pohang’s oceanfront; and Course B which takes visitors around Dongbin Inner Harbor and Jukdo Market.
Igari Anchor Observatory (이가리 닻 전망대)
Admission: Free entry.
Opening hours: 9:00 – 18:00 (June to August 9:00 to 20:00)
Address: San 67-3, Iga-ri, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyoengsangbuk-do (경상북도 포항시 북구 청하면 이가리 산67-3)
This observatory is found in Iga-ri, Cheongha-myeon in Pohang. The observatory has been designed to resemble an anchor which is most noticeable from an aerial view. This spot was also featured in the popular Korean drama Run On (2020) which has become a popular place to visit by locals and international tourists.
A visit to Igari Anchor Observatory will allow you a stunning view of the emerald sea, and one of the best sunrise or sunsets in Pohang. Depending on the time you visit this place the water levels will also differ. This means if you’re lucky to visit at low tide you’ll be able to walk beneath the observatory to get closer to the ocean.
Enjoy a Festival
If you’re lucky you can plan your trip around Pohang’s vibrant festivals for an unforgettable experience to your trip to South Korea. The Pohang International Fireworks Festival and the Pohang Steel Art Festival offer a unique blend of culture, art, and entertainment that showcases the city’s dynamic spirit. These festivals infuse the city with vibrant energy, showcasing its cultural diversity and creative spirit against the backdrop of the sea.
Pohang International Fireworks Festival (포항국제불빛축제)
Dates: 26 to 28 May 2023 (Refer to the Korea Tourism website for the latest dates).
The Pohang International Fireworks Festival is a stunning celebration of creativity and colour, illuminating Yeongildae Beach and the skies of Pohang. This festival is held annually and features both traditional Korean fireworks and fireworks from around the globe. Besides catching the fireworks, you’ll get to see street performances, light parades, food stalls, and engaging activities to try. This event is a must-try experience for those wanting to experience Korean culture.
How to get to the Pohang International Fireworks Festival?
I recommend booking a local tour to reach the festival. Booking a round-trip transportation tour from Seoul or Busan will allow you to visit hassle-free without worrying about how to organize your transfer back home.
If you book with KLOOK you can get 5% off by using the code (KELLYTODAY).
Pohang Steel Art Festival (포항스틸아트페스티벌)
Pohang’s Street Art Festival celebrates Pohang’s status as a steel production hub. The festival does this by combining art with industry, featuring artists that use steel to create stunning artworks. If you visit Pohang during this festival you’ll be able to see a range of steel art exhibitions, cultural performances, and workshops where you can make your own steel art. The dates can vary for this festival however it typically occurs during autumn (September to November).
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Korea make sure to add a hanbok experience to your trip. Find out everything about renting a hanbok in this post.
Visit a Beach
A visit to Pohang wouldn’t be complete without going to one of Pohang’s picturesque beaches. From the tranquil shores of Chilpo Beach to the rugged beauty of Yeongildae Beach, each beach has its own charm and allure, making it a perfect spot for relaxation as you stroll along the coastline.
Guryongpo Beach (구룡포해수욕장)
Address: 6, Homi-ro 426beon-gil, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 포항시 남구 구룡포읍 호미로426번길 6)
Situated 24km away from the city of Pohang, Guryongpo Beach is a popular destination all year round. Due to its geographical location and climate, it makes a perfect getaway with its mountain terrain, cool summer and warm climates, and a shoreline that stretches to about 15.8km. During the summer months, you can find people flocking to this beach to enjoy the calm waters and relaxing on the shoreline.
Chilpo Beach (칠포해수욕장)
Address: Haean-ro, Heunghae-eup, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 포항시 북구 흥해읍 해안로)
Found 13km north of Pohang, this sandy beach stretches over 2km boasting white sand and sea fishing opportunities on the nearby seashore rocks. Nearby you can rent umbrellas and sun loungers to relax on the beach or grab a bite to eat at a local eatery. This is a great beach for those wanting more laid-back vibes in the city of Pohang.
Yeongildae Beach (영일대해수욕장)
Address: 95, Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 포항시 북구 해안로 95)
Yeongildae Beach is Korea’s largest beach on the east coast. Loved by both tourists and locals alike, it’s a great beach to spend a day on the soft golden sand or enjoy the ocean. Nearby there are several accommodation facilities and restaurants that offer fresh seafood to try Pohang’s local cuisine. If you’re a fan of sunrises you’ll also want to add this spot to your Pohang itinerary. Yeongildae Beach has become a popular spot amongst locals to watch the sunrise at Lunar New Year but any time throughout the year will suffice.
Yeongildae Observatory (영일대 전망대) & Yeongdodaegyo Bridge (영도대교)
Admission: Free entry.
Opening hours: 24 hours.
Address: 173, Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 포항시 북구 해안로 173)
A must-visit destination to get a gorgeous view of the sea. After exploring Yeongildae Beach head to Yeongilgyo Bridge to get stunning views of the ocean. As you walk to the end of the bridge you’ll be greeted by Yeongildae Observatory which is Korea’s first building that was constructed over the sea. Recognized as Yeongiljeong Pavilion, it was built in a traditional style with a two-story building at the end of the 80m Yeongilgyo Bridge. This spot is a must-visit at sunset for the best views of the ocean and the bright colors on a clear day.
Pohang Jukdo Market (죽도시장)
Opening hours: First and third Sunday of every month.
Address: 13-1, Jukdosijang 13-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경북 포항시 북구 죽도시장13길 13 포항수산종합어시장)
Immerse yourself in Pohang’s vibrant culinary scene at Jukdo Market. From fresh seafood to delectable street food, this market is a food haven. Originally this market started as a small gathering of local vendors that sold their wares in Pohang Inner Harbor. Today, the market has become recognised as one of the biggest traditional markets in the Gyeongsangbuk-do area. It’s become a go-to spot for traditional and takeaway Korean food where you can savour local delicacies like sannakji (live octopus) and explore the bustling energy of the market as you indulge your taste buds.
In addition to Pohang Jukdo Market, you can also find Jukdo Fish Market which is only about 500m from the heart of Pohang, Ogeori. This is the largest open-run market in Korea’s east which boasts the area’s best catches across 200 raw fish stalls. Nearby are also restaurants that sell high-quality sliced raw fish dishes at affordable prices.
🗺️ Need more inspiration for day trips in Korea?
Ulleungdo Lighthouse (울릉도 등대 (태하등대))
Address: 188, Taehadeungdae-gil, Ulleung-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 울릉군 서면 태하등대길 188)
Ulleung-do is a remote island in Korea that can only be accessed by ferry from four ferry terminals including Pohang Ferry Port Terminal. Although this destination is very remote it’s a scenic place to enjoy lush green mountains, emerald blue seas, and Korea’s authentic island life. This island has some of the most stunning sites in South Korea including Dodong Light House, the Haegnam Coastal Walking Path, the 3-tiered Bongnae Waterfall, and the Seonginbong Mountain Range.
Ferry tickets can be reserved online however the websites are only available in Korean. If you need help booking anything on Ulleng-do I recommend checking out the concierge service Wonderful, which specialises in helping tourists in Korea. It’s important to note that ferry rides are likely to be postponed or cancelled depending on weather conditions so make sure to double-check your times for the ferries at this website.
Cheongsong Ice Valley (청송 얼음골)
Admission: Free.
Address: 228, Palgaksan-ro, Juwangsan-myeon, Cheongsong-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경북 청송군 주왕산면 팔각산로 228)
If you’re visiting Korea in winter make sure to add Cheongsong Ice Valley to your Korea itinerary. Located only a drive from Pohang this place can be accessed by public transport however requires multiple public transport transfers (buses and trains). The easiest way to reach this place is by renting a car or organising a local tour. You can organise a day trip either from Seoul or Busan if you can’t organise it from Pohang.
A drive to Cheongsong Ice Valley will allow you to see mountains as you navigate the winding path and serene views up to the valley. It’s worth a visit to the picturesque scene of thousands of frozen icicles from top to bottom.
Planning a trip to Korea in winter? Don’t miss out on these 20-must-see places in South Korea in winter.
Space Walk in Hwanho Park (환호공원 스페이스워크)
Admission: Free entry.
Opening hours:
10:00 – 20:00 (Weekdays), 10:00 – 21:00 (Weekends) – (March to November)
10:00 – 21:00 (Weekends & Public Holidays
10:00 – 16:00 (Weekdays), 10:00 – 17:00 (Weekends & public holidays)
Address: 30, Hwanhogongwon-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 포항시 북구 환호공원길 30(환호동))
This rollercoaster structure was constructed in 2021 by German artists Ulrich Genth and Heike Mutter. Standing at 333m in length and 25m in height it is meant to resemble a rollercoaster at a glance but is actually a flight of stairs. If you walk along the staircase you’ll be able to feel as if you’re walking in space hence giving its name. The Space Walk is a must-visit place in Pohang to get a panoramic view of Hwanho Park, the surrounding city, and the forest. Since this structure is located at the peak of Hwanho Park you can also see it from the nearby beach is particularly stunning at night once it lights up.
Important Tips for Visiting
- The upside-down section of the staircase is blocked off and cannot be accessed.
- Check the weather forecast before you plan a visit. If you’re visiting on a windy day the walkable staircase will move and sway which is very noticeable at high points on the structure. Entry will also be closed in case of adverse weather conditions.
- Visit on a weekday or in the early hours of a weekend to avoid crowds.
- The maximum capacity on the staircases is 150 people.
Visit Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha Filming Locations
If you’ve watched the popular K-drama Hometown Cha Cha Cha you’ll know that it was set in the small fishing village of Gongjin. The truth is that Gongjin is actually a fictional village and the filming locations exist in Guryongpo and Cheongha-myeong of Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do. If you visit the filming sites of this drama you’ll be able to experience the charm that was captured in the well-loved show.
Wolpo Beach (월포해수욕장)
Address: Haean-ro 2394beon-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경북 포항시 북구 청하면 해안로2394번길)
Head to Wolpo Beach to see where Chief Hong’s surfing scene in the emerald sea was filmed. As suggested by the beach’s name the sea is said to be clear enough for the moonlight to be reflected off. Upon arrival at the beach’s entrance, you’ll actually see a moon sculpture. Near the beach, you’ll also find an auto campground and a rental shop offering surfing equipment.
Cheongha Market (Gongjin Market) (청하공진시장)
Address: 6, Cheongha-ro 200beon-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경북 포항시 북구 청하면 청하로 200번길 6)
Cheongha Market is where you’ll find scenes from Gongjin Market in the drama. This includes Cheongho Hardware Store, Bora Supermarket, and Oyun Café. The little market retains its original charm show in the show, including a squid statute found in the center. If you explore the stalls you’ll be able to hear the show’s signature song, “Romantic Sunday.”
Please note that the filming location for Oyun Café is an aluminum factory that operates as a business. If you want to visit this place make to visit after the factory closes.
Sabang Memorial Park (Boat on the Hill) (사방기념공원)
Address: 1801, Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경북 포항시 북구 흥해읍 해안로 1801)
Walk up to the top of Sabang Memorial Park to see the hill where Chief Hong’s boat is situated. This park is a must-see place in Pohang for its stunning ocean view and the surrounding landscape. Whilst the Boat on the Hill was created on the set for the K-Drama, it is now one of the most popular locations in this park. If you’re visiting this spot on the weekends note that you may encounter large lines to get a photo spot here.
Cheongjin 3-ri Fishermen’s Welfare Center (Yoon Dental Clinic)
Address: 1884-2, Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도 포항시 북구 청하면 해안로 1884-2 청진3리 어민복지회관)
If you’re looking for a stunning ocean view head to Yoon Dental Clinic which was created by remodeling the Fishermen’s Welfare Center found at Cheongjin Port seaside. If you visit you’ll notice that the green signboard for the dental clinic is still in place. Whilst you won’t be able to enter the building you can visit the cafe next door and the shop on the first floor that sells scuba gear. A visit to the cafe will allow you to get a great ocean view of Pohang.
🗺️ Want a complete travel guide to Pohang?
If you’re looking for more things to do in Pohang with included +100 map links check out my Pohang travel guide. It includes…
- Sneak peek into my other popular guides (Korea Survival Guide & Cafe and Restaurant Guide)
- +30 things & activities to do in Pohang
- Insider tips for visiting Pohang (how to travel around Pohang & how to get to Pohang)
- +30 filming locations in K-Dramas Hometown Cha Cha Cha, Run On & When the Camellia Blooms (2019)
- +20 recommendations on where to eat (best cafes & restaurants in Pohang)
- +10 recommendations on where to stay in Pohang.
What to Eat in Pohang
Whilst Pohang is largely recognised for its industrial purposes, there is also a culinary haven that has been nurtured from its coastal location and gastronomic tradition. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to eat in Pohang, from traditional Korean dishes to fresh seafood options.
Best Restaurants in Pohang
Ugojib (우고집)
If you’re looking for a high-quality beef check out Ugojib. This restaurant boasts a chic atmosphere and is known for serving delicious beef on a charcoal grill. It’s a great local and cozy pub where you can get a taste of Korean beef in Pohang.
Kaon Milmyeon Pohang (가온 밀면 포항)
If you’re craving cold wheat noodles (milnyeon) check out Kaon Milmyeon in Pohang. This restaurant offers affordable dishes including dumplings, bibim milmyeon (spicy cold wheat noodles), and mul milmyeon (plain cold wheat noodles). Milmyeon is the perfect dish to try during the summer months for a refreshing dish.
Want Sea Pohang (포항 바다원해)
If you’re a fan of seafood check out this restaurant on the street near Yeongildae Beach. This restaurant is known for its raw fish dishes and has been recognized for its popularity with its walls decorated with celebrities’ autographs. You won’t be disappointed with the seafood options, from snow crabs to cold raw fish soup (mulhoe), and sliced raw fish.
Pohang Jukdodong (황장군 포항점)
Try the delicious beef short ribs soup (galbitang) or Korean braised short ribs (galbijjim) at this local restaurant in Pohang. Add to your order by adding the mouthwatering dumplings to your main dish for yourself or to split with another person. You won’t regret it.
Best Cafes in Pohang
A trip to a Pohang wouldn’t be complete without visiting some of the city’s most aesthetic cafes. At Pohang you’ll be treated to numerous coastal cafes with amazing ocean views and of course, delicious treats to try.
Loveblanc Cafe (러블랑)
Loveblanc is a beautiful cafe located on the seashore of Pohang. Upon arrival at the cafe, you’ll be greeted with an airy atmosphere with seaside views, rocky cliffs, and a gazebo. There is a huge range of seating options indoors, on the patio, or on the roof. You’ll want to try the desserts at this cafe.
Obremen Cafe (오브레멘)
Obremen is a unique cafe that features a whimsical and carousel-inspired ambiance. Besides featuring a stunning ocean view you’ll get to enjoy a range of colourful desserts and a carousel that both kids and adults can enjoy.
Cape Lounge (케이프라운지)
Cape Lounge is a popular Instagrammable cafe located in the heart of the pool villa near Homigot Sunrise Plaza. If you’re in this area of Pohang, this cafe is a must-visit to your travel itinerary. Whilst this cafe was only exclusive to villa guests it’s not accessible to the public daily from 9:00 to 22:00 p.m.
Odin Bakery & Cafe (오딘)
This two-story cafe boasts stadium-style seating with a stunning seaside view and natural lighting the minute you arrive. Besides the great views, you’ll be treated to a Mediterranean theme that makes a great background for photos inside and a range of unique drinks and desserts to try. If you visit on a clear day I recommend trying out the outdoor seating they have available.
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Where to Stay in Pohang
Pohang can be done as a day trip from a main city (Seoul or Busan), however, if you want more time to explore all the attractions without rushing consider staying overnight. Here are some recommendations on places to stay in Pohang.
Located only 100m Yeongildae Beach you’ll be treated to gorgeous ocean views and daily breakfast from 7:00 am. This hotel is a great option for a two person stay at Pohang.
This hotel is perfect for an overnight stay in Pohang offering rooms with a sea, pool, or mountain view depending on your travel budget.
A spacious stay in Pohang that offers a variety of room options depending on your budget. They offer 24-hour front desk services and are located only a 5-minute walk from Pohang Express Bus Terminal.
Consider this convenient stay in Pohang with close proximity to public transportation, local eateries, and Jukdo market.
How to get to Pohang?
Public Transport
Trains
The best way to get to Pohang is by a high-speed train (KTX Train) from either Seoul Station or Busan Station or a bus. Pohang Station is located north of the city and is a convenient place to travel from. You can either get a train KTX train from Busan (1.5 to 2 hours) or Seoul (2 to 3 hours) to Pohang. For up-to-date information on the trains, ticket fares and times refer to the KORAIL website.
Korea Rail Pass
If you’re planning a visit multiple cities in South Korea I recommend checking out the Korea Rail Pass (KR Pass). The KR Pass provides unlimited rides on almost all the trains operated by South Korea’s major railway provider KORAIL. There are different options for KR Passes including booking a pass to cover trains for flexible 2 or 4 days or 3 or 4 consecutive days. Not only does the KR pass cover 80 routes and +600 stations. The pass offers discounts only available for foreign tourists including on tourist attractions and accommodation.
Buses
If you’re taking a bus, it takes about 4 hours by express bus from Seoul from the Express Bus Terminal to Pohang Express Terminal. This is a cheaper option compared to taking a high-speed train.
In terms of getting around Pohang, you can use public transport (train and bus). Note that Pohang’s subway system is not as extensive as Seoul so you will be relying on buses as your main mode of public transport and take up a good portion of your time visiting all the attractions around Pohang.
If you want in-depth information on how to navigate in Korea, and how to use and book transport in Korea read my Korea Survival Travel Guide. I also share over +20 places must-see places in South Korea that aren’t known by tourists.
Private Transfer
The easiest and most convenient way to get to Pohang is by organising a one-day private tour. You’ll be able to visit Pohang hassle-free with round-trip transfers and the option to have a local guide that will show you to all the best spots in Pohang that you wouldn’t find anywhere else. This is a great option to try with friends and/or family where you can split the cost for the transfers and you’ll also have more time to explore Pohang without waiting for public transport.
Local Tour
If you’re looking for a hassle-free tour with all the main attractions of Pohang consider this local guided Pohang tour. The tour covers round-trip transfers to and from the meet-up location, an English-speaking guide, and all the admission to the attractions included. This includes attractions such as Pohang Space Walk, Home Town Cha-Cha-Cha Market, and the stunning Cheongsong Ice Valley.
✈️ Traveling to South Korea for the first time?
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- +100 Essential Korean vocabulary and phrases (learn how to order at restaurants, shops, and navigation)
- Guide to using public transport in Korea (“What’s the best way to travel?” “How do I book high-speed trains and buses?”)
- Where should I travel in South Korea? (Recommendations for Seoul & Beyond ~ Discover hidden gems).
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Ive spent a lot of time in Asia but never visited Korea. But hopefully next year. This is the first time I’ve heard of Pohang, looks lovely and I’m adding to my Korea bucket list!
Hopefully, you can visit South Korea one day! It’s definitely a must-see travel bucket list destination.
This post has so much information – I love it! I also really appreciate your highlighted Important tips sections. I keep adding places to my bucket list and now you’ve given me another one!
Glad you found this post insightful! Hopefully you can visit all these places in South Korea one day!
I rely on my Google maps for everything. Great tip not to rely on it for everything.
Glad you found this tip helpful Kelly! I hope you can visit South Korea one day!
This is such an informative and well-laid out guide! I’ve been to South Korea once and so keen to return. I’ll definitely be saving this for reference- thank you
Glad you found this guide helpful! Hopefully you can visit South Korea again and tick off these places for a future trip!
So many interesting things to do in Pohang, I would love to walk on the Space walk, see the waterfalls and the ice valley.
Hopefully, you’ll get to visit Pohang one day. It’s a beautiful place to explore.
I’ve never heard of Pohang and I’ve never been to Korea but I am fascinated to learn more. It looks so beautiful – I hope I will get there one day. Thanks for sharing!
Hopefully, you can visit Pohang in South Korea one day. It’s a great place to explore and is less well known compared to Busan and Seoul.
I love the idea of Homigot Sunrise Square. I’m a total sucker for a good sunrise and what better way than to experience one where you can meet the locals as well!
You’ll definitely have to visit Homigot Sunrise Square for a sunrise!
I really love your Korea blog posts! I will save them for when I visit – some time in the future
Thanks Anja! It’s great to hear you found my blog posts helpful. Hopefully you can visit soon!
This itinerary is so detailed and thorough! I really enjoyed reading this and will definitely be using this when I visit South Korea!
Glad you found this Pohang travel itinerary helpful! You’ll need to pay a visit to this coastal city for a future trip to South Korea.
What a beautiful place!!! Imagine a museum of steel? would be fun to explore.
I’ve been to Seoul and Busan but I’ve never heard about Pohang. Thanks for sharing your insights and recommendations—I’m feeling inspired to add Pohang to my travel bucket list!
I have never been to South Korea but bookmarking this for a trip. Ofcourse I would love to spend time in Seoul but it would be nice to do something off-the-beaten path like Pohang as well.
Wow! this is a thorough post..so much to see and do in Pohang.. I would go on many a food tour!
This all looks amaaaazing! I love the sound of Pohang (especially as I love chilled, smaller towns and cities rather than the larger more famous places to explore…) I LOVE the look of the waterfall hike in Naeyeonsan County Park and the stunning Oeosa Temple.
p.s. thanks for the tips about Kakao Maps rather than google – that is such a useful point!
I’ve been wanting to visit South Korea for so long but had never heard of Pohang. I’m so glad I came across your post, it looks incredible. Particularly the “Hand of Harmony” sculpture, it looks so cool. I love that there’s such a mix of things to do. Thanks for the inspiration!
I’ve been considering a visit to South Korea, but am in the early stages of planning. This looks like a place to add to my list of places to visit. Thank you. My list is growing!
Wow, Pohang looks so amazing. I think I would like to visit in the Autumn like you did, it looks dreamy. That bridge at Naeyeonsan County Park is so breathtaking. Thanks for sharing and introducing me to a new area!
Your photos are so beautiful! I would love to go to the fireworks festival, that looks amazing!
While I’m typically attracted to the cultural and natural beauty aspects of an area, the Posco Museum has intrigued me (and modern art usually escapes me as well.) This city definitely has a lot to offer and would be on my horizon when I visit South Korea.