Traveling to Sinheungsa Temple, Sokcho, South Korea
Sinheungsa Temple, located in the beautiful Seoraksan National Park near Sokcho, is a must-visit destination for travelers interested in Buddhism, Korean culture, and natural beauty. Below is a guide on how to reach this tranquil site:
By Public Transportation
From Seoul: Take an intercity bus from Seoul Express Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Sokcho. Buses run frequently throughout the day and the journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Upon arriving in Sokcho, transfer to a local bus bound for Seoraksan National Park. The local buses that take you directly to the park are numbered 7 or 7-1. Exit the bus at the Sogongwon stop, which is right in front of the Seoraksan National Park entrance.
From Incheon Airport: Take a direct bus to Sokcho, which operates multiple times a day and takes around 4 hours. Alternatively, take the AREX train to Seoul Station and transfer to an intercity bus to Sokcho.
By Car
If renting a car, take either the Yeongdong Expressway or Gangbyeon Expressway from Seoul towards Gangneung and then follow the signs towards Sokcho/Seoraksan National Park. Parking is available near the park entrance, and from there you can easily walk to Sinheungsa Temple.
By Taxi
Taxis are an option for direct and convenient travel. From Sokcho city center, it takes about 15-20 minutes to reach the temple. Agree on the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is used to avoid any fare disputes.
By Tour Group
Several tour operators offer day trips to Seoraksan National Park which include stops at Sinheungsa Temple. This can be an easy and stress-free way to visit, as transportation and itinerary are taken care of.
Additional Tips:
Check bus times in advance as schedules can change seasonally.
Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes as Sinheungsa is a short walk from the Seoraksan National Park entrance and involves some light hiking.
Admission to Seoraksan National Park is required to visit Sinheungsa Temple.
Visit Hours: While Seoraksan National Park is open year-round, hours may vary by season, so it’s best to confirm the opening times before planning your trip.