Introduction
Tired of crowded tourist spots? Discover the raw, untamed beauty of Korea’s East Sea on the Uljin Hupo Port Coastal Drive. This 25-kilometer stretch in North Gyeongsang Province offers dramatic cliffs, emerald waters, and fishing villages frozen in time—perfect for travelers craving authenticity. Rent a car, roll down the windows, and let the salt air guide you!
Why This Drive Stands Out
- Unspoiled Scenery: Unlike commercialized coasts, Hupo’s rugged shoreline features volcanic rock formations, pine forests, and hidden coves.
- Cultural Gems: Pass working fishing ports where locals dry squid on bamboo racks and repair nets by hand.
- Minimal Crowds: A well-kept secret even among Koreans—expect serenity.
Must-See Stops
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Hupo Lighthouse (후포등대):
- Park at the cliff’s edge and climb to the red-and-white lighthouse for panoramic views of the “Blue Road” winding below. Sunrise here is magical.
- Tip: Grab hot odeng (fish cake) from the ajumma (auntie) running the snack cart nearby.
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Goraebul Beach (고래불해수욕장):
- Named after whale-shaped rocks, this pebble beach is ideal for a quiet picnic. Listen to waves crash against the stones—a natural ASMR experience!
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Deokgu Hot Springs (덕구온천):
- After ocean views, unwind in mineral-rich onsens overlooking the mountains. A 15-minute detour from the coastal road.
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Hupo Market (후포시장):
- Sample hwangtae (wind-dried pollack) or try sasi (raw sea urchin) at dockside stalls. Point-and-smile ordering works!
Driving Tips
- Navigation: Search “후포등대” (Hupo Lighthouse) on Naver Maps. The route starts near Hupo Port.
- Road Conditions: Well-paved but narrow in spots. Drive slowly—hairpin turns reveal sudden ocean vistas!
- When to Go: September–November for fiery autumn foliage against blue seas. Avoid monsoon season (July–August).
- Car Hire: Rentals available in Pohang (1.5 hours south) or Daegu (2 hours west). International license required.
Local Eats to Fuel Your Trip
- Hupo-style Hoe (회): Sashimi so fresh it’s sliced dockside. Try seokhwa (rockfish) or domi (sea bream).
- Gejang (게장): Crabs marinated in soy sauce or chili paste. Pair with rice!
- Coffee with a View: Quirky coastal cafés like “Cafe Hupo” serve dalgona coffee over the sea.
Insider Advice
- Stay overnight in a minbak (homestay) to hear fishing boats leave at dawn.
- Download offline maps—signal fades near cliffs.
- Bow to elderly locals; a simple annyeonghaseyo (hello) wins smiles!
Final Thoughts
The Uljin Hupo Coastal Drive isn’t just a route—it’s a meditation. With every curve, Korea’s wild east coast whispers stories of the sea. Bring your camera, an appetite, and a sense of wonder. Ready to escape the ordinary?
“The ocean is calling. Answer with your engine running.” 🌊🚗💨