First Time in Pohang? Here’s the Perfect Beginner-Friendly Travel Course

Pohang is a city full of ocean views, seafood, markets, sunrise spots, and scenic coastal trails.
But if it’s your first visit, you might think:
“Do I have to go all the way to Homigot?”
“Is Guryongpo too far?”
“Where should I start to make the most of my time?”

To keep things simple, here’s a beginner-friendly Pohang itinerary that covers the city’s highlights without confusing routes.
Follow this plan and you’ll enjoy Pohang’s ocean, food, culture, and scenery—without stress.

🗺️ A Simple Structure for First-Time Pohang Travelers

The flow: Beach → Canal → Market → Night View → Coastal Walk

Pohang’s attractions are spread out, but beginners only need this route:

Yeongildae Beach
Pohang Canal & Cruise
Jukdo Market
POSCO Night View
Homigot or Guryongpo (optional day 2)

This path keeps your travel smooth and efficient.

🚶‍♂️ Main Itinerary for Pohang Beginners

🥇 Day 1: Yeongildae Beach → Pohang Canal → Cruise → Jukdo Market

1) Yeongildae Beach — the perfect starting point

This beach is close to downtown and incredibly easy to access.
The wide sandy shoreline and the clean, calm ocean make it a great first stop.

Example: Arriving around 9 AM gives you softer light and fewer people—perfect for photos.
Tip: Take a picture at Yeongil Pavilion (the traditional building on the water). It’s one of Pohang’s signature spots.

2) Pohang Canal — a must-see for beginners

Only about 10 minutes by car from the beach.
Pohang Canal brings the ocean inward, creating a unique waterway through the city.
You can walk along the canal or take the Pohang Canal Cruise for a relaxing ride.

Example: Passing under the bridges while feeling the sea breeze is a surprisingly refreshing experience.
Tip: Weekend afternoons get busy. Visit in the morning or around 3–5 PM for shorter wait times.

3) Jukdo Market — the heart of Pohang’s food culture

If you’re in Pohang for the first time, this market is essential.
You’ll find sashimi, spicy cold raw fish soup, grilled fish, squid dishes, seasonal seafood, snacks, and more.

Recommended dishes:
- Pohang-style mulhoe (cold raw fish soup)
- Mixed sashimi with spicy stew
- Gwangmyeong (dried pollack) or seasonal gwamegi (winter specialty)
- Hoe-guksu (spicy raw fish noodles)
Tip: Don’t choose restaurants solely by price. Crowded places or well-reviewed spots tend to be more reliable.

🥈 Optional Day 2: Guryongpo → Homigot → Homi Peninsula Coastal Trail

1) Guryongpo Japanese House Street — unique and photogenic

This area features preserved Japanese-style wooden houses, offering a very different atmosphere from the rest of Korea.
It’s one of Pohang’s most photogenic sites.

Example: Photos taken at the end of the alley capture layered wooden houses beautifully.
Tip: Visit in the morning for the softest light.

2) Homigot — Korea’s iconic sunrise point

One of the earliest places to see the sunrise in Korea.
Even if you don’t go at dawn, the huge “Hand of Harmony” sculpture rising from the ocean is impressive.

Tip: The wind is strong here—bring warm clothing in winter.

3) Homi Peninsula Coastal Trail — a must for nature lovers

This coastal walk is one of Pohang’s highlights.
Cliffs, waves, greenery, and sky combine for a beautiful, refreshing hike.

Beginner-friendly route: Haseondae → Cloud Observatory → Chotdaebawi (Candle Rock)
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes; some areas can be slippery.

📝 Practical Tips for First-Time Pohang Travelers

1) Use taxis or a rental car for longer distances

Pohang’s beaches are close, but places like Guryongpo and Homigot are better reached by taxi or car.

2) Stay near Yeongildae Beach

It’s close to cafés, restaurants, the beach, and the canal.
Perfect for first-time visitors.

3) Pohang can be windy

Especially near the coast.
If you’re taking photos, bring a hat or hair tie to manage the wind.

4) Winter is the best time for gwamegi

If you visit in winter, try gwamegi, Pohang’s seasonal specialty.

🌆 Conclusion: Pohang Is a Great City for Beginner Travelers

Even though Pohang feels spread out, this simple route makes it extremely easy:
Yeongildae Beach → Canal Cruise → Jukdo Market → optional day at Guryongpo + Homigot.

Follow this plan and you’ll enjoy the ocean, local food, markets, and stunning coastal views—all without getting overwhelmed.
For first-time visitors, this itinerary is smooth, simple, and full of Pohang’s charm.

❓ FAQ

Q1. How many days do I need in Pohang?

1 night 2 days is enough for the beach, cruise, and market.
If you want to explore Guryongpo or Homigot, 2 nights 3 days is ideal.

Q2. What foods should I try in Pohang?

Mulhoe (raw fish soup), gwamegi (in winter), hoe-guksu, sashimi, and seasonal seafood.
Mulhoe is especially good in local markets—fresh and flavorful.

First Time in Pohang? Here’s the Perfect Beginner-Friendly Travel Course