Samcheok Janghohang — A Summer Day in the 'Naples of Korea'

On Gangwon's East Coast, there is a fishing village known as the 'Naples of Korea'. This is Samcheok Janghohang, where emerald-colored sea, a gentle cape, and colorful roofs harmonize. It's the very place that floods social media with photos of people floating on the water in transparent canoes during summer. We've summarized only the essentials so that even first-time visitors can enjoy it to the fullest.

At a Glance

• Location: Jangho-ri, Geundeok-myeon, Samcheok-si, Gangwon-do (Janghohang Port · Jangho Beach area)
• Best Season: June-August, morning to midday when the water is clear is optimal for transparent canoeing and snorkeling.
• Main Activities: Transparent canoeing, snorkeling, scuba diving experience, beach water play
• How to Get There: Private car recommended (Seoul → approx. 3 hours 30 minutes). For public transport, transfer to a city bus at Samcheok Terminal.
• For Whom: Couples/friends looking for Instagrammable photos, families who love water activities
• One Line: "A place where the color of the sea alone makes you not envy Gangneung or Sokcho."

Why the 'Naples of Korea'?

Janghohang is situated within a semicircular bay, making the waves calm and the water exceptionally clear. When viewed from the observatory on the hill or from the cable car, small fishing boats and colorful roofs overlapping with the blue sea evoke images of an Italian coastal town. That's why it earned the nickname 'Naples of Korea'.

Transparent Canoeing & Snorkeling — Booking is Half the Battle

The symbol of Janghohang is the transparent canoe. As you glide on the water in a canoe with a transparent bottom, you can see sand and fish below. During the peak summer season, wait times are long and activities often close early, so we recommend arriving early in the morning or making a reservation in advance. Snorkeling and scuba diving experiences are also available, and equipment can be rented on site. The morning hours, when the water is clearest, are advantageous for both photos and activities.

Directions and Parking

A private car is more convenient than public transportation. From Seoul, it takes about 3 hours 30 minutes, and accessibility is good via the Donghae Expressway. During peak season weekends, parking around the port fills up quickly, so early arrival is safer. If you're traveling without a car, you can transfer to a city bus heading towards Jangho from Samcheok Comprehensive Terminal.

Nearby Courses to Combine

Not far by car are Chotdaebawi (Chuam), Maengbang Beach, and Samcheok Marine Cable Car, making it easy to combine them into a one-day course. Since it's in the same Gangwon East Coast region, if your schedule allows, we recommend extending it to a 1 night 2 days trip by connecting it with Yangyang Surf or the Gangneung East Coast Course.

Before You Go: Checklist & FAQ

• What to Bring: Spare clothes, aqua shoes, waterproof bag, sunscreen, motion sickness medicine if you're worried about seasickness.
• Q. Do I need to reserve a transparent canoe? During peak season, it's practically essential. We recommend checking in advance rather than waiting on-site.
• Q. Can I participate if I can't swim? Yes, as you wear a life vest for the experience, but be careful in deep areas.
• Q. When is the water clearest? Mornings with little wind or waves. Operations may be restricted during cloudy weather or rough seas.

This summer, if you want to capture the 'Naples vibe' without traveling far, Samcheok Janghohang is the answer.