If you’re studying or visiting in Pohang, one of the best ways to spend a free day is by exploring the eastern coast. This part of Korea, facing the East Sea, combines natural beauty, local history, and peaceful seaside villages. You don’t need a car or expensive tours, all it takes is a few bus rides, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure.

This is how our one-day trip around Pohang unfolded: a journey that began with the East Sea bus and ended with a stroll above the waves.

1. Taking the East Sea Bus: The Start of the Journey

We started early in the morning at Pohang City’s main bus stop, waiting for the small yet charming East Sea Bus. It’s not a big intercity coach but rather a local bus that follows the coastline, passing through small fishing towns, rice fields, and villages. As soon as we got on board, the adventure began.

The ride itself is part of the experience: the road winds along the ocean, revealing stretches of sparkling blue water and small boats anchored near the shore. Every few minutes, we caught a glimpse of daily life: fishermen repairing nets, local markets opening, and students heading to school. The bus rattled gently as we left the city behind and entered the countryside. It’s a slow, peaceful journey that feels worlds away from the busy university routine.

2. Arriving at Homigot Sunrise Square

After about 40 minutes, we arrived at our first destination: Homigot Sunrise Square. This place is famous across Korea for one special reason it’s one of the very first spots in the country to see the sunrise.

Standing on the wide, open square, we were greeted by the sea breeze and the sight of the enormous Hand of Harmony rising from the water. The sculpture depicts a giant bronze hand reaching toward the sky, symbolizing coexistence and hope. Facing it on land is another hand, slightly smaller, reaching back together they represent unity between people.

In the early light, with the waves gently hitting the rocks around the hand, the scene felt almost spiritual. Many Koreans come here for New Year’s Day to watch the first sunrise of the year, and you can understand why it’s peaceful, inspiring, and unforgettable.

3. Heading to Guryongpo: A Glimpse of History

From Homigot, we caught the 9000 bus to reach Guryongpo, another highlight of the Pohang coastline. The trip took around 20 minutes, winding through small towns and coastal views that never grew old.

Guryongpo is best known for its Japanese House Street, a preserved district from the early 20th century. During the Japanese occupation, fishermen from Japan settled here, leaving behind distinctive wooden houses and narrow alleys that still carry that era’s architecture. Walking through the street feels like stepping back in time — wooden façades, sliding doors, and tiled roofs tell stories of another generation.

Some of the old houses have been turned into small cafés, museums, or souvenir shops, but the charm remains authentic. We spent some time wandering around, taking photos, and talking to locals who were proud of keeping this part of history alive. It’s a quiet place, but every corner feels meaningful.

4. Walking Along the Skywalk: The Perfect Ending

After exploring Guryongpo, we decided to end our trip with something both relaxing and spectacular a walk on one of Pohang’s coastal skywalks. There are several along the East Sea, and they’re all designed to give breathtaking views of the ocean below. Some are built with glass floors, so you can see the waves crashing directly under your feet: a little dizzying at first, but thrilling once you get used to it!

The wind was cool, the air smelled of salt, and the view stretched endlessly to the horizon. Below us, waves sparkled in the afternoon sun, and the occasional fishing boat traced white lines across the blue surface.

When the sun began to lower, the colors changed once again: golden light reflecting off the water, pink clouds drifting above the cliffs. It was the perfect conclusion to our small adventure.

Final Thoughts

This trip around Pohang is perfect for anyone looking for a blend of adventure and calm. With only a few bus rides, you can visit Homigot’s iconic sunrise hand, explore 

Guryongpo’s Japanese House Street, and walk high above the sea on a skywalk.