Donghae's night tourism shines brighter this summer

Popular travel destinations in Donghae, Gangwon Province — including Mureung Byeolyucheonji, Dojjebigol and Chuam Candlestick Rock — are set to shine even brighter at night this summer.

The city is expanding its nighttime attractions, drawing on its sea, lake and coastal scenery to offer a style of evening tourism distinct from Busan, Yeosu and Seoul — one that combines natural landscapes with urban nightscapes.

The push to become a nightscape city also reinforces Donghae's standing as a destination where visitors stay overnight rather than passing through.

Four distinct nighttime attractions cater to different tastes: the Mukho area, where visitors can take in the night sea and harbor views; Mureung Byeolyucheonji, which pairs hands-on activities with evening scenery; a light-and-art theme park at Chuam; and Hanseom Beach, a leisurely coastal walk. Hanseom Beach sits in the heart of Donghae's city center — the equivalent, the city says, of having a beach in the middle of Myeong-dong or Gangnam in Seoul.

In the Mukho area, visitors can browse the Dojjebigol night market and Mukho Starlight Village, stop at a "Little Prince" photo zone, and then head to the Dojjebigol Sky Valley's Haerang Observatory and skywalk to take in panoramic views of Mukho Port and the East Sea after dark.

Dojjebigol Sky Valley will extend its evening hours until 9 p.m. through Aug. 17, with admission discounted 50 percent in celebration of the Visit Gangwon Year.

Mureung Byeolyucheonji will extend its operating hours until 10 p.m. every Friday and Saturday through Aug. 29. After dark, visitors can use major attractions including an alpine coaster, sky glider, "Lavenduck" ride and pedal kayaks, as well as a hilltop cafe and a stargazing rest area — all set against the emerald lake and the surrounding night scenery.

At Chuam Beach, a "Dawn Light Theme Park" features specialty lighting in the sculpture park, scenic illumination of Candlestick Rock, media facade projections at Haeamjeong pavilion and the beachfront plaza, and a starlight photo zone — adding to the area's appeal as a nighttime tourism destination.

Hanseom Beach has become a popular evening stroll destination for residents and tourists alike, thanks to nightscape installations including a rhythmic gate and a light tunnel. In summer, it draws visitors looking to enjoy the cool night sea in an urban setting.

Donghae Vice Mayor Kim Jeong-yun said the city is continuously expanding its nighttime tourism offerings to reflect the character of each district. "We will further strengthen our competitiveness in night tourism so that visitors can enjoy Donghae's nights in more diverse ways and be drawn into longer stays," he said.