Baugil Course 8, the Heonhwa-ro walking trail, stretches approximately 14 km and takes about 6 hours to complete. The route begins at Jeongdongjin Station, a famous attraction in Gangneung, and passes through Sandglass Park, Simgok Port, and Geumjin Port before ending at Okgye Market. Heonhwa-ro, which extends from Jeongdongjin, runs alongside dramatic rocky cliffs featured in the Silla-era hyangga poem “Heonhwaga.” Waves crashing over the breakwater often drench the path, creating a dynamic seaside experience.

Starting from Jeongdongjin Station—known as the closest train station to the sea in the world—the trail loops through a village mountain path before descending along a zigzag route to the sea at Simgok. Once a deeply secluded village, so isolated that it is said residents were unaware even when the Korean War broke out, the area is now renowned for the Heonhwa-ro walking trail. Waves rolling over the breakwater soak the path leading toward Okgye Market. The trail curves gently along the coastline like the edge of a folding fan. As you walk with a loved one, you may feel inspired to pick a flower from the coastal cliffs and offer it as a romantic gesture.

“Baugil Course 9” spans 13.9 km and takes approximately 6 hours to complete. This trekking route is steeped in the legend of Lady Suro and the Silla-era song “Heonhwaga.” The course begins at Jeongdongjin, also famous as a filming location for the drama Sandglass. Visitors who feel nostalgic about the drama are encouraged to take photos and capture their memories. The emerald-colored sea and sandy beach around Jeongdongjin Station are equally stunning. After enjoying a walk and taking photos around the station, proceed through the mountain trail entrance to reach Simgok Port. The name “Simgok” refers to a village nestled deep within a valley, and due to its remote location, it is said that residents were unaware of the outbreak of the Korean War. Crossing the Seonangdang Hill from Simgok Port reveals a breathtaking panoramic view of the East Sea, leading you onto Heonhwa-ro. This road derives its name from the story during the reign of King Seongdeok of Silla, when Lady Suro asked for azaleas blooming on a cliff; when no one volunteered, an old man herding cattle picked the flowers and sang the song “Heonhwaga.” The coastal road from Simgok Port to Geumjin Port is considered one of the most beautiful along Korea’s East Coast. As you walk, enjoy the sound of waves up close and the refreshing scent of the sea. Passing Geumjin Port and the Women’s Training Center, you will arrive at Okgye Market, the final destination of Gangneung Baugil Course 9. At Okgye Market, visitors can experience the warm hospitality and culture of the local residents. Baugil Course 9 offers a glimpse into Gangneung’s history and natural beauty. Visitors to Jeongdongjin are encouraged not only to explore the station itself but also to walk along Heonhwa-ro to fully experience the region’s culture and heritage.