Chuam Chotdaebawi Rock — Sunrise Time & Photo Spots
Chuam Chotdaebawi Rock is one of Donghae’s most famous sunrise (해맞이) spots. Facing the open east sea, the pillar and its lone pine meeting the first light of the new year is why so many visitors come. Below: how to check the date-specific sunrise, when to arrive, where to view, and what to do in bad weather.
Checking tomorrow’s sunrise & when to arrive
Sunrise at Chuam varies a lot by season — around 07:30 near the winter solstice (late December) and about 05:10 near the summer solstice (late June). Check the exact time for tomorrow using a weather service with the local coordinates (about 37.55°N, 129.12°E). To catch the soft pre-dawn glow before the reddest light, aim to be on the coast about 40 minutes before sunrise — roughly between 04:00 and 07:00.
Recommended viewpoints
Shore boardwalk: view the candle rock and lone pine head-on, up close. Chuam Suspension Bridge: a raised angle framing the rock, Grandmother Rock and the East Sea together. Grandmother Rock observatory: across the water, frame both the rock and the sunrise.
Bad-weather alternatives
On rainy, foggy or windy days when the sea isn’t visible, don’t force the beach — shift to the suspension-bridge walk, Donghae’s seafood street (squid and local food), or a coastal drive toward Gangneung/Samcheok. Sunrise depends on weather, so stay flexible.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for sunrise at Chuam?
New Year’s Day (Jan 1) is the most crowded. Clear winter and early-spring mornings have the clearest views; summer starts early so there’s less heat.
Where do I park?
Public parking (Chuam Beach / Chuam Bridge lots) is within walking distance; paid, and often full on peak weekends — arrive early or use transit. See the Parking & directions guide for rates and routes.
Is there an entrance fee?
Viewing the rock from the public coast is free and open year-round. The bridge and beach may have separate managed hours — check on-site notices.