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beauty of the lake that they stayed there for three days (sam-il). Walking around Lake Yeongnang, 7.8 kilometers in circumference, can be a delightful experience all year round. Spring offers a quiet walk alone on the trail where cherry blossoms are in full bloom; early summer is the time to stroll with someone special to Beombawi, or “Tiger Rock,” under the lush green zelkova trees. Then, at sunset, you will surely be enchanted by the picturesque silhouette of Ulsan Rock reflected on the lake, just like Yeongnang a thousand years ago. It could be said that Ulsan Rock is the origin of the name Sokcho, since its meaning stems from the wish to “tie (sok) a rope around the rock” and take it with you. Lake Cheongcho, on the other hand, has a completely dif-
ferent atmosphere. Surrounded by the downtown area with many cars, people and bright neon signs, it is vibrant and lively well into the night. Those craving some hustle and bustle and all kinds of food can wander around the lakeside area. A onehour yacht tour departs from Komarine Yacht Park and does a loop around Jo Island. The magnificent scenery of the Seorak mountain ridge lying beyond Lake Cheongcho and Expo Tower makes for amazing pictures, while the gorgeous view of Daecheongbong, the highest peak of Mt. Seorak, that looms over Seorak Bridge in Abai Village, will provide poetic inspiration. Snow-covered Mt. Seorak on a cold winter day set against a cloudless blue sky is another view simply breathtaking in its beauty.
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