Welcoming the New Year at Chuam Chotdae Rock
69 San, Chuam-dong, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea
추암 촛대바위

As we conclude one year and embrace the next, the moment of sunrise brings a profound sense of renewal and hope. Chuam Chotdae Rock (추암 촛대바위) in Donghae is widely considered one of South Korea's most iconic spots to witness this daily miracle. With the darkness fading and the sun casting a gentle light over the tranquil East Sea, it provides a perfect backdrop for reflection and new beginnings.
This legendary rock formation, which resembles a giant candle reaching toward the sky, creates a breathtaking silhouette as the sun ascends. In winter, the clear visibility and calm waters make the experience even more vivid, offering a quiet space to organize your thoughts and prepare your heart for the coming days of the new year.
The Magic of Chuam Chotdae Rock at Dawn
Located in the coastal city of Donghae, Chuam Chotdae Rock is a renowned landmark that has captured the hearts of travelers for generations. The name "Chotdae" literally translates to "candlestick," referring to the rock's unique vertical shape. As the sun slowly rises over the horizon, the shifting angle of light transforms the contours of the rock and the vibrant colors of the surrounding sea.
Watching the sun climb behind this natural masterpiece is like viewing a living painting crafted by nature. The contrast between the dark, rugged stone and the glowing orange sky creates a moment of silence and awe that stay with you long after the sun has fully risen. It is an experience that naturally evokes a sense of anticipation for what the future holds.
Winter Sunrise: Clarity and Tranquility
While Chuam is beautiful year-round, winter offers a distinct advantage for sunrise seekers. The cold, crisp air often results in exceptional visibility, allowing you to see the sun emerge with incredible sharpness. The winter sea tends to be calmer, reflecting the morning glow like a mirror, which enhances the overall sense of peace and tranquility during your visit.
Reflecting on New Beginnings in Donghae
There is something inherently meaningful about choosing a specific place to mark the start of a new chapter. Chuam Chotdae Rock provides an environment that encourages quiet contemplation. Even without elaborate plans or formal resolutions, simply being present for the first moments of the year in such a majestic setting brings a natural clarity to one's thoughts.
Gathering with loved ones or standing solo on the observation deck, you can feel the collective energy of hope that fills the air at dawn. It is a place where you can bid farewell to the past and welcome the coming days with a refreshed spirit. Donghae’s representative sunrise spot is truly a destination that fills the soul with light and motivation.
Experience the First Moments of the Year
If you are looking for a significant way to start your year, a journey to the East Coast is highly recommended. Chuam Chotdae Rock offers more than just a photo opportunity; it offers a moment of connection with nature’s rhythm. Let the first light of the new year at this historic site inspire you to fill your coming days with purpose and joy.
Witnessing a sunrise can change your entire perspective on the day ahead. Have you ever visited a famous sunrise spot to welcome a new year, or do you prefer the quiet sunrises closer to home? If you were to visit Chuam Chotdae Rock, who would you want to stand beside as the first light of the year breaks over the horizon? Share your New Year wishes with us!
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