Jumunjin Port

Jumunjin Port is the largest fishing port on Korea's east-central coast, in northern Gangneung. The morning fish auction — usually around 5 a.m. — is the most authentic experience, with the day's catch laid out on the concrete and dozens of buyers shouting bids in the auctioneer's rapid call. After the auction, the port's fish-market street opens for direct retail; sashimi cut to order at a buy-and-eat counter, eaten on the spot at communal tables, is the standard travelers' meal. The breakwater walk past the famous red and white lighthouses gives a postcard photo. Best for the auction at dawn. Pair with the surrounding East Sea beaches and Gangneung Coffee Street for a full day.