Pohang Canal (Pohang Unhe)

Overview

The Pohang Canal (Pohang Unhe) is a landscaped waterway running through the city centre, created by opening up a formerly covered drainage channel. Flanked by walking paths, ornamental plantings, and pedestrian bridges, it serves as a linear urban park and a pleasant shortcut through the downtown area.

Highlights

• Night Lighting: LED lights along the canal banks create colourful reflections on the water after dark.
• Pedestrian Bridges: Several architecturally varied footbridges cross the canal, each designed by a different architect.
• Seasonal Plantings: Cherry blossoms in spring and chrysanthemums in autumn line the canal banks.

History

Inspired by Seoul's Cheonggyecheon Stream restoration, the Pohang Canal project (completed 2016) daylit a section of buried urban waterway and converted the surrounding streets into a pedestrian zone, boosting nearby property values and foot traffic.

Visitor Tips

• Central location: The canal runs through the downtown shopping district — a natural walking route between sights.
• Evening stroll: The lighting makes it especially nice after dinner.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.