Hello! I am a travel writer dedicated to discovering and sharing the hidden charms of South Korea.
Today, I’m taking you to a city loved by Koreans for its undeniable romance—Yeosu.
Are you planning a trip filled with sparkling coastal lights, incredible food, and unforgettable memories?
If so, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve prepared the perfect guide for international travelers, focusing on the two must-visit landmarks: Odongdo Island and the Yeosu Sea Cable Car.
Why Should You Visit Yeosu Right Now?
Located on the southern coast of Korea, Yeosu is often called the “Naples of Korea” for its stunning harbor views.
It’s so famous for its evening scenery that there’s even a legendary song titled “Yeosu Night Sea,” which has made the city a symbol of romance.
You can reach Yeosu in about 3 hours from Seoul via the KTX high-speed train, making it highly accessible.
With its delicious seafood, mesmerizing nightscapes, and various ocean-themed attractions, Yeosu will likely be the highlight of your Korean journey.
For first-time visitors, I highly recommend starting with these two iconic spots.
Walk Across the Sea to the Island of Camellias: ‘Odongdo’
The first landmark you must see is Odongdo, a beautiful island floating on crystal-clear waters. A great advantage of this island is that it is connected to the mainland by a long breakwater, allowing you to walk there easily without needing a boat.
A Crimson Wonderland of Camellia Flowers
While its name comes from the “Paulownia” (Odong) leaf shape, the island is actually most famous for its Camellias. From winter through spring (typically January to March), the entire island is covered in vibrant red camellia blossoms. Even if you visit outside of this season, don’t worry! Odongdo features lush forest trails and well-maintained coastal paths that offer a healing experience all year round.
How to Enjoy Odongdo: Walking and the Lighthouse
You can take the “Camellia Train”—a cute shuttle—to the island, but I personally recommend walking across the breakwater. It’s a 15-minute stroll where you can breathe in the salty sea air and enjoy the blue horizon. Once on the island, be sure to climb the White Lighthouse Observatory for a panoramic view of the Yeosu sea. There is no better place to start your Yeosu adventure.
Thrills and Romance in the Sky: ‘Yeosu Sea Cable Car’
The second must-visit is the Yeosu Sea Cable Car, the undisputed highlight of any trip here. As the first of its kind in Korea to pass over the ocean, it connects the mainland (Jasan Park) to an island (Dolsan Park), offering a bird’s-eye view of the blue sea and the city skyline.
The “Yeosu Night Sea” is Better from Above
While the views are great during the day, the real magic happens at sunset. As the city lights begin to flicker on, the view of the “Yeosu Night Sea” from the cable car is romantic beyond words. The colorful lights of the Dolsan Bridge and Geobukseon Bridge are sights you can only truly appreciate from this height.
Choosing Your Cabin: Crystal vs. General
There are two types of cabins: the ‘Crystal Cabin’, which has a transparent glass floor, and the ‘Standard Cabin’. If you’re looking for an extra thrill and want to see the ocean right beneath your feet, I highly recommend the Crystal Cabin. The boarding station is conveniently located near the entrance of Odongdo at Jasan Park, making it easy to visit both spots in one go.
Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors
To ensure your trip is a success, here are a few essential tips:
Transportation and Logistics
Train: Take the KTX from Seoul (Yongsan Station) to Yeosu Expo Station for the fastest and most comfortable journey.
Getting Around: Taxis and buses are readily available from the station to all major tourist attractions.
Must-Try Flavors of Yeosu
Local Delicacies: Yeosu is a seafood paradise. Don’t miss ‘Yeosu Samhap’ (a grilled combination of seafood, pork belly, and kimchi) or fresh sashimi.
Romantic Pocha Street: In the evening, visit the ‘Romantic Pocha (Street Stall) Street’ to enjoy local street food with the sea as your backdrop.
Recommended Itinerary
Timing: Visit Odongdo during the day for a refreshing walk, then head to the Yeosu Sea Cable Car just before sunset to catch both the golden hour and the night view.
Yeosu is a city where beautiful nature meets modern excitement. By following this guide, your trip is sure to be filled with romantic memories. Start planning your journey to Korea’s beautiful southern coast today!