Top 6 places you must visit on your trip to Yeosu
Up until 2012 not many Koreans, let alone tourists, knew just how gorgeous Yeosu is. However, as the city hosted World Expo in 2012, the world soon got to learn about one of the most stunning places in South Korea. Numerous hikes with the sea views awaiting at the top, stunning temples and islands to explore, the city greets travelers with its’ open arms. Even more, the area is also known for some of the best seafood within the whole of South Korea! Ever tried a marinated raw crab? It is a local delicacy one must try! Only three and a half hours away from Seoul, the city should definitely be on your bucket list! Read along to find top six places to explore in Yeosu and what’s special about them!
1. Explore the city of Yeosu. While there are tons of rural places to see in Yeosu, don’t forget to pay attention to the beautiful spots within the city too! We recommend visiting the local Yi Sun Shin park, where you can come face-to-face with history as you explore the famous turtle ships, which were used in the battles all throughout 1800s!
Since the city hosted World Expo in 2012, one cannot go without visiting the Expo Park and the Big O too, there is always something interesting on display, so definitely check it out! You could also easily reach the manmade island of Odongdo (오동도) and spend the day surrounded by lovely Camelia flowers (November-April is the best time to spot them).
P.S. if there are any adrenaline fanatics out there, sing up for a paragliding session with some stunning unison of sea and mountain views down below!
The Night View of the Ocean in Yeosu- a movie which will make you fall in love with the city
2. Hyangiram Temple is the best-known temple in the area and it has its’ reasons why. Founded 1400 years ago, the small temple stands on the rocky coast at the end of Dolsan Island. Being one of the four Buddhist hermitages in South Korea, there are seven cave stones welcoming you as you climb the steps to reach this stunning temple. It is also believed that if you pass all of these caves, your wish will come true! However, don’t threat if you are not much of a hiker, the temple is easily accessible by public transport too! Once you are at the top, you will be greeted by expansive views of the sparkling blue sea dotted with many islands.
P.S. Did you know that Temperature of Love (2017) was filmed here too?
Sunset in the Dolson Island
Photo credit: Kim (@kimseonhyoung)
3. Dolsan Island, the biggest island in Yeosu, and the one that every traveler must visit. The island is a great escape from the city as most of the area is rural, offering various hiking paths with some of the most beautiful views. If you are looking for some more adventure, why not take the cable car instead? You’ll surely enjoy the views all around you. You can also get there by walking across the beautifully ornated Dolsan Bridge, which is also one of the must-see sights in the evening sky.
4. Visit the colorful Angels Mural Village (천사벽화마을). It wouldn’t be a South Korean city if it wouldn’t have at least one alley featuring works of local artists. The colorful Angels Mural Village being no exception, it allows one to step into an animation world giving some great photo opportunities! Enjoy the carefree atmosphere as you sip a cup of coffee at one of the coffee shops in its tiny alleyways or go to the top of the hill and you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning 360-degree views of the city!
Azaleas on the Yeongchwisan Mountain
Photo credit: Lee S. Woo (@dolby970)
5. Yeongchwisan Mountain in Spring.
If you happen to be in South Korea in April, don’t miss a chance to see the whole Yeongchwisan Mountain painted red by the country’s famous spring flower, Azalea. It is a sight like no other, especially as azaleas are famous for its bright red color and wonderful smell. From the top of the mountain, you will be able to admire views of the vast sea while taking in the first sunrays of the spring.
6. Beaches. Whether you’re searching for beaches or the hikes, Yeosu has it all!
Ungcheon (웅천) is one of the most popular beaches in Yeosu and there is a reason why! It is a stunning small beach surrounded by beautiful waters, with plenty of water sports to try out and some of the best restaurants for the local cuisine too. However, it can get a little crowded in the summer as it is well loved by travellers! Mosageum (모사금) is another beautiful place for sunbathers and swimmers wanting to soak in the summer rays. But, if you are up for something completely different, then Manseongri (만성리) might be just the right beach for you! It is covered with shinny black sand making it look rather stunning. It’s a great place for some sightseeing and picture taking indeed. However, be careful in the summer, as the black sand can quickly get extremely hot!
Raw Marinated Crab, a delicious South Korean dish
Tip on the local dishes to explore: Spicy Marinated Raw Crabs (양념게장) is on top of the list, as you cannot find it as easily in the other provinces of South Korea. Nothing like you’ve ever tasted before, it will definitely leave you speechless (and in a good way!). There is lots of sea food dishes you should try while on the Southern coast of Korea, however, if you are not a fan of seafood, why not try the famous pork belly or Korean Bbq instead?
No trip to South Korea should be without visiting the famous Yeosu, it is a unique mixture of architecture and nature, and is a great addition to any itinerary.