Yeosu

Written by Andrew Turner, Min-jun Park
21/08/2025
Sky tour photo of Yeosu. Yeosu is part of the Hallyo and Dadohae national maritime parks.
Stephen Alexander-Larkin, Wikimedia Commons

Yeosu, a captivating coastal city in South Korea, offers stunning ocean vistas and rich cultural experiences across its many islands and mainland attractions. It provides a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and opportunities for both relaxation and active exploration.

For socializing, the areas around Jongpo Marine Park and Yi Sun-sin Square feature various cafes and restaurants. Nangman Pocha Street offers a lively setting to enjoy local street food, and Yeoseo-dong functions as a central dining hub.

Top 6 Things to do in Yeosu

Yeosu offers a captivating blend of coastal adventures, historical exploration, cultural immersion, and opportunities for relaxation, set against picturesque ocean backdrops.

1. Yeosu Maritime Cable Car

Experience breathtaking aerial views of Yeosu's coastline, downtown area, and surrounding islands from the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car. This unique ride crosses over the ocean, connecting Dolsan Park and Jasan Park. Visitors can choose between standard cabins with large windows or crystal cabins featuring transparent glass floors for an exhilarating, suspended feeling over the water. The ride provides ample opportunity to admire the iconic Dolsandaegyo Bridge and the bustling Yeosu Harbor, especially beautiful at sunset or night.

Cost: A standard cabin round-trip typically costs around 15,000 KRW per person, while a crystal cabin round-trip is approximately 22,000 KRW per person.

Transport: The cable car connects Dolsan Park and Jasan Park. From the city center, a local bus ride to the Odong Entrance bus stop is approximately 1,300 KRW, which is near Jasan Park. Taxis are also readily available, with a starting fare of about 3,900 KRW.

2. Odongdo Island

Explore Odongdo Island, a tranquil nature escape accessible by a pedestrian bridge from the mainland, or a short camellia train ride. The island is particularly famous for its camellia flowers, which bloom vibrantly from November to April, painting the landscape in vivid colors. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along well-maintained paths, discover scenic viewpoints, and climb to the lighthouse observation deck for panoramic sea views. The Music Fountain near the island's entrance offers a delightful spectacle, especially when illuminated in the evening.

Cost: Entry to Odongdo Island typically costs about 1,000 KRW, although it is sometimes possible to walk onto the island without paying. The camellia train also has a small fee.

Transport: Odongdo Island is a short walk across a seawall from the Yeosu Expo area. From the city center, local buses (such as Bus 2, 68, 76, or 333) can reach the Odong Entrance bus stop for about 1,300 KRW. A taxi ride from the city center to the island's entrance would start around 3,900 KRW.

3. Hyangiram Hermitage

Discover the serene Hyangiram Hermitage, a historic seaside Buddhist temple nestled into a cliffside on Dolsan Island. The journey involves a scenic bus ride and a climb up many stairs, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the southern sea and surrounding islands. This ancient hermitage provides a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and offers numerous photo opportunities of its unique architecture blended with the natural rock formations. It is particularly known for being one of four great hermitages in Korea and a significant sunrise spot.

Cost: Admission to Hyangiram Hermitage is approximately 2,000 KRW per person.

Transport: Hyangiram Hermitage is located at the far end of Dolsan Island. From Yeosu Expo Station or Jungang, take bus 111 or 113 to the final stop, which takes about 45 minutes and costs approximately 1,300 KRW. A taxi can also take you directly, with fares varying based on distance (starting at 3,900 KRW).

4. Yeosu Ocean Rail Bike

Embark on an enjoyable journey along the coastline with the Yeosu Ocean Rail Bike. This pedal-powered rail bike experience takes you along a 3.5-kilometer track, offering refreshing sea breezes and picturesque views of the shimmering ocean and rugged cliffs. The ride passes through tunnels adorned with LED lights, adding a unique visual element to the experience. Designed for groups of two to four people, it's a fun and active way to take in the coastal scenery at a leisurely pace.

Cost: The cost varies by the number of riders: approximately 26,000 KRW for two people, 31,000 KRW for three people, and 36,000 KRW for four people. A minimum of two people is required per rail bike.

Transport: The Yeosu Ocean Rail Bike is located near the Yeosu Expo area. From Yeosu Expo Station, a taxi ride is typically less than 5,000 KRW. Local buses also serve the area, costing around 1,300 KRW.

5. Yi Sun-sin Square & Turtle Ship

Step back in time at Yi Sun-sin Square, a central hub dedicated to Admiral Yi Sun-sin, one of Korea's most revered naval heroes. The square features a prominent statue of the admiral and a full-size replica of his iconic 'turtle ship,' a unique armored warship that played a crucial role in historical naval battles. Visitors can explore the replica ship for free, gaining insight into Korea's maritime history. The square is a lively area, often hosting cultural events and surrounded by various cafes and restaurants, making it a great spot for both historical learning and people-watching.

Cost: Entry to Yi Sun-sin Square and the replica Turtle Ship is free.

Transport: Yi Sun-sin Square is located in the heart of Yeosu's downtown area and is easily accessible on foot from many central accommodations. Local buses are readily available, with fares around 1,300 KRW. Taxis to this central location would have a starting fare of about 3,900 KRW.

6. Arte Museum Yeosu

Immerse yourself in a world of captivating digital art at Arte Museum Yeosu, an immersive media art exhibition. Located within the Yeosu Expo International Pavilion, the museum presents a series of vibrant exhibitions under the theme of 'OCEAN,' showcasing the beauty of Yeosu's sea and natural landscapes through visually striking elements, sensory sounds, and elegant fragrances. It offers a unique and modern cultural experience, perfect for all ages, and provides numerous creative opportunities for memorable photographs.

Cost: Adult admission is approximately 19,000 KRW. A package including one cup of tea at the Arte Cafe is available for about 22,000 KRW.

Transport: Arte Museum Yeosu is located within the Yeosu Expo International Pavilion, which is easily accessible from Yeosu Expo Station. It is within walking distance of the station. Local buses and taxis (starting at 3,900 KRW) can also reach the Expo area, with bus fares around 1,300 KRW.

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