A Weekend in Yeosu

A Weekend in Yeosu

By Cat Son

With spring weather finally upon us we cannot miss the chance to explore Korea beyond our everyday boundaries. If you are aching for a seaside excursion: Yeosu is the perfect destination. Nestled in the very southern part of South Korea, Yeosu is part of the Jeollanam-do Province. From the Pyeongtaek area, you can expect Yeosu to be about a four-hour drive. For those in the Daegu area, expect about a two-and-a-half drive. Yeosu is the perfect weekend getaway! 

During the Joseon Dynasty Yeosu was the headquarters for the navy. It was in Yeosu that Admiral Yi Sun-Shin launched his famous iron warship, the Turtle Ship (Kŏbuksŏn) during the Imjin War. While traveling throughout the town you will see many statues, parks, posters, pictures, and more paying homage to Yi Sun-Shin and his valiant efforts. 

You will want to make a quick stop at Yi Sun-Shin Square. Located in the center of the town, you can see a large statue of the Admiral as well as a replica of the Turtle Ship. Another architectural feature you will not want to miss is the Yi Sun-Shin Bridge. Quoted as being, “The Golden Gate of South Korea,” the suspension bridge is the eighth longest in the world, clocking in at 2.26 kilometers. If you can drive it at night you will get the full ambiance of the colored lights that adorn the bridge. 

One of Yeosu’s top attractions is the Hyangiram Hermitage. With its name meaning, “hermitage that faces the sun.” For myself, this quickly has become my very favorite Buddhist temple in Korea. The temple itself is remarkable in that it is all nestled into the mountain and the fresh ocean breeze and beautiful coastal views cannot be topped. 

Hyangriam gives you a seaside perspective that you will not soon forget. It changed names several times, but in 1715 the name Hyangriam stuck. It is located on the side of a steep mountain. You will find ample street parking at the bottom of the mountain and will enjoy small stores and street food all the way up. Not only does it provide stunning coastal views, but it is also rumored to be capable of granting wishes - but only if you pass through the seven stone passages along its path. 

There is a theme of stone turtles throughout the temple. The mountain that the temple rests upon is called Geumosan Mountain, which means “large golden turtle”. While the mountain itself does not look like a turtle, the rocks that are found there have the texture of a turtle’s shell. 

Not far from Hyangiram are the neighboring Korean War Weapon and North Korean Semi-Submersible exhibition halls.  The Korean War Weapon Exhibition Hall features several interactive exhibits. Our favorite was the area where you could dress up in the same uniforms that South Korean soldiers wore during the Korean War. Next door you will find a fascinating North Korean Semi- Submarine. Back in December of 1998, the South Korean military spotted the vessel close to the shore.  By the next morning, they were able to capture it, it is believed to be from North Korea, however, North Korea still denies sending it according to the exhibition plaques. The exhibition hall holds not only the Semi-Submersible but also all of the items found inside it as well.

Right across the street from the exhibition halls is a great beach. If you have time (and sturdy shoes), it is settled in a small bay and offers smooth rocks, a plethora of ocean glass as well as calm waves to skip the rocks on. However, there are several other beaches to choose from in Yeosu, the most famous one is Manseongri beach. It is the only black sand beach in Korea and many people believe that it has elements within the sand that can relieve pain. 

Between the history, culture, temples and beaches, Yeosu is South Korea’s hidden gem. Make sure you don't skip out on this one.  A weekend off and a reliable car will give you memories of Yeosu you won't soon forget.   

Visit Yeosu! 

Other attractions around Yeosu: 

• Hamel Lighthouse 

• Yeosu Maritime Cable Car

• Dolsan Island Park

• Odongdo Island 

• Jasan Park

• Arte Museum

• Yeosu Ocean Railbike

• Yeosu Fish Market 

• Jongpo Marine Park

About the Author

Cat Son is a Colorado Native who calls Hawaii home. She enjoys spending as much time outdoors as she can. She loves exploring Korea with her family.