Ferry from Jeju to Wando

Jeju Guide

Jeju Ferry Port

Found across the Sea of Japan that stretches along the southern coast of South Korea is the volcanic island of Jeju. This oval shaped landmass, known as the “Island of Gods” due to legends that claim the islanders are the distant descendants of demi-Gods, is blessed with year-round warmth, beautiful white sand beaches, and a thriving, emerald-green landscape dominated by the cloud-covered peak of Mount Hallasan. Not only is the sub-tropical island a popular destination for love-struck newly-weds, it is also a treasure trove of natural wonders. The Manjanggul Lava-tube, found within a cave on the north coast, is an astounding 20-metre high column of solidified magma that is listed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Another spectacle is the Cheonjiyeon Waterfall (translated literally as “sky connected with land”). Here spring water, pooled atop a rocky outcrop, cascades into an artificial pond illuminated at night by a series of underwater lamps. The port of Jeju is found in the sprawl of Jeju City on the island’s northern coast. This facility, located at the edge of the Geonip-dong district in the very heart of the city, is relatively small; it consisting of little more than a few piers that jut in a saw-tooth fashion from the shoreline and into the sea. The ferry terminal is located on one of the largest and westernmost of these piers. It is home to a handful of passenger amenities including a compact car-park, an indoor waiting room, toilet facilities, a tourist information booth, and a small café selling food and drink. Due to the port’s location near the city centre, it is well supported by a number of transport links. Though it can be easy to get lost in the maze of streets that cut between the modern apartment blocks and skyscrapers, a few main road routes lead directly from the downtown districts to the rolling, rural outskirts. An extensive system of inner city buses regularly whisks passengers through Jeju City from stops near the harbour; while another, more expansive service offers routes into the surrounding area - including to the nearby international airport. A number of routes currently leave from the port in Jeju a few times throughout the week. Services hosted by Hanil Express sail north out from the mouth of the harbour to the port of Chuja island and the mainland town of Wando on South Korea’s shattered southern coast, both a short distance across the ultramarine waves of the Sea of Japan.

Wando Guide

What is there to do in Wando?

Stroll along the endless stretches of golden sand that comprises the coastline, scale the towering mountainside that defines the landscape or explore the rural scenery found in the beguiling village of Dangni – Wando truly is a mecca of natural beauty. The most popular attraction is Myeongsasimni Beach, arguably the most beautiful beach in the entirety of South Korea, which is often drenched in tourists enjoying the sun and sea in the peak of summer. When the weather gets slightly cooler, the beach gets slightly emptier, allowing you to walk the four kilometre strip in an oasis of peace and tranquillity. No matter what time you arrive in Wando, the friendly and welcoming locals will ensure you get to your hotel or resort in a safe and comfortable manner. Many of the hotels are very affordable for a day or two, giving you enough time to sunbathe on the beautiful beaches in the daytime, whilst enjoying some quintessential Korean cuisine at one of the delicious restaurants. To really capture Wando’s true essence, climb one of the steep hills for a captivating look across the undulating terrain and infrastructure.

How do you get around Wando?

The ferry allows you to take your car, which is probably the best way to travel around Wando, there bicycles are for hire should you prefer a more healthy and environmentally friendly way to traverse the land.