Yokjido - Image 1
1 / 3

Yokjido

4.3
·41 reviews·통영시, South Korea

Discover Yokjido, a picturesque island offering stunning sea views, scenic hikes, and a glimpse into traditional Korean fishing village life.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather for hiking

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Yokjido - Image 1

Yokjido

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather for hiking

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Yokjido, a picturesque island offering stunning sea views, scenic hikes, and a glimpse into traditional Korean fishing village life.

4.3
(41 reviews)

"Enjoy breathtaking views from hanging bridges and mountain peaks on this charming island."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Cash!

Most places are cash-only. ATMs are rare. Carry enough Won for purchases. :moneybag:

Check Ferry Schedules

Ferry times vary. Book in advance if possible, especially with a car. Bring ID. :ferry:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hanging Bridges

Hanging Bridges

Various locations, including near Blue Sea cafe

Experience breathtaking views from these iconic suspension bridges, offering unique perspectives of the island's coastline.

Reddit
Cheonwangbong Sunrise/Sunset

Cheonwangbong Sunrise/Sunset

Cheonwangbong peak

Witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets from mountain peaks, offering a different kind of coastal beauty.

Reddit
Yokji Port Village

Yokji Port Village

Yokji Port

Explore the historic fishing village, once a bustling hub for mackerel fishing, now a charming tourist spot.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Cash is King on Yokjido

Most establishments on Yokjido, including cafes and shops, operate on a cash-only basis. ATMs are scarce, so come prepared with enough Korean Won to cover your expenses, especially for snacks and local purchases. Reddit

Timing Your Visit for Comfort

Summer heat can be intense, making hikes challenging. Consider visiting outside of peak summer months for a more comfortable experience. Also, be aware that cafe opening hours can be unreliable, so plan accordingly for facilities. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for hiking
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
New Year's Eve
Why
Unique sunset/sunrise views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bring Cash!

Most places are cash-only. ATMs are rare. Carry enough Won for purchases. Reddit :moneybag:

Check Ferry Schedules

Ferry times vary. Book in advance if possible, especially with a car. Bring ID. Reddit :ferry:

Village Bus Info

Catch the village bus to explore. Fares are 1,000 won cash. Ask the driver for routes. Reddit :bus:

Pack Snacks & Water

Some cafes have unreliable hours. Bring your own refreshments for hikes. Reddit :water_wave:

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Cash!

Most places are cash-only. ATMs are rare. Carry enough Won for purchases. Reddit :moneybag:

Check Ferry Schedules

Ferry times vary. Book in advance if possible, especially with a car. Bring ID. Reddit :ferry:

Village Bus Info

Catch the village bus to explore. Fares are 1,000 won cash. Ask the driver for routes. Reddit :bus:

Pack Snacks & Water

Some cafes have unreliable hours. Bring your own refreshments for hikes. Reddit :water_wave:

Consider a Car

A car offers flexibility for exploring the island's circumferential road. Reddit :car:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(41 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally enjoy Yokjido for its natural beauty, scenic views from hanging bridges, and opportunities for hiking and experiencing a traditional fishing village. However, some find the limited cash-only policy, unreliable cafe hours, and occasional language barriers challenging. Planning ahead with cash and snacks is highly recommended for a smoother visit. Reddit

"We took the ferry from Samdeok port because they have more convenient times for a daytrip. The ferry has a cash-only cafe for snacks and drinks and plenty of places to sit. We found out that Yokjido doesn’t have an ATM and most places do not accept credit cards, so our spending was limited to the 35000 won we had in our wallets.

We hiked to the hanging bridge next to the Blue Sea cafe. It was not far but the July summer heat made it tough. Disappointed to find the cafe closed and no toilets anywhere. We did not dare to hike to the second hanging bridge as the opening hours of the cafes are unreliable and there are no buses or taxis to take us back when nature calls…

Next to the public toilet there was a guy selling baked potatoes. I asked for 4 but he insisted I would take 6. I wanted to give him 5000 won but he took 10000 and refused to give me any change. More than 6 euro for 6 potatoes seems pricey, but I guess that’s what happens when you visit Tongyeong if you don’t speak Korean.

Overall I enjoyed the daytrip, but I would recommend either bringing a car or avoiding July and August."

Pieter Kop

"It takes about an hour by boat from Tongyeong Port to get off at Yokji Port. Among the islands in the Tongyeong area, it is the largest and most populated, and perhaps the most well-connected tourist destination. A drive along the island's circumferential road reveals a wealth of fishing, attractions, and food. The island's complete opening gives it a well-organized and clean image. The bustling area around the dock is a densely populated village. Starting in the 1910s, during the Japanese colonial period, mackerel fishing flourished, and a modernized market developed around Jwaburanggae Village. Many fishing boats and fishermen flocked to Yokji Port. The alleyways lined with inns, restaurants, bars, barbershops, billiard halls, and bathhouses catered to the fishermen. Now, as a modern fishing village, Yokjido has become a tourist destination, offering a glimpse into the historical and social background of the island. A one-night stay will leave you wanting more.
Hiking, fishing, scuba diving, and island camping are all possible.
Nearby islands such as Yeonhwado, Udo, and Dumido are also nearby. Staying in Yokjido for a few days to see the last sunset of 2022 and the sunrise of the new year of 2023"

네잎크로버

"There is a hiking trail from Taegoam entrance to Daegibong (the top of the Yokjido Monorail) next to Cheonwangbong of Cheonwangsan, which takes about 2-3 hours. The sunrise is beautiful at the top of Daegibong, and the sunset is beautiful at Cheonwangbong. In general, sunrises and sunsets seen from the sea are common, but Cheonwangbong and Daegibong are sunrises and sunsets seen from the mountains. Furthermore, the views from the mountains on the island are some of the best sunrises and sunsets. Nearby, Yakgwabong is a 40-minute hike from Taegoam, and it takes 20-30 minutes to go down to Nongol. From the top of Yakgwabong, you can see the Yokji Port, the town of Yokjido, and the surrounding islands. Staying for 1-2 nights at Yokjido Ocean Village near Cheonwangsan Mountain, you can create special memories with your family or loved ones while enjoying fresh spicy fish stew cooked on a stone barbecue or fishing in the fresh air. A short hike to enjoy the sunset and sunrise views is also good for your health, and it will be a travel course that allows you to tour both the inside and outside of Yokjido."

신영미

What People Like

Scenic hanging bridges
Beautiful sea views
Hiking trails

What People Dislike

Cash-only policy
Unreliable cafe hours
Limited ATMs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take a ferry from Tongyeong Port or Samdeok Port. The journey takes about an hour. It's recommended to book ferry tickets online in advance, especially if you plan to bring a car. Remember to bring your ID for boarding. Reddit

Ferries depart from both Tongyeong Port and Samdeok Port. Samdeok Port often has more convenient times for day trips. The round-trip fare for adults is approximately 15,200 won, with additional charges for private cars. Reddit

Yes, you can take your car on the ferry to Yokjido. It's advisable to make reservations online in advance for your vehicle. The cost for a private car round trip is around 44,000 won. Reddit

Yes, there is a village bus service on Yokjido. You can catch it near the port. The fare is 1,000 won in cash. Be sure to check the bus schedule as it may rotate. Reddit

Yokjido is a popular destination for day trips, especially from Tongyeong. The ferry schedules from Samdeok Port are often suitable for a day visit. However, be mindful of the last ferry departure. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no specific entry tickets for Yokjido itself. However, you will need to purchase ferry tickets to reach the island. It's recommended to book these in advance, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

While the island itself is free to explore, some specific attractions or cafes might have their own charges. It's best to check locally, but generally, the main draw is the natural scenery and hiking trails. Reddit

Ferry operating hours vary depending on the port and the season. It's crucial to check the latest schedules online or with the ferry company before your trip, as they can change. Reddit

Unfortunately, many places on Yokjido, including cafes and smaller shops, do not accept credit cards. It is highly recommended to carry sufficient Korean Won in cash for all your purchases. Reddit

ATMs are very scarce on Yokjido. It's best to withdraw enough cash before you leave the mainland to avoid any inconvenience during your visit. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Yokjido offers several hiking opportunities. A popular trail is from Taegoam to Daegibong (the top of the Yokjido Monorail), which takes about 2-3 hours. You can also hike to Yakgwabong for views of the port and surrounding islands. Reddit

Activities include hiking, fishing, scuba diving, and island camping. The island is also known for its beautiful emerald sea and scenic views from its peaks. Reddit

Public toilets are available, but their locations might be limited, especially away from the main port area. It's advisable to use facilities when you see them, particularly if you plan on extensive hiking. Reddit

For exploring the island's circumferential road, bringing a car is recommended. Alternatively, the village bus can take you to various points, though its routes might be limited. Walking is also an option for shorter distances. Reddit

Yokjido offers stunning views of the emerald sea, surrounding islands, and dramatic coastal landscapes. The mountain peaks provide excellent vantage points for both sunrises and sunsets. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yokjido is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly mackerel sashimi. You can also find local specialties like spicy fish stew cooked on a stone barbecue. Turtle hands are another local delicacy to try near Yokji Port. Reddit

The area around Yokji Port has a densely populated village with various restaurants and eateries, catering to both locals and tourists. You can find fresh seafood and other Korean dishes. Reddit

Yes, the ferry from Samdeok Port has a cash-only cafe that sells snacks and drinks. It's a convenient option for while you're traveling to or from the island. Reddit

Dining options near the hanging bridges can be limited, and cafe opening hours are sometimes unreliable. It's a good idea to bring your own snacks and water, or plan your meals around the main port area. Reddit

Prices can vary, but some visitors have found certain items, like baked potatoes, to be pricey if you're not fluent in Korean or aware of local pricing. Fresh seafood is generally a good value. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The hanging bridges offer unique photographic opportunities with stunning sea views. The peaks of Cheonwangbong and Daegibong are ideal for capturing dramatic sunrises and sunsets. The picturesque Yokji Port village also makes for great shots. Reddit

Yes, Yokjido's natural beauty provides ample opportunities for photography. The combination of sea, mountains, and the charming port village ensures a variety of scenic shots. Reddit

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular from the island's peaks. Midday can offer clear views of the emerald sea, but be mindful of the summer heat. Reddit

The three suspension bridges are major landmarks. The views from Cheonwangbong and Daegibong, as well as the bustling Yokji Port with its fishing boats, are also highly photogenic. Reddit

Bring a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for distant island views. Protect your gear from potential sea spray and be prepared for hiking to reach the best vantage points. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yokjido can be a fun adventure for families, offering a mix of nature and exploration. The hanging bridges are exciting for kids to walk across, providing thrilling views. Hiking trails, like the one to Daegibong, can be manageable for older children, offering a sense of accomplishment. Reddit

It's advisable to bring plenty of snacks and water, as facilities can be spread out and cafe hours unreliable. The village bus is an affordable way to get around, but consider the convenience of bringing a car if you have young children or a lot of gear. Ensure you have enough cash for all purchases, as card payments are not widely accepted. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Yokjido can be explored on a budget by prioritizing the village bus for transportation and packing your own food. The bus fare is a low 1,000 won in cash, making it an economical way to see the island. Reddit

Focus on enjoying the natural beauty, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints, which are free to access. Bringing your own snacks and water will save money compared to relying on cafes with potentially higher prices. The ferry ticket is a necessary expense, but overall, a day trip can be quite affordable if planned wisely. Reddit

🚗 Travelers with Cars

Bringing a car to Yokjido significantly enhances your exploration experience. The ferry accommodates vehicles, and booking in advance is recommended. Reddit

With a car, you can easily traverse the island's circumferential road, accessing viewpoints and trailheads at your leisure. This offers the most flexibility for families or those who want to cover more ground efficiently. Remember to factor in the car ferry cost when budgeting for your trip. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Yokjido: Getting Around

Getting around Yokjido offers a few options, each with its own advantages. For those who prefer independence and the ability to explore the island's circumferential road at their own pace, bringing a car via the ferry is the most convenient choice. This allows for easy access to various viewpoints and attractions scattered across the island. Reddit

Alternatively, the village bus service provides a more budget-friendly way to navigate. While the routes might be less extensive than having a car, they connect key areas. It's important to note that bus fares are typically 1,000 won in cash, and understanding the rotating schedule is key to efficient travel. For shorter distances or within the main port area, walking is also a pleasant option, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere. Reddit

When planning your transport, consider the time of year. During peak summer, the heat can make extensive walking or waiting for buses less appealing. Conversely, in milder seasons, exploring on foot or by bus can be quite enjoyable. Always have cash on hand for bus fares and any small purchases, as card acceptance is limited. Reddit

Culinary Delights of Yokjido

Yokjido is a haven for seafood lovers, with its rich fishing heritage reflected in its local cuisine. The island is particularly renowned for its mackerel sashimi, offering a taste of the freshest catch. You can savor this delicacy at various restaurants around Yokji Port, where the bustling atmosphere complements the dining experience. Reddit

Beyond sashimi, don't miss out on other local specialties. Spicy fish stew, often cooked on a stone barbecue, provides a warming and flavorful meal, perfect after a day of exploring. For those seeking unique tastes, turtle hands (a type of sea snail) are another local delicacy worth trying. The ferry from Samdeok Port also offers a cash-only cafe with snacks and drinks, a convenient option for your journey. Reddit

When dining on Yokjido, remember the prevalence of cash transactions. While the food is generally considered delicious and fresh, some visitors have noted that prices for certain items, like snacks, can be higher than expected if you're not familiar with local pricing or language. Planning your meals around the main port area, where dining options are more concentrated, is a good strategy. Reddit

Capturing Yokjido's Beauty: Photography Tips

Yokjido presents a photographer's paradise with its dramatic coastal landscapes and charming village life. The hanging bridges are a must-capture, offering unique angles and breathtaking views of the emerald sea. For truly spectacular shots, aim for the sunrise and sunset from the island's peaks like Cheonwangbong and Daegibong. These moments paint the sky with vibrant colors, creating unforgettable photographic opportunities. Reddit

Beyond the natural vistas, the Yokji Port village itself is a treasure trove for photographers. The bustling harbor filled with fishing boats, the narrow alleyways, and the daily life of the community provide a rich tapestry of subjects. Consider bringing a variety of lenses: a wide-angle lens is perfect for sweeping landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant islands and details. Reddit

When planning your photography excursions, be mindful of the lighting. The 'golden hours' around dawn and dusk offer the most dramatic light. Midday sun can be harsh but provides clear visibility of the sea's vibrant color. Also, remember to protect your equipment from potential sea spray and be prepared for some hiking to reach the most scenic viewpoints. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2