- International Driving License: If you plan to rent a car 🚗, make sure to bring your international driving license. It will make getting around Namhae much easier since buses only run every 1 to 2 hours, leading to long waiting times. - Navigation Apps: I highly recommend downloading both NaverMap and KakaoMap 📱. Bus timings and routes can be inconsistent on both apps, so having both will help you find the best directions. - Swimsuit: Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit 👙! Namhae has many beautiful pensions with swimming pools where you can relax and enjoy the scenic views. - Power Bank: With so many stunning places to capture 📸, you’ll likely use your phone a lot for photos and videos. A power bank is a must to ensure your phone stays charged throughout the day. - Comfortable Shoes: Namhae offers plenty of walking and hiking opportunities, so comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the villages, temples, and terraces 🏞️. - Sunscreen & Hat: If you’re visiting during warmer months, be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat 🧢 to protect yourself from the sun while enjoying the outdoor activities.

BUS, CAR

In April 2023, my older sister and I embarked on a 4-day journey to Namhae, a hidden gem on Korea’s southern coast 🌊. Having already visited Korea’s popular destinations, I wanted to show my sister a different side of the country—one filled with serene landscapes 🌿, rich history 🏛️, and a laid-back atmosphere 🧘‍♀️. Namhae is a unique island known for its diversity: from coastal villages to majestic temples, rice terraces 🌾, and cultural sites, it offers something for everyone. DAY 1: Our first stop was the German Village, a picturesque and colorful town nestled among the hills 🏘️. This village was built in the 1960s as a retirement haven for Koreans who had worked in Germany as miners and nurses. Walking through the cobblestone streets, you can’t help but be charmed by the vibrant houses 🏠, each painted in pastel hues and adorned with European-style rooftops. The village offers breathtaking views of the sea 🌅 and the surrounding countryside. Make sure to visit the local museum 🏛️ to learn about the fascinating history behind the village's creation. Not far from there, we also explored the lesser-known American Village, which contrasts with its German counterpart but is equally charming with its unique architectural style and tranquil setting. These villages are must-visits for their cultural significance and their scenic views 🌄. Later that day, we ventured to Daranhyi Village, famous for its stunning rice field terraces 🌾. These terraced fields cascade down the mountainside, forming a beautiful patchwork of green and gold. It’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the peaceful countryside. We stopped by a small local café ☕, where we sipped coffee and admired the view, feeling completely at peace. Daranhyi is an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation and a chance to immerse themselves in the rural beauty of Namhae. DAY 2: On our second day, we visited one of the most awe-inspiring sites in Namhae—Boriam Temple 🏯. Perched high on a mountain, Boriam offers a panoramic view that takes your breath away. Known as one of Korea’s most beautiful Buddhist temples, it is a place of spiritual significance and tranquility. The hike up to the temple is a bit steep 🥾, but the reward is well worth it. Once at the top, you can gaze out over the entire island 🌍, with the glittering ocean stretching out to the horizon. The temple itself is serene, with intricate carvings and statues that make it a perfect spot for quiet reflection. Boriam Temple is an absolute must-visit for anyone coming to Namhae, not just for its beauty but for the peaceful experience it offers. Our next stop was the National Park of Admiral Yi’s Remains, a historically significant site dedicated to Admiral Yi Sun-shin, one of Korea’s greatest naval heroes. The park showcases relics and memorials that honor his contributions during the Japanese invasions in the 16th century. It’s an interesting visit for history buffs or anyone wanting to learn more about Korea’s past while enjoying the beautiful nature surrounding the park 🌳. DAY 3: By the third day, we decided to slow down and indulge in a traditional jimjilbang (Korean bathhouse) 🛁. It was kind of a new experience for me and my sister as we are European and we don’t have this in our country. After all the hiking and exploring, it was the perfect way to relax. We soaked in hot baths, tried out the different saunas 🔥, and left feeling rejuvenated. Later, we visited House & Garden, a charming spot known for its lovely landscaping 🌺 and cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed a light afternoon tea 🍵 there, surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens. In the afternoon, we drove to Hadong, a neighboring area known for having the longest zipline in Asia! The Hadong Zipline stretches over 3.2 kilometers 🌄 and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The adrenaline rush of soaring through the air, coupled with the breathtaking scenery, made it one of the highlights of our trip 🚀. For thrill-seekers or anyone wanting a unique experience, this zipline is a must-do! DAY 4: On our final day, we visited Sangju Eunmorae Beach 🏖️, a crescent-shaped beach with soft sand and clear waters. It’s a peaceful place to unwind and take in the sea breeze. Namhae’s coastline is truly beautiful, and this beach, with its calm atmosphere, was a perfect place to reflect on our journey. We also explored the Bamboo Weirs, a fascinating historical fishing site 🐟, and the unique Yangmori School, a charming farm where you can interact with sheep 🐑 and learn about local agriculture. These lesser-known spots give you a deeper understanding of Namhae’s rural life and natural beauty 🌾. --- Namhae offers so much diversity, from its historic villages to its stunning natural landscapes 🏞️, making it one of my favorite destinations in Korea. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, Namhae has something for everyone, and I can’t wait to return ✨. As someone who loves discovering rural areas and lesser-known places that many foreigners might overlook, I’m always excited to explore more hidden gems in Korea. Each new adventure allows me to create unforgettable memories and share these unique experiences with my friends. I look forward to continuing my journey of uncovering Korea’s beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destinations 🌸. DAY 5 : depart from Namhae to Yeosu ---------------------------------- BUDGET: Budget with a Rental Car! Accommodation 🏡: Cost per night: 25,000 KRW/person (shared room, 3 people per room) Total for 3 nights: 75,000 KRW Meals 🍽️: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner: 7,000 - 15,000 KRW/meal Average meal cost: 10,000 KRW/meal x 3 meals/day Total for 4 days: 120,000 KRW Rental Car + Gas 🚗: Car rental (Lotte Rental): ~90,000 KRW/day (split by 3 people) Per person cost: 30,000 KRW/day x 4 days = 120,000 KRW Gas estimate: ~50,000 KRW for the entire trip (split by 3 people) = ~17,000 KRW per person Intercity Bus (Seoul to Yeosu) 🚌: Round-trip bus: ~30,000 KRW Miscellaneous (coffee, snacks, etc.) ☕: Coffee and snacks: ~5,000 KRW/day x 4 days = 20,000 KRW