Tongyeong is a port town wrapped in coves, seafood and viewpoints, and the natural base for exploring Korea's southern island sea. Koreans call this stretch of coast their "Naples," and Tongyeong sits at the friendly heart of it.
Start with the Mireuksan cable car for the island-studded panorama, then wander the mural-painted lanes of Dongpirang and take the toboggan luge down the hill if you've got kids or just like the idea. Ferries run to the nearby islands from the harbor. And order chungmu gimbap before you go; it started here.
What to see and do
- Mireuksan cable car — climbs to a ridge with wide views over the island-dotted Hallyeo sea. The best single viewpoint in town.
- Dongpirang Village — murals and narrow lanes on the hillside above the old harbor. Free to wander.
- Skyline Luge — a gravity toboggan run down the slope, good fun for all ages.
- Jungang Market — a busy seafood market and the departure point for island ferries.
- Hallyeohaesang islands — catch a ferry to Somaemuldo, Bijindo or Yeonhwado for beaches and cliff walks.
What to eat
Tongyeong is a seafood town first. The signature dish is chungmu gimbap, small seaweed rolls served with spicy squid and radish on the side. Round it out with kkulppang (honey bread), savory pancakes from the market, and winter oysters when they're in season.
Getting around
Express buses reach Tongyeong from Busan, Seoul and Jinju. The town center, market and cable car sit close together, so taxis handle short hops and ferries cover the islands. Check the timetables and book ahead in peak season, since sailings fill up.
When to go
Spring through autumn gives you calm seas for island trips. The harbor is worth a look year-round, and winter is oyster season.
Insider tip
Ride the cable car near sunset, then head down for chungmu gimbap by the harbor as the lights come on. The golden-hour light over the islands is the payoff, and the queues thin out later in the day.
