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Cheongsando Island
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Cheongsando is an island located off the southern coast of South Korea in Jeollanam-do Province, forming part of the Dadohaehaesang National Park. It gained international prominence in 2007 as Asia's first certified 'Slow City,' a designation recognizing the preservation of traditional lifestyles and a relaxed pace of life. The landscape is characterized by unique terraced rice fields known as Gudeuljangnon, which utilize a specialized underground irrigation system made of flat stones to overcome the rocky soil. These fields are recognized as a globally important agricultural heritage site. The island is also famous for its stone walls and scenic coastline, which frequently serves as a filming location for Korean movies and dramas. Hiking trails known as 'Slow Roads' lead visitors through villages and along cliffs, encouraging an appreciation of nature and heritage. The local economy relies on fishing and agriculture, with traditional practices still visible in the daily lives of the island's inhabitants.
- Location: South Korea
- Top sights: Beombawi Observatory · Gwondeok-ri Beach · Spring Waltz Drama Shooting Spot
- Nearby: Wando (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 26 | 23 | 19 | 14 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 44 | 64 | 90 | 143 | 154 | 200 | 269 | 264 | 191 | 83 | 67 | 47 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The idyllic island can be extensively explored, with visitors being invited to authentically wander along the highly scenic coastal paths, the traditional villages, and the spectacularly terraced agricultural fields.
Typical hours
As it is a living island community, the beautiful nature is always accessible, but the essential ferry connections and local public facilities typically operate reliably only during normal daytime daylight hours.
Photography
The untouched nature provides endless photographic opportunities, especially in the beautiful spring season when the bright yellow canola fields and green barley create a spectacular color contrast with the deep blue sea.
Time needed
For a truly unhurried and relaxed experience, a full-day trip or even an overnight stay is typically highly recommended to thoroughly internalize the philosophy of slowness, far completely away from the hectic city life.
Combine with
The journey to the island can be incredibly well combined with an exploration of the coastal city of Wando, from where the ferries depart and which is widely known for its fantastic seafood and the imposing Wando Tower.
Getting there
The island is exclusively accessible via a regular and reliable ferry connection from the passenger terminal in Wando, with the incredibly scenic crossing over the calm water typically taking just under a single hour.
Insider tip
To absolutely best experience the unique philosophy of the island, visitors should leave their car on the mainland and prepare instead to explore the highly scenic paths slowly on foot or by renting a local bicycle.
Geography
Facts
- Designated as Asia's first 'Slow City' in 2007.
- Gudeuljangnon rice fields are a FAO Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System.
- The island covers an area of approximately 33.3 square kilometers.
- Home to Dangni Village, a famous filming site for the movie 'Seopyeonje'.
- Features 11 designated 'Slow Roads' totaling 42 kilometers in length.
- The name Cheongsando literally means 'Evergreen Island'.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Cheongsando Island (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Cheongsando known for?
It is known as Asia's first 'Slow City' and for its beautiful canola fields in spring.
How do you get to the island?
By ferry from Wando Port; the crossing takes about 45 to 50 minutes.
What means of transport are available?
There are shuttle buses, but the island is best explored on foot on the 'Slow Roads'.
When do the canola fields bloom?
The main blooming season is in April, when the entire island turns yellow.
Is a day trip sufficient?
A day trip is possible, but staying overnight gives a more tranquil experience.
Cheongsando Island: where is it located?
Cheongsando Island is located in South Korea.
Cheongsando Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Beombawi Observatory, Gwondeok-ri Beach, Spring Waltz Drama Shooting Spot.
Cheongsando Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Oct, Nov.
Cheongsando Island: why is it worth visiting?
Cheongsando is an island located off the southern coast of South Korea in Jeollanam-do Province, forming part of the Dadohaehaesang National Park.
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