You may not think of Korea as having views for days, but I’d like to introduce you to a well known island Koreans frequent down in the south. In today’s global and diverse world, getting another part of the world in another little corner is becoming common ground. Korea has incredible places for photo opportunities and while you may think Koreans are always taking selfies, they really have a good thing going here. People love pretty scenery and will travel long distances to enjoy said landscapes. If you’re ever hanging out in the Goeje area, you definitely don’t want to miss out on the Oedo Botania Island in South Korea.
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About Oedo Island
One of the best ways to get to Oedo Island hassle free is booking a tour here. It’s a bit difficult to get to if you don’t rent a car or use public transport. Once upon a time, Lee Chang-ho was having a lovely time fishing in the southern seas. The waves, wind and weather got a little rough so he sought refuge on an island. While looking at the vast beauty, he said to himself, “This place has views for days, Holmes.” Just kidding, he totally didn’t say that, but I imagine it went something along those pipelines. Afterwards, he and his wife turned it into a garden and it has been kept in astounding beauty for over 30 years.
This is a beautiful botanical garden located in Hallyeo Maritime National Park. It’s known for it’s stunning views of the southern seas and its European/Western-like gardens. My favorite garden was the Venus one which features white statues in the Greek and Roman styles, long gardens, adorable cafes, and visual hangovers for days. I loved how there were so many pillars and it looked like a faraway island I would see in Greece.
One of the most popular times to go is in April when everything is flowering and in full bloom. #instagramfordaysssssss Rare flowers from around the world are featured there and you’ll find yourself asking, “Am I in a paradise on Earth?”
There’s not one bad view from the botanical garden and you can easily spend hours here if you’re not careful.
The only thing that sucks about this place is because it’s such a beautiful destination, it’s very crowded. Even if you go early there will be hoards of people. In addition, the ferries wait for no one. If you miss you boat, you will undoubtedly be left behind and then you’re tough out of luck.
Cost
Adults: 11,000 won
Students: 8,000 won
Children: 5,000 won
How to Get There
The island is about a 20-30 minute ferry ride from Gujora Port. For most of the ride you will be asked to sit down While on our ferry, we were taken to a really cool rock formation and we even got a chance to go inside it. I’m not gonna lie when I say I felt like a true pirate running from Barbosa on the Caribbean. Can I get myself a Will Turner please? One of the easiest ways to get there is via an organized tour to Oedo Botania.
Address: San 109, Wahyeon-ri, Irun-myeon, Geoje, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea
Hours: Winter Season 08:30-17:00 — Summer Season 08:00-19:00
Related: Haeinsa Temple and Tripitaka Koreana
Should you go to Oedo Island? If you have the time and you’re in the southern area, this better be on your bucket list. It would be such a shame to waste your precious time not frolicking among nature and gardens. If you’re interested in traveling to Oedo Botania in Goeje Island hassle free, book a tour from Busan here.
Gina Bear was sent to Oedo Botania Island as a promotional ambassador for UNESCO Korea. As always, all thoughts and opinions remain my own.
Such a breathtaking place! I didn’t know it exists! I’d love to go there and try snorkeling. When’s the best time of the year to go there for that?
It really does take my breath away even looking at the photos. There’s no snorkeling here, unfortunately. I think the waves are too choppy. I would say late summer and spring are the best times to go.
The garden is so lovely. I’d not not expect the place to be crowd less, it is such a beautiful sight to behold. Day by day, I get obsessed with Korea and its landscape. Oedo Botania Island is going on my list for sure. I can’t wait to start processing my relocation.
Wow! If I’d seen the 2nd photo and been asked where it was, I’d have said Greece for sure! And that mosaic seat? FAAAAABULOUS! This looks like a little tropical paradise oasis and I had no idea I could see places like this in South Korea.
Awesome post, keep it up!
Thanks, Brian! I appreciate the support!
hello, im planning my trip, but there doesnt seem to b e any information anywhere on the ferry timings. might you know?
I believe the ferry times are in the official Oedo Botania website I listed here on the blog post. If it’s not in English, it should be in Korean. What I do know is that during high season the boat runs every hour.