Boryeong Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and play in Boryeong, South Korea. This comprehensive travel guide includes a list of top attractions, hiking and biking routes, local cuisine, safety tips, transportation logistics, and nearby excursions.


Introduction to Boryeong

Boryeong is a charming city located on the western coast of South Korea’s Chungcheong province. Known for its white sandy beaches, stunning scenic views, cultural attractions, and mud festival, Boryeong is a hidden gem of South Korea that is worth exploring.

List of Places to Visit in Boryeong

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Boryeong City Museum - Learn about the city’s history and culture through interactive exhibitions and displays.
  • Seongjusan Fortress - Explore the ancient fortress that was built during the Joseon Dynasty era.
  • Daecheon Beach Traditional Market - Experience the local food and shop for traditional crafts in the bustling market.

Natural Attractions of Boryeong: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Daecheon Beach - Relax on the white sandy beach and enjoy water sports such as jet-skiing and parasailing.
  • Sapsido Island - Hike up to the lighthouse and take in the breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding islands.
  • Mudeungsan Mountain National Park - Go on a scenic hike and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Boryeong

  • Seohae Biking Trail - Follow the scenic route along the western coast of Boryeong and enjoy the stunning coastal views.
  • Baekje Mountain Range Trail - Hike through the mountain range and explore the ancient Baekje fortresses and temples.

Best Things to Do in Boryeong: Activities and Tours

  • Boryeong Mud Festival - Participate in the mud-themed festivities that take place every July and enjoy concerts, games, and competitions.
  • Tire Park - Explore the unique sculpture park made entirely out of old tires.
  • Nam Nong Nature Reserve - Go on a guided tour and explore the wetlands and observatory where migratory birds gather.

Week-Long Itinerary for Boryeong

Day Activities
1 Visit Boryeong City Museum and Seongjusan Fortress
2 Bike along Seohae Biking Trail and visit Daecheon Beach
3 Hike the Baekje Mountain Range Trail and explore the temples and fortresses
4 Relax on the beach and participate in water sports at Daecheon Beach
5 Take a guided tour of Nam Nong Nature Reserve
6 Visit Sapsido Island and hike up to the lighthouse for stunning views
7 Soak in a Korean spa at one of the local hot springs or visit Tire Park

Food and Drink Scene of Boryeong

Must-Try Dishes

  • Makgeolli - A traditional Korean rice wine that is a popular local beverage.
  • Chamgijeon - A savory pancake made with seafood and vegetables, a staple dish in Boryeong.
  • Gonggalbbang - A grilled pork dish that is flavorful and juicy, often paired with white rice.

Local Beverages

  • Boryeong Makgeolli - A local brew of Korean rice wine that is a must-try when in Boryeong.
  • Dureup - A Korean liquor made from acorns that has a unique nutty flavor.

Where to Stay in Boryeong: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Daecheon Beach Resorts - Luxurious hotels and resorts located right on the beach with stunning sea views.
  • Boryeong Guesthouse - A budget-friendly accommodation option with cozy rooms and friendly staff.
  • Seosan Hotelette - A modern hotel located in the city center with easy access to major attractions.

What to Buy in Boryeong: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Mud Cosmetics - Take home some mud-based skincare products that are famous in Boryeong.
  • Pottery and Porcelain - Check out the local pottery and porcelain stores that sell handcrafted ceramics.
  • Traditional Crafts - Buy souvenirs such as handwoven bags, wooden lacquerware, and Hanji paper products.

Local Culture and Customs of Boryeong

  • Korean Spa Culture - Experience the traditional Korean spa culture that is popular in Boryeong, where visitors soak in hot springs and bathe in mud.
  • Mud Festival - Participate in the mud-themed festivities that take place every year in July.
  • Etiquette - Remember to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple, and show respect for elders by bowing.

Best Time to Visit Boryeong

The best time to visit Boryeong is in the summer months from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the annual mud festival takes place. However, Boryeong is a year-round destination, and each season offers a unique experience.

Do’s and Don’ts of Boryeong

Do:

  • Try the local food and drinks, especially the boryeong makgeolli.
  • Participate in the mud festival and other cultural activities.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Forget to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.
  • Wear shoes inside a traditional Korean spa.

Safety and Health

Safety in Boryeong

Boryeong is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it’s always best to be cautious and aware of your surroundings when traveling. Make sure to take basic safety precautions, such as not leaving your valuables unattended and being careful when crossing the street.

Health in Boryeong

Boryeong has excellent healthcare facilities, but it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers you for any medical emergencies. Make sure to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and apply insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.

Getting to Boryeong: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Boryeong

  • Incheon International Airport - The nearest international airport located about 192 km from Boryeong.
  • Gimpo International Airport - A domestic airport located about 145 km from Boryeong.

Bus Stations Near Boryeong

  • Boryeong Bus Terminal - The main bus terminal located in the city center with regular bus services to other cities in South Korea.
  • Daecheon Beach Bus Terminal - A smaller bus terminal located near Daecheon Beach that offers services to nearby destinations.

Other Options

  • Train - You can take the KTX high-speed train to Daejeon and then transfer to a local train to Boryeong.
  • Car Rental - You can rent a car at Incheon International Airport and drive to Boryeong, which takes about 2.5 hours.

How to Get Around in Boryeong

The best way to get around Boryeong is by car, especially if you’re planning on exploring the surrounding areas. Local buses and taxis are also available, but they can be less frequent in some areas.

Where to Go Next from Boryeong: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Daejeon - A big city located near Boryeong that is famous for its research centers and technology firms.
  • Gongju - A historic city located about an hour from Boryeong that is home to several ancient tombs and palaces.
  • Jeonju - A cultural hub located about two hours from Boryeong that is famous for its traditional crafts, food, and architecture.

Conclusion

Boryeong is a stunning and unique destination in South Korea that offers a diverse range of cultural, natural, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Boryeong has something for everyone. Follow this guide to make the most of your visit to this hidden gem of South Korea.