Hello everyone! Today, I'm going to tell you about my visit to the Igidae Coastal Walk in Busan on July 18th. It was absolutely amazing! I'd seen it on Instagram a few times, but seeing it in person was even more beautiful than in the photos.
If you're planning a trip to Busan, make sure to add the Igidae Coastal Walk to your list! It's perfect for those seeking relaxation in nature. Let me share the charm of Igidae in three parts.
A Panoramic Spectacle: From Igidae to Oryukdo
As soon as I stepped onto the Igidae Coastal Walk, my jaw dropped. The emerald sea meeting the towering cliffs created a picturesque landscape. The sound of waves crashing against the cliffs as you walk brings a sense of peace to your heart.
Each spot along the trail was impressive. Starting from Dongsaengmal, then the Cloud Bridge, the observatory, Eoulma-dang, Chima Rock, Batgolsae, and Nong Rock... each place had its unique charm. The view from the Cloud Bridge was particularly fantastic. It felt thrilling yet exciting to walk as if you were above the sea.
Chima Rock truly lives up to its name. It looks just like a rock wearing a skirt, and I spent quite a while marveling at it. The photo I took there might be the best from my trip. And the horizon view from Nong Rock was indescribably beautiful. I never knew the line where the sky meets the sea could be so distinct.
When I reached Oryukdo Sunrise Park, I was deeply moved. The rock islands rising from the sea were a spectacular sight. The rocks, sculpted by waves, looked like works of art. They say you can see six islands on a clear day, but I only saw five, which was a bit disappointing. Still, it was beautiful enough.
Don't miss the Oryukdo Observatory, famous for its sunrise views! I woke up early to see the sunrise, and it's a scene I'll never forget. The sky and sea turning red, with Oryukdo islands in between, was truly fantastic. The moment the sun rose over the sea, everyone around me gasped in awe. It's still vivid in my memory. If you love taking photos, you can get some amazing shots here!
Unfortunately, I couldn't go into the Oryukdo Skywalk due to strong winds. But even from a distance, it looked thrilling and impressive. Just imagining the sea visible through the transparent glass floor made my heart race. I definitely want to go there next time.
This course from Igidae to Oryukdo felt like nature's masterpiece. The changing scenery as you walk, the colors of the sea, the shapes of the rocks... everything was awe-inspiring.
A 4.7km Journey Becoming One with Nature
The Igidae Coastal Walk is about 5km long. At first, I thought it might be too long, but as I walked, I lost track of time. Walking while looking at the sea, taking short breaks, then walking again... before I knew it, I had reached the end.
On the day I went, I walked the 4.7km path from Igidae to Oryukdo, which took about an hour and a half. Time passed faster than I expected. Walking along the coastal path, the sea views peeking through the lush forest were really beautiful. I often stopped to admire the moments when sunlight filtering through the trees met the sparkle of the sea.
The Igidae Coastal Walk consists of Dongsaengmal, Cloud Bridge, observatory, Eoulma-dang, Chima Rock, Batgolsae, Nong Rock, Oryukdo Sunrise Park, and Oryukdo Skywalk. Each spot had its unique charm, so there was never a dull moment.
Starting from Dongsaengmal and crossing the Cloud Bridge was thrilling. It felt like walking on the sea, scary but fun at the same time. When I reached the observatory, the open sea view took my breath away. At Eoulma-dang, I took a break to eat my packed lunch and enjoy the scenery, which was a really relaxing time.
Chima Rock was fascinating with its skirt-like shape, and at Batgolsae, I listened to the birds chirping and took a moment to tune into nature's sounds. When I reached Nong Rock, its majestic appearance left me in awe.
There are benches along the way for resting, and the slope is gentle, so anyone can walk comfortably with just a pair of sneakers. As I walked, I breathed in the sea air, listened to the birds, and fully immersed myself in nature. It felt like all the stress from city life just melted away.
Don't forget to check out the 'Igidae Dolmen', a nationally registered cultural property! It was fascinating to see traces of prehistoric times. Those interested in history and culture might find it even more interesting. As I looked at this dolmen, I imagined the people who lived here long ago. I wondered what thoughts they had while looking at the same sea.
You can feel the changes of seasons during the walk too. When I went, it was summer, so the trees were lush and green, but I imagine it would be a different scene in autumn. Just thinking about the harmony of fall foliage and the blue sea sounds wonderful, doesn't it?
At first, 4.7km seemed long, but as I walked, it felt shorter. When I finished, I felt a sense of achievement but also a bit of regret that it was over. So on the way back, I walked slowly to take in the scenery I might have missed.
Through this journey, I felt one with nature. The vastness of the sea, the solidity of the rocks, the vitality of the trees... Walking amidst the scenery created by all these elements, you can feel your mind becoming peaceful and healing.
The Finishing Touch: Weather and Packing Tips
Weather and packing are crucial for fully enjoying the Igidae Coastal Walk. Let me share some tips based on my experience!
First, about the weather. I visited in mid-July, and it was humid with some rain - typical summer weather in Busan. The humidity made me sweat a lot while walking. The biggest challenge was the mosquitoes. There were so many, and they kept biting me. Visitors should definitely apply mosquito repellent or mosquito patches! I didn't prepare for this and really suffered.
Checking the weather forecast is essential. If you go on a day with strong wind or heavy rain warnings like I did, you might not be able to fully enjoy attractions like the Oryukdo Skywalk. Unfortunately, I couldn't enter the Skywalk. I just parked in the parking lot, took some photos of the beautiful sea, spent some time there, and then went home. If you visit on a good weather day, you'll be able to see and enjoy much more.
Now, about what to pack. The most important thing is shoes. Sneakers are an absolute must! Wear comfortable sneakers. The path isn't rough, but you'll be walking 4.7km. I initially wore pretty shoes and soon regretted it as my feet started hurting.
The next important thing is sun protection. The sun in Busan can be really intense. Make sure to apply sunscreen. I applied plenty of SPF50 sunscreen and still got a bit tanned. A hat or sunglasses are also good to have. A hat especially helps not only with sun protection but also with keeping cool.
Don't forget to bring water. I brought two 500ml water bottles, and it wasn't enough. You sweat more than you might expect while walking. There aren't many places to buy drinks along the way, so it's better to prepare in advance.
Snacks are good to bring too. I brought energy bars and chocolate, which were really helpful. You get hungry while walking, and having a snack helps replenish your energy.
Don't forget your camera! A smartphone camera is fine, but if you have a good camera, you can capture even more beautiful photos. The scenery is so beautiful, you can't help but take pictures.
If there's a chance of rain, prepare an umbrella or raincoat. I brought a small folding umbrella in my bag, which came in handy when it suddenly started raining.
Lastly, it's good to bring a change of clothes. It's comfortable to have something to change into if you sweat a lot or get caught in the rain. I forgot to bring extra clothes and felt a bit uncomfortable.
If you prepare well like this, you'll be able to enjoy the Igidae Coastal Walk even more. Check the weather forecast, pack carefully, and create wonderful memories!
I hope you all get to experience healing at the Igidae Coastal Walk like I did. It's not an expensive place to visit, so there's no financial burden, and it's perfect for travelers who enjoy walking. That concludes my review of the Igidae Coastal Walk. Have a great trip, everyone~!
