From Seoul: Tongyeong Anchovy 2 day Tour

Exploring South Korea’s Coastal Charm: From Seoul to Tongyeong in Two Days

If you’re looking to escape Seoul’s bustling streets for a quick yet immersive coastal getaway, the Tongyeong Anchovy 2-day Tour offers a well-rounded experience for about $707 per person. Starting from the lively district of Myeongdong, this guided adventure takes you south to South Gyeongsang Province, revealing scenic views, local flavors, and cultural highlights.

What we love about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with authentic local experiences. The Tongyeong Cable Car ride offers panoramic views that make you feel like you’re floating above the coast, and the visit to Dongpirang Mural Village injects a splash of color and creativity into your journey. Plus, the delicious traditional market shopping really grounds you in the local vibe.

One thing to consider is that the tour’s success hinges on the weather — particularly for the Somaemuldo Island trip. If conditions aren’t ideal, you might find the planned coastal trek or ferry rides less enjoyable. That said, the tour’s flexible design means alternative activities are usually offered.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic vistas, cultural stops, and authentic Korean cuisine. If you’re keen on exploring a lesser-known coastal town with a lot of character, this tour offers a balanced taste of Tongyeong’s highlights.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: Ride the Tongyeong Cable Car for stunning panoramic vistas of the coast.
• Cultural Insights: Visit the Park Kyung-ri Memorial Hall and explore local murals at Dongpirang Village.
• Local Flavors: Enjoy traditional dishes like Chungmu Gimbap and seafood soybean paste stew.
• Authentic Shopping: Experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional market.
• Island Adventure: Ferry to Somaemuldo Island for coastal exploration and relaxed vibes.
• Comfort & Convenience: Round-trip transportation, accommodations, and activities are well-organized.

Embarking on this tour means stepping into a scene of breathtaking coastal beauty paired with the warmth of local culture. The journey starts early from Myeongdong, giving you a full two days to explore Tongyeong’s charms without feeling rushed. What makes this trip appealing is not just the itinerary but the thoughtful way it balances scenic sights, cultural insights, and culinary delights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: From Seoul to Tongyeong — A Mix of Nature and Culture

Your adventure begins with a comfortable round-trip bus ride from Seoul, giving you time to relax and enjoy views of Korea’s countryside. Upon arrival in Tongyeong, the first stop is for a hearty lunch. The Chungmu Gimbap — rice rolls wrapped in seaweed with a simple yet addictive flavor — is a local specialty, and the seafood soybean paste stew offers a savory taste of coastal Korea. Both options reflect Tongyeong’s strong fishing heritage and are served in stone pots, adding to the rustic charm.

After lunch, one of the tour’s highlights is the Tongyeong Cable Car. We loved how smooth and swift the ride was, providing sweeping views of the arched coastline, islands, and mountains. Reaching the summit of Mireuksan, you’ll want to have your camera ready — the landscape looks like a watercolor painting from above.

Next, a visit to the Park Kyung-ri Memorial Hall offers insight into the life of the revered Korean author, adding a literary touch to your trip. The Dream Library nearby is a peaceful spot to browse books or simply soak in the quiet atmosphere.

Later, the Pungwha-ri Oyster Farm Cafe provides a chance to taste fresh oysters and sip coffee while overlooking the sea. It’s worth noting, reviews mention the oyster farm’s freshness and friendly service, making it a memorable stop.

Dinner in Tongyeong features a fish grill or BBQ, a perfect way to savor the local catch. The evening continues at the Dpi-rang digital theme park, where digital art and light displays offer a fun, modern contrast to the day’s more traditional experiences.

Day 2: Markets, Murals, and Island Treks

The second day begins with some shopping at the traditional market, a lively hub where you can purchase local seafood, snacks, or souvenirs. The bustling atmosphere gives you a real taste of Tongyeong’s everyday life.

Then, you’ll explore the Dongpirang Mural Village, a colorful neighborhood decorated with murals by local artists. We loved the vibrant street art and the chance to capture photos amidst the murals, which lend the area a cheerful, artistic vibe.

Later, the tour takes you by ferry to Somaemuldo Island — a small, scenic island perfect for relaxing walks along the coastal road and enjoying local cafes. The highlight here is the opportunity to trek around and enjoy the slow pace of island life. The ferry ride itself is smooth, and the views of the ocean are truly captivating.

The afternoon allows for some free time on Somaemuldo before returning to Tongyeong port for your return ferry. For dinner, a light meal of salad and sandwiches or jjambbong (spicy seafood noodle soup) makes for a satisfying end to your coastal adventure.

At $707, this tour covers a lot of ground — transportation, cable car tickets, museum entries, ferry rides, accommodations, and meals. The inclusion of round-trip transportation from Seoul is especially valuable, saving you travel planning hassle. The organized itinerary allows you to experience Tongyeong’s best without the headache of on-your-own planning.

Guests have noted the value in the variety offered — from natural landscapes and cultural spots to local markets and culinary delights. The cable car ride alone is worth mentioning, providing a memorable perspective of the coast.

The accommodation with breakfast ensures a restful overnight stay, and the digital theme park offers a modern twist to the traditional trip. For those who enjoy authentic local food, the tour’s focus on regional dishes like Chungmu Gimbap and seafood stew enhances the experience.

Since weather can impact the ferry to Somaemuldo Island, it’s wise to check forecasts ahead of time. If conditions aren’t ideal, the tour operator typically provides alternative activities, ensuring your day remains engaging.

Bring comfortable walking shoes, as exploring mural villages and coastal paths involves a fair amount of strolling. Sunscreen, hats, and water are also recommended, especially during sunny days. Be prepared to bring cash for any personal expenses at markets or cafes.

If you’re traveling with children or those with mobility concerns, note that the tour isn’t suitable for young kids under 6, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues. Booking flexibility is easy with the “reserve & pay later” option, and cancellations are straightforward — just 24 hours’ notice is needed for a full refund.

This tour fits travelers who enjoy a blend of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and authentic local flavors. It’s suitable for those seeking a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities for photography and tasting traditional Korean dishes.

If you’re someone who appreciates coastal landscapes and small-town atmospheres, and you don’t mind a bit of walking, you’ll find this tour offers genuine value. It’s less ideal for travelers with limited mobility or those needing ultra-flexible schedules, but for most others, it’s a well-organized, enriching adventure.

The From Seoul: Tongyeong Anchovy 2-day Tour presents a compelling mix of beautiful scenery, cultural insights, and delicious food. It’s a practical way to see a lesser-known side of Korea without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The attractions — from Mireuksan’s sweeping views to vibrant murals — give you a well-rounded taste of Tongyeong’s character.

If you value authentic experiences that combine nature, culture, and cuisine, and if you’re okay with a busy but manageable schedule, this tour delivers on those fronts. It’s especially appealing for those looking to explore beyond Seoul’s urban sprawl and enjoy the coast’s calm, colorful charm.

Is transportation from Seoul included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Seoul to Tongyeong is included, making it convenient to focus on the experience.

Can I expect to visit Somaemuldo Island weather permitting?
Yes, the ferry to Somaemuldo is subject to weather conditions. If the weather isn’t suitable, alternative activities will be arranged.

What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes lunch with options like Chungmu Gimbap or seafood soybean paste stew, and a light dinner with salad & sandwich or jjambbong on the return.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for walking and outdoor activities.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve your spot and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any restrictions on pets or smoking?
Pets are not allowed, and smoking is prohibited during the tour.

In summary, if you’re craving a scenic, cultural, and culinary escape that’s easy to arrange, this Tongyeong tour offers a meaningful slice of Korea’s coastal life, without the hassle of independent planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: