From Busan: Enchanting Oedo Island Day Tour with Windy Hill

From Busan: Enchanting Oedo Island Day Tour with Windy Hill

This 12-hour tour from Busan takes you to some of South Korea’s most eye-catching sights—Oedo Island, Windy Hill, and the Geoje Panorama Cable Car. For $91 per person, you’ll spend a full day exploring vibrant gardens, soaking in sweeping sea views, and cruising along scenic coastlines. Led by friendly guides who speak English, Chinese, and Korean, this trip balances beautifully curated attractions with authentic moments that resonate with nature lovers and culture seekers alike.

What we especially love about this tour? First, the distinctive beauty of Oedo Island’s lush botanical gardens and sculptures makes for unforgettable photos and peaceful strolls. Second, the Windy Hill’s breathtaking panoramic vistas reward visitors with one of the most iconic views in the region.

A possible consideration? The long travel times—about 2 hours each way by bus—mean some time is spent on the road. If you’re sensitive to lengthy bus rides, this might feel a bit taxing.

This tour best suits travelers who want a full, well-rounded day immersed in scenic landscapes, botanical beauty, and memorable views, especially those who appreciate guided experiences with local insights.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Oedo Island’s gardens and sculptures create picture-perfect moments.
• Iconic views: Windy Hill offers sweeping sea vistas that are hard to beat.
• Scenic transportation: The Geoje Panorama Cable Car provides a unique aerial perspective of the landscape.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines boat trips, sightseeing, and cable car rides for a complete day.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting commentary.
• Value for money: Includes ferry tickets, entry fees, and guide services, making it a cost-effective option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at a central meeting point in Busan—likely convenient for most travelers staying in the city—before settling into a comfortable coach. Expect about two hours of travel each way, during which your guides will probably share local insights and stories, making the time pass quicker than you might expect. Several reviews highlight the skill of the drivers, with one noting “a very experienced driver,” which helps keep the trip smooth despite traffic or busy roads.

Windy Hill: The First Stop

Our first outdoor stop is Windy Hill, located in Gyeongsangnam-do. This spot gets its name from the constant breeze that whips across the grassy knoll, offering more than just a chilly gust—spectacular views of the ocean stretch in every direction. We loved the elevated vantage point because it’s perfect for photos and just soaking in the vastness of the Sea of Japan (East Sea).

Reviews rave about Windy Hill’s panoramic vistas—a photographer’s paradise—and many mention it as a highlight, with comments like “the views on the way are scenic” and “the landscape from Windy Hill is spectacular.”

Ferry to Oedo Island

Next, we took a 30-minute ferry across the water to Oedo Island, a private botanical garden paradise. The boat ride itself is a relaxing way to enjoy the surroundings, with some reviewers noting that if the weather turns bad, the ferry might be canceled—so it’s good to keep an eye on the forecast.

Arriving on Oedo Island, you’re greeted by vivid floral displays, exotic plants, and artistic sculptures. The island’s gardens are meticulously maintained, and the atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for wandering at your own pace. We loved the combination of ocean views and lush greenery, which gave the feeling of stepping into a curated botanical wonderland. One visitor pointed out their favorite part was the “botanical garden with plants like sculptures,” emphasizing how engaging the mix of art and nature is here.

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Exploring Oedo’s Botanical Gardens

Your two-hour visit is a chance to explore Oedo at leisure. The island offers plenty of photo opportunities, and guides usually point out interesting plant species or sculptures. This part of the tour is particularly appreciated by nature lovers and those who want a break from city life.

Lunch Break (At Your Expense)

After the island visit, you’ll have time for a leisurely lunch at a local spot. While food isn’t included, the reviews suggest the regional cuisine is tasty, and the setting is serene. Be prepared that if you don’t eat pork, you might need to bring your own meal, as some lunch options serve pork dishes.

Geoje Panorama Cable Car

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Geoje, where the cable car ride offers a dramatic aerial view of the landscape. Rising to lofty heights, you’ll marvel at the scenic beauty of Mt. Noja and the expansive South Sea. Travelers have described this as a “spectacular landscape” and a “unique perspective,” adding that, for those upgrading to the crystal cable car, the see-through floors make the experience even more memorable.

Reviews emphasize how guides do a good job pointing out landmarks and making the ride engaging. The cable car is a highlight for many, providing a gentle thrill and fantastic photo opportunities.

Return Journey and Final Drop-offs

After the cable car experience, your coach will take you back to Busan—another two hours in the bus. Several guests mention that, despite the long day, the scenic views and friendly guides made it worthwhile. The tour ends at key locations like Haeundae Station or Busan Station, making it convenient for your onward plans.

The Experience in Context

This tour offers a well-rounded look at South Korea’s natural beauty, with a focus on gardens, vistas, and scenic rides. The inclusion of ferry rides, a botanical garden, and a cable car makes it engaging for travelers who prefer active, varied days. The guides seem to be both knowledgeable and personable, often receiving praise for their helpfulness and language skills—important for making the most of a guided experience.

While the price of $91 might seem steep, it covers transportation, ferry tickets, entry fees, and guide services—costs that would add up if you tried to organize similar activities independently. It’s a good value for those wanting a hassle-free way to see these sights without the stress of planning each step.

Why It’s a Good Fit

This tour suits nature enthusiasts, photographers, and culture lovers who enjoy curated experiences. It’s especially appealing if you want a day filled with scenic landscapes, rather than museum visits or city sights. The lengthy bus rides may be less ideal for those who prefer short, more relaxed outings, but most reviews suggest that the breathtaking views make the journey worthwhile.

The Sum Up

This Busan day tour offers a thoughtfully curated mix of nature, art, and panoramic views, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to see Korea’s scenic coastlines and lush gardens without the hassle of individual planning. The combination of Windy Hill’s sweeping vistas, the lush botanical gardens of Oedo Island, and the aerial thrill of the Geoje cable car creates a memorable day.

For those who appreciate guides that are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive—highlighted repeatedly in reviews—this tour provides excellent value. The well-paced itinerary means you’ll leave with a camera full of pictures and a head full of stories.

It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for an immersive outdoor experience, especially if you’re staying in Busan and want a full-day escape into South Korea’s natural beauty. Just be prepared for a long day on the road, and bring your camera and appetite for scenic wonders and regional flavors.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will meet at a designated location, which varies depending on your booking option.

How long is the total travel time?
You should expect about 2 hours each way by bus, plus time spent at each attraction, making it a full day of around 12 hours.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have time for a local lunch at your own expense after visiting Windy Hill and before the cable car ride.

Can I upgrade the cable car experience?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade to the Crystal Cable Car, which features see-through floors for an even more striking view.

Is the ferry ride comfortable?
Most reviews mention a relaxing ferry ride, though weather can impact operation. The ferry offers scenic views and is a key part of the island experience.

What if the ferry can’t operate?
If bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances prevent ferry operation, the tour may be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.

Are there any age restrictions?
Infants aged 0-2 can join free of charge if they do not occupy a seat.

How many people typically participate?
Minimum 4 participants are needed for the tour to depart, but many reviews suggest it often runs with small, friendly groups.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and some cash for lunch or souvenirs.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Korean, and Chinese, ensuring clear communication for international visitors.

This day trip from Busan offers an engaging mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and outdoor adventure—an outing that’s both relaxing and visually rewarding. Whether you’re snapping photos at Windy Hill or marveling from the cable car, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Korea’s coastal landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: