Four Days in Namhae: Rediscovering What Matters Most
By Ian Kim
Last September, to celebrate our two-year anniversary, my girlfriend and I embarked on a four-day journey exploring the picturesque beauty of Namhae in South Korea, visiting Bijindo Island, Jinju, Yeosu, and Tongyeong. This trip was a special getaway during my military service, a rare opportunity afforded by accumulated leave days.
Leaving behind the bustling life of Seoul, we first arrived at Tongyeong via express bus from Seoul Express Bus Terminal, followed by a scenic ferry ride to Bijindo (ferry information available at Maemuldo Ferry). Upon arrival, we quickly discovered that Bijindo was a perfect retreat for those seeking peace by the sea. Despite its breathtaking beauty, this island remains relatively undiscovered due to limited accessibility. We stayed at “Bada Iyagi,” a comfortable guesthouse that provided complimentary marine sports equipment, including kayaks and wakeboards (Bijindo Bada Story).
Our first day on Bijindo involved kayaking on the clear, tranquil sea, a thrilling adventure highlighted by a spectacular sunset. Capturing these moments on video and in photographs deepened our appreciation of the island’s serene atmosphere. It felt as though we had discovered our personal paradise, reminiscent of Vancouver’s beloved beaches—a comfort since I’ve long missed the Canadian coast.
On the second day, we moved from Bijindo to Jinju using a shared vehicle rented via the convenient car-sharing app SOCAR. There, we visited an unexpectedly charming café where the melody of “Beast of Burden” filled the air, creating an unforgettable memory. Later, we indulged in Jinju’s famous cold noodles and admired the sparkling night views of Jinju Fortress, completing a day rich with sensory delights.
Though our third day was spent leisurely playing tennis with a friend who recommended Namhae, we took no photos, simply enjoying the quiet simplicity of companionship. This day affirmed the trip’s essential message—that relationships significantly enhance experiences, particularly when exploring unfamiliar territories.
As we concluded our trip and prepared to return to Seoul, I surprised my girlfriend with a small cake, a heartfelt letter, and a toy figurine, encapsulating the affection that had grown even deeper through our shared experiences.
For travelers considering Namhae, I strongly recommend visiting Bijindo for its quiet, natural charm, particularly around mid-September, a surprisingly ideal season for swimming without the crowds. Accommodations like Bijindo Bada Iyagi offer an exceptional experience, providing free marine sports equipment like wakeboards and life jackets. Vehicle sharing apps such as SOCAR make exploring the region effortless. For lodging, reliable booking platforms include Yanolja and Yeogi-Eoddae.
This trip taught me something invaluable: while solitary travel has its own merits, the true essence of happiness on the road comes from sharing the journey with someone you deeply care about. The natural beauty of Namhae provided a perfect backdrop, but it was the shared smiles, laughter, and small moments with my girlfriend that truly made this trip unforgettable.