1. Introduction to Cheonsa Bridge

Welcome to Cheonsa Bridge, one of South Korea’s most breathtaking architectural wonders. Located in Sinan County, Jeollanam-do, this impressive sea bridge connects Aphae Island and Amtae Island. The name “Cheonsa” means “1004” in Korean, symbolizing the 1,004 beautiful islands that make up Sinan County.

A Masterpiece of Coastal Engineering

Cheonsa Bridge stretches 7.22 kilometers across the open ocean, ranking as the fourth-longest sea bridge in South Korea. Engineers designed this landmark using two distinct bridge styles: a suspension bridge section and a cable-stayed bridge section. Driving across Cheonsa Bridge feels like gliding right over the calm blue waters of the West Sea.

Before authorities opened the bridge in 2019, visitors could only reach the central islands of Sinan by ferry. Today, Cheonsa Bridge seamlessly connects these remote islands to the mainland, transforming travel across the region.

Why You Should Visit Cheonsa Bridge

1. Unrivaled Oceanic Views: Drivers and passengers can enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the archipelago during the entire crossing.
2. Spectacular Night Illumination: After sunset, thousands of colorful LED lights illuminate the bridge towers, creating a spectacular light show over the dark sea.
3. Gateway to Island Adventures: Crossing Cheonsa Bridge gives you direct road access to fascinating destinations like Purple Island, Mural Village, and hidden beaches.
4. Cheonsa Bridge Observatory: Visitors can stop at the scenic viewpoint near the bridge entrance to take perfect souvenir photographs.

2. How to Get to Cheonsa Bridge

Reaching Cheonsa Bridge is simple and convenient whether you travel by high-speed train, intercity bus, or personal car.

By KTX High-Speed Train (Recommended Route)

1. Board Train: Take the KTX or SRT train from Seoul (Yongsan Station) bound for Mokpo Station. The journey takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
2. Take Local Bus or Taxi: From Mokpo Station, take a local bus or taxi heading toward Aphae Island (Aphae-eup).
3. Cross the Bridge: The drive from Mokpo Station to the entrance of Cheonsa Bridge takes roughly 30 minutes.

By Intercity Bus

1. From Seoul: Go to Central City Bus Terminal in Seoul. Take an express bus to Mokpo Bus Terminal.
2. Transfer: Take a rural intercity bus heading to Amtae Island or Purple Island. The bus crosses Cheonsa Bridge directly.

By Car

Set your car navigation destination to Cheonsa Bridge Viewpoint (1, Aphae-ro, Aphae-eup, Sinan-gun, Jeollanam-do). The scenic drive along Route 2 brings you straight onto the bridge.

3. The Scenery of Cheonsa Bridge

4. MAP

5. Surrounding Information

Complete your Sinan island getaway by visiting nearby attractions, staying at charming accommodations, and tasting delicious local seafood.

Nearby Attractions

• Purple Island (Banwol & Bakji Islands): A world-famous tourist hotspot where purple bridges, purple houses, and vast lavender fields create a vibrant violet wonderland.
• Granma & Grandpa Mural Village (Amtae Island): A delightful roadside wall painting featuring an elderly couple with playful camellia tree hair.
• 1004 Island Plant Arboretum: A peaceful botanical garden on Aphae Island overlooking the sea, featuring rare succulents and coastal plants.

Recommended Accommodations

• C-One Island Hotel & Resort (씨원아일랜드): A luxury resort located right on Jaeundo Island near Cheonsa Bridge, featuring ocean views and an indoor waterpark.
  • Address: 222 Jaeun-nam-ro, Jaeun-myeon, Sinan-gun, Jeollanam-do
  • Contact: +82-61-260-2000
• Hotel Hyundai by Lahan Mokpo (호텔현대 바이 라한 목포): A comfortable multi-star hotel offering easy access to both Mokpo and Cheonsa Bridge.
  • Address: 38 Daebul-ro, Samho-eup, Yeongam-gun, Jeollanam-do
  • Contact: +82-61-463-2233

Famous Local Restaurants

• Sinan Haeju Restaurant (신안해주식당): Renowned for fresh raw fish sets, octopus stews (Nakji-tangtangi), and seasonal seafood delicacies.
  • Address: 16 Junghang-gil, Aphae-eup, Sinan-gun, Jeollanam-do
  • Contact: +82-61-271-8884
• Bunjae Garden Sikdang (분재정원식당): Serves authentic Korean short rib soup (Galbitang) and hearty local dishes near Aphae Island.
  • Address: 1056 Aphae-ro, Aphae-eup, Sinan-gun, Jeollanam-do
  • Contact: +82-61-271-3388