Welcome to Wando, a beautiful coastal gem on Korea’s southern coast. Famous for its pristine nature and, most notably, its incredible abalone, Wando is the ultimate destination for a healing, wellness-focused trip. With 2025 designated as “Visit Wando Year,” there’s no better time for international travelers to discover this serene island.

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Wando is the heart of the Dadohae Archipelago, a cluster of 265 islands. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to connect with nature and experience unique local culture. Wando isn’t just a travel destination—it’s an experience for your mind, body, and soul.

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1. Discovering Wando, Jeollanam-do

Wando is a therapeutic escape where the clean sea air and lush forests work together to rejuvenate you. It’s a land of plenty, where fresh seafood, especially abalone, is a highlight of every meal. The island’s beauty isn’t just in its famous delicacies, but also in its scenic landscapes.

The island is home to the Wando Arboretum, a peaceful green space, and the Dadohae Sunrise Park, offering stunning views. For a thrilling adventure, you can try the zip line for a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful coastline. Wando is also a wellness hub, with its Marine Healing Center providing unique programs using seawater, seaweed, and sea breezes.

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2. How to Get to Wando, Jeollanam-do

Getting to Wando requires a bit of planning but is well worth the effort.

• By Bus: The most common way to get to Wando from Seoul is by express bus. Buses run from the Seoul Central City Bus Terminal to the Wando Bus Terminal. The trip takes approximately 5 hours.
• By KTX and Bus: Take the KTX (Korea Train eXpress) to Mokpo Station. From there, you can take a local bus to Wando, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

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3. The Scenic Beauty of Wando

Wando is blessed with breathtaking scenery, from its vast coastline to its mountainous interior. The best way to experience it is to explore its many islands and trails.

• Cheongsando Island: Designated as a “Slow City,” this island is perfect for experiencing the “art of slowness.” The Cheongsando Slow Walk Festival celebrates its peaceful walking trails, which were even featured in the popular Korean drama Spring Waltz.
• Wando-gun Coastal Road: This scenic road offers spectacular ocean views and is ideal for a leisurely drive or bike ride.

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4. Nearby Attractions & Local Gems

Your trip to Wando can be an opportunity to explore other unique places. Here are a few recommendations:

• Jang Bogo’s Historical Site: Visit the historical site dedicated to the great naval commander Jang Bogo, who once ruled the seas from Wando.
• Wando Abalone Festival: If your visit coincides with the Jang Bogo Abalone Festival, you can enjoy a variety of abalone dishes and cultural performances.
• Seafood and Accommodation:
  • Dining: No trip to Wando is complete without indulging in fresh abalone. Wando Abalone Street is lined with restaurants specializing in abalone stew, porridge, and grilled abalone.
  • Hotels: Wando offers various accommodations, from traditional guesthouses to modern hotels. Look for places in Wando-eup for convenience. The Wando Oneness Hotel is a good option.

Wando is not just a destination; it’s an experience. Its beautiful scenery and focus on health and healing make it an ideal retreat from the bustling city. It’s also the closest port to Jeju Island, making it a great starting point if you plan to extend your journey. Enjoy your trip!