comfortable shoes, durable pants, spf, cap, sunglasses, snacks, thermos, backpack

BUS, SUBWAY, TRAIN, OTHER

Our trip to Maengdo Island lasted just two days, but it left us with so many impressions, it felt as though we had spent an entire week there. The island is part of a chain of five islands connected by bridges. For those who enjoy unique trekking routes, this place offers a rare experience: a trail that stretches from the first island to the fifth, unfolding 360-degree ocean views with alternating climbs and descents between the islands. Getting there was an adventure in itself — a smooth and fun combination of nearly every form of transportation you can think of: train, bus, ferry, and even a small boat. Each leg of the journey added to the sense of anticipation and discovery. Maengdo Island is also known for its medicinal herbs — it’s even nicknamed “Herb Mountain.” The moment you step deeper into the island, a fragrant aroma greets you. We even gathered herbs ourselves and used them to make jumeokbap — Korean rice balls. What made the experience even more special was the island’s peaceful, calm atmosphere. With almost no tourists and just a few residents, it felt like a hidden sanctuary far from the noise of daily life. The locals we did meet were incredibly kind and generous. They welcomed us warmly and treated us to meals that we’ll never forget — tables full of banchan (side dishes) and freshly caught fish, cooked to perfection. The flavors were so rich and comforting, and they served us with such abundance that we felt full for days after leaving. The sea views were breathtaking — wide, endless horizons that seemed to erase all worries. And our boat rides at sunset were simply unforgettable, the sky melting into soft colors as we glided across the gentle waves.