Hallyeo Waterway Cable Car, Tongyeong: Scenic Views
The Hallyeo Waterway Observation Cable Car in Tongyeong, located on the southern coast of South Korea’s Gyeongsangnam-do Province, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Hallyeo Haesang National Park, the cable car ride takes visitors over the stunning archipelagos, lush green mountains, and crystal-clear waters of the Hallyeo Waterway. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to enjoy a unique view of South Korea's coastal beauty.
Visitor Fee
- The standard round-trip fare for adults is approximately KRW 15,000 - 20,000 (about USD 12 - 16), while children’s tickets are usually around KRW 10,000 (USD 8). Prices may vary based on the season and ticket type (e.g., single or round trip).
- Specialty cabins (such as glass-bottom cabins for a more immersive view) are usually priced higher.
Transportation
- By Train: From Seoul, visitors can take the KTX (Korea Train Express) to Tongyeong Station, which takes around 3 hours. From there, take a local bus or taxi to the cable car station.
- By Bus: Several buses from major cities, including Seoul, run to Tongyeong. The bus ride from Seoul typically takes around 4 to 5 hours.
- By Car: The drive from Seoul to Tongyeong takes about 4.5 hours via the Gyeongbu Expressway (Route 1), and the cable car station is well signposted.
- Local Transport: Once in Tongyeong, the Hallyeo Waterway Observation Cable Car station is easily accessible by taxi or local bus from the town center.
Things to Do
- Cable Car Ride: The highlight of the trip is, of course, the cable car ride itself. You’ll ascend the hills for panoramic views of Tongyeong’s coastline, its islands, and the surrounding Hallyeo Haesang National Park.
- Glass-Bottom Cabins: For an even more thrilling experience, visitors can opt for the glass-bottom cabins, which provide a unique view of the landscape below.
- Hallyeo Observatory: At the top station, you can visit the Hallyeo Observatory where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding archipelago and sea.
- Walking Trails: Once at the top, there are several scenic walking trails where you can hike and explore the natural beauty of the area.
- Photography: The cable car ride and the panoramic views are perfect for photography, whether you’re capturing the stunning sea views, lush islands, or the rugged coastline.
- Local Cuisine: After your ride, enjoy Tongyeong's famous seafood at nearby restaurants, such as Oysters, grilled fish, and tangy fish stews.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here
- Spectacular Views: The cable car offers one of the best vantage points to view the Hallyeo Waterway, a breathtaking area filled with islands, rolling hills, and scenic coastlines.
- Connection with Nature: The ride gives visitors an immersive experience of the natural beauty of Tongyeong’s rugged coastline and clear waters.
- Unique Experience: The cable car offers a thrilling and unique way to explore the region, especially the glass-bottom cabins, which allow visitors to look straight down at the stunning waters and islands below.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a great outing for families, with views that can be enjoyed by all ages. The smooth ride is perfect for those who prefer a relaxing trip combined with spectacular views.
How Old is This Place
The Hallyeo Waterway Observation Cable Car was opened in 2017, making it a relatively recent addition to Tongyeong’s tourist attractions. Despite its newness, it has quickly become a top draw for visitors to the region.
List of Activities
- Cable Car Ride: Take a thrilling cable car ride over the waterway, offering stunning panoramic views of the islands and coastline.
- Glass-Bottom Ride: Experience the glass-bottom cabins for a close-up view of the sea and landscape below.
- Visit the Hallyeo Observatory: Enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding islands and ocean.
- Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore the scenic trails and enjoy the lush natural environment at the top.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of the landscape, especially the stunning coastal views and islands.
- Enjoy Local Seafood: After the cable car experience, indulge in local seafood dishes such as fresh oysters, grilled fish, and more.
Additional Nearby Attractions
- Tongyeong Jungang Market: A bustling market known for fresh seafood and local delicacies.
- Yi Sun-sin Park: Dedicated to the famous Korean naval hero, Yi Sun-sin, this park has statues and exhibits about his life and accomplishments.
- Dongpirang Village: Known for its colorful murals, this village is a popular destination for walking tours and photography.
- Hallyeo Haesang National Park: Explore the protected park, which offers hiking trails, scenic views, and opportunities for boat trips around the islands.
- Tongyeong Marina: You can take a boat ride or enjoy the views at the marina, where yachts and fishing boats dot the coastline.
- Mireuksan Mountain: A beautiful mountain offering hiking trails and panoramic views of Tongyeong’s islands and the coastline.
- Turtle Ship: A replica of the famous turtle ships used by Admiral Yi Sun-sin during the Japanese invasions, located at the Yi Sun-sin Park.
The Hallyeo Waterway Observation Cable Car is a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Tongyeong and the Hallyeo Haesang National Park. Whether you're visiting for the spectacular views, the thrill of the ride, or the peaceful natural surroundings, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to this coastal region of South Korea.