Tongyeong

통영

A charming coastal town known as the Naples of Korea, famous for its picturesque harbor, fresh seafood, and artistic community. The cable car provides views over the Geoje and nearby islands.

Things to do

• Tongyeong Cable Car — Ride the scenic cable car up Mireuk Mountain for panoramic views of the harbor, nearby islands, and the Geoje Bridge.
• Dongpirang Wall Art Village — Wander through this hillside neighborhood filled with colorful murals, small galleries, and artistic installations created by local and visiting artists.
• Tongyeong Harbor Walk — Stroll along the picturesque waterfront lined with fishing boats, seafood restaurants, and small galleries reflecting the town's maritime heritage.
• Yi Sunsin Park — Pay respects at this historical park dedicated to Admiral Yi Sunsin, featuring statues, exhibits, and views over the harbor.
• Tongyeong Aquarium — Explore marine life native to the South Sea, including fish species important to local fishing culture and ecosystem education.
• Island Hopping Tours — Take ferry tours to nearby islands such as Geoje and smaller archipelago islands to experience fishing villages and coastal scenery.
• Tongyeong Art Museum — Visit this waterfront museum showcasing contemporary Korean art and rotating exhibitions celebrating the region's creative community.

Food to try

• Fresly Caught Raw Fish (Hoe) — Enjoy sashimi-style sliced fish like flounder and grouper sourced directly from the morning's catch at harborside restaurants.
• Charcoal-Grilled Mackerel (Godeungeo-gui) — Savor freshly grilled mackerel seasoned simply with salt, a signature dish highlighting the region's abundant local seafood.
• Sea Urchin (Uni) — Taste creamy, fresh sea urchin served over rice or eaten directly, a delicacy particularly prized in Tongyeong's seafood markets.
• Squid Simmered in Soy (Nakji Jorim) — Try tender squid braised with soy sauce, sesame, and garlic, a local comfort food often served family-style at waterfront restaurants.
• Seafood Hotpot (Jjigae) — Order a bubbling stew filled with local fish, shellfish, vegetables, and fermented paste for a communal dining experience.
• Sea Vegetable Soup (Miyeok Guk) — Enjoy a light, mineral-rich soup made with locally harvested sea mustard, often eaten for breakfast at traditional noodle shops.

Local customs & good to know

• Fishing Heritage Respect — Tongyeong's identity is rooted in fishing; respect working fishermen and their boats, and consider visiting early morning fish markets to understand daily life.
• Admiral Yi Sunsin Significance — The 16th-century naval commander is revered locally and nationally; understanding his legacy adds meaning to monuments and historical sites throughout town.
• Artistic Community Etiquette — The town is home to many working artists; support local galleries and studios by purchasing directly from creators and asking permission before photographing murals.
• Seasonal Seafood Cycles — Visit during appropriate seasons for specific catches—summer for flounder and grouper, winter for sea urchin and mackerel—to experience authentic local dining.