Sinan's Purple Island- A Hidden Gem in South Korea

South Korea is a land of diverse landscapes and hidden treasures, and One such gem has long been on my bucket list: Sinan's Purple Island.

Recently recognized as one of the world's top tourist villages by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, this picturesque island promises a unique and authentic travel experience. In this blog, I'll guide you on how to get there from Seoul, where to stay, what to eat, and what exciting activities await my parents and me.

September is known for one of South Korea's major holidays, Chuseok, which provides a wonderful opportunity for a family getaway. With six official holidays this year (Sep 28~Oct 3), it's an ideal time to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and fulfil my dream of visiting this serene destination with my parents. It's a place where we can create unforgettable family memories.

Getting to Sinan's Purple Island from Seoul

From Seoul, the plan is to take a domestic flight to Muan International Airport, the nearest airport to Sinan County. The flight takes around an hour. Alternatively, we can opt for a scenic train ride from Seoul to Mokpo, a coastal city near Sinan. From Mokpo, we can take a ferry to Sinan's Purple Island.

Where to Stay

For accommodations, we have two enticing options in mind. To immerse ourselves in the island's culture, we're considering staying in a traditional Hanok guesthouse. These charming accommodations offer a glimpse into traditional Korean life and will be a unique experience for my parents and me. Alternatively, for a more luxurious experience, there are resorts and hotels on the island that provide modern amenities and beautiful views of the surroundings.

Best Food to Try

A visit to Sinan would only be complete with indulging in its culinary delights. Being an island, Sinan is famous for its fresh seafood, which my parents and I are looking forward to. We can't wait to savour dishes like hoe (sashimi), grilled fish, haemul pajeon (seafood pancake), and the legendary "뻘 낙지" (octopus) from the iconic movie "Oldboy." And we absolutely must try the unique "Purple Island Rice," made from locally grown purple rice. Its distinct flavour and striking appearance make it a culinary adventure. We've also heard that the octopus from "낙지's Paradise" in the mud is super delicious and a must-try delicacy on the island.

And if a sense of adventure kicks in, we'll try the local speciality, Ttukbaegi Bulgogi, made with marinated beef and vegetables cooked in a traditional Korean pot called ttukbaegi.

What to Do on Sinan's Purple Island

Now that we're fueled up with delectable island cuisine, it's time to explore what Sinan has to offer. The island is famous for its mesmerizing fields of purple aster flowers, and exploring these vibrant landscapes together will be a delight. We also plan to visit the salt farms, a significant part of Sinan's heritage, to witness the salt-making process and even try our hand at it.

For nature enthusiasts like us, there are several hiking trails on the island, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and lush greenery. We're eager to immerse ourselves in the local culture with activities like making pottery and participating in tea ceremonies. When it's time to unwind, we'll head to the island's pristine beaches, ideal for relaxation and swimming. Finally, we can't wait to catch the mesmerizing sunset views over the Yellow Sea to conclude our day on the island.

Sinan's Purple Island stands as a testament to South Korea's commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting sustainable tourism. This hidden gem invites our family to step off the beaten path and experience the beauty and traditions of this extraordinary destination. So, we're packing our bags and preparing to embark on an unforgettable adventure to Sinan's Purple Island—a dream come true and a truly unique and unforgettable experience for our family.