Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Tsushima Island shows off mesmerizing beauty
A large boulder on the summit of Mount Shiratake is a well-known landmark in Tsushima Island and known to create a majestic atmosphere surrounded by nature and the sea. / Courtesy of Tsushima City Busan Office
By Kim Hyun-bin
By Kim Hyun-bin
Japan's Tsushima Island is famous for its proximity to the Korean Peninsula.
The island, located between Korea and Kyushu Island, is 49.5 kilometers off the coast of Korean port city, Busan. The island can be visited by a short boat ride from Busan and on a clear day, high-rise buildings in Busan are visible with the naked eye from the northern part of the island.
However, its geographical proximity to the Korean Peninsula is not the only distinction that appeals to Koreans.
Unlike Busan, with its bustling metropolis of tall buildings and shopping districts, the Japanese island offers a contrasting natural beauty, becoming one of the best “healing” places for Koreans.
All-year-round destination
Japan is known to have four beautiful seasons and Tsushima Island is no exception.
Flowers from the Asian Fringe Tree bring the spring atmosphere to the island and the rare delicate flowers of this tree can only be witnessed in a handful of areas, even in Japan.
The reflection of the flowers from the sea mesmerizes visitors and is often called “the flower that illuminates the sea.”
Trekking in the natural wilderness of the island during spring is another not to missed activity.
One of the rocky island's most popular trekking trails is Mount Shiratake.
The large boulder that is on the summit creates a mystical atmosphere. Visitors can also experience rock climbing as there are several climbing areas around the mountain ― there is no time to be bored.
From the summit, people can see the small and large islands of Aso Bay.
Tsushima's nearby islands and the sea are best during summer.
Miuda Beach is a place where summer can be felt the most on the island with clear sounds of waves and a white sandy beach showing off its beauty.
Sea kayaking that splits through the complex coastlines and scores of deserted islands is a recommended summer activity there, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Aso Bay. Even beginners can enjoy kayaking in Aso Bay as swell conditions are calm throughout the year.
In fall, the foliage that stretches around the seven-kilometer Shushi Momiji Road is dyed in fall colors. The rivers also brighten up with colorful foliage that mirrors the beauty back to visitors. Parts of the area are surrounded by green, yellow and red trees, a gradation of art only Mother Nature could offer. This is a hot spot where visitors can view the river and foliage while their stress melts away.
When winter arrives, it becomes the season for squid fishing, with the sea and the sky covered by alluring lights.
At the observatory at Kamizaka Park, people can witness not only Japanese fishing lights but also lights glowing from Korean fishing boats.
The magnificent views seen from the border island is mesmerizing. Taking a footbath at Isaribi Park, people can watch over the fishing boats that illuminate the sea.
Banshoin Temple is where visitors can experience the culture of Japan.
It is one of the main Japanese graveyards and the tombstones creates a majestic atmosphere. The stone lanterns installed alongside the stone stairs leading to the burial grounds has a beauty of its own. The Banshoin Temple Festival, held every October, is when people can witness the stone lanterns light up.
Travel is incomplete without delicious cuisine. Unlike the mainland, Tsushima Island has a unique food culture, especially famous for its sea eel, which goes hand in hand with beer from the Kawachi brewery.
Tsushima can be reached via a high speed vessel from Busan Harbor to the port of Hitakatsu, which takes around 90 minutes.