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Geoje Oedo Botania Island: How to Get There by Ferry

Short answer: Oedo Botania is a privately created garden island off the southeast coast of Geoje, and the only way in is by sightseeing ferry from one of several small ports on Geoje Island, such as Jangseungpo or Gujora. Most ferries cruise past the cliffs of Haegeumgang first, then drop you on Oedo for a fixed visit of about 1.5 to 2 hours before you return on the same company's boat. From Busan, the trip usually means a bus to Geoje, a local bus or taxi to a ferry port, then the boat, so it works best as a full day trip.

What is Oedo Botania?

Oedo was once a windswept island with a few fishing households. From the late 1960s a couple from the mainland bought it and spent decades turning it into a garden, planting subtropical trees and flowers and building terraces, sculptures and white Mediterranean-style structures facing the sea. The result is one of the most photographed spots on Korea's south coast: neatly clipped hedges, palm-like trees, cactus beds, a "Venus garden" and sea views in almost every direction.

It is a managed garden attraction rather than a nature reserve, with a set walking route, cafés and a strict ferry schedule. That makes it easy to visit, but also means you need to plan around boats.

Getting to Geoje Island

From Busan

Geoje is connected to Busan by the Geoga Bridge and undersea tunnel, so there is no need for a ferry just to reach the island. Intercity buses run from Busan's Seobu Intercity Bus Terminal (at Sasang) to Gohyeon Bus Terminal in central Geoje, and some routes continue to towns closer to the ferry ports. From Gohyeon you can take a local bus or taxi to your chosen port.

If you are planning a wider Busan stay, our 3-day Busan itinerary by subway helps you fit a Geoje day in.

From Seoul

Express buses run from Seoul to Geoje (mainly to Gohyeon), but it is a long ride of several hours. Many visitors instead travel to Busan first by KTX and continue by bus.

From Tongyeong

Tongyeong is close to Geoje by road and makes a good base for the region. See our Tongyeong day trip guide if you want to combine both.

Choosing a ferry port

Several licensed ferry companies operate from different harbors along Geoje's east and south coast. Jangseungpo is the best known and has the most departures; Gujora, Wahyeon and Haegeumgang-area harbors are other options, and there are a few more smaller ports. The boat ride itself is generally short, but routes that include a loop around Haegeumgang take longer.

How to choose:

  • Jangseungpo – easiest by public transport from central Geoje, with plenty of food and cafés nearby.
  • Gujora and the southern ports – handy if you are staying near the beaches or driving; sometimes quieter.
  • Whichever you pick, you must come back to the same port with the same company, because your return seat is tied to your ticket.

Tickets, admission and timing

You buy a round-trip ferry ticket at the port, and admission to Oedo Botania is charged separately from the ferry fare. Depending on the operator, the garden admission may be collected at the ticket counter or on arrival. Prices, schedules and the length of your island stay change by season and are set by each operator, so check the official Oedo Botania website or call the port ticket office before you travel.

Some practical points that stay fairly constant:

  • Bring your passport; ferry operators often ask for ID and a passenger list.
  • Weekends, holidays and spring flower season sell out early. Arriving at the port in the morning gives you the best choice of times.
  • Your boat ticket shows a return time. Be back at the Oedo pier before it – boats do not wait.

Weather and cancellations

Ferries are cancelled in strong wind, high waves or fog, and this happens more often than many visitors expect, especially in winter and during typhoon season. Check the forecast and the port's notice on the morning of your trip, and keep a backup plan on Geoje (beaches, coastal drives or the Windy Hill area near Haegeumgang) in case boats do not run.

Haegeumgang: the cruise before the garden

Most Oedo ferries first sail around Haegeumgang, a group of rock cliffs and islets often called the "sea Geumgang" after the famous mountains in North Korea. When the sea is calm, boats can nose close to the sea caves and rock formations. You usually stay on the boat for this part; the captain or a recorded guide points out the shapes of the rocks. Sit on the side facing the cliffs if you want photos.

Walking route on the island

Once you land, a single one-way path leads up from the pier through the garden and back down. Highlights along the way include the cactus and subtropical sections, the long hedged "stairway of heaven", the Venus garden with its white sculptures and sea views, and a viewpoint over neighboring islets. The path has stairs and some slopes, so wear comfortable shoes. Strollers and wheelchairs may find parts difficult.

Because time is fixed, walk the full loop first and leave café breaks for the end if time allows.

"Follow the path once without stopping too long, then go back for photos – the boat clock is real." – Pivo, POPORO CITY singer-songwriter

Best time to visit

Oedo is green all year. Spring brings tulips and other flower displays and is the busiest season. Early summer and autumn are pleasant for walking. Winter is quieter with crisp views, but rough seas cancel boats more often. Weekday mornings are calmest at any time of year.

Quick tips

  • Carry your passport for the ferry passenger list.
  • Go early on weekends; afternoon boats sell out.
  • Note your return time and set a phone alarm 20 minutes before.
  • Return to the same port with the same ferry company.
  • Check wind and wave warnings on the morning of your trip.
  • Wear walking shoes and bring water, especially in summer.

FAQ

Can I visit Oedo Botania without a tour?

Yes. You can take a bus to Geoje, then a local bus or taxi to a ferry port and buy tickets yourself. Organized day tours from Busan are an option if you prefer not to manage connections.

How long can I stay on Oedo?

Usually around 1.5 to 2 hours, set by your ferry ticket. You cannot stay longer and catch a later boat freely, so check the time printed on your ticket.

Which port is best for Oedo?

Jangseungpo is the most convenient by public transport and has the most departures. Other ports work well if you are staying or driving nearby.

Is the Oedo ferry cancelled often?

Boats stop in strong wind, high waves or fog. It is not daily, but it is common enough that you should check on the morning of your trip and keep a backup plan.

Is Oedo worth the trip from Busan?

If you enjoy gardens, coastal views and photography, yes. It is a full day from Busan, so pair it with Geoje's coast for the best value.