KoreaTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Buan-gun

1. What is the most common mode of transportation in Buan-gun?

* __Walking__


2. What do the majority of people in Buan-gun work as?
* __Farmers/Fishers__

3. What is a popular local dish in Buan-gun?
* __Bibimbap (mixed rice bowl)__

4. Is Buan-gun located by the sea or in the mountains?
* __Both__ – Buan-gun is located on the coast of the Yellow Sea, but also has many mountains within its boundaries.

5. What is the main cultural attraction in Buan-gun?
* __Jeungdo Salt Farm Cultural Center__

2. Are there any public transportation options available in Buan-gun, such as buses or trains?


Yes, there are several public transportation options available in Buan-gun.

Buses: There are local bus services connecting various parts of Buan-gun, as well as express bus services to and from neighboring cities such as Gwangju and Jeonju.

Trains: The nearest train station is in Iksan, which is approximately 30 km away from Buan-gun. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach your destination in Buan-gun.

Taxis: Taxis are also available for hire in Buan-gun. You can easily find them at designated taxi stands or hail one on the street.

Ferries: There are ferries that connect Buan-gun with nearby islands, such as Wando and Byeonsanbando National Park. These ferries operate regularly and provide scenic views of the coast.

Note: The availability and frequency of these public transportation options may vary depending on the specific location within Buan-gun. It is recommended to check schedules and routes beforehand.

3. How long does it take to travel from Buan-gun to major cities like Seoul or Busan?

The travel time from Buan-gun to Seoul varies depending on the mode of transportation. By car or bus, it takes about 3-4 hours to reach Seoul. By train, the journey takes approximately 5 hours.

To get to Busan from Buan-gun, it takes around 5-6 hours by car or bus, and around 6-7 hours by train. It is important to note that these travel times are estimates and may vary based on traffic, weather conditions, and other factors.

4. What is the best way to get around the city of Buan-gun?


The best way to get around the city of Buan-gun is by using public transportation, such as buses and taxis. There are also rental car options available for those who prefer to drive themselves. Additionally, there are ferries that can take you to nearby islands and boats for fishing tours. Bicycles are also a popular way to explore the city and its natural surroundings.

5. Are there any bike rental services available in Buan-gun?


Yes, there are several bike rental services available in Buan-gun. Some of the options include:

1. Bike Rental Buan: This is a popular option for tourists, offering a variety of bikes such as mountain bikes, road bikes, and electric bikes.

2. Bukhadan Bike Rental: Located near the famous Bukhansan National Park, this rental shop offers a range of high-quality mountain bikes for visitors to explore the area.

3. Ying Bike Rental: This rental service specializes in electric bikes and has several branches in Buan-gun, making it convenient for tourists to rent and return the bikes at different locations.

4. Galaxy Bike Rental: This bike rental shop is located near Byeonsanbando National Park and offers various types of bikes including tandem bikes for couples.

5. KooKang Leisure Sports Center: Visitors can rent city or mountain bikes from this center located in Samhohang Village.

It is recommended to check with the specific rental service for availability, prices, and terms before renting a bike.

6. Is it easy to find taxis or ride-sharing services in Buan-gun?


Yes, it is relatively easy to find taxis or ride-sharing services in Buan-gun. There are several taxi stands located near popular attractions and major transportation hubs such as bus terminals and train stations. Ride-sharing services such as Kakao Taxi and Tada are also available in the area.

7. What are the road conditions like in rural areas of Buan-gun?

Road conditions in rural areas of Buan-gun may vary depending on the weather and maintenance schedules. In general, roads in rural areas tend to be narrower and less developed compared to urban areas. Some roads may be unpaved and prone to potholes, especially during heavy rains or severe winters. It is also common to encounter slow-moving farm vehicles on rural roads. It is important to exercise caution and drive carefully when driving in rural areas of Buan-gun.

8. Are there designated bike lanes/paths for cyclists in Buan-gun?


There are designated bike paths in Buan-gun, but they are not very extensive. Some popular areas for cycling include the Wido Island Bike Path and the Deokjinjuk River Bike Path. However, outside of these paths, there may not be designated bike lanes on the roads. It is always important to follow traffic laws and use caution when cycling on any roads in Buan-gun.

9. How do locals typically navigate through the city of Buan-gun?


Locals in Buan-gun typically navigate through the city by car, bike, or public transportation. The city has an efficient public bus system that connects major areas and attractions within the city, making it easy for locals to get around. Many also use motorcycles, scooters, or bicycles to travel shorter distances within the city. Walking is also a common way of getting around, especially in more rural areas.

10. Is it possible to rent a car and drive around Buan-gun without knowing Korean?


Yes, it is possible to rent a car and drive around Buan-gun without knowing Korean. Most rental car companies have English-speaking staff and provide navigation systems with English options. However, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with basic traffic laws and road signs before driving in South Korea.

11. Are there any ferry services available for transportation between different islands in Buan-gun?

Yes, there are several ferry services available for transportation between different islands in Buan-gun. Some of these include the Daehyun Ferry, Josaengpo Ferry, Gyeokpo Ferry, and more. These ferries operate on a regular schedule and provide transportation for both passengers and vehicles. Prices and schedules may vary depending on the specific ferry service. It is recommended to check with the local tourist information center or directly with the ferry company for more details.

12. Can you take a boat tour around the coast of Buan-gun?

Yes, there are several boat tour companies that operate in Buan-gun. Some offer tours around the coast and others offer tours of nearby islands such as Oedo Island. These tours usually last for a few hours and provide visitors with a unique perspective of the area’s beautiful coastal scenery. It is recommended to book in advance and confirm with the tour company for any changes due to weather conditions.

13. Is there a subway system or light rail in operation in Buan-gun?

No, there is no subway system or light rail in operation in Buan-gun. The main modes of transportation in the area are buses, taxis, and private vehicles.

14. Is it necessary to have an international driver’s license when driving in Korea, including within Buan-gun?


Yes, it is necessary to have an international driver’s license when driving in Korea, including within Buan-gun. This is because Korean law requires all foreign drivers to have a valid international driver’s license while driving in the country.

15. Are there any toll roads that travelers should be aware of when driving through or around Buan-gun?


As of 2021, there are no toll roads in Buan-gun. However, if travelers are driving from other cities or provinces to reach Buan-gun, they may encounter toll roads on their route. It is recommended to plan the route and familiarize oneself with potential toll roads before starting the journey.

16 .Are maps and directions readily available for visitors who are not familiar with the area and language?


This depends on the specific location and how tourist-oriented it is. In areas with high tourism, maps and directions are often readily available at hotels, tourist information centers, and popular attractions. If the area is not as tourist-friendly, it may be more challenging to find maps and directions in multiple languages. It is always a good idea to research the area beforehand and make sure to have a map or navigation app on your phone when traveling in an unfamiliar location.

17. Can travelers easily access hiking trails and nature spots by public transportation from within Buan-gun?


Yes, travelers can easily access hiking trails and nature spots in Buan-gun by public transportation. Buan-gun has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses and taxis, making it convenient for visitors to travel to various hiking trails and nature spots. Some popular hiking trails and nature spots in Buan-gun such as the Byeonsanbando National Park and Ibam Sculpture Park are easily accessible by bus or taxi from major cities such as Seoul and Busan. Visitors can take a direct bus from these cities to Buan Terminal, where they can then transfer to local buses or taxis to reach their desired hiking trail or nature spot. Additionally, many guesthouses and tourist information centers offer shuttle services to popular hiking trails and nature spots, making it even more convenient for travelers without a car.

18. What are some popular tourist destinations within or near Buan-gun that are easily accessible by public transportation?


1. Mount Deokyu: A popular hiking destination with a stunning view, accessible by bus from Buan Intercity Bus Terminal.
2. Byeonsan Beach: A picturesque beach known for its clear water and white sand, accessible by bus or taxi from Buan Intercity Bus Terminal.
3. Bukjeju Village: A traditional village with old-fashioned houses and museums, accessible by bus from Buan Intercity Bus Terminal.
4. Muui Island: A small island perfect for a day trip, accessible by ferry from Samsanhang Port in the west of Buan.
5. Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve: A large wetland area with beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife, accessible by bus from Buan Intercity Bus Terminal via Gwangju city.
6. Dadohae Haesang National Park: A scenic national park known for its unique island formations and diverse marine life, accessible by ferry from Nokdong Ferry Terminal near Buan.
7. Gaegan-daero Viewpoint: An observation deck offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands, accessible by bus or taxi from Daegyun-ri Village in the north of Buan.
8. Gochang Dolmen Site: An important archaeological site featuring ancient stone tombs, accessible by bus from Gochang-eup town center in the east of Buan.
9. Geojeong-myeon Tombs: Another significant dolmen site located in Geojeong-myeon area, easily accessible by bus or car.
10. Jeonju Hanok Village: A well-preserved traditional village famous for its hanok (traditional Korean houses), accessible by bus or train from Jeonju city which is about an hour’s drive away from Buan.

19 .Is it easy for foreigners to navigate through transportation systems without knowing Korean, such as purchasing tickets and understanding timetables?


It is fairly easy for foreigners to navigate through transportation systems in South Korea without knowing Korean. Most forms of public transportation, such as buses and subways, have English signage or announcements, making it easier for foreigners to understand where they are going. Ticket machines also have an English option, making it simple to purchase tickets. Some more remote areas may have limited English signage and announcements, but overall, the public transportation system in South Korea is quite accessible and easy to use for foreigners.

20 .Are there any unique modes of transportation specific to Buan-gun, such as traditional boats or cable cars?


Yes, there is a traditional boat known as the “Jjukkumi Skiff” that is unique to Buan-gun. It is typically used by fishermen for squid fishing and has a distinct shape with two wooden hulls and a smaller upper platform for the fishermen to stand on. The Jjukkumi Skiff can also be seen in various cultural events and festivals in the area.

Additionally, there is a cable car that connects Gogunsan Mountain to Odongdo Island in Buan-gun. This cable car ride offers beautiful views of the surrounding sea and islands.