Nestled in Shinan County’s archipelago, Banwol Island (반월도) and Bakji Island (박지도) form the enchanting “Purple Island”—a surreal destination dyed head-to-toe in shades of violet. Forget typical tourist hubs; this hidden corner of South Korea transforms into a lavender fantasyland, offering Instagram-worthy vistas and serene coastal charm. Here’s your insider guide!
✨ Why Purple Island?
In 2019, locals painted over 40,000㎡ of structures—houses, bridges, fences—in majestic purple to attract tourists. Even roads and telephone poles got the royal treatment! Paired with blooming lavender fields and seaside salt farms, the island feels like stepping into a Monet painting.
🌸 Top Experiences
- Purple Bridge (보라교):
Walk the iconic bridge connecting Banwol and Bakji islands—a symbolic entry to this violet universe. Sunrise/sunset turns it into a golden-purple dreamscape. - Lavender Farms (라벤더 농장):
Visit Heukyo Lavender Farm (June–July peak bloom) to wander through fragrant fields, sip lavender tea, and buy handmade soaps. - Coastal Salt Farms:
Explore traditional “tteuran” (salt farms) where purple-tinted pools contrast with silver salt crystals. Try solar salt ice cream! - Photo Zones:
Pose at purple bus stops, lilac cafés, or violet murals. Pro tip: Wear white/yellow for pop-against-purple pics!
🚆 Getting There
- From Seoul: Take KTX to Mokpo (3hrs). From Mokpo Station, bus #200 to Haenam Bus Terminal → transfer to local bus to Anjwa (압해도).
- Ferry: Board at Mokpo Coastal Ferry Terminal to Anjwa Port (1hr). Rent bikes/e-bikes (₩10,000/day) to explore the islands freely.
📅 Best Time to Visit
- May–July: Lavender in full bloom + purple barley fields.
- September–October: Mild weather + purple muhly grass covering hills.
- Avoid winter (cold/windy) and monsoon season (July–Aug).
💡 Insider Tips
- Stay Overnight: Book a purple guesthouse (e.g., “Purple House”) for starry nights. Hosts serve fresh seafood stews!
- Eat Local: Try “honghap bap” (purple mussel rice) and “boram kimchi” (purple-colored fermented veggies).
- Pack Smart: Sunscreen, hat, and comfy shoes—most sights require walking.
🌊 Beyond Purple
- Nearby Secrets: Hop to Jangdo Island for untouched beaches or Gageo Island for celestial stargazing.
- Eco-Care: Respect farms and use reusable bottles—Shinan is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve!
💜 Why It’s a Must-Visit
Purple Island isn’t just a place—it’s a sensory escape. Where else can you cycle through lavender-scented breezes, taste purple-hued treats, and watch tides paint salt farms violet? For wanderers craving whimsy without crowds, Shinan whispers magic.
Ready to paint your journey purple? 🌄 #HiddenKorea #PurpleIsland #LavenderDreams
Practical Info
📍 Location: Shinan-gun, South Jeolla Province
💵 Cost: Free entry (farms may charge ₩3,000–5,000)
🔗 More: Check Shinan County’s English website for ferry/bus updates!