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Jeju Fantasy
Bicycle Path

Circle the Korea’s largest island.

Explore dormant volcanoes and active beaches.

The Jeju Fantasy Bicycle Path (제주환상 자전거길; map) follows coastal roads around Jeju Island (제주도; Jeju-do; map), which sits 80 kilometers south of the Korean peninsula.

Known as Korea’s island getaway, the cycling course around Jeju features endless geological sights, including seaside caves, waterfalls, beaches, and volcanic cones.

The Stats
Start
Jeju City
(제주시)
← 234 km →
15.5 hours
End
Jeju City
(제주시)
Jeju Fantasy Bicycle Map
Checkpoints Logo
Stamps (10)
Bus Icon
Bus Terminals
Link button to Kakao Maps directions.
Directions
Link button to Kakao Maps Highlights.
Highlights

From the island’s big city, cycle by beaches, offshore islands, and volcanic cones.

Ride along the bottom of Jeju Island and discover secluded beaches and groves.

Circle back to the big city and discover the island’s famed sleeping volcano.

Discover the top highlights along the Jeju Fantasy Bicycle Path.

Find out how to take an airplane, ferry, or bus to and around the Jeju Fantasy Bicycle Path.

Learn the history and geography of Jeju Island.

Bike Path Overview

The Nakdonggang Bike Path follows the Nakdong River (낙동강; Nakdonggang; map). Unlike the Ara, Hangang, and Saejae, it doesn’t begin where the previous bike path ends.

The cycling route starts 70 kilometers east of the Cross-Country Route in Andong City (안동시; map). It then travels west to Sangju City (상주시; map), where it meets the Saejae Bike Path.

A picture of the Nakdonggang Bike Path and Nakdong River in Hapcheon County, South Korea.
The route from Hapcheon Changnyeong Weir to Bakjin Pass follows guardrail protected bike lanes along a country road high over the Nakdong River.

The route continues south through Daegu City (대구시; map) and North and South Gyeongsan Provinces. It ends in Busan City (부산시; map), where the Nakdong River spills into the Korea Strait.

Most of the bike path tracks the Nakdong River’s gentle downward slope. However, two obstacles make the Nakdonggang challenging.

Let’s check the course, then look closer at the bike path’s hills and paths.

The Course

The Nakdonggang Bike Path has:

  • Two starting points.
  • One finish line. 
  • And several parallel paths on opposite sides of the river.

Let’s break it down.

Are you riding the Cross-Country Route? Do you don’t want the Nakdonggang Bike Path Certification? Just want the Cross-Country certification?

Do you want to conquer the entire Nakdong River and get the Nakdonggang and Cross-Country certifications?

  • Start at the Andong Dam Certification Center in Andong City. It sits 70 kilometers upriver from the end of the Saejae Bike Path. Cycle west until you meet the Cross-Country Route. Then continue to Busan (directions).

Let’s skim Nakdonggang Bike Path’s five sections.

A picture of the Nakdonggang Bike Path (낙동강자전거길) along the Nakdong River in South Korea.
The bike path from Andong to Sangju Cities crosses a variety of path types, including rural and farmer access roads, bike-only paths, and raised boardwalks.

Andong to Sangju

Start upriver in Andong City (안동시; map), a depository of Korea’s old culture. Follow the Nakdong River west. Riding on a mix of bike paths and country roads, pass historic villages, academies, and pavilions.

End at Sangpung Bridge (상풍교; map) in Sangju City, where you’ll rejoin the Cross-Country Route.

Sangju to Gumi

The route from Sangju City (상주시; map) to Gumi City (구미시; map) runs south along the Nakdong River. The path passes major highlights, including weirs, natural wonders, and a bike museum.

End in downtown Gumi City, an advanced manufacturing hub.

A picture of the Bridge of Patriotism (호국의다리) in Waegwan Town along the Nakdonggang Bike Path.
The Bridge of Patriotism was first built in 1944. Its original name was the “Waegwan Railroad Bridge.”

Gumi to Daegu

Gumi Daegu Distance City - Names

The cycling course from Gumi to Daegu is the shortest along the Nakdonggang Bike Path. It connects two of the region’s most profitable cities, while passing weirs and war memorials.

End in an enormous park with architectural flair on the edge of downtown Daegu (대구시; map), Korea’s four largest city.

Daegu to Changnyeong

Daegu Changnyeong Distance City Names

Off into the countryside.

The fourth leg of the Nakdonggang Bike Path presents the largest challenge. Amongst its high, winding ridgelines above the Nakdong, pass weirs and climb three mountain passes. From on top one summit, view a treasured Confucion academy.

A picture of the Nakdonggang Bike Path (낙동강자전거길) along the Nakdong River in South Korea.
The Nakdonggang Bike Path through Yangsan and Busan Cities flow through green, riverside eco parks.

Changnyeong to Busan

Namji Busan - Distance City Names

This last leg of the Nakdonggang Bike Path skips hills. Its vistas sweep along the wide Nakdong River as it meanders through waterside parks.

In Busan (부산시; map), Korea’s second largest city, the river spills into the Korea Strait, marking the end of the Cross-Country Route.

Municipalities

The Nakdonggang Bicycle Path crosses two provinces, two metropolitan cities, and 14 cities and counties. Check out these short profiles of each.

Elevation

The Nakdonggang Bike Path crawls along the Nakdong River’s gentle slope. But the cycling route presents a challenging collection of hills. Let’s explore the biggest ones.

A picture of the Bakjin Pass (박진고개) on the Nakdonggang Bike Path (낙동강자전거길) along the Nakdong River in South Korea.
Along the Nakdonggang Bike Path, you can’t avoid the country road climb to the top of the 173-meter Bakjin Pass.

Andong City Hills

Climb a pair of back-to-back hills west of downtown Andong City (안동시; map).

The first hill leaps from the banks of the Nakdong River and climbs to a 160-meter peak (directions).

  • Total Climb: a 74-meter ascent over 1.4 kilometers with a 5.3% average incline.

Three kilometers after the first climb, the route rides up a riverside mountain to a 141-meter top (directions).

  • Total Climb: a 52-meter ascent over 843 meters with a 6.2% average incline.
A picture of Gyeongcheondae Terrace (경천대) along the Nakdong River in Sangju City, South Korea.
Gyeongcheondae Terrace: A historical beacon since the Joseon Dynasty, once graced by scholars and legends of dragon horses.

Gyeongcheondae Terrace Hill

On the west banks of the Nakdong, just before Gyeongcheondae Terrace, the bike path navigates razor-sharp switchbacks to a 119-meter summit (directions).

  • Total Climb: a 65-meter ascent over 495 meters with a 13.1% average incline.

You can avoid the hill by crossing to the east side of the Nakdong near Sangju Sangpung Certification Center. However, this route holds a 40-meter hill (directions).

Daramjae Pass

The bike path splinters into two routes near Dodong Seowon Confucian Academy (도동서원; map).

  1. Follow a tunnel through the hillside and avoid a mountain pass (directions).
  2. Use the “official route” and climb Daramjae Pass (다람재; map) below Jindeung Mountain (진등산; map).

While challenging, climb the Daramjae Pass and find an unbeatable 124-meter high view of the 400-year-old Confucian academy and its surroundings from a pavilion (directions; road view).

Total Climb: a 105-meter climb over 854 meters with a 12.3% average incline.

A bird's-eye picture of Dodong Seowon Confucian Academy (도동서원) in Dalseong County, South Korea.
Dodong Seowon Confucian Academy lies at the bottom of Daramjae Pass along the Nakdong River in Dalseong County.

Musimsa Temple Hill

Want to catch a splendid view of the river from a colorful temple? Hop off the “official route” and tackle a hill that features Musimsa Temple (무심사; map).

The course winds up a rugged bike path to a 135-meter summit (directions).

  • Total Climb: 105 meters over 2 kilometers with a 5.5% average incline.

Bakjin Pass

Bakjin Pass (박진고개; map) sneaks under Jandeung Mountain (잔등산; map) in Uiryeong County. The Nakdonggang Bike Path’s steepest climb, it threads switchbacks to a 173-meter peak (directions).

  • Total Climb: 157 meters over 1.6 kilometers with a 9.8% average incline.

Stop at the viewing deck, grab a certification stamp, and glance out at the winding waterway (road view).

A picture of the Bakjin Pass (박진고개) on the Nakdonggang Bike Path (낙동강자전거길) along the Nakdong River in South Korea.
Find the Gureumjae Certification Center at the top Bakjin Pass. It isn’t an official stamp yet. But put it in your bike passport anyway.

Yeongaji & Angaesil Passes

Soon after the Bakjin Pass, the route crosses back-to-back mountain passes: Yeongaji (영아지고개; map) and Angaesil (안개실고개; map).

Just outside Namji Town, climb to a 163-meter ridge under Docho Mountain (도초산; map; directions).

  • Total Climb: 149 meters over 1.6 kilometers with a 9.3% average incline.

The path along Yeongaji and Angaesil Passes consists of rugged cycling/hiking paths with pine needles scattered about (road view).

A picture of the Yeongaji (영아지고개) & Angaesil (안개실고개) Passes along the Nakdonggang Bike Path (낙동강자전거길) in Changnyeong County, South Korea.
The course through Yeongaji & Angaesil Passes travel on pathed hiking & cycling paths. Catch the Nakdong River from a viewing platform midway through its run.

Bike Path Types

Korea’s longest certification path, the Nakdonggang Bike Path follows every type of pavement: bike-only paths, farmer access roads, country roads, hiking paths.

Let’s break down the pavement conditions section by section.

Andong to Sangju

The first third of the Andong to Sangju segment switches between bike lanes, farmer roads, and rural streets (directions). The most perilous stretch crosses the entrance to the Andong Hahoe Folk Village (directions; road view).

Near the end of the route, the path follows a series of farm roads. Though devoid of traffic, rough patches and dirt clumps often clutter the roadway (directions; road view).

A picture of the Nakdonggang Bike Path (낙동강자전거길) along the Nakdong River in South Korea.
The route near the Andong Hahoe Folk Village follows a often busy rural road.

Sangju to Gumi

Most of the Sangju to Gumi section rides on bicycle-only paths. However, when passing hilly sections, it hops onto narrow, rural roads.

Gumi to Daegu

About 95% of the Gumi to Daegu course follows cycling paths in riverside parks (road view). However, for 2.2 kilometers near the city of Daegu, you’ll cycle a narrow walking path up a hillside (directions; road view).

A picture of the New and Old Namji Bridge over the Nakdong River in Namji Town, Changnyeong County.
The new Namji Bridge replaces old blue-trussed Namji Bridge, which now carries cyclists across the Nakdong River.

Daegu to Changnyeong

The Daegu to Changnyeong segment presents the most challenges, holding major hills and stretches along a high-speed roadway and rural roads.

A picture of the boardwalk cycling paths along the Nakdonggang Bike Path (낙동강자전거길) in Samrangjin Town (삼랑진읍) along the Nakdong River (낙동강) in South Korea.
Cycling boardwalks hovering over the Nakdong River populated bike path in Miryang City’s Samrangjin Town.

Changnyeong to Busan

Changnyeong to Busan, the last section on the Nakdonggang Bike Path, treads on protected bike paths, with a few exceptions.

Certification

There are eleven certification centers on the Nakdonggang Bicycle Path.

Collect all stamps and receive the Nakdonggang Bike Path certification, which counts towards the Cross-Country, Four Rivers, and Grand Slam certifications.

A picture of the of the Nakdonggang Estuary Bank Certification Center (낙동강하구둑 인증센터), the finish line for the Nakdonggang Bike Path in Busan.
The Nakdonggang Estuary Bank Certification Center on Eulsukdo Island is the final stamp on the Cross-Country and Nakdonggang Bike Path on Eulsukdo Island in Busan.

Certification Centers

Here is a complete list of certification centers along the Nakdonggang Bike Path.

  1. Andong Dam (안동댐 인증센터; map
  2. Sangju-bo (상주보 인증센터; map
  3. Nakdan-bo (낙단보 인증센터; map
  4. Gumi-bo (구미보 인증센터; map
  5. Chilgok-bo (칠곡보 인증센터; map
  6. Gangjeong Goryeong-bo (강정고령보 인증센터; map
  7. Dalseong-bo (달성보 인증센터; map
  8. Hapcheon Changnyeong-bo (합천창녕보 인증센터; map
  9. Changnyeong Haman-bo (창녕함안보 인증센터; map
  10. Yangsan Water Culture Hall (양산물문화관 인증센터; map)
  11. Nakdonggang Estuary Bank (낙동강하구둑 인증센터; map)

Missed Certification Centers

Trying to complete the Cross-Country Certification? You don’t need the Andong Dam Certification Center stamp. It lies in Andong City (안동시; map), 70.2 kilometers away from the Cross-Country Route (directions).

However, grab the Andong Dam stamp to complete the Nakdonggang, Four Rivers, and Grand Slam certifications.

Municipalities

The Jeju Fantasy Bike Path circles Jeju Special Province and its two cities. Read these quick breakdowns of each municipality.

  • Jeju Special Self-Governing Province (제주특별자치도) governs the entirety of Jeju Island, which rests 293 kilometers off the southwest coast of the peninsula. Known as Korea’s Hawaii, the island grew up alongside, but culturally different from mainland Korea, with unique folklore and art. A matriarchal society ruled by freediving women, Jeju often resisted interference from the peninsula’s rule and fought back against Japanese colonization. Today, other than fishing and limited farming, the island makes money through tourism. The dormant volcanoes of Seongsan Ilchulbong and Halla Mountain (South Korea’s tallest) and endless beaches attract mainland Koreans and visitors from nearby nations.
    • Jeju City (제주시) occupies the top half of Jeju Island. Known as the administrative side, or “the people north of Halla Mountain,” since ancient times, when Jeju’s three fathers crawled from three enshrined holes, the city held the island’s rulers and most of its people. Jeju’s only airport and biggest port form the main points of entry onto the island. Though Seogwipo possesses more tourism wonders, Jeju City encompasses its own basket of treasures, including beaches, museums, and offshore isles.
    • Seogwipo City (서귀포시) claims the bottom part of Jeju Island. Less populated than Jeju City, the district is one of Korea’s most developed tourist destinations. Filled with hotels, resorts, and terra firma glory, Seogwipo boasts a lake-topped peak, pristine beaches, a troop of waterfalls, sculpted offshore islands, and Jeju’s most iconic dormant cone volcano. The city also holds the Jeju World Cup Stadium, where Jeju’s professional football (soccer) club plays.

Certification

There are ten certification centers on the Jeju Fantasy Bike Path.

Collect all stamps and receive the Jeju Fantasy Bike Path certification. The stamps also count towards the Grand Slam certification.

Certification Centers

Here is a complete list of certification centers along the Jeju Fantasy Bike Path.

  1. Yong Du Am (용두암 인증센터; map)
  2. Darak Shelter (다락쉼터 인증센터; map)
  3. Haegeoreum Park (해거름마을공원 인증센터; map)
  4. Songaksan (송악산 인증센터; map)
  5. Beophwan Badang (법환바당 인증센터; map)
  6. Soesokkak (쇠소깍 인증센터; map)
  7. Pyoseon Beach (표선해변 인증센터; map)
  8. Seongsan Ilchulbong (성산일출봉 인증센터; map)
  9. Gimnyeong Seongsegi Beach (김녕성세기해변 인증센터; map)
  10. Hamdeok Seoubong Beach (함덕서우봉해변 인증센터; map)

Highlights

The Nakdong Bicycle Path is Korea’s longest certification path. It features natural wonders, ancient and modern highlights, and eight weirs.

Let’s explore the Nakdonggang Bike Path’s notable highlights.

A picture of Woryeong Bridge (월영교) on the Nakdong River in Andong City, South Korea.
Near the start of the Nakdonggang Bike Path, Woryeong Bridge connects Woryeong Park with Andong Folk Village.

Yong Du Am Rock stands as one of Jeju Island’s iconic landmarks. Situated on the northeastern coast near Jeju International Airport, it’s a convenient stop for visitors beginning or concluding their Jeju journey. The rock formation’s name translates to “Dragon Head Rock,” inspired by its striking resemblance to a dragon rising from the sea.

A picture of Woryeong Bridge (월영교) on the Nakdong River in Andong City, South Korea.
Near the start of the Nakdonggang Bike Path, Woryeong Bridge connects Woryeong Park with Andong Folk Village.

Samseonghyeol Archaeological Site, located in Jeju City, is a significant historical and cultural landmark tied to the origin myths of Jeju Island.

Known as the “Three Clans’ Holes,” this site is where, according to legend, three demigods emerged from the earth to become the founders of Jeju’s ancient kingdom of Tamna. Designated as Historic Site No. 134 in 1964, it is a key destination for those interested in Jeju’s mythology, history, and cultural heritage.

A picture of Woryeong Bridge (월영교) on the Nakdong River in Andong City, South Korea.
Near the start of the Nakdonggang Bike Path, Woryeong Bridge connects Woryeong Park with Andong Folk Village.

Nestled along Jeju’s picturesque western coastline in Hallim Town, Hyeopjae Beach and Geumneung Beach form a captivating seaside duo. These neighboring beaches are known for their pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views of Biyang Island.

Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere of Hyeopjae or the serene charm of Geumneung, both offering unique experiences just a short walk apart.

A picture of Woryeong Bridge (월영교) on the Nakdong River in Andong City, South Korea.
Near the start of the Nakdonggang Bike Path, Woryeong Bridge connects Woryeong Park with Andong Folk Village.

Nestled on the western coast of Jeju Island near Hyeopjae Beach, Hallim Park is a sprawling botanical and cultural park that blends natural beauty with local heritage.

Established in 1971 on barren coastal land, the park has grown into a lush, 100,000-square-meter destination featuring nine themed zones. Visitors can explore subtropical gardens, ancient lava caves, a traditional folk village, and more, all against the backdrop of stunning coastal scenery.

Jeju Island

Jeju Island (제주도; map) is the largest island in South Korea and a prominent destination for travelers drawn to its unique volcanic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and ecological significance. Officially known as Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, the island covers an area of 1,833 square kilometers, with Hallasan Mountain at its center, rising 1,947 meters above sea level. The island’s distinct geographical features include over 360 volcanic cones, known locally as oreums, and a coastline marked by lava formations and sandy beaches.

Referred to as Tamna Kingdom (탐라) in ancient records, Jeju Island was an independent kingdom before its incorporation into the Korean Peninsula’s governance in 1404. Today, Jeju is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, recognized for its geological and ecological importance.

Geography

Jeju Island sits in the southernmost part of Korea, approximately 450 kilometers from Seoul, separated from the mainland by the Jeju Strait (제주해협; map). Here’s a brief rundown of its geology:

  • Its elliptical shape stretches 73 kilometers from east to west and 31 kilometers from north to south.
  • The coastline spans 253 kilometers, encompassing rocky shores, lava cliffs, and a few sandy beaches.
  • Hallasan Mountain occupies its middle. A dormant shield volcano and the highest peak in South Korea, its slopes give rise to diverse ecosystems, ranging from subtropical lowlands to alpine environments.

Jeju’s geological formation began millions of years ago through volcanic activity. The island’s rich history includes its time as the independent Tamna Kingdom, which engaged in trade with China and Japan. During the Joseon Dynasty, Jeju became a place of exile for political dissidents, further shaping its unique culture and traditions.

How To Get There

Ninety-plus percent of folks fly to Jeju, making Jeju International Airport, Korea’s second busiest, the primary entry point.

And because the island lacks subways, trains, and frequent bus service, most visitors rent a car and motor around.

What about folks with bicycles? First, let’s learn to bring a bike to Jeju. Then, let’s figure out buses.

(Remember, if you’re flying or sailing to Jeju from South Korea, it’s a domestic journey. No immigration or customs. However, you must present identification to board. And if you’re a foreigner, they won’t accept your library card. Passports or ARCs only.)

A picture of an passenger jet landing at Gimhae International Airport from the finish line of the Nakdonggang Bike Path.
The airways between Gimpo International Airport in Seoul and Jeju Island are the busiest in the world.

Airplanes

Planes are the fastest and most popular way onto Jeju Island. In fact, the flight path between Gimpo International Airport in Seoul and Jeju is the busiest in the world.

All airlines traveling to the island accept bicycles as checked baggage. And because many mainland cyclists venture to Jeju, workers handle thousands of flying bikers a year.

Ferries

Don’t like flying? Take a boat.

Ferries depart from mainland Korea to Jeju Island from several ports along Korea’s coasts, including Mokpo, Busan, Incheon, and more.

Why so many ferries? I thought airplanes were the most popular transportation to Jeju.

True. The flights average an hour from Seoul to Jeju. Most ferries average four hours from the bottom coast of Korea, and over 13 hours from Incheon.

As mentioned earlier, many visitors scoot around the island in a car because Jeju lacks trains and speedy bus service.

While the majority rent, others prefer to take their own. And you can’t bring a car on a passenger jet. So almost all ferries bound for Jeju include a lower deck for cars, motorbikes, and bicycles.

Buses

Jeju island offers only one form of public transportation: buses.

On the mainland, there’s a clear distinction between bus types. City buses accept transportation cards and stop at regular old bus stops. Intercity and express buses require tickets, depart from terminals, and land in another city or part of the country.

Jeju runs their buses a little differently.