Chuja Guide

Chuja Ferry Port

Found off the south-western coast of South Korea, just beyond the ragged mosaic of islands that pock the Yellow Sea, is the Chuja Island archipelago. Though consisting of 42 landmasses, ranging from small atolls to bigger islands, only 4 are inhabited; the largest of which being Sangchujado – home to the portside town of Sinyang-Ri. Those approaching Chuja by boat will first notice the magnificent tree-topped peaks that almost completely cover the island. These steep hills rise up on chalk-coloured cliffs that overlook the deserted islands found in the exotic waters of the Jeju Strait. Chuja port is situated within a natural blue-watered bay on the western shores of the main island, equidistant between the large volcanic island of Jejudo in the south and the South Korean mainland town of Wando to the north. It’s a prime location for travellers eager to explore the sparsely populated southern reaches of the South Jeolla Province. Transport to and from the port is limited, though all four of the inhabited areas are connected by a simple road system that snakes along the coastline. The port itself is very small and devoid of passenger facilities meaning the harbour is far more suited to the mooring of barges and yachts than servicing cruise ships. Two routes, both operated by Hanil Express ferries, take passengers from Chuja to either Jejudo in the south or Wando in the north. These short voyages run a number of times throughout the week.