We found out Gyeongju has fan-shaped columnar joints — completely spontaneous morning decision, and it turned out to be one of the best parts of the whole trip.
A Spontaneous Second-Day Morning
On day 2, I was searching for beaches near our resort and stumbled upon Gyeongju's columnar joints. Similar to Jeju's famous basalt formations, but right here in Gyeongju! Hanwha Resort to Eupcheon Port takes about an hour. We went on impulse and it was absolutely worth it.
Eupcheon Port
The starting point of the Padosori Trail. We parked at the lot near the port and walked to the lighthouse first. The lighthouse against the blue sky is a great photo spot — but brace yourself for strong sea wind.
Yangnam Columnar Joints Padosori Trail
A coastal walking trail connecting Eupcheon Port to the Columnar Joints Observatory. Stunning scenery the entire way, with photo spots at every turn. Walking along the coast with the sound of waves is genuinely calming.
Suspension Bridge
There's a suspension bridge midway along the trail. The swaying is surprisingly thrilling. Natural candid shots work better than posed ones when other hikers are crossing.
Colorade Café
Right next to the Columnar Joints Observatory. The window lettering and overall vibe reminded us of Jeju Island cafés — relaxed and scenic. It was fairly new when we visited, so there wasn't much online about it yet.
Yangnam Columnar Joints Observatory
Free entry. Hours: 09:30–18:00 (last entry 17:50). The panoramic view of fan-shaped columnar joints from the observatory is stunning — and completely unexpected in Gyeongju. The variety of shapes (fan, horizontal, tilted) here actually rivals Jeju.
There's a slow mailbox at the entrance. Write a postcard and it will be delivered about a month later — a lovely way to send a memory to someone you love.
Heart Beach
Looking down from the ocean-facing side of the observatory, you can see a heart-shaped beach below. Walking down brings you right next to the waves and the basalt formations.
Travel Tips
Hanwha Resort → Eupcheon Port: about 1 hour by car
Park at Eupcheon Port, walk the whole trail on foot
Strong sea wind — bring a hair pin, hat, or scarf
Observatory: free, open 09:30–18:00
Slow mailbox at the observatory — buy a postcard and send it to someone special
Stop at Colorade Café on the way back
FAQ
How are Gyeongju's columnar joints different from Jeju's?
Jeju is mostly known for vertical formations, while Yangnam has fan-shaped, horizontal, and tilted varieties all in one place — a geologically unique concentration.
How far is the walk from Eupcheon Port to the observatory?
About 1.7 km one way. Allow 1–1.5 hours for the round trip at a comfortable pace.
Where can I buy postcards for the slow mailbox?
At the information center or souvenir shops near the Padosori Trail entrance.