Travel Guide
A small camellia island off Geoje, where old evergreen forests, quiet coastal paths and open South Sea views create one of the region’s most peaceful island walks.
A red camellia forest
above the South Sea
Jisimdo Island Geoje is a small island off the eastern coast of Geoje, famous for its old camellia forest and quiet walking trails.
The island’s name is said to come from its shape resembling the Chinese character for heart, sim (心), when viewed from above.
Jisimdo is often called the Camellia Island of Geoje. Visitors can walk through dense evergreen forest, explore coastal viewpoints and discover traces of the island’s modern history along the way.
How to Get to
Jisimdo Island
Jisimdo Island is reached by ferry from Jangseungpo on Geoje. The sea crossing is short, making the island well suited to a half-day or day trip.
Go to Jangseungpo
Travel to Jangseungpo on the eastern side of Geoje and check the departure point for Jisimdo ferries.
Take the Ferry to Jisimdo
Board the ferry from Jangseungpo and cross the short stretch of sea to Jisimdo.
Check the Return Ferry
If you are visiting as a day trip, check the return ferry first and plan your island walk around the departure time.
Geoje → Jangseungpo → ferry → Jisimdo Port → Camellia Forest → Ma-kkeut → Former School Grounds → Sunrise Viewpoint → Coastal Viewpoint → Jisimdo Port
Jangseungpo → Jisimdo Ferry
Ferry schedules may change depending on season, weather and sea conditions. Check the latest departure and return times before traveling.
Places to Explore
on Jisimdo Island
Jisimdo is best explored by following the island trail through camellia forest, coastal cliffs, viewpoints and quiet historical sites.
Jisimdo Camellia Forest
Jisimdo is famous for its dense old camellia trees. During the flowering season, red blossoms appear beneath the dark evergreen canopy, creating one of Geoje’s most distinctive island landscapes.
View on Google Maps →Ma-kkeut Coastal Cliffs
Ma-kkeut is a dramatic coastal area where rocky cliffs meet the open South Sea. It is one of the island’s best places to experience Jisimdo’s rugged coastline.
View on Google Maps →Former School Grounds
Jisimdo once had a small elementary school branch. The former school grounds remain along the walking route and offer a quiet glimpse into the island’s past.
View on Google Maps →Sunrise Viewpoint
The eastern side of Jisimdo opens toward the sea, making it an excellent place to enjoy the morning light and wide coastal scenery.
View on Google Maps →Coastal Viewpoint
Several open sections along the trail overlook the blue waters of Hallyeohaesang, with small islands scattered across the horizon.
View on Google Maps →Japanese Military Remains
Jisimdo was used as a military position during the Japanese colonial period. Gun positions, an ammunition storage site and other remains can still be found along the trail.
View on Google Maps →
Jisimdo Island
Day Trip Itinerary
Jisimdo is small enough to explore comfortably on foot. A loop around the main trail can be combined with camellia forest, viewpoints and historic sites.
Jisimdo Port → Camellia Forest → Ma-kkeut → Former School Grounds → Military Remains → Sunrise Viewpoint → Coastal Viewpoint → Jisimdo Port
A relaxed walk around the island’s main route generally fits comfortably into a half-day visit.
Getting Around
Jisimdo Island
Jisimdo is a small island best explored on foot. Most attractions are connected by the island’s main walking trail.
Walking
Walking is the main way to explore Jisimdo. The island is compact and most attractions are connected by footpaths.
Some sections include slopes and uneven ground, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Camellia Trail
The forest trail is especially beautiful during camellia season, when red blossoms appear along the shaded path.
Take your time through the forest and allow extra time for viewpoints and photos.
Plan Around the Ferry
Your return ferry determines how long you can stay on the island. Check the departure time before starting the full loop.
Strong wind or poor sea conditions may affect ferry operations.
explore Jisimdo?
Who Should Visit
Jisimdo Island?
Jisimdo is ideal for travelers who enjoy camellias, quiet forest walks and coastal scenery.
Jisimdo is one of Geoje’s best-known camellia destinations, with old trees forming dense natural forest.
The compact island can be explored along a scenic loop through forest and coast.
Jisimdo offers a quiet alternative to busier Geoje attractions, with forest paths and peaceful sea views.
Military remains and old island facilities add a historical layer to the natural walking route.
Before You Visit
Jisimdo Island
Check the ferry, walking conditions and weather before departure for a smoother island trip.
Check the latest Jisimdo ferry schedule for your travel date.
Confirm the Jangseungpo departure point before boarding.
Bring your original ID for ferry boarding.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for slopes and forest trails.
Bring water and basic supplies for your island walk.
Check the weather and sea conditions before departure.
Traveling to Jisimdo?
Check the ferry first.
Jisimdo is reached by ferry from Jangseungpo. Before walking through the camellia forest and coastal viewpoints, check the latest departure and return ferry times.
Explore more
Korean islands
If Jisimdo is only the beginning of your island journey, continue with more English island guides from SEOMITTA. Compare different coastlines, travel styles and ferry-access islands before choosing your next destination.
Red camellias
beside the blue South Sea
Jisimdo is a small island, but its forests and coastline leave a strong impression.
Walk beneath old camellia trees, stop at the coastal cliffs and look across the open waters of Hallyeohaesang.
When planning your Jisimdo Island Geoje trip, check the ferry schedule first and enjoy the island at a slow and peaceful pace.