Completing a Trip to Yeongdo, Busan: Finding True Relaxation at Taejongdae Hot Spring & Jjimjilbang

A Warm Comfort Found at the Edge of the Sea Breeze

It was an afternoon at the edge of Yeongdo, where the sound of the rough waves at Taejongdae(Resort) lingered in my ears. After walking for a long time in the cold sea breeze, my body felt chilled, and a deep craving for warmth settled in my heart. That was when I turned my steps toward Taejongdae Hot Spring & Jjimjilbang. Located just 3 minutes away from Jagalmadang(Pebble Beach) and surrounded by Bongnaesan(Mountain) like a folding screen, it felt like a hidden oasis for travelers.

As soon as I opened the door, the humid and warm air that greeted me brought an immediate sense of relief. It felt as if the warmth was spreading to the tips of my toes, which had been tense from walking along the sea. The hot spring water here is a bit different from ordinary water. Perhaps because it is a mineral-rich saline hot spring, it felt heavy and soft the moment it touched my skin. The subtle scent of medicinal herbs and botanicals brushing against my nose made it feel like the fatigue of the trip was melting away into the water.

The Scenery of Yeongdo from the Open-Air Bath

The highlight of Taejongdae Hot Spring is undoubtedly the open-air bath. Through the swirling steam created by the temperature difference between the cold outside air and the hot spring water, the sky of Yeongdo looks like pieces of art. As I closed my eyes, feeling the effects of the saline water—known to be good for rheumatism and neuralgia—I could hear the pleasant sound of the wind in the distance. Without needing to say a word, simply soaking in the water was a healing experience in itself.

When my body was sufficiently warmed up, I headed to the Jjimjilbang (sauna). Lying on the warm floor of the salt room, the earthy scent unique to the hwangto (red clay) room calmed my mind. Moving between the sauna and the cool ice room, I often fell into the illusion that time had stopped. Spending time sweating in the fitness center or buying snacks at the snack bar was a precious, relaxing moment that was far more memorable than any grand travel plan.

Tips for Travelers Visiting Yeongdo Hot Spring

I recommend adding Taejongdae Hot Spring as the final course of your trip after exploring Taejongdae Resort or Jagalmadang. If you fill your eyes with the spectacular views of Taejongdae during the day and soak in the hot spring toward the evening to soothe your body, you can't imagine how sweet your sleep will be that night. The address is 808, Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan, and you can find it easily once you reach the deeper part of Yeongdo.

One tip for visitors: try to aim for weekdays during the daytime rather than the weekend. You will be able to enjoy the baths much more quietly and leisurely. If you pair this with a bowl of warm gukbap (rice soup) at a nearby restaurant after the hot spring, it will be a perfect day where you can truly say you have embraced Yeongdo. I hope you find your own unique relaxation here, where the sea, mountains, and warm water come together.