Yeosu Hyangiram Sunrise Festival
Dec 31, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027 · Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Overview
Hyangiram Sunrise Festival is an annual overnight festival that begins on New Year's Eve. It takes place at the historic Hyangiram Hermitage. As the New Year's Day dawns, visitors can witness the sun rise above the horizon from Hyangiram, which literally means "a hermitage facing the sun."
Why go
Hyangiram Hermitage is one of Korea's best-known spots for watching the first sunrise of the year, and this overnight festival lets visitors ring in the New Year right at the hermitage as the sun rises over the sea. It's a historic, atmospheric alternative to a city countdown, with the hermitage itself being a notable sight regardless of the hour.
Getting there from Seoul
Take the KTX to Yeosu-EXPO Station (around 3 hours from Seoul Station), or an express/intercity bus from Seoul to the Yeosu bus terminal. From Yeosu, a local bus or taxi to Hyangiram Sunrise Park in Dolsan-eup takes roughly 30-40 minutes.
Tips
- The event runs overnight (20:00-10:00), so dress for cold, windy coastal weather and bring layers for the long wait until dawn.
- Admission is free, but reaching the hermitage involves a walk uphill, so wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
- Expect large crowds and traffic into Dolsan-eup on New Year's Eve, so arrive early and plan for limited parking.
Best for: sunrise watchers, couples, photographers, spiritual travelers.
Photos
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
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Dates and programs can change. Check the official site before you go. Official site