Beppu to Seogwipo Road Trip Guide: 10-12 Hours

The Beppu to Seogwipo route is one of the few car ferry connections between Japan and South Korea, linking the hot springs of Beppu with the volcanic landscapes of Jeju Island. The total driving time on land is roughly 10-12 hours including the ferry crossing, but the experience is far from ordinary.

Nearly all travelers choose the Beppu International Ferry Terminal to Busan Port International Passenger Terminal crossing, operated by Camellia Line. From Busan, a 5-hour drive south brings you to Seogwipo via the Namhae Expressway (Route 10) and Jeju Island after a second short ferry from Noryang to Jeju. The journey crosses the Korea Strait and the East China Sea.

Beppu is famous for its eight "hells" (jigoku) – hot spring pools with distinct colors, from blood-red to cobalt blue. The drive through Kyushu passes lush volcanic foothills before the sea crossing.

On the Korean side, the Hallyeohaesang National Park near the coast offers scenic views of ria coastline. Once on Jeju, Seogwipo is a gateway to Hallasan National Park – South Korea’s highest peak at 1,947 meters.

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites along this route include the Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes (2007), which are easily accessible from Seogwipo. Also, Beppu’s hot spring tradition is part of the Japanese Onsen Culture recognized by UNESCO in 2021, though it's registered as an intangible heritage.

Local commerce thrives on both ends: Beppu’s Jigoku Mushi (steaming food) is a must-try; in Seogwipo, the Olle Market sells hallabong tangerines and black pork – a regional specialty. For more ideas, check this how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The best stops beppu to seogwipo depend on your departure time; most travelers reserve the Camellia Line overnight ferry to save on accommodation. Ferry tickets cost around ¥20,000 for a car plus driver, with cabins extra. Reserve at least a week ahead in peak season.

• Beppu ferry terminal has limited parking – arrive 2 hours early.
• Busan’s port is well-signposted for international vehicles; prepare for customs checks.
• South Korea’s toll roads (Expressway 10) require a Hi-Pass transponder; rental cars include one.

Fuel costs: Japan averages ¥160/liter, Korea slightly cheaper at ₩1,700/liter. The full loop uses roughly 60 liters, so budget about ¥10,000 (or ₩100,000) for fuel. Tolls on the Korean expressway add ₩20,000 for the 250 km leg.

Keep in mind that how long to drive beppu to seogwipo includes border wait times; the Camellia ferry typically docks in Busan at 8:00 AM, and you can be on the road by 9:30 AM.

Both Japan and Korea have well-maintained highways, but right-hand vs. left-hand traffic require a quick adjustment: Japan drives on the left, Korea on the right. Always check your rental for insurance that covers both countries.

For things to do between beppu and seogwipo, plan a break at Yeosu – about 2 hours from Busan – where the Yeosu Cable Car offers panoramic views. Further south, Haenam has a turtle ship museum.

Fatigue can be managed by using rest areas every 2-3 hours. In Korea, highway rest stops (휴게소) are excellent, with local food stalls. On Jeju, the coastal route 12 has many pull-offs for photos.

For families, Beppu’s Suginoi Palace has a kid-friendly water park, and Seogwipo’s Jeju Love Land is adults-only – instead, try Jeju Folk Village Museum for a cultural day.

Pets: The ferry prohibits pets unless in a carrier and with advanced notice. Korean hotels are generally pet-friendly; check with each accommodation.