A lighthouse without the sea
Along the Yeongsan River in Naju stands the white Yeongsanpo Lighthouse. According to a Korea Tourism Organization travel article published in September 2026, it was installed in 1915, helping boats navigate and monitoring river levels when Yeongsanpo served as an important inland port. The structure is registered cultural heritage under the name Naju Yeongsanpo Ceramic Water Level Gauge.
Remembering the port
Today's riverbank invites a slower walk, but Yeongsanpo was once a place of transport and trade. Looking from the lighthouse to the river helps explain why a town grew along a water route. The story also includes the hardships of trade and exploitation under Japanese colonial rule; it is not simply a nostalgic scene.
A gallery in a former bank
Near the old port, the Yeongsanpo History Gallery occupies a former colonial-era bank building. Displays cover port history, local life and the regional food culture of fermented skate. KTO's September 2026 guide lists 10:00–17:00, a 12:00–13:00 break, and Monday closure. These are the gallery's hours, not confirmed lighthouse or boat hours.
Don't assume the yellow-sail boat is sailing
There is a landing for a traditional-style yellow-sail boat near the lighthouse. The tourism article describes the river experience, but current November 2026 sailing dates, ticket prices, availability and weather cancellations have not been verified. Do not plan a guaranteed boat ride solely from this description.
Where to go
Search for 80 Deungdae-gil, Naju-si for the lighthouse and 17 Yeongsan 3-gil, Naju-si for the gallery. Check up-to-date gallery access and separate boat operations before travelling.