Masian Cafe and Masirang Bakery are popular bakery cafes located along the Masian Beach in Yeongjongdo, Incheon. These two spots are situated right next to each other, and although they are easily confused by many visitors, each offers a distinct charm. Here’s a closer look at both places:
1. Masian Cafe
- Location: 163 Masiran-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon
- Features: The cafe’s biggest draw is its panoramic ocean view of Masian Beach. You can enjoy a beautiful scene of the tidal flats and the West Sea, making it a perfect spot for relaxing, especially during sunset.
- Interior: The cafe is spread over two floors with spacious seating areas and a cozy atmosphere. Most seats face the sea, allowing visitors to take in the scenic view while relaxing. There are also outdoor seats, perfect for enjoying the breeze on a good weather day.
- Menu: Masian Cafe serves a variety of drinks including lattes, ades, smoothies, and other beverages. During the summer, their Patbingsu (shaved ice dessert) is especially popular, priced around 18,000 KRW.
- Parking: Parking is free for 3 hours on weekdays and 2 hours on weekends, making it convenient for visitors.
2. Masirang Bakery
- Location: 155 Masiran-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon
- Features: Masirang Bakery is a bakery cafe that offers a wide variety of freshly baked goods every day. The bakery has a cozy seating area where you can enjoy your bread and coffee. What makes this bakery special are the unique items it offers.
- Signature Menu Items:
- Yeontan Bread: This is the bakery’s signature item, shaped like charcoal briquettes (“yeontan” in Korean). The bread comes with different fillings, including cream and red bean paste. The Injeolmi Cream Yeontan Bread and Blueberry Cream Yeontan Bread are especially popular.
- Fresh Cream Croissant: A soft croissant filled with fresh cream and fruits, offering a sweet and satisfying taste.
- Salt Bread: A simple yet addictive bread sprinkled with salt, perfect for those who enjoy savory flavors.
- Other options include Pain de mie, Dark Bread, Ciabatta, and many more, giving customers a wide variety to choose from.
- Baking Schedule: The baking times vary depending on the type of bread, but to try the widest selection, it’s best to visit around 1 p.m..
- Other Features: The bakery also offers pre-packaged drinks, including Pororo beverages for kids, and a self-packaging station where customers can easily pack any leftover items.
3. Shared Features
Both Masian Cafe and Masirang Bakery are situated by Masian Beach, offering stunning views of the West Sea’s tidal flats and open water. The two venues are so close that some visitors refer to them collectively as the “Masian Bakery Cafe.” Despite their proximity and similar ambiance, each offers distinct services, with the bakery focusing on fresh bread and the cafe offering a range of beverages.
4. Recommended Visiting Time
Visiting during low tide will allow you to see the expansive tidal flats, while visiting during sunset offers a spectacular view of the setting sun over the West Sea. Both times provide a unique and beautiful experience.
5. Things to Note
During summer, the outdoor seating can be quite sunny, so make use of parasols or shaded areas to stay comfortable. Also, be sure to check the tide schedules of the West Sea so you can enjoy the view of either the tidal flats or the sea itself, depending on the tide.
Conclusion
Both Masian Cafe and Masirang Bakery in Yeongjongdo, Incheon, are ideal spots for those seeking a peaceful break while enjoying the beauty of the West Sea. Whether you’re craving fresh bread or looking for a cozy place to sip coffee with a view, these two venues offer a relaxing experience. They are must-visit places if you want to enjoy some quiet time while taking in the scenic coastal views.
Yeongjongdo Island, Incheon
Yeongjongdo is an island located off the coast of Incheon, South Korea, and is known for its beautiful coastal scenery, significant infrastructure, and as the location of Incheon International Airport, South Korea’s largest and busiest airport. Here’s a detailed overview of the island:
1. Location and Accessibility
Yeongjongdo is part of the city of Incheon and is connected to the mainland by several bridges, including the Incheon Bridge and the Yeongjong Bridge, making it easily accessible from Seoul and other regions. The island is approximately 1-1.5 hours from central Seoul by car or public transportation, and it is also served by the Airport Railroad Express (AREX), which connects Seoul Station with Incheon International Airport.
2. Incheon International Airport
The Incheon International Airport, located on Yeongjongdo, is one of the island’s defining features. As South Korea’s primary international gateway, the airport brings millions of travelers to and from the country each year. It has won numerous awards for its excellent services and facilities, offering travelers everything from shopping and dining to cultural experiences and relaxation spaces.
3. Natural Attractions
Despite being home to a major airport, Yeongjongdo still maintains a lot of its natural beauty. The island is known for its scenic beaches, coastal walks, and tidal flats. Some popular attractions include:
- Eulwangni Beach: This is one of the most famous beaches on Yeongjongdo, offering soft sandy shores, clear waters, and nearby restaurants and cafes. It’s a great spot for both families and travelers looking to relax by the sea. During the summer, it becomes a popular spot for swimming and water sports.
- Wangsan Beach: Located near Eulwangni, Wangsan Beach is known for its quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal for visitors seeking a less crowded beach experience.
- Masian Beach: Situated on the southern coast of Yeongjongdo, Masian Beach offers beautiful views of the West Sea and expansive tidal flats during low tide. It’s a peaceful spot to take in the coastal scenery, and the nearby cafes, like Masian Cafe and Masirang Bakery, provide great places to enjoy a coffee with a view of the sea.
- Tidal Flats: Yeongjongdo’s coast is characterized by extensive tidal flats, particularly visible at low tide. These areas are rich in marine life, and you can often find locals and visitors engaging in shellfish gathering.
4. Leisure and Entertainment
Yeongjongdo is home to several leisure and entertainment options for both locals and tourists:
- Paradise City: A large integrated resort and entertainment complex near Incheon Airport. It includes a luxury hotel, casino, art gallery, spa, and various entertainment options, catering to tourists and business travelers alike.
- Yeongjong Sky Park: This park is located near the airport and offers panoramic views of the surrounding sea and airport runways. It’s a popular spot for plane-spotters and those looking to enjoy a relaxing walk or picnic.
- Seaside Park: This beautiful park stretches along the coast and offers walking and biking paths, picnic areas, and stunning sea views. It’s a great place for a leisurely day outdoors.
5. Cultural and Historical Sites
Yeongjongdo also has some interesting cultural and historical sites worth exploring:
- Yonggungsa Temple: A peaceful Buddhist temple located in the northern part of Yeongjongdo. The temple is surrounded by forests and offers a serene atmosphere for meditation and reflection. It is also known for its beautiful views of the West Sea from the temple grounds.
- Muuido Island: While technically a separate island, Muuido is connected to Yeongjongdo via a bridge, making it easily accessible. Muuido offers quiet beaches, hiking trails, and traditional Korean guesthouses (hanok stays), providing a rural and tranquil escape.
6. Developing Infrastructure
Yeongjongdo continues to develop rapidly due to its strategic importance as a transportation hub. The area around the airport is seeing increased development, with new hotels, shopping centers, and entertainment venues being built. The island’s growing infrastructure makes it a key part of South Korea’s tourism and business landscape.
7. Local Cuisine
Visitors to Yeongjongdo can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, thanks to its proximity to the sea. Grilled shellfish, raw fish (hoe), and crab dishes are popular, with many restaurants near the beaches offering fresh catches of the day. The island also has a variety of modern cafes and bakeries, such as those around Masian Beach, where you can relax with a coffee while taking in the ocean view.
8. Seasonal Events
Throughout the year, Yeongjongdo hosts various festivals and events, particularly centered around its coastal attractions. Summer beach festivals and seafood festivals are common, attracting both locals and tourists.
Conclusion
Yeongjongdo is a unique destination that offers a blend of modern conveniences, thanks to the presence of Incheon International Airport, and natural beauty with its beaches, parks, and tidal flats. Whether you’re a traveler with a long layover or looking for a weekend getaway, Yeongjongdo has something for everyone—from scenic coastal views and outdoor activities to cultural experiences and modern entertainment options.