Jeju Island is a Quaternary Shield volcanic island located off the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula. It is known for its gentle topography and elliptical shape, formed by volcanic activity spanning approximately 2 million years until historic times. The island offers a range of attractions, including beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, scenic hiking trails, and natural wonders. If you're interested in exploring Jeju Island, dividing your trip between Jeju (Northside) and Seogwipo (Southside) is recommended. Here are some notable places to visit on both sides of the island.
Jeongbang Waterfall
Jeongbang Waterfall is a unique natural wonder where water flows directly into the sea. Known for its black cliff, Jeongbang Waterfall stands at 23 meters, creating an appealing sight. Surrounded by pine trees and cliffs, it offers picturesque scenery. According to legend, a man named Seobul wrote "Seobulgwacha" on the waterfall wall the inscription, however, continues to be a matter of debate.
Sunrise Peak (Seongsan Ilchulbong)
Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak, is a renowned landmark on Jeju Island. Elevated at around 180 meters above sea level, this volcanic crater was formed approximately 5,000 years ago. It holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been featured in several films. While the peak offers a picturesque view from a distance, the most rewarding experience is hiking to the top, especially during sunrise, as its name suggests.
Manjanggul Cave
Manjanggul Cave offers a unique experience that transports visitors back in time, evoking a sense of Earth's early formation. As one of the largest lava tubes globally, the cave boasts impressive dimensions, with a maximum height of 25 meters and a width of 18 meters. While only a kilometre of the cave is accessible to the public, it showcases diverse topographical features and rock formations. Towards the end, visitors can admire a notable 7.6-meter-tall stone pillar, recognized as the largest of its kind in the world.
Hallasan National Park
No visit to Jeju Island is complete without exploring Hallasan National Park. Hallasan, the highest peak in South Korea, is located within this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to 368 parasite cones, locally known as 'oreum,' unique peaks in the Jeju dialect. With diverse flora and fauna, hiking in this area offers panoramic views of the island and its mountains, providing a memorable experience.
Udo Island
A visit to Udo Island, located near Jeju, is highly recommended. Despite its small size of 3.8 kilometres, the island offers a range of attractions, including stone walls, natural landmarks, scenic vistas, and the remarkable haenyo (female free divers). Inhabited since the Joseon period, Udo Island is an excellent destination for fishing, cycling, and relaxing with sand massages. Don't miss the renowned Rhodolith Beach, known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. Accessible by a 30-minute ferry ride, Udo Island is a delightful addition to your Jeju itinerary.
Where to Stay
For affordable accommodations in Jeju Island, consider staying at Backpackers in Jeju City or Seogwipo, offering comfortable dormitory-style rooms and a pleasant atmosphere. If you prefer a more personalized experience, boutique guesthouses scattered across Jeju Island provide unique designs and cosy settings, with some offering private rooms. For a touch of luxury, choose resort hotels with upscale amenities, such as spas, pools, and fine dining options, usually in picturesque areas. Whether you choose a hostel, guesthouse, or resort, read reviews, compare prices, and book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Getting There
To reach Jeju Island in Korea, you can opt for air, ferry, or a combination of train and ferry. The fastest and most convenient option is to fly to Jeju International Airport from major cities like Seoul, Busan, or Incheon. Several airlines operate regular flights to Jeju. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from ports such as Incheon, Mokpo, or Wando, enjoying a scenic journey that takes several hours. If you prefer a combination of train and ferry, you can travel by train to coastal cities like Mokpo or Busan and then catch a ferry to Jeju Island. Remember to check schedules and book in advance.
Cover photo credit Maxim Tupikov/Shutterstock.com