korea tourist attractions jeju island

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

12 Top Tourist Attractions in Jeju Island

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on November 9, 2023

Lying in the Korea Strait, just to the south of mainland South Korea, Jeju is the largest island in the nation and is a very popular tourist destination amongst both Koreans and foreigners alike. Besides its incredible scenery and natural riches, the island’s enduring popularity is in part down to the fact that South Koreans weren’t permitted to travel abroad until the late 1980s.

This meant that the island was developed as a holiday destination, and there are loads of hotels, restaurants, shops and tourist attractions in Jeju to check out, as well as a number of fascinating museums and quirky theme parks.

Meaning ‘huge village across the sea,’ Jeju has its own distinct culture, which is quite different from that of the mainland; this is evident in its two main cities of Jeju City and Seogwipo. The main reason that people visit, however, is to unwind and enjoy its marvelous outdoors. With its gorgeous countryside and jagged coastline dotted with stunning beaches, Jeju Island has a plethora of lovely scenery and fantastic recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.

12. Jeju Stone Park

Full of interesting looking rocks and sculptures, Jeju Stone Park is a great place to head to if you want to learn more about the island’s rich cultural heritage. Myths and legends have long swirled around Jeju’s many natural wonders. As such, many of the rocks in the park represent folklore tales that have been passed down from generation to generation.

For instance, the distinctive Dol Hareubang sculptures – or ‘grandfather rocks’ as they are commonly called – are said to protect the island and ward off evil spirits. Set among some wonderful countryside, the solemn-looking rocks of Jeju Stone Park certainly do look very impressive, and the stories behind them make them come alive before your eyes.

11. Daepo Haean Jusangjeolli Cliff

Somewhat similar in appearance to the world-famous Giant’s Causeway in Northern Island, Daepo Haean Jusangjeolli Cliff is a spectacular rock formation that is well worth checking out if you have the chance. Now a Natural Monument, the jagged cliff was formed when Hallasan Mountain erupted; the cooling lava created the beautiful formations we see today.

Lying along the island’s southern coastline, Daepo Haean Jusangjeolli Cliff looks particularly spectacular when a large wave crashes against the rocks. From amid the surf, you can see its peculiar square and hexagon shapes re-emerge before you.

10. Dongmun Market

Established all the way back in 1945, Dongmun Market’s many shops and stands sell everything under the sun, with glistening fresh fish displays lying next to stalls laden with fruits, vegetables, meat, and more.

As vendors also sell clothes, stationery, and souvenirs, it is just as popular with tourists as it is with locals, and wandering around is a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening.

There is loads of delicious local food to be had in the market. As dusk falls, people head here to enjoy its fabulous street food, with dumplings and seafood being particularly popular. As it is a traditional market, Dongmun is a great place to visit if you want to get a taste for local life in Jeju City.

9. Jeongbang Waterfall

Lying on the outskirts of Seogwipo, Jeongbang is one of the most famous waterfalls on the island, and with good reason. Shooting off the top of a cliff, Jeongbang’s white waters plunge directly into the ocean below. It is remarkably the only waterfall to do so in the whole of Asia.

Towering to a height of 23 meters, the majestic falls certainly make for a dashing sight, as rugged rocks and tree-topped cliffs lie to either side of it. There aren’t many other waterfalls like it in the world.

To get up close to Jeongbang, visitors need to clamber over a series of boulders and loose stones. As these can get quite slippery with the waterfall’s spray, it is a good idea to wear comfortable shoes.

8. Hallim Park

Offering up the perfect mix of culture and nature, Hallim Park has something for everyone in the family to enjoy; there is even a children’s amusement park for young ones to get a thrill out of. Covering a vast area in the northwest of the island, Hallim Park has lots of delightful gardens for you to wander around, and each of them has a different theme or look with various types of fauna and flora on show.

Tucked away amongst its bonsai, water, and palm tree gardens are a small zoo, a charming little restaurant, and a traditional folk village where you can learn more about Jeju’s local culture and customs. On top of all of this, its two main attractions are the enthralling caves of Ssangyonggul and Hyeopjaegul, which you can venture inside to take a look at.

7. Hyeopjae Beach

Blessed with dazzlingly bright white sands and sparkling turquoise waters, Hyeopjae Beach in the west of Jeju Island certainly paints a very pretty picture. While its warm sands are perfect for lounging peacefully on, its inviting waters make for some great swimming, and the views out over the nearby Biyangdo Island are simply stunning.

As there are several restaurants and cafes lying along the beach, with amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and parasols all on offer, you can easily spend a whole day or more relaxing at Hyeopjae Beach.

6. Spirited Garden

With its peaceful look and feel, the immaculately presented Spirited Garden is a delight to stroll around. Centuries-old bonsai trees lie alongside rambling hills, picturesque stone bridges, and gently gurgling waterfalls. Designed to set your soul at ease, the garden was founded all the way back in 1968 by Bum-Young Sung.

Since then, numerous important heads of state have strolled around its harmonious landscapes. Representing both the nature and beauty of Jeju, the Spirited Garden is a fascinating blend of art, nature, and philosophy, and is definitely worth visiting if you have the chance.

5. Manjanggul Cave

Formed hundreds of thousands of years ago, Manjanggul Cave is one of the largest and longest lava tube caves in the world and is a very popular draw among tourists. Measuring up to 30 meters high and 23 meters wide, the cave stretches for a staggering nine kilometers.

It is these dimensions that make walking along the one kilometer of the enormous cave that is open to the public so impressive. On the way, you’ll pass lots of beautiful stalagmites, stalactites, and rock formations.

Besides simply enjoying being in such a unique place, the main attraction is the gigantic 7.8-meter-high lava column that lies at one end of it – the tallest such structure in the world. With bats flitting about here and there and softly-lit lava creations wherever you look, exploring Manjanggul Cave certainly makes for a memorable experience.

4. Hamdeok Beach

Lying just half an hour to the east of Jeju City, Hamdeok Beach’s soft sands and shallow waters make it a popular place to visit with families, especially during the warm summer months.

While much of the beach disappears at high tide, when the waters retreat, a huge sand bar emerges. This is delightful to stroll along, with the glimmering turquoise waters lying all around you.

Bordered by rocky islets and rolling hills with the town of Jocheon lying behind it, the beach is set amid some wonderful scenery, and there are some lovely coastal hikes you can do nearby. In addition to the changing rooms and deckchairs you can find along its golden sands, there are also lots of restaurants, cafes, and hotels for you to choose from.

From Hamdeok Beach, the Korea Strait has lots of fantastic watersports, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and water skiing for visitors to enjoy, while paddling in its waters or swimming in the sea is always delightful.

3. Hallasan National Park

Centered around Hallasan, the highest peak in the country, the national park of the same name will delight nature lovers and outdoor aficionados in equal measure. Towering to a height of 1,950 meters, Hallasan lies right at the heart of Jeju itself, and the dormant volcano’s lofty peak can be seen from almost everywhere on the island.

Snaking their way up the side of the mountain are many different trails and paths for you to hike along. Each of them offers astounding views of the surrounding countryside down below.

Believed by locals to be inhabited by spirits and gods, Hallasan actually boasts some very distinct fauna and flora due to it having been separated from the mainland for so many millennia. With flower-filled meadows and lush forests found within its confines, the park has lots of beautiful scenery for you to revel in; Baengnokdam crater lake is just one of its many highlights.

2. Udo Island

Blessed with rugged natural beauty, Udo Island’s splendid scenery has long attracted visitors to its shores. Over the years, it has even appeared in a couple of Korean films. Literally named ‘Cow Island’ due to its apparent resemblance to a cow lying down, Udo does have a very rural look and feel to it, with agriculture being the main source of its inhabitants’ income besides tourism.

Surrounded by jagged cliffs that are punctuated by desolate yet breathtaking beaches, Udo Island is just a short ferry ride away from the village of Seongsan-ri in the east of Jeju. As well as exploring all its natural sights, visitors can take a trip to see its charming little lighthouse or check out its museum on local marine and insect life. In total, it only takes around an hour to drive around the whole island.

1. Seongsan Ilchulbong

Also known as Sunrise Peak, the volcanic crater of Seongsan Ilchulbong is Jeju’s most famous and iconic attraction. Wherever you go on the island, you’ll see photos and tour operators advertising trips to go and see it.

Formed some five thousand years ago by a volcanic eruption, its distinctive bowl-like shape rises dramatically up above the sea and the waves that pound its steep cliffs.

It takes around half an hour to hike the 180 meters to its summit. From its ridge, you can enjoy breathtaking views out over the ocean, Udo Island, and Jeju itself. As its nickname may indicate, a particularly great time of day to visit is at sunrise, when you can witness the sun slowly inch its way above the horizon, lighting up the waters before you.

Not to be missed out on, Seongsan Ilchulbong and its unique landscape are the most impressive sights you can expect to see in Jeju Island.

Best Time to Visit Jeju Island

As it is a hugely popular holiday and honeymoon destination for both Koreans and Chinese, the gorgeous Jeju Island is quite crowded year-round. The most popular months to visit are from March to November though each of its four distinct seasons offers something different.

The spring and autumn months, so March to May and September to November, are normally considered the best time to visit. Average temperatures of 12 to 26°C (53 to 79°F) are perfect for exploring its volcanic landscapes and visiting its unusual theme parks.

These seasons are particularly picturesque thanks to their blossoming flowers and glittering golden leaves. Numerous fun events are also held such as the Canola Flower Festival in April and Tamna Cultural Festival in October.

While the hot summer months are best for beach activities and watersports, June through to mid-September also sees huge amounts of rain. Despite the high humidity and possibility of typhoons, this is when the island is at its busiest and most expensive.

As December to March is very quiet on Jeju Island, there are some fabulous deals to be had, though most people are put off by the cold, windy weather. Its rugged landscapes look quite romantic in the winter with some spending Christmas and New Year’s here.

Share this post:

15 Best Cities to Visit in South Korea

15 Top Tourist Attractions in South Korea

19 Best Tourist Attractions in Seoul

10 Best Things to do in Gyeongju, South Korea

10 Best Places to Visit in South Korea

15 Best Countries to Visit in Asia

10 Best All Inclusive Resorts in Fiji

29 Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia

15 Best Things to Do in Ethiopia

12 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Madagascar

28 Exciting Tourist Attractions on Jeju Island

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

There are many tourist attractions on Jeju Island that are worth visiting. Tourist attractions on Jeju Island range from beautiful beaches to epic hiking routes to mermaid ladies and lots more. So which tourist attractions on Jeju Island should you include in your travel itinerary and why? Read on to find out…

Which are the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island?

#1 yongmeori beach, #2 hamdeok beach, #3 hyeopjae beach, #4 woljeongri beach, #5 jungmun saekdal beach, #6 hado beach, what is manjanggul cave, how to get to manjanggul cave, practical tips for visiting the lava tube, places to stay near manjanggul cave, what are the olle trails, which is the best time of year to hike the olle trails, jeju olle trails packing list, #1 olle trail 10, #2 olle trail 14.1, #3 olle trail 6, #4 olle trail 18.1, #5 olle trail 9, why should you walk one of the olle trails, where is mount hallasan, am i fit enough to climb mount hallasan, mount hallsan weather, mount hallasan packing list, the yeongsil trail, the eorimok trail, the seongpanak trail, the gwaneumsa trail, the donnaeko trail, the eoseungsaengak trail, the seokgulam trail, tips for hiking mount hallasan, what is seongsan ilchulbong peak, why you should visit the peak, ember you will need a valid international driving permit as well as your own driving licence. , seongsan ilchulbong opening times, how much does it cost to visit the peak, other things to know about seongsan ilchulbong, who are the jeju island divers, the haenyeo in history, jeju island divers & society, what do the haneyeo catch, dangers for the jeju island divers, the haenyeo now, what is maze land, jeju, what is there to do at maze land, private visits, group visits, maze land, jeju opening hours, facilities available at maze land, jeju.

• Tip: Google maps doesn’t work well in Jeju. I’ve read that this is because South Korea do not want everything visible to North Korea…. Apple maps, however, works pretty well when searching for the tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

Jeongbang Waterfall

Sejeongbang waterfall, cheonjiyeon falls, cheonjeyeon waterfall, eongtto falls, yongam-p’okp’o, tips for visiting jeju waterfalls, the tourist attractions on jeju island: to conclude.

Jeju is a unique place and with it there are lots of unique tourist attractions on Jeju Island. A trip here is often combined with a visit to the capital of South Korea, Seoul , where there are many flights direct to Jeju island. A popular South Korean honeymoon destination as well as hikers paradise, Jeju has a lot to offer every type of tourist here, but which tourist attractions on Jeju Island are the very best and why? Lets dig a bit deeper…

The best beaches in Jeju

Beaches are some of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island. But with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know which are the best beaches in Jeju. A honeymoon paradise and kids play haven, the beaches of Jeju are some of the best around.

Why travel to the best beaches in Jeju Island?

Jeju Island, part of the Jeju Province of South Korea, is a tourist hotspot. And that comes as no surprise – there are so many tourist attractions on Jeju Island, you’d be hard pushed to find yourself bored on a visit.

Here’s a look at the best beaches in Jeju, so you can find the perfect one for a spot of sunbathing, playing in the sand or sampling enjoying the sound of the waves.

Located on the west end of the island, Yongmeori Beach is one of the best beaches in Jeju due to its beauty, and the chance to spot the Haenyeo – Jeju’s ‘women divers’, who free-dive for seafood which they sell on the beach. If you have the stomach for it, it’s definitely worth trying this local delicacy especially if you’ve been lucky enough to see the women in action!

TIP : check the weather as access to Youngmeori Beach is often limited at high tide or due to strong winds.

The rocky trail to the beach might be one of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island, but it isn’t the easiest of walks, so this beach may be better reserved for visits without young children or elderly people. However, if you can make the walk, it’s so worth it.

The rock formations and landforms are fascinating, and the beach makes for a stunning photograph.

There is a shipwreck, examples of coastal erosion and beautiful blue water – all beautiful and interesting things to enjoy, making this beach one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

With its black volcanic rock contrasted with soft white sand and calm turquoise waters, Hamdeok Beach is one of the best beaches in Jeju and thus one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island without a doubt.

You can camp here (or sleep in a caravan, if camping is a bit out-there for you) and there’s a car park, which is ideal if you have hired a car to drive around the island. You can also reach the beach (which is on the northern side of the island) by bus from the city centre and other parts of Jeju.

There are plenty of restaurants, bars and cafés to choose from up and down Hamdeok Beach. With air-conditioning, comfortable seating and tasty pastries, Cafe Delmoondo comes highly recommended. If you’re into water sports , you can rent a kayak or go kitesurfing. There’s something for everyone at this beautiful beach!

Tip: To find the best hotels near the Jeju beaches use to search box below!

If you’re looking for something colourful, look no further!

Hyeopjae Beach is one of the best beaches in Jeju due to its restaurants, bars, camp sites and the shipping container village that is home to AirBnBs, ice cream stands and more.

With views of the vista of Biyangdo Island, plenty of sun beds and umbrellas as well as fine white sand peppered with shells, it is no surprise that visitors love Hyeopjae Beach. This is one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

Situated at the north west end of Jeju Island, the beach is opposite Hallim Park . This makes the area a perfect place for a day out, as the park is home to some scenic gardens, a small zoo, two caves and even a folk village. Hyopjae Beach can be reached by bus, too!

Tip: The weather can change quickly on Jeju Island. Make sure you carry a light weight waterproof coat with you, like this one – mine was a savour!

In Jeju Island’s north east, you’ll find Woljeongri Beach. It is hailed as one of the best beaches in Jeju due to its soft white sand and sparkling blue waters and therefore ranked as one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

There is a shop nearby if you want to take a picnic with you onto the beach, or you can visit one of the many restaurants and bars that line the shore. They make the perfect place to sit down, relax and enjoy the peaceful view in front of you. There is even a rooftop cafe, for something extra special!

You will also have a great view of the electric power generator wind turbine, something that interests a lot of visitors.

Expect cool breezes but little shade – perfect for those who love to soak up every last ray of sunshine.

There is a bus (101) that brings visitors to Woljeongri Beach, but driving here or booking a taxi is the ideal way to reach the area.

If you’re into surfing, then this is one of the best beaches and best tourist attractions on Jeju Island by a mile!

There is a surf school for beginners, and those who already know how to surf will find it an easy-ish day on the waves.

If surfing isn’t for you, Jungmun Saekdal Beach is great for people watching. Whether you do hat from the sand or from the cliff top for an aerial view, you’ll have a lot of fun seeing people learning to surf!

TIP: there are changing and shower facilities available at this beach.

If you head to the beach early in the morning or later in the evening, you’ll find it to be much less crowded. This is the perfect time for a swim! If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a romantic stroll or peaceful family walk, Jungmun Saekdal Beach as the sun rises or sets is where you want to be.

If you want the opportunity to just sit back, relax and do absolutely nothing then Hado Beach is one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

Mostly untouched by tourists, it is completely calm and peaceful, which in my opinion, makes this one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island. Take a towel, some SPF and a book – and enjoy.

There is an opportunity for kayaking here, if you do get fed up of enjoying the peace and quiet, but for the most part you can just do nothing.

It’s around two hours away from the city centre by bus, but if you’ve hired a car or are staying nearby then it does come recommended for those needing some R & R!

Manjanggul Cave

Everyone should have Manjanggul Cave on their travel itinerary as this really is one of the top tourist attractions on Jeju Island. This incredible lava tube is marvellous feat of nature that is well worth the visit, BUT there are some thing that you will need to know before your visit…. read on to find out more…

The cave is actually a lava tube – the 12th-longest lava tube in the world. It is 23 metres wide, 30 metres high and almost 9 kilometres long! Located in Gimnyeong-ri, Gujwa-eup, it is around 300,000 years old. Due to its age and how well preserved Manjanggul Cave is, it is said to have incredible scientific value. It is also a brilliant piece of heritage for Jeju, making this one of the most important tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

So what is a lava tube, then? Lava tubes like Manjanggul Cave are natural conduits created by flowing lava, moving under the hardened surface of a lava flow. These tubes either drain the lava from a volcano during an eruption, or they’re extinct. If they are extinct then this means that the lava flow has long ceased, the rock has cool, and a cave has been created. This is exactly what happened to form Manjanggul Cave on Jeju Island.

These tourist attractions on Jeju Island are fascinating!

In the very north of the island, towards the north-east, you’ll find Gimnyeong-ri. This is where Manjanggul Cave is located. Getting to the cave is easy. You can book a transfer to and from your hotel or accommodation, which is a simple and fast way of getting there and back. Or, you could do a day-long tour of the east side of the island , which will include visiting the cave.

This is one of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island that is accessible via public transport too. From Donggwangyang in Jeju-si, the main city centre, take bus number 101. It will cost around £1-2, and the journey as far as Gimnyeong Elementary School takes approximately half an hour. From here, you can walk the last couple of miles or get a taxi. It’s not a bad walk, and the views are nice!

Regardless of how you get to Manjanggul Cave, there are some things to note. Being a cave, it does get cold and damp – so wrap up warm.

Bring a waterproof coat, even just a lightweight one that you can carry in a rucksack. We visited the cave shortly after it had been raining and it was actually raining inside the cave! So I recommend taking an umbrella too…

Wear comfortable shoes. Flip flops are no good; walking boots, trainers or sturdy sandals are ideal. Due to the nature of the cave’s creation, the ground is fairly uneven and rocky. Be careful! There are also lots of puddles, so waterproof shoes are your best bet here.

There are three entrances into Manjanggul Cave. However, only the second entrance is open to tourists. You can only venture 1km into the cave, but this is enough to be able to see all the beauty of it. You’ll be able to spot stalactites, stalagmites, lava shelves, lava rafts and flow stones.

DID YOU KNOW: Manjanggul Cave is a UNSECO Global GeoPark .

The cave is open from 9am until 6pm until the summer, and until 5.30pm in the winter.

Manjanggul Cave is also closed on the first Wednesday of every month, so this is worth bearing in mind when planning a trip to the lava tube. We were caught out with this and ended up at the nearby Maze Land instead when we found that the cave was closed!

Most people spend around 1-2 hours at the cave.

Jeju has plenty of places to stay. The Manjanggul Cave is one of Jeju’s top attractions, but it is a little bit out of the way and quite far from where most people choose to stay on Jeju Island. So you may want to consider spending the night near by…Here are some holiday homes and villas that aren’t too far from the cave itself…

Around 2 miles from Manjanggul Cave, Jeju Olleh House is a seven bedroom house that sleeps up to 18 guests. This is perfect for large families, or for those travelling around Asia who have ended up in a diverse group of backpackers. It has a pool and BBQ facilities, as well as your own kitchen. Free WiFi and free parking are available too. There are plenty of amenities at the house, and it is clean as well as beautifully decorated. This accommodation is a great base for visiting the tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

Jeju Special Pension is also a couple of miles from the cave. It can host up to 12 guests, and has free WiFi, free parking and plenty of amenities. The beach is nearby, and there is a good-sized kitchen as well as BBQ facilities. There are beautiful views and the property is well maintained – again, a great option for large families or groups of travelling friends visiting the tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

A few miles further out (approximately 6-7 miles from Manjanggul Cave) you’ll find plenty of hotels. Jeju Jukwang Resort , just a short walk from Hamdeok Beach, has everything you’ll need. A pool, free parking and plenty of outdoor space are on offer here. Each room has a private bathroom, and you can choose from family rooms, double rooms and apartments too. The staff are happy to sort taxis out for you, meaning you can easily get to the cave. 

Another great option is Vizarim Resort . At 4 miles away, it is pretty close to the cave and in a great location. There are beaches and forests nearby. Free WiFi, free parking and non-smoking rooms as well as BBQ facilities and plenty of outdoor space are all on offer here. A great place for nature lovers to stay and a great choice when tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

Jeju’s Olle Trails

Jeju’s Olle Trails offer unique opportunities for a gentle stroll along the island’s shoreline or an adventurous hike across the lava fields. Whether you’re an avid hiker, an active family or someone who enjoys going for walks, this is one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island!

The Olle trails make up several tourist attractions on Jeju Island. The Jeju Olle Trails are a series of routes that make up one long-distance footpath on the island. These are some of the most famous tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

There are 21 main routes, with 5 sub-routes, and the whole trail is around 422km long. The landscapes are ever-changing: some routes pass through farms, some through beaches, and some through forests.

Olle is a local word for “a narrow pathway that is connected from the street to the front gate of a house”, in the Jeju dialect.

The route as a whole was founded in 2007 – and ever since, people have flocked from South Korea and beyond to spend some time hiking along different Olle Trails. There are coloured signs letting you know which direction you are walking in, and markers pointing out the different trails within the route.

DID YOU KNOW: The trails all have individual rest years, to allow time for the area to breathe and plants to grow back, retaining the beauty of each trail for future visitors.

The Olle Trails were actually founded by an ex-journalist, Suh Myung-suk . After many stressful years on the job she decided to take some time out and refuel, so she headed to Spain to walk the Camino de Santiago.

Inspired by her trip and the walk itself, Suh decided it would be amazing to have something similar at home in Jeju. With a team of like-minded people she set about discovering and creating hiking routes on the island, which was no easy feat!

Jeju Island has its own unique weather system. Being an island, there is often a lot of rain on Jeju Island, particularly during monsoon season. But don’t let that put you off! Even in the rain the Olle Trails can be enjoyable- just don’t forget to pack your pocket-sized waterproof , just incase!

The summer season is very hot and humid and this is also the time with the highest rainfall. So I would personally recommend avoiding these tourist attractions on Jeju Island during this time.

Winter can be a beautiful time to look at the Jeju landscape and admire the scenery, however it can get bitterly cold during this time, especially when you are by the coast. So I would avoid hiking at this time of year too.

The best time of year to enjoy the Olle Trails is in the spring or autumn. During this time the weather is warm but not too humid and the winds are less fierce. It is the perfect time to explore these tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

When visiting any of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island it is always important to ensure that you have the appropriate gear and supplies when going hiking, especially if you are walking to remote areas (I learned this when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro !).

Here are my recommendations for a Mount Hallasan packing list-

• Hiking boots- mine are Karrimor boots
• Walking poles- I don’t personally use these for small hikes, but I do love a good walking pole! There are some great deals on Amazon .
• Reusable water bottle- we love our Cambelbak , which is great quality and even has a kids version !
• Waterproof coat- if the weather is hot, I recommend a light-weight rain poncho, like this one , otherwise I usually wear my North Face rain jacket
• Lunch and snacks- you never know when there will be places to be food
• First aid kit- because you never er know when you might need one. This one from Amazon is pretty handy.
• Suncream- The sun is strong in Jeju!
• Baby carrier- if you’re taking young children it’s best to wear them because not all trails are stroller-friendly. We LOVE our Tula Free to Grow .

Which are the best Olle trails to walk?

The Olle Trails make up several of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island. Across the 21 Olle Trails and their 5 sub-routes, there are a lot of different options. And of course, these things are entirely subjective. Some routes are easier than others, some are long and some are short.

Here is a map from the Official Site of Korea Tourism showing a map of all of the Olle Trails. As you can see these tourist attractions on Jeju Island suround the island.

This is one of the most popular Olle Trails and one of the most popular tourist attractions on Jeju Island, with a distance of around 17.5km – it takes around 5 hours to hike the whole trail.

Route 10 goes from Hwasun Beach (easily accessible by bus or taxi) to Moseulpo.

*** Click here to book your tour of Jeju Island! ***

A beautiful coastal walk, route 10 allows you fantastic views of the ocean and various volcanic cones known as oreum in the local Jeju dialect. You will also pass the Altteureu Airfield, the remnants of a Japanese airfield which you are free to explore.

The trail ends at Moseulpo Harbour, where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings!

One of the best Olle Trails is 14.1, which is around 9.3km long. Hiking it takes roughly 3 hours, depending on your pace, and it is incredibly green.

Start from the village of Jeonji and follow the blue ribbons – or, start from the other end and follow the red ribbons to take you back to the village.

You will pass through farms and fields, and spot the beautiful Ganses – native ponies whose name means slow wanderer. Stop and enjoy the view of Mount Hallasan and the island’s coast, then keep going until you hit the tea plantation. Here you can enjoy a green tea ice cream, or a mug of steaming tangerine tea.

TOP TIP: the village of Jeonji is home to one of the best pizzerias on the island, and you can never underestimate the importance of being well fed before a hike…

At 13.3km long, route 6 is one of the best Olle Trails and one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island- not too long but not too short, and with a low difficulty level. It takes around 4 hours to hike this route, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the view.

If you want an overview of Jeju in a short period of time, then this is the route to walk; it covers a wide variety of terrains, and you’ll see beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes , monuments and more.

There are cafés along the way to stop for refreshments, and in the more urban areas you may struggle to find the blue and red ribbons – but just look down and you’ll be able to spot markings on the tarmac roads instead!

A short ferry ride away on Chujado Island, 18.1 is one of the most incredible Olle Trails. It allows you a real insight into a rural South Korean area. The route takes around 6-8 hours, so planning is really important; it isn’t easy to arrange to stay overnight on the island, but it can be done. Ferries are limited but if you time it right, you’ll be absolutely fine.

However, because of these slight difficulties, many people don’t hike along route 18.1 – this means you’ll be one of very few hikers to have done so, and it really is so worth it for the views and the landmarks.

TOP TIP: the Chuja Olle Guesthouse is recommended for walkers, which costs around 20,000 WON per night.

One of the more difficult Olle Trails, this one involves a bit of climbing. However, it is also one of the shorter routes at 6.3km – and the views are beautiful.

Jeju is known for its biodiversity, and this trail definitely provides plenty of examples of that. There are beautiful flowers, plants and trees along the trail. Ocean views and mountain scenery are the icing on the cake, and this part of the Olle Trail is definitely a photographers dream.

Another great part of route 9 is the Japanese Army tunnel which still exists. You can walk through it, and learn a bit of history.

The Olle Trails in Jeju are a fantastic way of getting to know the island and experiencing the tourist attractions on Jeju Island. They offer sightseeing opportunities, a chance to be at one with nature and also somewhere to escape from day to day life. It’s easy to do, too – just turn up at a route and walk. There is route information available on the official tourist sites, and you can also hike with a guide .

Hiking Mount Hallasan

Mount Hallasan is other one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island and climbing Mount Hallasan is an exciting and rewarding addition to anyone’s Jeju travel itinerary . We certainly lOVED it! Whether you’re an esteemed hiker, a casual walker or a family looking for a little bit of exercise and some stunning views of Jeju Island, there is an option for you on Mount Hallasan!

Located almost smack-bang in the centre of Jeju Island, Mount Hallasan is the highest peak in South Korea and the biggest of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

The area around the mountain is a designated national park (and tha national park itself is one of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island too). Mount Hallasan actually makes up a large portion of the island – it is often used to represent Jeju as a whole. It can be seen no matter where you are on Jeju Island.

As you drive around Jeju Island you can often see Mount Hallasan in the vista. The mountain makes for a stunning view and is very inviting for those who enjoy walking, hiking or nice views!

DID YOU KNOW: there is a local saying which goes “Jeju Island is Hallasan, and Hallasan is Jeju.”

Hallasan National Park is a twenty-thirty minute drive from Jeju City. You can also drive or get public transport to each of the trails – the journey time will be slightly different for each. You can easily hire a car when visiting Jeju; a taxi from the city to the mountain would set you back around £15-18 GBP.

If you are driving, parking can be a bit of a challenge, especially on a busy day. I’ve heard stories of people having to leave their cars way down the mountain and walking for an hour or more before reaching the start of their trail! I recommend starting early and factoring extra time just in case.

If you take public transport then you may also have a bit of a walk from the bus stop to the trail. Personally, my advice is to taker a taxi or a bus followed by a taxi to reach the start of your chosen Mount Hallasan trail.

If you’re worried that you might not be fit enough to climb Mount Hallasan, don’t be! This is one of the major tourist attractions on Jeju Island that be conquered by all!

Yes, the full day hikes do require some basic fitness, but they are not too difficult. Plus, there are several shorter trails that you can take if you are short on time or if you are not confident in your fitness or physical capabilities.

This is one of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island where weather matters. The weather on Mount Hallasan will be colder than it is in Jeju City, beaches or other nearby tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

Because of the height of the mountain and the island’s location, clouds will often gather around around Mount Hallasan. This means that temperatures can feel cooler, visibility might not be great and rain is likely.

Whilst you won’t be staying overnight on Mount Hallasan, it is still important that you have all of the necessary hiking gear to ensure that you have a safe an enjoyable hike. Make sure you have the right gear before visiting the tourist attractions on Jeju Island by taking a look at my recommendations for a Mount Hallasan packing list-

• Reusable water bottle- we love our Cambelbak , which is great quality and even has a kids version ! You can refill on most trails.
• Lunch and snack- there is nowhere selling food on the trails
• Suncream- The sun is strong in Jeju and it only gets stronger the higher that you go!

What Mount Hallasan trail should I climb?

There are several ways to hike up Mount Hallasan. The four most popular trails are The Yeongsil Trail, The Eorimok Trail, The Seongpanak Trail and The Gwaneumsa Trail. I will also gives you details of The Donnaeko Trail, The Eoseungsaengak Trail and The Seokgulam Trail below.

The different trails take between 30 minutes and 10 hours each, and all offer something special. Here is a deeper look into each Mount Hallasan trail, to help you decide which one is perfect for your Jeju Island hike!

This is the shortest Mount Hallasan hike at 3.7km each way. Depending on your pace, this hike should only take between 2 and 3 hours total. It’s the perfect way to spend your final day on the island, or a few hours one afternoon in between exploring everything else Jeju has to offer. This short hike makes this one of the most fun and accessible tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

While this trail doesn’t take you to the summit of Mount Hallasan, it does show you plenty of waterfalls and beautiful views. It’s definitely the easiest way to experience a Jeju Island volcano hike!

Take the 240 bus from Jeju City, which will take you straight to the trail head. There is parking available for hire cars, and a taxi from either Jeju City or Seogwipo will get you there in around half an hour too.

Another fairly short hike, this one is 4.7km each way. In total, it usually takes around 3-3.5 hours to go up and down this trail. The incline is shallow and there are stunning views on offer. Trees offer a lot of shade on this route, too! This is another easy way to hike up Mount Hallasan!

The 240 bus can you drop you off at the entrance point of this trail too, and parking is available for hire cars. A taxi here will also take around half an hour.

Getting longer and more difficult, this is 9.6km each way. It should take around 8 hours to hike the trail as a whole. This one takes you right to the summit of Mount Hallasan, and it’s not too steep either. So although it’s the longest trail, it isn’t the most difficult!

There are direct buses available to the Seongpanak Trail. 181 from the airport, 281 from Jeju City and 182 from Seogwipo. Taxis and hire cars can access the trail head, too.

At 8.7km each way, this isn’t the longest trail. It should take around 9 hours to complete the hike, due to being much steeper than Seongpanak. This is one of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island that require a bit of fitness to master. It takes you to the summit of Mount Hallasan, and the views all the way up are spectacular. The trail starts about 1km away from the Gwanemsa Temple, which is definitely worth a visit.

To get the trail head, you first need to get to Jeju International University. The 181 bus from the airport will take you here,as well the 365 bus from Jeju City and the 281 bus from Seogwipo. From the university, catch the 475 bus. Cars can access the trail head too!

TOP TIP: one of the best ways to hike up Mount Hallasan is to go up via the Seongpanak Trail, because it’s not as steep, and then down via the Gwaneumsa Trail. This way you get to see the summit, and enjoy the incredible views that Gwaneumsa has to offer. There are taxis at the bottom which will take you back to Seongpanak if you have parked your car here, for example.

This 7km trail will take you around 3 1/2 hours to complete. This is a popular trail for getting some of those gorgeous coastal photographs as the view is stunning! To experience the best views I recommend that you climb either the Yeongsil or Eorimok trails and then descend via the Donnaeko Trail.

There is no easy public transport to reach the Donnaeko Trail. You will need to take a taxi from Seogwipo, which will put you back around W15,000.

The Eoseungsaengak Trail is one of the shortest hikes on Mount Hallasan and is perfect for hikers with young children and those who are short on time. The Eoseungsaengak Trail can be completed in around half an hour. It is a short 1.3km.

*** Click here to book a private taxi to take you to Mount Hallasan ***

The Eoseungsaengak Trail starts at the Hallasan National Park Visitor Centre, so there is plenty of parking. The trail ends at the Eoseungsaenggak Oreum. Here there is a Japanese watch tower from World War 2, which is pretty interesting. It offers stunning views of Mount Hallasan on a clear day.

You can reach the start of the trail from the bus stop on the 1139.

The Seokgulam Trail is another short hike. It is 1.5km in length and takes approximately 50 minutes to complete. Whilst this trail doesn’t have the same views as the Eoseungsaengak Trail, it is still a pleasant walk with good vistas at the end. There are some steep stretches.

The Seokgulam Trail starts at the cemetery car park in Cheonwangsa and runs through Ahheunahhopgol, finishing at Seoggulam, a women’s hermitage.

This might be one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island, but it doesn’t mean that you don’t need to prepare! Here are a few tips that you should take onboard before visiting the tourist attractions on Jeju Island that involve hiking or climbing…

Check the weather forecast before you set out, as some trails are closed when the weather is bad. Bring food, water and sun protection with you, and wear comfortable clothing and shoes. And make sure your camera has plenty of battery! With over 1800 species of plant on Mount Hallasan, you’ll want to capture everything you see. Visiting the national park is incredible enough as it is, but the mountain is something special.

Hiking up this volcano is an absolute must if you are planning a trip to Jeju Island – be at one with nature and look out across the island. It’s definitely worth the jelly legs and tired feet at the end of the hike…

Seongsan Ilchulbong

Seongsan Ilchulbong is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Jeju Island. With its jaw-dropping views and Instagram -worthy shots, this volcanic crater is a great place to visit. Here’s everything you could possibly need to know if you’re planning a visit to see the peak…

This is one of the most geologically interesting tourist attractions on Jeju Island. Also known as Sunrise Peak, it is an archetypal tuff cone – a type of vent landform caused by a volcanic eruption. Tuff cones are, as the name suggests, cone shaped as well as being steeply sloped. They are typically formed of highly altered and thickly bedded tephra, with wide craters.

Seongsan Ilchulbong was formed around 5,000 years ago, also making this one of the oldes tourist attractions on Jeju Island. It is the result of hydrovolcanic eruptions on the shallow seabed in the area.

It is located on the eastern side Jeju Island, and visitors say it resembles a giant castle. The cone is 182 metres high, and the inner structures are diverse making them a big interest to geologists and scientists alike. The materials here provide an insight into the eruptive and depositional processes of hydromagmatic volcanoes around the globe!

One of the main reasons to visit Seongsan Ilchulbong is to hike up the peak- yes, this is another one of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island that involves hiking! This takes around 45 minutes. There are frequent rest stops overlooking the sea, and steps have been built to ensure the climb is easier. The views as you ascend, and from the top, are absolutely spectacular.

You will also be able to see the Haenyeo to the left of the peak. These are the famed Jeju Island Divers, who catch sea food and have done since around 1629. Of course, in the 17th century there was no diving equipment – and the Haenyeo still choose not to use it. It is an hour to see them diving, and you can even buy fresh sea food from them at Seongsan Ilchulbong.

You can also see the sunrise here which, as the peak’s nickname suggests, is pretty fantastic- this is one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island for incredible vistas. Even though the peak itself doesn’t open until after sunrise, you can take the left hand trail (which is free entry) and climb the gentle slops to see the sun rising over the water. If you climb just before closing time during the right season, you can catch the sunset too!

Many people are reluctant to visit Seongsan Ilchulbong because they think that the climb to the peak may be too challenging. Well, if I can do it with a baby on my front and a toddler on my back, anyone can! They climb is actually not as difficult as it looks and is well worth it for the views that you get from the top…

TIP: parking is free and readily available at the peak.

If you’re travelling on a budget or don’t feel comfortable driving in a different country, you can get a bus to Seongsan Ilchulbong. Take the 701 bus from Jeju City Old Bus Terminal, which takes just over an hour, or the 111/112 directly from Jeju Airport. This takes between 1.5 and two hours.

During the summer, Seongsan Ilchulbong is open from ten past seven in the morning until seven o’clock at night. In the winter months, it opens at 7.30am and closes at six in the evening.

Seongsan Ilchulbong is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it popular with tourists and travellers from around the world . There are a few other World Heritage Sites on the island, and you can book some brilliant tours to take you to the peak and the nearby Manjanggul Cave as well as longer tours that will take you to every point of interest on Jeju Island .

If you are visiting as part of an organised tour, your admission fees will likely be included. However, if you’re more of a DIY traveller, here are the admission fees…

• Adult: 5,000 won
• Youth/child: 2,500 won
• Jeju residents: free

Reduced prices are available to those in groups of 10 or more. Child tickets are for ages 7-12, youth tickets for ages 13-24 and adult tickets for those aged 25-64. Children aged 6 and under, and the elderly (65+) are entitled to free entry, although proof of age is required.

The area is quite rainy. June is the wettest month, with an average of 12 days worth of rain – while October is the driest month with 6 days of rain. July and August are the warmest months, with highs of 29°C and lows of 23°C. The coldest months are January and February, with highs of 8-9°C and lows of a chilly 2°C.

Peak season on the island is late March to early April, so this tends to be when Seongsan Ilchulbong is busiest in terms of tourists. However, Jeju Island is at its most beautiful this time of year – so it’s no wonder everyone visits then!

There is a luggage storage room at entrance of the peak, should you be visiting on your way to or from the airport/ferry terminal.

The Mermaid Ladies

The Jeju Island Divers were one of the aspects of my Jeju travels that I found most interesting. In fact, this was one of my favourite tourist attractions on Jeju Island! I had seen a TV show about these remarkable women some years ago, but I hadn’t put two and two together when I booked my trip to Jeju.

These divers are one of the major tourist attractions on Jeju Island, so major in fact that they have featured in many tv shows and movies.

Also known as the Haenyeo, the Jeju Island divers are a group of women who free-dive for seafood. They are representative of the semi-matriarchal family structure that exists on the island, and are known for their iron will and determination as well as their free spirit.

Girls would traditionally start training to become Jeju Island divers at around the age of 11. They would start by learning in shallow waters, slowly getting deeper as they got older and more experienced. By 18, after seven years of training, they would be considered a fully fledged haenyeo.

Numbers are steadily dropping, now, so the majority of Jeju Island divers are over the age of 50 with new (and young) recruits being few and far between.

DID YOU KNOW: The Jeju Island divers can hold their breath for over three minutes, diving to around 30 metres deep ! Wow!

The Haenyeo can spend around 5-6 hours at a time in the water, even in winter. Modern day wetsuits are essential for this; when wearing cotton swimming costumes, the women could only stay in the water for one hour in the winter (before a 3-4 hour break by a fire) and around 3 hours during the summer months.

They don’t use many tools. Typically, the Jeju Island divers will wear a wetsuit, diving mask, gloves, fins (flippers), and chest weighs. They will carry an L-shaped weeding hoe as well as a net, which is attached to a flotation device.

This is one of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island with the most significant cultural value. While diving in Jeju dates back to around 434 AD, it was exclusively male in the beginning. It wasn’t until the 17th century that women joined the Jeju Island divers, according to history, and they were first known as jamnyeo . This translates literally as ‘diving women’.

However, by the 18th century, there were more women than men diving in and off Jeju. Nobody knows what the major reason for this big shift was – it could have been due to men dying at sea, or women having more subcutaneous fat, or because of higher taxes. But regardless, the Jeju Island divers became part of a female-dominated industry.

Many of the women started to replace their husband as the breadwinner in the relationship. This was especially true when, in 1910, Korea was colonised by Japan. Where the Jeju Island divers would previously have given most of their catch to the Choson government, the Japanese put an end to this. The Haenyeo were now able to make a profit from their harvest. Because of this, the female Jeju Island divers often naturally became the head of the household!

As briefly mentioned above, the divers are a leading factor in the community’s semi-matriarchal society. When the women became the breadwinners, the Haenyeo were the head of the household. They brought in the money, and they went out to work every day.

Of course, this meant roles were reversed and this extended to wider society too. Men would take care of the children, look after the home and do the shopping. Families would celebrate the birth of girls, rather than boys – a clear break from tradition! Not only that, but men would pay a dowry to family of the bride rather than the other way around.

During their 30-metre dives, the Jeju Island divers catch a variety of seafood. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Sea urchins

They sell it, both at markets and to tourists who are able to see the Haenyeo in action. And of course, they use it to feed their own families too!

There are certain dangers the Haenyeo must contend with. Free diving comes with health risks such as nitrogen narcosis, decompression sickness and barotrauma of the ears, eyes, lungs and sinus. There is always the risk of drowning or blacking out, too.

Jellyfish and sharks provide a danger to the Jeju Island divers, though not a particularly huge one. Poor weather is a big risk for the divers, in terms of physical danger and also in restricting their ability to work, catch and make money.

While there aren’t as many Jeju Island divers as there used to be, there is still a lot of interest in the women. In fact, the women themselves have become one of the major tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

Jeju has a museum dedicated to the divers: the Jeju Jaenyeo Museum. This is full of images, equipment and stories to help visitors learn more about the women. Open daily from 9am (except the first Monday of the month, when it’s closed), the museum takes 1-2 hours to walk through and really teaches you about the Jeju Island divers. By visiting the various beaches across Jeju , you can often see the women in action too!

In 2015, the government of Jeju were keen to preserve the divers and spent billions of won to do so. They subsidised the costs of wetsuits and provided insurance for the divers, allowing them to continue doing what they do. Jeju are proud of the Haenyeo and the tradition of diving on the island.

A year later, in 2016, UNESCO awarded the Jeju Island divers a place on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This is an incredible honour, and a reminder of the importance of what the Haenyeo do for Jeju.

Maze Land Jeju

Maze Land, Jeju is another one of the most popular tourist attractions on Jeju Island. From above it might look like crop circles, but this is actually a park that you can visit for a fun family day out!

A family attraction located in Jeju City, this is one of the most fun tourist attractions on Jeju Island. Maze Land is a park full of mazes made from hedges and walls. The mazes have different levels of difficulty. There are also puzzles and a maze gallery, and visitors can watch a 3D video about the history of mazes.

Maze Land is designed to remind visitors of three things said to be plentiful in Jeju: stones, wind and women. Collectively these are known as ‘Samda’. They come from the documentation of Jeju’s citizens’ struggle for existence battling rocky soil and constant winds, and from the importance of giving birth to daughters as well as the exile of many male citizens. Samda can also be used as a metaphor for the culture in Jeju: 

• Stone can represent bones and/or core elements like myths, traditional medicine and shamanic beliefs.
• Wind can represent breath, spirit or ki. This is said to inspire cultural humanistic endeavours – music, literature and art, as well as being connected to nature and having a sense of community.
• Women can represent the body and the flesh, having kept society going throughout history.

With stunning scenery surrounding the park, plenty of statues and even a rose garden, there is so much to see and enjoy at Maze Land, Jeju. This is one of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island that is especially popular with families.

Top tip: Don’t get confused between Maze Land and it’s smaller relative, Maze Park!

There are three different mazes. You can walk around all three of them, and they get harder each time. Each maze is connected, and you are given a map when you enter to ensure that you don’t actually get lost. It’s entirely up to you whether you use your map or not! This is one of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island where you will get lost!

Good to know: there are sprinklers above the mazes, keeping you cool on hot days and also giving the mazes a misty atmosphere.

As well as the mazes, the indoor museum is home to hundreds of handheld maze games. These will allow you to test your brain cells and give yourself a good warm up before heading into the actual mazes! You can learn about the history of mazes here, too, so it’s a great learning opportunity for you and your children.

Entry fee for Maze Land, Jeju

Entry fees to Maze Land, Jeju vary depending on whether you are visiting privately (e.g, as a family) or as part of a group. This could be a school or college trip. Fees are as follows:

• Aged 20 and over: 11,000KRW
• Aged 14-19: 9,000KRW
• Aged 3-13/Senior: 8,000KRW
• Disabled visitors: 5,000KRW
• Aged 20 and over: 9,000KRW
• Aged 14-19: 7,000KRW
• Aged 3-13/Senior: 6,500KRW
• Disabled visitors: 3,000KRW

You can book a visit with a private transfer HERE , which includes your park entrance fee.

The park is open daily, from 9am until 6pm. When planning a visit, it may be a good idea to keep an eye on their website for updates regarding weather conditions that may prevent Maze Land opening that day.

Visitors typically spend two to three hours at Maze Land, Jeju. This includes walking through the mazes and visiting the on-site museum.

Did you know: Running Man, the South Korean variety show, filmed some of their episodes at Maze Land. This has helped make it an even more popular tourist destination!

In order to make your visit as enjoyable as possible, a variety of facilities are available. There is on-site parking, should you have hired a car. You can pay by cash or card at Maze Land, Jeju, and there is free WiFi available. There are toilets and a designated smoking area, and refreshments are available to purchase during your visit.

There is also a restaurant on site. Located on the left hand side of the car park, you will find a huge canteen-style restaurant area that seats 600 guests. It offers healthy local dishes. There are around 8 types of seasonal vegetables as well as popular South Korean dishes to give you a real taste of Jeju. Some of these include mackerel gangjeong, tteokbokki and bibimbap. Food is served buffet-style, and the restaurant has a stunning view of the forest, gardens and waterfalls outside.

Top tip: Jeju can get extremely hot, so be sure to take SPF with you to make sure you’re protected whilst out in the open air.

Jeju Waterfalls

We love a good waterfall and Jeju did not disappoint! In fact, the Jeju waterfalls are some of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

So, lets take a look at the last tourist attractions on Jeju Island on this list…

Where are the Jeju waterfalls?

There are six waterfalls on the island of Jeju. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim or take the perfect Instagram snaps (I took loads, you can see them over on my Instagram account ), there’s a waterfall for you. We structured our Jeju itinerary around the use of our hire car; which made visiting the Jeju waterfalls really easy.

If you don’t have a car on your trip, I would recommend taking a tour (public transport is a bit slow and you might not have time to visit all of the Jeju waterfalls if you rely on public transport). My go-to for tours is always Viator because they have such a great range of tours that are generally pretty good value. You can click here to see some of my favourite Jeju tours .

These tourist attractions on Jeju Island are conveniently located relatively close to each other (except for Yongam-p’okp’o, which is on Mount Hallasan). You could squeeze five of these waterfalls into one day of sightseeing without feeling too rushed.

Tip: Google maps doesn’t work well in Jeju. I’ve read that this is because South Korea do not want everything visible to North Korea…. Apple maps, however, works pretty well when searching for the tourist attractions on Jeju Island .

Here is a map I created from Google, showing where the waterfalls are located, to give you an idea of proximity. In case you aren’t aware of scale here, you can drive the width of the island in around 2 1/2 hours- so hopefully that gives you a rough idea of travelling times by car.

So, without further ado, here’s a breakdown of what each of these tourist attractions on Jeju Island has to offer…

Donghong-dong, Seogwipo, Jeju Island. Close to the ocean, Jeongbang Waterfall is 23 metres high and around 8 metres wide. Some sources say it is the only waterfall in Asia the falls directly into the ocean! However, it technically falls into a sheltered cove rather than the ocean – so this has often been disputed.

It costs 2000 KRW to visit Jeongbang Waterfall – around £1.30 GBP, or $1.70 USD.

Legend states that a holy dragon lived under Jeongbang Waterfall. Its spirit is said to be contained in the water, bringing rain in times of drought and also curing diseases. Another tale goes that Emperor Jin of China (259 BC – 210 BC) sent one of his servants, Seobul, to Mount Halla. The emperor wanted the magical herbs of eternal youth, which the servant failed to find. He did, however, stumble upon one of the Jeju Waterfalls. There is an inscription on the wall of Jeongbang Waterfall that says Seobulgwacha and refers to the servant’s journey.

This is one of my favourite tourist attractions on Jeju Island.

Another one of my favourite tourist attractions on Jeju Island is Topyeong-dong, Seogwipo, Jeju Island. Lying just 300 metres to the east of Jeongbang Waterfall, within walking distance for most, you will find the smallest of the Jeju Waterfalls.

Sejeongbang Waterfall makes a beautiful swimming spot with its crystal clear blue water, ocean views and stairs to provide easy access. BUT the water is ice cold so swimming is not for the faint-hearted!

Given that Sejeongbang Waterfall is much smaller than it’s neighbouring waterfall, this is less crowded and much more peaceful, which I personally like.

Cheonji-dong, Seogwipo, Jeju Island. Surrounded by greenery, Cheonjiyeon Falls almost looks like water pouring straight from the sky. The name literally means sky connected with land! It is 22 metres high, and 12 metres wide. Landbridges have been formed from large volcanic rocks, and visitors must walk along a landscaped trail to reach the waterfall.

This is said to be the most popular of all of the Jeju waterfalls and one of the best tourist attractions on Jeju Island. It can get quite busy, particularly in school holidays and on weekends.

Cheonjiyeon Falls are illuminated at night, making this Jeju waterfall popular with lovers and photographers alike. It also makes it one of the busiest tourist attractions on Jeju Island during peak times.

There is also a lot of flora and fauna at Cheonjiyeon Falls: whisk fern, migratory ducks and more. You aren’t allowed to swim here, which is worth noting before you go

The entrance fee to Cheonjiyeon Falls is 2000 KRW (£1.30 GBP / $1.70 USD).

Cheonjeyeonpokpogwanriso 132 Cheonjeyeon-ro, Seogwipo, Jeju Island. The biggest of all of the Jeju Waterfalls and one of the most impressive tourist attractions on Jeju Island, Cheonjeyeon is a three-tier waterfall created from cold water flowing out of the ceiling of a cave. The name means ‘Pond of the Emperor of Heaven’, and Korean legend states that at night seven nymphs would descend from heaven to bathe in the waterfall’s pond.

Entrance fee is 2500 KRW – around £1.60 GBP, or $2.10 USD.

The forest surrounding the Cheonjeyeon contains rare plants, making it valuable for scientific research and also for nature lovers to enjoy the views and atmosphere. Swimming is now prohibited, but since ancient times people have believed that if you stand under the waterfall on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month, diseases will be cured by the eighth lunar month.

Above Cheonjeyeon is Seonimgyo Bridge. It has the aforementioned seven nymphs carved into each side, and its red and white colours stand out among the greenery. The bridge crosses from east to west over the stream between the second and third tiers of the waterfall.

This was one of my personal favourites of the tourist attractions on Jeju Island and we spent a couple of hours here exploring the three different parts of the waterfall.

Tip: the first part of the waterfall is sometimes dry. It’s best to visit when it had recently rained to see it in full flow.

Gangjeong-dong, Seogwipo, Jeju Island. Despite not being a waterfall all year round, this one deserves a mention. Even when there isn’t any water falling, it still makes for a beautiful and peaceful walk – especially during blossom season!

With steps, walkways and plenty of greenery, it’s worth checking out if you’re nearby. However, I wouldn’t necessarily make the trip especially for this waterfall.

This waterfall is often left off of the typical tourist waterfall itinerary in Jeju, because it is not as easily accessible as the other waterfalls.

Yongam-p’okp’o is on Mount Hallasan, so you will need to take a hike to visit it. In fact, I can’t actually find any information on exactly where on the mountain this waterfall is! So I guess you’ll see this one if you’re lucky?

June-August is the wettest time of year, but there are plenty of sunny days throughout the summer too. Whilst it’s most pleasant to visit on a sunny day (and your photos will come out better), if there hasn’t been much rain recently then the water won’t be as impressive. We were out exploring the Jeju waterfalls the day after a typhoon so there was certainly lots of water while we were there!

If you want to see the cherry blossom that adorns the island, plan your trip for early to mid April. The autumn months create beautiful colours around the waterfalls, too.

There are many tourist attractions on Jeju Island, with some v to suit everyone. From beaches, to sex museums, to mazes and mountain climbs, there are plenty of tourist attractions on Jeju Island to keep you occupied!

If you enjoyed this article about the tourist attractions on Jeju Island, I am sure that you will love these too:

• Mysterious Road Jeju: How it works and why you should visit
• The perfect 5 day Jeju itinerary | Jeju with kids
• 50 Epic Landmarks In China (with photos)
• 14 Incredible Things to do in Guilin
• Silk Road China Itinerary- 2 weeks

Liked this article? Click to share!

Jeju Island Travel Guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• South Korea
• jeju-island
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

The mass of islands draping off Korea’s southern coast fades into the Pacific, before coming to an enigmatic conclusion in the crater-pocked JEJU ISLAND , known locally as Jejudo (제주도). This tectonic pimple in the South Sea is the country’s number-one holiday destination, particularly for Korean honeymooners, and it’s easy to see why – the volcanic crags, innumerable beaches and colourful rural life draw comparisons with Hawaii and Bali, a fact not lost on the local tourist authorities. This very hype puts many foreign travellers off, but while the five-star hotels and tour buses can detract from Jeju’s natural appeal, the island makes for a superb visit if taken on its own terms; indeed those who travel into Jeju’s more remote areas may come away with the impression that little has changed here for decades. In many ways it’s as if regular Korea has been given a makeover – splashes of tropical green fringe fields topped off with palm trees and tangerine groves, and while Jeju’s weather may be breezier and damper than the mainland, its winter is eaten into by lengthier springs and autumns, allowing oranges, pineapples and dragon fruit to grow.

Eastern Jeju

Grandfathers of rock, hallasan national park, the waterfalls, western jeju.

Around the island, you’ll see evidence of a rich local culture quite distinct from the mainland, most notably in the form of the hareubang – these cute, grandfatherly statues of volcanic rock were made for reasons as yet unexplained, and pop up all over the island. Similarly ubiquitous are the batdam, walls of hand-stacked volcanic rock that separate the farmers’ fields: like the drystone walls found across Britain, these were built without any bonding agents, the resulting gaps letting through the strong winds that often whip the island. Jeju’s distinctive thatch-roofed houses are also abundant, and the island even has a breed of miniature horse; these are of particular interest to Koreans due to the near-total dearth of equine activity on the mainland. Also unique to Jeju are the haenyeo , female divers who plunge without breathing apparatus into often treacherous waters in search of shellfish and sea urchins. Although once a hard-as-nails embodiment of the island’s matriarchal culture, their dwindling numbers mean that this occupation is in danger of petering out.

Jeju City is the largest settlement, and whether you arrive by plane or ferry, this will be your entry point. You’ll find the greatest choice of accommodation and restaurants here, and most visitors choose to hole up in the city for the duration of their stay, as the rest of the island is within day-trip territory. Although there are a few sights in the city itself, getting out of town is essential if you’re to make the most of your trip. On the east coast is Seongsan , a sumptuously rural hideaway crowned by Ilchulbong, a green caldera that translates as “Sunrise Peak”; ferries run from here to Udo , a tiny islet that somehow manages to be yet even more bucolic. Inland are the Manjanggul lava tubes , one of the longest such systems in the world, and Sangumburi , the largest and most accessible of Jeju’s many craters. All roads eventually lead to Seogwipo on the south coast; this relaxed, waterfall-flanked city is Jeju’s second-largest settlement, and sits next to the five-star resort of Jungmun . Sights in Jeju’s west are a little harder to access, but this makes a trip all the more worthwhile – the countryside you’ll have to plough through is some of the best on the island, with the fields yellow with rapeseed in spring, and carpeted from summer to autumn with the pink-white-purple tricolour of cosmos flowers. Those with an interest in calligraphy may want to seek out the remote former home of Chusa, one of the country’s most famed exponents of the art. In the centre of the island is Hallasan , an extinct volcano and the country’s highest point at 1950m, visible from much of the island, though often obscured by Jeju’s fickle weather.

Jeju is one of the few places in Korea where renting a car or bicycle makes sense. Outside Jeju City, roads are generally empty and the scenery is almost always stunning, particularly in the inland areas, where you’ll find tiny communities, some of which will never have seen a foreigner. Bicycle trips around the perimeter of the island are becoming ever more popular, with riders usually taking four days to complete the circuit – Seongsan, Seogwipo and Daecheong make logical overnight stops.

Brief history

Jejudo burst into being around two million years ago in a series of volcanic eruptions, but prior to an annexation by the mainland Goryeo dynasty in 1105 its history is sketchy and unknown. While the mainland was being ruled by the famed Three Kingdoms of Silla, Baekje and Goguryeo, Jeju was governed by the mysterious Tamna kingdom , though with no historical record of Tamna’s founding, it is left to Jeju myth to fill in the gaps: according to legend, the three founders of the country – Go, Bu and Yang – rose from the ground at a spot now marked by Samseonghyeol shrine in Jeju City. On a hunting trip shortly after this curious birth, they found three maidens who had washed up on a nearby shore armed with grain and a few animals; the three fellows married the girls and using the material and livestock set up agricultural communities, each man kicking off his own clan. Descendants of these three families conduct twice-yearly – in spring and autumn – ceremonies to worship their ancestors.

More prosaically, the Samguk Sagi – Korea’s main historical account of the Three Kingdoms period – states that Tamna in the fifth century became a tributary state to the Baekje kingdom on the mainland’s southwest, then hurriedly switched allegiance before the rival Silla kingdom swallowed Baekje whole in 660. Silla itself was consumed in 918 by the Goryeo dynasty, which set about reining in the island province; Jeju gradually relinquished autonomy before a full takeover in 1105. The inevitable Mongol invasion came in the mid-thirteenth century, with the marauding Khaans controlling the island for almost a hundred years. The horses bred here to support Mongol attacks on Japan fostered a local tradition of horsemanship that continues to this day – Jeju is the only place in Korea with significant equine numbers – while the visitors also left an audible legacy in the Jejanese dialect.

In 1404, with Korea finally free of Mongol control, Jeju was eventually brought under control by an embryonic Joseon dynasty . Its location made it the ideal place for Seoul to exile radicals. Two of the most famed of these were King Gwanghaegun , the victim of a coup in 1623, and Chusa , an esteemed calligrapher whose exile site can be found on the west of the island. It was just after this time that the West got its first reports about Korea, from Hendrick Hamel , a crewman on a Dutch trading ship that crashed off the Jeju coast in 1653.

With Jeju continually held at arm’s length by the central government, a long-standing feeling of resentment against the mainland was a major factor in the Jeju Massacre of 1948. The Japanese occupation having recently ended with Japan’s surrender at the end of World War II, the Korean-American coalition sought now to tear out the country’s Communist roots, which were strong on Jejudo. Jejanese guerrilla forces, provoked by regular brutality, staged a simultaneous attack on the island’s police stations. A retaliation was inevitable, and the rebels and government forces continued to trade blows years after the official end of the Korean War in 1953, by which time this largely ignored conflict had resulted in up to thirty thousand deaths, the vast majority on the rebel side.

Things have since calmed down significantly. Jeju returned to its roots as a rural backwater with little bar fishing and farming to sustain its population, but its popularity with mainland tourists grew and grew after Korea’s took off as an economic power, with the island becoming known for the samda , or three bounties – rock, wind and women. Recently tourist numbers have decreased slightly, with richer and more cosmopolitan Koreans increasingly choosing to spend their holidays abroad, though Jeju still remains the country’s top holiday spot.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for South Korea, created by local experts

14 days  / from 3800 USD

Culture & Island life

Experience the highlights of Korea with a private guide by your side. Fascinating Seoul with a day trip to the DMZ, followed by days in Gyeongju and Busan. Afterwards, leave the mainland and fly to Jeju Island. Enjoy the crystal blue waters and island culture.

11 days  / from 2400 USD

Highlights of Korea

From the skyscrapers of Seoul to traditional villages - this itinerary packs culture, history and cuisine in one compact itinerary. Enjoy a two-night temple stay as well as in-depth guided excursions in Seoul, Gyeongju, Yeosu, and Jeonju.

7 days  / from 1950 USD

Temples and Nature in Korea

Start your Korean adventure in Busan. Continue to Yeosu and Suncheon, discovering temples and landscapes on the way. In Suncheon, you will stay at a Korean Buddhist temple. Proceed to the Bamboo Forest of Jeonju before heading to Seoul.

The eastern half of Jeju is wonderfully unspoilt – the coast is dotted with unhurried fishing villages, while inland you can see evidence of Jeju’s turbulent creation in the form of lava tubes and volcanic craters. Buses to the region leave Jeju City with merciful swiftness, passing between the sea and lush green fields, the latter bordered by stacks of batdam . Seongsan , on the island’s eastern tip, is the most attractive of Jeju’s many small villages, crowned by the majestic caldera of Ilchulbong .

Just offshore is Udo , a bucolic island whose sedentary pace tempts many a visitor to hole up for a few days. A cluster of natural attractions can be found south of the port village of Gimnyeong, most notably Manjanggul , which are some of the world’s longest underground lava tubes. Further south again, Route 97 heads southeast from Jeju City across the island’s interior, running past Sangumburi , a large, forested volcanic crater, and two rewarding folk villages : one a working community with a patchwork of traditional thatch-roofed houses, the other an open-air museum which – though devoid of inhabitants – provides a little more instruction on traditional Jeju life.

A short way east of Jeju City, a group of natural attractions provide an enjoyable day-trip. Foremost among them is Manjanggul (만장굴), a long underground cave formed by pyroclastic flows. Underwater eruptions millions of years ago caused channels of surface lava to crust over or burrow into the soft ground, resulting in subterranean tunnels of flowing lava. Once the flow finally stopped, these so-called “ lava tubes ” remained. Stretching for at least 9km beneath the fields and forests south of the small port of Gimnyeong, Manjanggul is one of the longest such systems in the world, though only 1km or so is open to the public. This dingy and damp “tube” contains a number of hardened, lava features including balls, bridges and an 8m-high pillar at the end of the course.

With a volcanic crater to see and two folk villages to explore, rural Route 97 – also known as the East Tourist Road – is a delightful way to cut through Jeju’s interior. All three attractions can be visited on a day-trip from Jeju City, or as part of a journey between the capital and Seogwipo on the south coast, though it pays to start reasonably early.

Heading south from Jeju City on Route 97, the first place worth stopping is Sangumburi (산굼부리), one of Jeju’s many volcanic craters ; possibly its most impressive, certainly its most accessible, though currently the only one you have to pay to visit. Hole lovers should note that this particular type is known as a Marr crater, as it was produced by an explosion in a generally flat area. One can only imagine how big an explosion it must have been – the crater, 2km in circumference and 132m deep, is larger than Hallasan’s. A short climb to the top affords sweeping views of some very unspoilt Jejanese terrain; peaks rise in all directions, with Hallasan 20km to the southwest, though not always visible. The two obvious temptations are to walk into or around the rim, but you must refrain from doing so in order to protect the crater’s wildlife – deer and badgers are among the species that live in Sangumburi. Consequently there’s not an awful lot to do here, though there’s a small art gallery on site.

Seong-eup Folk Village

A twenty-minute bus ride south of Sangumburi brings you to dusty Seong-eup Folk Village (성읍 민속 마을), a functioning community living in traditional Jeju-style housing, where you’re free to wander among the thatch-roofed houses at will; the residents, given financial assistance by the government, are long used to curious visitors nosing around their yards. Here you’ll see life carrying on as if nothing had changed in decades – farmers going about their business and children playing while crops sway in the breeze. Most visitors spend a couple of pleasant hours here, and if you’re lucky you’ll run into one of the few English-speaking villagers, who act as guides.

Jeju Folk Village and around

Route 97 buses terminate near the coast at the Jeju Folk Village (제주 민속 마을). This coastal clutch of traditional Jeju buildings may be artificial, but provides an excellent complement to the Seong-eup village to its north. Information boards explain the layout and structures of the buildings, as well as telling you what the townsfolk used to get up to before selling tea and baggy orange pants to tourists. The differences between dwellings on different parts of the island are subtle but interesting – the island’s southerners, for example, entwined ropes outside their door with red peppers if a boy had been born into their house.

You’re unlikely to be disappointed by SEONGSAN (성산), an endearing rural town with one very apparent tourist draw looming over it: Ilchulbong (일출봉), or “Sunrise Peak”, is so named as it’s the first place on the island to be lit up by the orange fires of dawn. The town can easily be visited as a day-trip from Jeju City but many visitors choose to spend a night here, beating the sun out of bed to clamber up the graceful, green slope to the rim of Ilchulbong’s crown-shaped caldera. It’s an especially popular place for Koreans to ring in the New Year – a small festival celebrates the changing of the digits. From the town it’s a twenty-minute or so walk to the summit; a steep set of steps leads up to a 182m-high viewing platform at the top, and although the island’s fickle weather and morning mists usually conspire to block the actual emergence of the sun from the sea, it’s a splendid spot nonetheless. Powerful bulbs from local squid boats dot the nearby waters; as the morning light takes over, the caldera below reveals itself as beautifully verdant, its far side plunging sheer into the sea – unfortunately, it’s not possible to hike around the rim. If you turn to face west, Seongsan is visible below, and the topography of the surrounding area – hard to judge from ground level – reveals itself.

Besides the conquest of Ilchulbong, there’s little to do in Seongsan bar strolling around the neighbouring fields and tucking into a fish supper, though the waters off the coast do offer some fantastic diving opportunities. South of town is Sinyang Beach , where the water depth and incessant wind make it a good place to windsurf; equipment is available to rent.

Visible from Ilchulbong is UDO (우도), a rural speck of land whose stacked-stone walls and rich grassy hills give it the air of a Scottish isle transported to warmer climes. Occasionally, the nomenclature of Korea’s various peaks and stony bits reaches near-Dadaist extremes; “Cow Island” is one of the best examples, its contours apparently resembling the shape of resting cattle. This sparsely populated dollop of land is a wonderful place to hole up for a few days, and one of the best places to spot two of Jeju’s big draws – the stone walls (밭담; batdam ) that line the island’s fields and narrow roads, and the haenyeo , female divers long famed for their endurance.

Other than these – and the diving grannies are almost impossible to spot these days – there are very few tourist sights on Udo. Those that do exist can be accessed on the tour buses that meet the ferries. Usually under the direction of charismatic local drivers, they first stop at a black-sand beach for half an hour or so, which allows just enough time to scamper up the hill to the lighthouse for amazing views that show just how rural Udo really is. The buses stop at a small natural history museum – whose second floor is home to some interesting haenyeo paraphernalia – and continue past Sanhosa beach before returning to the ferry terminal.

What is it with Pacific islands and statues? The moai of Easter Island are the most famous, but similar relics have been found on Fiji, Tahiti, Hawaii and Okinawa, among other places. Jeju’s own version is the dolhareubang , or “ stone grandfather ”. Commonly abbreviated to hareubang (하르방), they can be found all over Korea – nowadays usually outside fish restaurants wishing to drum up custom. Bulgy-eyed and often cheery, they differ from their Polynesian counterparts by being quite expressive. Their hands rest on their tummies as if full of food; those with left above right are said to be military, as opposed to the more scholarly right-above-left brigade.

Like the moai , the origin and purpose of the statues remain shrouded in mystery, though it seems likely that they were placed at village entrances as a means of protection. Another theory, and one supported by their extremely phallic appearance , is that they served as sources of fertility – today, miniature versions are sold to women who are having trouble getting pregnant, as well as tourists wanting a souvenir of their trip to Jeju.

Today, only a few dozen authentic hareubang remain; the most accessible can be found in Jeju City, at the entrance to the Folklore and Natural History Museum, and outside Samseonghyeol.

Arriving by ferry on a clear day, you can see the whole of Jeju tapering slowly to Mount Halla, known locally as HALLASAN (한라산), a dormant volcano at the centre of the island, and Korea’s highest point at 1950m. Blanketed with pink azalea in the spring, and snow in the winter, the centre of the island has long been a national park , with four well-trodden hikes heading to Hallasan’s crater, a grassy bowl pocked with grey volcanic rocks, and home to a couple of small lakes. As long as the weather cooperates, a climb up Hallasan is one of the main goals for adventurous visitors from the mainland. The four main routes , starting from the north and heading clockwise, are Gwanamsa, Seongpanak, Yeongsil and Eorimok.

JEJU CITY ( jeju-shi ; 제주시) is the provincial capital and home to more than half of its population. Markedly relaxed and low-rise for a Korean city, and loomed over by the extinct volcanic cone of Hallasan, it has a few sights of its own to explore, though palm trees, beaches, tectonic peaks and rocky crags are just a bus-ride away, thus making it a convenient base for the vast majority of the island’s visitors.

Jeju City was, according to local folklore, the place where the island’s progenitors sprung out of the ground (you can still see the holes at Samseonghyeol ), and while there are few concrete details of the city’s history up until Joseon times, the traditional buildings of Mokgwanaji , a governmental office located near the present centre of the city, shows that it has long been a seat of regional power. Other interesting sights include Yongduam (“Dragon Head Rock”), a basalt formation rising from the often fierce sea, and Jeju Hyanggyo , a Confucian academy. There are also a couple of vaguely interesting museums, best reserved as shelter on one of Jeju’s many rainy days. South of the centre along the Mysterious Road , where objects appear to roll uphill, is the entertainingly racy Love Land .

Jeju’s diving grannies

It may be hard to believe in a place that once was, and in many ways still is, the most Confucian country on earth, but for a time areas of Jeju had matriarchal social systems. This role reversal is said to have begun in the nineteenth century as a form of tax evasion, when male divers found a loophole in the law that exempted them from tax if their wives did the work. So were born the haenyeo (해녀), literally “ sea women ”; while their husbands cared for the kids and did the shopping, the females often became the breadwinners, diving without breathing apparatus for minutes at a time in search of shellfish and sea urchins. With women traditionally seen as inferior, this curious emancipation offended the country’s leaders, who sent delegates from Seoul in an attempt to ban the practice. It didn’t help matters that the haenyeo performed their duties clad only in loose white cotton, and it was made illegal for men to lay eyes on them as they worked.

Today, the haenyeo are one of Jeju’s most famous sights. Folk songs have been written about them, their statues dot the shores, and one can buy postcards, mugs and plates decorated with dripping sea sirens rising from the sea. This romantic vision, however, is not entirely current; the old costumes have now given way to black wetsuits, and the haenyeo have grown older: even tougher than your average ajumma , many have continued to dive into their 70s. Modern life is depleting their numbers – there are easier ways to make money now, and few families are willing to encourage their daughters into what is still a dangerous profession. The figures peaked in the 1950s at around thirty thousand, but at the last count there were just a few hundred practising divers, the majority aged over 50. Before long, the tradition may well become one of Jeju’s hard-to-believe myths.

Korea’s most exclusive resort curls along a beautiful beach west of Seogwipo, a place where expense-account tourists come from the mainland and abroad to play a few rounds of golf, shop for designer bags or relax in five-star pools in between business conventions. However, to write off JUNGMUN (중문) on account of this would be a mistake – the surrounding area has the island’s greatest and most varied concentration of sights, accessible on any budget, and can even credibly claim to possess the most distinctive temple, gallery and museum of Korea’s inexhaustible collection – all this shoehorned amid beaches, gardens and waterfalls.

Teddy Bear Museum

Although it may sound like the epitome of Jeju tack, the Teddy Bear Museum (테디베어 박물관) impresses even its most sceptical visitors. The main building is filled with floors of bears, but the diorama room is the museum highlight, with furry depictions of historical events – one for every decade of the twentieth century. Moving backwards in time, you’ll see teddies bashing down the Berlin Wall and fighting in World War II. Then following on from the battle, what appears to be a roller-skating teddy Hitler races into view, though he’s soon revealed to be a teddy Charlie Chaplin. Other delights include a teddy Elvis, a “Teddycotta” Army, and a vision of what teddies may be up to in the year 2050, as well as a shop (no prizes for guessing what’s on sale here) and garden.

Yakcheonsa temple

A few kilometres east of Jungmun, and best reached by taxi or bike, is the stunning temple of Yakcheonsa (약천사). Built in the 1990s, what it lacks in historical value it more than makes up for with its main building, a feast of intricate decoration despite its colossal size – the cavernous four-storey main hall is claimed to be the biggest in Asia, and is one of the most impressive in the country. The huge golden Buddha at the centre is best viewed from the encircling upper levels, which are themselves crowded with thousands of Buddhist figurines. Yet more (over five hundred, and all individually crafted) can be found in an exterior hall to the front of the complex; most are jovial (cheer up, no. 184) and many are individually interesting – take a look at no. 145’s disturbing party trick, if you can find him. The best time to visit is 7pm on a summer evening, when worshipping locals chant under the interior glow with their backs to the sunset. Insect and bird calls add extra resonance to the bell rings that mark the beginning of the service, while squid boats out at sea shine like fallen stars on the horizon.

The charming town of SEOGWIPO (서귀포) sits sunny-side-up on Jeju’s fair southern coast: whereas days in Jeju City and on the northern coast are curtailed when the sun drops beneath Hallasan’s lofty horizon, the south coast has no such impediment. Evidence of this extra light can be seen in the tangerine groves that start just outside the city and are famed across Korea. Though the real attraction here is the chance to kick back and unwind, there are a few things to see and do – gorgeous waterfalls flank the city, while water-based activities range from diving to submarine tours.

Most of Jeju’s rainfall is swallowed up by the porous volcanic rock that forms much of the island, but a couple of waterfalls spill into the sea either side of Seogwipo city centre. To the east is Jeongbang (정방 폭포), a 23m-high cascade claimed to be the only one in Asia to fall directly into the ocean. Unique or not, once you’ve clambered down to ground level it’s an impressive sight, especially when streams are swollen by the summer monsoon, at which time it’s impossible to get close without being drenched by spray. Look for some Chinese characters on the right-hand side of the falls – their meaning is explained by an unintentionally comical English-language cartoon in an otherwise dull exhibition hall above the falls.

The western fall, Cheonjiyeon (천지연 폭포), is shorter but wider than Jeongbang, and sits at the end of a pleasant gorge that leads from the ticket office, downhill from the city centre: take the path starting opposite Jeju Hiking Inn . Many prefer to visit at night, when there are fewer visitors and the paths up to the gorge are bathed in dim light.

Jeju’s western side, though strikingly beautiful, is somewhat wilder and less hospitable than the region east of Hallasan National Park , with its sights generally harder to reach – if you have no transport you may have to resort to the occasional spot of hitchhiking. However, this remoteness is very much part of the appeal, and those who’ve been drawn to the island by promises of empty roads, bucolic villages and unspoilt terrain should look no further – to many, this is quintessential Jeju. The sights are grouped into three main clusters; it’s possible to complete any of these within a day, even after factoring in transport to and from Jeju City (commuting from Seogwipo is also possible, but will require a little extra patience).

Jeju’s windswept southwestern corner boasts a collection of sights, three of them within walking distance of each other around the mountain of Sangbangsan and accessible on a single ticket. Sangbanggulsa is a temple hewn out of the peak itself, which looks down on Yongmeori , a jagged and highly photogenic coastline pounded mercilessly by waves; adjacent to this sits a replica of a Dutch vessel which came a cropper near these crags. In the distance lie the wind- and wave-punished islets of Gapado and Marado , the latter being Korea’s southernmost point.

Just north of Sangbangsan are a couple of arty attractions – contemporary fans may appreciate the large outdoor sculpture park , while traditionalists should head to the former exile site of Chusa , one of Korea’s foremost calligraphers. Further inland, in a remote area hard to penetrate without your own transport but well worth the effort, are a tea plantation, a bonsai park and the underground tunnels and rusty munitions of a peace museum .

Geumneung Stone Garden

Hareubang are all over Jeju – and Korea, in fact – so you may question the need to gather together a whole park full of them. However, Geumneung Stone Garden (금릉 석물원) is an absorbing sight nonetheless, since it houses Jeju’s famed stone grandfathers in substantial numbers. Many of these are in the regular hareubang shape, though most have been pushed and pulled into unconventional forms by young local artists. Big, small, wonky or squat, they make for some great photo opportunities, as do the statues with Buddhist and local themes. Abandon hope all ye who enter the Hell Path – a crying child points the way to a narrow, snaking trail of ghoulish stone misshapes that, in true hellish fashion, seems to go on without end. There’s also a collection of small hareubang presented to – and presumably given back by – some of Jeju’s most famous international guests.

A peek inside the “Hermit Kingdom”

In 1653 a Dutch trading ship bound for Nagasaki in Japan encountered a fierce typhoon south of the Korean peninsula and ran aground on the tiny island of Gapado . Just half of its crew of 64 survived the shipwreck, but despite their obvious status as victims rather than aggressors, they had entered the “Hermit Kingdom” and found themselves treated with scant respect – Joseon-era Korea was a highly isolationist land, whose policy (one rarely triggered) was to bar any foreigners who washed ashore from returning to their homeland. Forced into servitude, they made repeated attempts to escape, but it was not until 1666 that a group of eight managed to flee to Japan from Yeosu, a port city in what is now Jeonnam province. Unfortunately, they found Japan little more welcoming, but one year later a second escape took them back to the Netherlands. The accounts of survivor Hendrick Hamel became a bestseller in his homeland, and gave the West its first real portrayal of the Korean peninsula; English-language copies of Hamel’s Journal: A Description of the Kingdom of Korea 1653–1666 have been published, but are hard to track down.

Discover more places in South Korea

• Travel Guide Morocco
• Travel Guide Namibia
• Travel Guide South Africa
• Travel Guide China
• Travel Guide India
• Travel Guide Indonesia
• Travel Guide Japan
• Travel Guide Laos
• Travel Guide Malaysia
• Travel Guide Myanmar (Burma)
• Travel Guide Nepal
• Travel Guide Philippines
• Travel Guide Singapore
• Travel Guide South Korea
• Travel Guide Sri Lanka
• Travel Guide Taiwan
• Travel Guide Thailand
• Travel Guide Australia
• Travel Guide Fiji
• Travel Guide New Zealand
• Travel Guide Belize
• Costa Rica Travel Guide
• Travel Guide Cuba
• Travel Guide Guatemala
• Travel Guide Honduras
• Travel Guide Jamaica
• Travel Guide Nicaragua
• Travel Guide Panama
• Travel Guide Puerto Rico
• Travel Guide Trinidad and Tobago
• Travel Guide Albania
• Travel Guide Austria
• Travel Guide Belgium
• Travel Guide Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Travel Guide Bulgaria
• Travel Guide Cyprus
• Travel Guide Czechia (Czech Republic)
• Travel Guide Denmark
• Travel Guide England
• Travel Guide Estonia
• Travel Guide Finland
• Travel Guide France
• Travel Guide Germany
• Travel Guide Greece
• Travel Guide Hungary
• Iceland Travel Guide

The Rough Guides to South Korea and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover South Korea?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Follow Me On

23 Things to Do in Jeju Island + Attractions Map (by Region)

Updated: Oct 7, 2023 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 6 Comments

After three years living in South Korea , and five long trips to Jeju, I've compiled a killer list of a few dozen unique things to do in Jeju Island . Jeju-do, as it's called domestically, is located off the southern coast of Korea. It's known locally as the Hawaii of South Korea.

The island is so popular that the flights from Seoul to Jeju and back are the most-flown route in the world . Yet the vast majority of visitors to Korea skip Jeju, and that's a mistake I hope you won't make.

This sunny destination is known for its stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and delicious seafood dishes. Whether you're interested in history, culture, art, or just looking for a fun day out, there's something for everyone on Jeju Island.

In this article I cover what to do in Jeju Island, from exploring its many unusual museums & sights to experiencing the local cuisine and culture.

Buy a PDF Version of This Post!

• 🤔 What to Know: Visiting South Korea
• 🎒 Travel Tips For Jeju Island
• 🚌 Getting Around Jeju (by Bus or Car)
• 📝 What to Do in Jeju
• 🥘 Foods to Eat in Jeju
• 🏠 Where to Stay on Jeju Island
• 🔍 Jeju Practical Info
• ✏️ Basic Korean Lesson
• 🎢 Jeju Attractions Map

🤔 What to Know: Visiting South Korea

Those of you looking to visit South Korea are probably as confused by all the changes as I was before I visited again post-covid. But as of March 20th, 2024, masks are still required in medical settings like hospitals but are NO LONGER REQUIRED in all other indoor public places, including public transport.

Here are what document you need to visit Korea as a tourist:

• K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization , applied for at least 72 hours before departure) OR Visa to visit Korea (countries which previously had a visa exemption now need to apply for a K-ETA). From April 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries will also temporarily NOT need a K-ETA or visa to visit Korea (includes: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam)). If you're a valid ABTC card holder (APEC card), you are not required to apply for a K-ETA [excluding Americans & Canadians].
• Q-Code (can also be filled out upon arrival) : visitors need to fill out information for the Korean quarantine system, known as Q-Code . Note that all travelers are now allowed in regardless of vaccination status, but you do need to have filled out your Q-Code before going through immigration.

If for some reason you need to take a covid test in a South Korea airport, the cost of a covid test in Incheon Airport is currently ₩80,000 ($60USD), with some options within Seoul as inexpensive as ₩65,000 ($50USD). There's no testing requirement to leave South Korea.

🎒 Travel Tips For Jeju Island

• Get a sim card at the airport . I lived in Korea for three years using only a pre-paid sim card from Olleh. That cost me ₩20000 (~$16USD) a month for 2GB of data, and another few thousand KRW a month for calling. It saved me so many times over the years to have someone be able to call a hotel or taxi for me using my own phone.
• Speaking of calling, the Korea Travel Hotline , known to expats as the "English Help Line," should be your go-to with any issue. Simply dial 1330 and press 1 for English, and you'll be connected to someone at any hour of the day, any day of the week. They can help with ticket prices, bus schedules, attraction locations, and even translating for taxi drivers, and helpers also speak Japanese and Chinese.
• Rent a car (you'll need an international driver's license). M ost attractions in Jeju are far from cities and far apart, and taxis can also be hard or impossible to come by after 10pm (coincidentally, also when most of the buses stop running). You'll want to download the Kakao Taxi app if you plan to mainly taxi taxis around the island.
• Travel the island in sections . Take a careful look at the Jeju attractions map at the end of this post, and note the opening hours & days for any of the ones you're interested in (this info is listed next to each one below). Even though the island appears small at first, it can be a very long trek between stops if you don't plan ahead .
• Just as in the rest of Korea, Google Maps isn't useful or detailed on Jeju, so do remember to download the English-language version of Naver Maps , the Korean map app, in order to more easily navigate around.
• Beaches close for winter , at least for swimming. Just like in the rest of Korea, from September to May you're not allowed to swim at beaches in Jeju, though you can certainly still walk along the them and take pictures.
• Jeju has a decent food scene, but don't come here for the nightlife , as most everything shuts down by 10pm or 11pm, even the bars.
• Speaking of early nights, try to start your day early . Lots of attractions open around 8am or 9am, and close around 5pm or 6pm; the last ferry from Udo Island comes back before 7pm .

🚌 Getting Around Jeju (by Bus or Car)

When you get to Jeju you will find yourself on the north side of the island, nearly inside Jeju City. It's certainly possible to get around Jeju Island by public bus or taxi, but not recommended (for time & money reasons) .

But for those who hate to drive as much as I do, I've also shared tips below on how to get around Jeju by bus. However the best option is to rent a car on Jeju, as it will make it easier to predictably plan when you're able to leave places.

I've gotten around Jeju by tour bus, public bus lines, and driving a rental car. There's no metro or train system on the island, though there are ferries to the mainland & Udo.

If you travel Jeju by bus, you'll want to stay along the coast so that you're never more than two buses from where you want to go. I recommend staying in Seogwipo, so that you can follow my Jeju itinerary .

Your favorite bus line on Jeju will be the 201, which takes you in a ring around the island.

The scene along the coast is particularly gorgeous from April to June, when most of the flowers begin to bloom. For your initial arrival, Jeju airport limousine bus 800 (or 800-1) will take you from the airport to Seogwipo most directly, with daily buses every 15 minutes between 6am-10pm. 

Most of the bus routes stop running just before 10pm. If you arrive after that, I'd recommend staying in Jeju City for the first night; you can take the 3000's lines to a few different places, but those also stop running at 12am. Taxis will always be waiting to take you somewhere, but the lines are super long at night.

You can buy a transportation card known as a T-Money card at any 7-11, and then use it to get all around the island, even in most taxis (but always bring cash just in case). Most bus fares will be ₩1250 (~$1USD) each way, although the cost of taxis depends completely upon distance.

Be sure to download the Naver Maps app before arrival so that you can get bus route info immediately. Driving in Jeju is quite safe, and a self-drive in Jeju is also the best way to see the beauty of the island's countryside vistas, stay flexible in case of weather interruptions, and stay in cheaper hotels .

The only requirements to rent a car in Jeju is a license in your home country and an international license (which is applied & paid for separately before you arrive to South Korea). Having a car on Jeju got us to about twice as many sites across the island as compared to when I took the bus.

Plus, your Korean GPS will give you numerous speed warnings every time you're approaching speed cameras (no excuses for getting a ticket!), so don't freak out when it chirps and beeps at you loudly. For a car rental, Jeju Island is one of the easiest spots I've ever rented in.

📝 What to Do in Jeju

Jeju counts itself with 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , as well as a fair amount of quirk and Korean tradition (naked hot tubs, anyone?). This list could legitimately go on for pages, but I've decided to stick to just the weird, the natural, and the educational, divided by region.

If doing a self-drive on Jeju, you'll want to keep some cash on hand to pay for parking (no more than a few dollars at each spot). Surprisingly, I find the points of interest in Jeju to be much more handicap accessible and walkable than those in Seoul or Busan.

Most everything is available in Korean, English and Chinese, and many more people are able to speak English than I generally find in Seoul. So don't shy away from something that sounds interesting, just because it looks rural.

Hallasan Hiking /// free /// roughly sunrise to sunset It's tough to designate a specific starting point to hike Hallasan, considering that it's at the center of the island. But Jeju City is as good a place to stay as any when planning to Hike another of Jeju's UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Hallasan is actually an active volcano, though it spews no lava or smoke at the moment, and it's the reason why Jeju island exists at all. The views from the top are unforgettable, and you have 5 different paths you can use to reach the top, each of a different difficulty level.

Note that it is not safe to Hike Hallasan in the rain and that you should bring extra layers no matter the weather or time of year when you start.

Orange Picking Experience /// ₩3000-₩6000 /// usually 8am-6pm With peak orange season from November to February, orange picking is a winter activity on Jeju that most everyone participates in, local or tourist. The deal is basically a flat fee per person to pick and eat as many oranges as they want & bring home a kilogram.

Guests are offered a lower price for every kilogram picked beyond that, which locals definitely take advantage of. However, most Korean pick their oranges as slowly as possible in order to maximize photo opportunities, and I find it hard to blame them.

Lucky for us, just like with Hallasan, it's hard to nail this down to one area of the island, as the island's fertile soil allows orange groves to flourish basically anywhere. But keep in mind that you're more likely able to catch a taxi to a nearby orange grove from either Jeju City or Seogwipo.

Hamdeok Beach (함덕 해수욕장) /// free /// roughly sunrise to sunset This is one of the best beaches in Jeju Island, and also one of the most popular due to its central location near the island's capital city.

Locals love it for the pristine white sand and mild waters, as well as the wind protection provided by Seoubong Mountain just behind the strip. If you're looking to spend an afternoon at the beach on Jeju, this should be one of your first picks, and not just because of the volcanic rock bridge and impressive disappearing sandbar.

Jeju NANTA (홍대난타전용관) /// ₩40000-60000 /// shows at 4:30pm daily The first time I saw this show, I couldn’t even read Korean, much less understand any of it. But it was such a knee-slapping hilarious performance that I highly recommend it to any visitor. There’s almost no dialogue, and all the songs are their own mini-slapstick performance, complete with food props and your monthly allowance of juggling.  Shows are at 4:30PM Monday-Sunday.

Love Land (erotic museum) /// ₩9000 entrance /// 9am-midnight daily Love Land is a very blasé name for this unusual park full of penises and other erotic sculptures. It was actually opened in 2004 by a group of art students from Seoul's Hongik University (of 'Hongdae' fame).

T he museum has since become a very successful tourist attraction, with almost all visitors snapping a selfie with one or more of the well-endowed sculptures. Please note that you must be 19 or older to enter the park (the age minimum has changed since 'Korean age' was essentially eliminated).

Manjanggul (lava cave) /// ₩3000 entrance /// 9am-6pm daily (closed 1st Wed. every month) This is definitely a cave. It's cold and badly-lit, but the long walk down into the volcanicly-formed earth most certainly appeals to people.

As one of Jeju's UNESCO World Heritage sites, the 1,000 meters of cave open to the public gets quite packed on weekends. The slippery floors can become extra hazardous, so bring grippy shoes.

The more claustrophobic folks in the bunch will enjoy the lovely greenery above ground, especially in springtime when the grass is dotted with flowers.

Jeongbang Waterfall /// ₩2000 entrance /// 8am-6pm Jeongbang's claim to fame is as the only waterfall in Asia to fall directly into the ocean, which is honestly a really cool sight to see. Even better, you can see it basically from the parking lot, and get up close & personal with just a 5-minute walk. There's even a tiny beach in front of it, just before the vast ocean extending way beyond.

The walk down is worth it in nice weather, but can be a bit treacherous in rain or snow. If you're lucky, you may even see a rainbow— do it for the 'gram, I dare you. There are a few shops just along the parking lot selling souvenirs, oranges, and Jeju chocolates, as well. Look for the coffee shop with free wifi if you need a break.

Cheonjiyeon Waterfall /// ₩2000 entrance /// 8am-6pm Cheonjiyeon deserves a place on this list on a nice day, but in the rain it's nothing but a waterfall. Jeongbang is a gnarly sight no matter the weather, but Cheonjiyeong is a worthy stopover only if you have the time.

T hough it honestly looks like some gnarly white water rafting could take place here. It's nice for a picture, however, and taking a rest in one of the many cafes. Not to be confused with Cheonjeyeon Waterfall, which is a three-tiered waterfall much further from Seogwipo.

Olle Trails (Oedolgae Rock) /// free /// roughly sunrise to sunset A rock may not sound like a very impressive attraction, but this stunning viewpoint is the perfect spot from which to admire the ocean & the many small islands off the coast of this side of Jeju-do. Many people come here each day just to trek the well-trod trails and stop at a lookout every once in awhile to soak it all in.

However the lazy among us (like myself) tend to stand at the lookout point and try to decide what each of the rock formations looks like. Think of hiking Olle Trail as cloud-watching, but for ancient volcanic rocks. Seriously, though, this place is gorgeous .

Jusangjeolli Lava Cliffs /// ₩2000 entrance /// roughly sunrise to sunset Often compared to the Giant's Causeway in Northern Island, the Jusangjeolli cliff faces are another act of nature bestowed upon Jeju by the volcano that formed its body.

Easily less than 5 minutes from the parking lot, the cliffs are deep grey rectangular and square formations which jut out into the ocean as if slowly formed by the stacking of blocks. They're quite the popular photo spot, and certainly worth a stop.

But I have to warn you that the line on the weekend can be long, and quite the brutal place to be waiting if it's raining.

Jeju Folk Village (Jeju Minsokchon) /// ₩11000 /// 8:30am-5pm or 6pm (spring & summer) Jeju Island is the land of the unexpected, and on my last trip I ended up in this tiny mountainous village for lunch, in an area I later learned was called Minsokchon .

The traditional Jeju Folk Village seems to have sprung out of the mountains, populated with short, flat-rooved structures which share with visitors the traditional way of life on the island.

It's a bit further down the east coast than the other Jeju attractions I'd recommend (but still accessible via bus 201!), however they have a wedding hall, horseback photo-ops, live performances, and restaurants, with overall plenty of activities for a full & fun afternoon.

Jeju Herb Garden (허브동산) /// ₩12000 (+ ₩12000 for optional foot bath) /// 9am-10pm My first time visiting the Jeju Herb Dongsan, I was amazed by how massive the grounds are. They have flowers in bloom at every time of year, and over 150 types of herbs growing across the property.

There's a café, restaurant, shopping area, multiple windmills, a mini golf course, and even a hotel you can stay in. The name in Korean is more like the Garden of Eden rather than your backyard herb garden, and the space genuinely lives up the name.

I tend to spend just a couple of hours wandering the grounds in the spring, but in the summer there are so many activities going on that you could easily pass an entire afternoon there. Plus, at 6pm every day, the grounds light up with over 5 million tiny bulbs, largely placed for optimal viewing and photography, making it a magical experience no matter the time of day.

Aqua Planet Jeju /// ₩37200-₩40900 /// 10am-7pm If you're visiting Jeju with kids, this is a must-see. This massive aquarium has not only penguins and sea lions, but whale sharks.

They have daily demonstrations and educational programs about the animals (in Korean), but all of the aquatic animals found in & around Jeju are in their large main building (with English signage). The entrance is pretty steep, but I promise that the photos are worth it.

Seopjikoji (scenic view point) /// free /// roughly sunrise to sunset Just across from Seongsan is Seopjikoji, an area famous for being the filming location for several dramas and a gorgeous area, to boot.

The draws over here are a defined walking trail along the cliffs and a beach side restaurant, though the most gorgeous scenes are in the spring, when the hills are in full bloom with bright yellow canola flowers. Watch out for selfie sticks, and try not to buy too many trinkets.

Submarine Ride to & from Udo /// ₩36000-₩55000 /// departing 8:55am-4:30pm Again, this is not a cheap activity, but it is one that you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Jeju is famous not only for its women divers, but also for its scuba diving.

The marine life in and around the islands is very vivid, in a way that's difficult to experience with snorkeling.

And the best part? Children of all ages are able to experience the beauty of the ocean, without the need to swim in it. Check out the submarine company here . Note that there is a 10% discount if you book with them online.

Bike Around Udo Island /// ₩10.500 (same-day round trip ferry) /// 7:30/8am-⅚:30pm (varies by season) Despite the fact that Jeju has become famous for their black pork, Udo is actually named for a cow. The shape of a cow, actually, which is what people thought it resembled when they first decided to name things.

Like the rest of Jeju, Udo is know for its great views and it's beaches, but unlike the rest of Jeju, Udo has a special dessert: peanut ice cream.

Bear with me here. Imagine you could ride around on a scooter on Udo with a cup of their famous peanut ice cream and a beach waiting for you to spend the afternoon on it. Just don't forget your international driver's licence if you want to ride around on anything with a motor!

Seongsan Ilchulbong (sunrise peak) /// ₩2000 /// Summer 7:10am-7pm & Winter 7:30am-6pm Is this in Korea or the Highlands of Ireland? The immensity of the green and the brightly colored flowers that greet you in the spring could very well distract you from ever climbing to the top of Seongsan.

The final of Jeju's three UNESCO world heritage sites, this windy fairy tale mountain was formed long ago by a volcanic eruption, just like the rest of Jeju Island. Available in the area is the hike to the viewpoint, and horseback riding and boating for a bit extra.

If you're lucky, this is also where you'll catch site of some of Jeju's famous women divers. Note that no food is allowed once you pass the ticket booth, so you'll have to take any peanut ice cream pictures from outside the gates.

Western Jeju-do

A Very Colorful Photoshoot /// free /// roughly sunrise to sunset Depending on the time of year, from March to October you could find yourself posing with cherry blossoms, canola flowers, lavender, sunflowers, or pink muhly.

Each of these blooms can be found during their own growing season in many corners of both Jeju and Udo. It all begins with the infamous cherry blossom season on Jeju, which starts sometime in mid to late March.

The season of flowers in Jeju ends with the brilliant pink muhly (actually a grass native to the US), with the selection changing every month or so. The blossoms you can see on your trip to Jeju will depend on the time of year during which you visit.

The Chocolate Museum /// ₩6000 /// 10am-6pm Built to resemble a castle, this massive museum is actually the second-largest chocolate museum in the world, behind the one in Cologne, Germany. Its exterior is covered in a volcanic landscape inspired by the island, while the inside smells as if it were coated in chocolate.

There are exhibits on chocolate history and chocolate making, as well as a cafe and a sales area where you can buy boxes of the sweet stuff. It's a chocolate lover's paradise, but I'll also admit that I've seen better . Note that the Jeju chocolate museum closes an hour early in winter and an hour late in summer.

Sanbangsan Carbonate Springs /// ₩12000 base entrance /// 6am-midnight (indoor hot springs) This will be one of the strangest experiences of your life, if you've never been to a Korean sauna. Everybody here is naked. Separated by gender, but naked. It takes some getting used to. And when you do, it's glorious.

This hot springs, glorified swimming pools in many ways, are divided by both temperature and healing properties. It's a very soothing way to spend an evening, especially if you're ready to scrub down everything afterwards; trust me, you'll feel baby smooth.

Note that the jjimjilbang (sleeping area) is open 24 hours, and costs an extra ₩10000 to stay in.

Jeju Trick Eye Museum (트릭아이미술관) /// ₩7000-9000 entrance /// 9am-6pm One of my favorite things to bring visitors to, the Trick Eye Museum is one of the best winter activities in Jeju.

It’s fun in the summer as well, but with relatively fewer things to do in Jeju in winter, spending a couple of hours acting a fool with your friends is the perfect medicine. There’s a typical path which visitors take that brings them past all of the backgrounds, and marks on the floor to show you how to pose for each one.

If you download their app, there are additional special effects for many of the backgrounds. For an additional ₩3000 per person, you can also visit the Greek Mythology Museum, with shares a space with the Trick Eye Museum .

Geumneung Beach (금능해수욕장) / // free /// roughly sunrise to sunset A relaxing option a bit further from the city is Geumneung Beach, a favorite Jeju Island beach amongst locals, especially in the summertime.

It's known for its idyllic views of Biyando Island, accessible & kid-friendly sandbar, crystal clear water, and black lava rocks, perfect for walking around or visiting with kids. This more hidden gem is also surrounded by cool restaurants and cafes to relax in while you enjoy the sunset over a drink or meal.

O'Sulloc Tea Fields & Museum /// free /// 9am-6pm Being a tiny museum, I wouldn't expect much in the way of tea education, but if you came for the tea products , then this is your spot.

The small museum is attached to a massive cafe serving up a variety of teas from their farm, plus coffee and desserts . In the Innis Free store a hundred meters away is the beauty products section of the grounds, along with another massive cafe.

The best part for most people will be the tea plantation itself, however, which is situated across the street from the museum and simply laden with photo-ops. There are honestly so many things to do in Jeju, but it's all so different that it's unlikely that everything will appeal to you.

So just pick your favorites in each area, and then move on to the next one.

🥘 Foods to Eat in Jeju

Sannakji  ("live" octopus)

This i s baby octopus, killed and then immediately cut up & served with sesame seeds on top, but the freshness of the animals means that the tentacles are still moving around when it's served. This one can be hard to stomach (or swallow), but it's certainly an important dish here.

Abalone (Sea Snails)

It may sound gross to eat snails, but these are actually a type of shellfish, more like oysters than snails. They're one of the many seafoods caught by the women divers of Jeju, and are caught & served fresh every day from most restaurants in Jeju.

T he slabs of pork belly (its most common form) you'll find sold in most barbeque restaurants in Jeju are a softer and more flavorful version of the meat from the mainland. Don't forget to check out Black Pork Street in Jeju City.

Green Tea Anything

Home to the O'Sulloc tea fields, you'll see green tea flavored things throughout Jeju Island. But nowhere is there a higher concentration of green tea items than at the O'Sulloc tea museum. The crowd favorites are the green tea lattes and green tea cakes, but I always go for the green tea churros .

Hallabong (those big oranges grown throughout the island)

Winter is the best season for hallabong (Jeju oranges), but some of the groves grow hallabong year round. You'll see these beauties for sale in boxes along the side of the road during high season, and at gift shops in most of the major tourists sites.

Peanut Ice Cream

Depending on where you get it from, the cream flavor can be more or less intense, and the ice crystals can be strong. However, peanuts are grown on Udo, the island off the coast of Jeju, making it a local food & one that Koreans are rightfully very proud of. I like it okay, but most people just buy it for the cute pictures., anyway

Jeju Chocolate

As mentioned above, Jeju is home to the world's second-largest chocolate museum. This means that Jeju chocolate has become famous throughout Korea over the years. If you're bringing back a souvenir for those who couldn't come with, a box of chocolates is a good option.

🏠 Where to Stay on Jeju Island

Jeju Island is by no means small, but it is navigable enough to stay in one place with a rental car and see the whole island in three or four days. So I also cover where to stay on Jeju Island , narrowing it down to the four best regions in which to base yourself. It includes a different spot for every budget and comfort level.

If you're unsure of where to stay at all, or just have a day or two, then I highly recommend you stick to the transportation hub of Jeju City. If you're spending at least 3 days on Jeju, consider splitting up your accommodation and staying on the two opposite sides of the island.

Click here to see reviews of Jeju accomodation on Agoda.

🔍 Jeju Practical Info

Jeju Population: ~680,000 people.

Language:  Korean, though most who work in tourism will speak a little English. Some people speak some Japanese and Mandarin.

Currency: the Korean won (KRW), written as either ₩ or 원 (in Korean). 1000 won is equal to about $0.78USD or ₱42.

Voltage: 220v/60Hz, with two round holes for the plug (type F).

Korea Visa : While there are still 112 countries whose citizens don’t need to apply for visas before visiting Korea for 30 to 90 days, beginning from September 2021, ALL visitors from those approved countries still need to have an approved K-ETA before arriving in Korea. K-ETA stands for Korea-Electronic Travel Authorization.

You can check if yours is one of those visa-exempt, countries and how long your visa lasts for,  here . But remember, even if you don’t need to apply for a visa, from now on you do still need to  apply for a K-ETA , which is good for two years from the date of approval.

Best Time to Visit Jeju

There's really no bad time to visit Jeju, since the weather is so much milder compared to Seoul. But summer is definitely peak season, with prices also at their peak as both families and honeymooners packing the beaches & resorts .

The best month to visit Jeju Island is May, when the canola flowers are blooming and locals haven't yet started packing the hotels.

Since most people come to Jeju for just 3 or 4 days at a time, flights are much cheaper to arrive Sunday through Wednesday & depart Wednesday, Thursday or Saturday.

✏️ Basic Korean Lesson

F or a native English speaker, Korean is one of the harder languages to learn. So to help you prepare for your trip, I've compiled a shortlist to help you order food and just be generally polite.

Many Koreans speak enough English to understand your order in a restaurant, but it's always polite to thank someone in Korean. I'd also highly recommend downloading a picture-capable translation app before you go, like Google Translate.

Hello! //  An-nyeong-ha-se-yo ! (안녕하세요!)

Thank you. // Gam-saahm-ni-da . (감사합니다.)

I don’t speak Korean. // Han-guk-aw jal-moat-hae-yo. (한국어 잘못해요.)

Do you speak English? //  Yeong-aw jal-hae-yo?  (영어 잘해요?)

It's to-go/takeout. // Po-jahng ee-eh-yo . (포장 이예요.)

How much is it? // Eol-ma-yeh-yo? (얼마예요?)

One of these, please. // Ee-gaw ha-na ju-say-yo. (이거 하나 주세요.)

🎢 Jeju Attractions Map

More South Korea Travel & Life

Reader Interactions

April 08, 2024 at 5:15 pm

@Max, Thank you for all these recco's. Definitely helpful and will use. I am traveling with my son and honestly, just have no desire to figure out driving in a strange place in a foreign country so we are just going to do tours, but will make sure to hit all the places mentioned here, on all the replys as well! Thanks all.

April 09, 2024 at 11:24 pm

My pleasure, Oak - I'm glad you found everything helpful (and for the lovely community here in the comments!). 🙂

April 07, 2023 at 11:02 pm

First, thank you very much for the info you shared with the world. It was exceptionally useful when planning my trip to Korea and to Jeju.

A few comments that I hope you and your readers will find useful, based on my recent visit to Seoul and Jeju. This was my first visit to Korea.

1) Get an eSIM card before you go to Korea.

You can buy this online and you'll get a QR code which you can scan with your phone the day you leave for Korea. The recent phone models (iPhone 10 and later, for example) support this. I got mine via Klook, which is a very well known and reputed online travel agency. I think it was about 30 US dollars for a three week / 15GB package. Shop around, there are many options. The coverage and speeds were excellent everywhere.

2) Get the Google Translate app.

Essential for reading Korean and also for communicating (speech or written text) with the locals. BTW, they know that too, and are making use of it when needed. This technology works exceptionally well.

3) Get the Naver Map app. It works really well.

4) It helps to learn the Korean character set.

Not necessary, but I found this fun and useful, esp. for things like reading restaurant names, for example. It's easy to learn it - there just about 36 signs or so and a few logical and simple rules.

5) Finding plane tickets for flying from Seoul to Jeju is easier via Klook.

Booking.com, Orbitz.com etc. don't show all airlines.

6) A car rental is essential in my opinion.

I rented mine via Hertz. Surprise - there was no sign of Hertz (or Avis, or Enterprise or any other well-known American or European car rental agency) at Jeju airport! Finally, a helpful Korean realized that the address of the "Hertz" car rental agency was actually that of Lotte's, which is a major and reputable Korean conglomerate that also offers this service. So keep that in mind.

There are dozens of car rental agencies that serve the travelers who arrive via Jeju's main airport (CJU) and you need to get on a shuttle to get to the right rental center. Everything's very well organized and clearly signaled, but you do need to know which Korean car rental agency you'll be renting from. Again, try renting via Klook or some other Asian online travel agency.

At the car rental center I went to (Lotte's) things were again very well organized. They had special desks for foreign tourists and everything went very smooth.

Driving a car is easy. The traffic's not bad but things move slooowwly. There are lots and lots of school zones (max speed 30km/h - meaning 20mph) and speed cams. Use the Naver Map app to get a sense of how long it takes to get from point A to point B. The distances are not bad, but you'll spend 30-60 minutes between many points of interest. On the last day, for example, it took 1h10' to drive the 30km (20miles) between the beach I visited and the airport! There were no traffic jams, just lots and lots of speed limits and traffic lights.

Driving is boring on Jeju. I didn't find too many scenic drives, except for one that followed the shore line, on the Eastern side of the island. Also, on the last day, the drive to the airport also had a short section (a few km) by the ocean and the light was beautiful (just before sunset). I wish I had some time to stop by and take pictures.

7) As a said above, driving is relatively unpleasant, as in slow and uninteresting views) but once you arrive at the destination you WILL be wowed.

Jeju is not Hawaii, let's not kid ourselves, but it does have both natural and man-made attractions that will take your breath away:

Manjanggul cave - highly recommended. I had a flashlight and it was even better.

Jeongbang Waterfall and, a short walk away from it, Cheonjiyeon Waterfall. Continue to walk past and you'll get to a beautiful cafe/pizza/desert place called Honeymooon House, with an outstanding view of the ocean and the nearby islands. Continue past the cafe for another few minutes for beautiful ocean views.

Olle Trails (Oedolgae Rock) - wonderful walking path and very pretty sights.

Jusangjeolli Lava Cliffs - exceptional, esp. if you can visit around sunset and low tide time, as I did. Do get close to those rocks to take outstanding pictures.

Jeju Folk Village - very nice, I recommend it for great pictures.

Seopjikoji (scenic view point) - very picturesque

O’Sulloc Tea Fields & Museum - I didn't even visit the museum (it was under construction in March 2023, when I went), but the tea shop, the gardens and the Innisfree cosmetics store and the cafe next to it were truly exceptional. Don't miss it.

Hyeopjae Beach - exceptionally wonderful. The colors are going to amaze you.

- Korean barbecue + black pork - generally speaking I don't care too much about food, or about grilled meat but this was extraordinary. You must try.

- Hallasan hiking - it seemed boring to me - mostly walking through the woods and then a relatively short distance above the tree line - so I skipped it. Take a look at some pictures online before deciding you really want to do this

- For gift shopping, I highly recommend the pedestrian street downtown Seogwipo; search for the Innisfree Seogwipo - there are many stores with gifts. I also recommend the market next to the Innisfree store.

April 09, 2023 at 1:09 pm

These are great tips; thank you so much, Petru, for taking the time to write it all out! Momondo and Skyscanner are two other great sites for tickets to Jeju.

That's been my experience with rental cars in Jeju, too; I ended up at the same singular place both times, and next trip to Korea I'm going to take step-by-step pictures or video so that it's less intimidating. Renting a car is 100% the move, for Jeju! Definitely boring, but thankfully easy. A section on scenic drives along Jeju wouldn't be a bad idea, either.

O'Sulloc is a can't miss every time I go, if only for the seasonal specials at the cafe. Next time you've got to make it to Jeju Herb Garden, which is gorgeous, and sounds just right for you! Honestly, the green tea museum is nothing to write home about, so you saw the most important stuff. It sounds like you had a great trip, too. I've never done with with Klook or Trazy, the two bigger tour companies in Korea, but I'll have to make it a point to do so next time!

May 25, 2023 at 5:25 pm

@Max, I plan to rent a car from Avis, do I need to get an International Driving Permit in the US first? Thanks.

May 26, 2023 at 12:15 am

Yes, you do. You can get one at AAA.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Inside Jeju

The complete guide to Jeju travel

The complete guide to Jeju Island: From nature to food and beyond

Welcome to Inside Jeju! We’re here to help you plan your dream visit to Jeju. Get started by reading our guide to the island.

It covers everything you need to know about Jeju and provides information about some of the essential things to see and do on the island. We’ve also included links to places where you can discover more. Let’s jump in!

About Jeju Island

Jeju is an island off the southern coast of Korea. It’s the largest Korean island covering an area of 1,833 meters squared. It’s around 31 km north to south and 73 km from east to west. If you wanted to travel around the coast, it’s around 220 km.

The island was formed due to volcanic activity, and you’ll see evidence of this wherever you go. Most notable is the volcano itself, Hallasan Mountain, which is the tallest mountain in Korea and dominates the center of the island.

The island is split into Jeju-si, which is the north side, and Seogwipo-si to the south side. Jeju-si is home to Jeju City, which is by far the largest settlement on the island. Around 493,000 people live here, with the vast majority living in the city.

Seogwipo City on the south side of the island, is the second largest settlement, although it’s much smaller than Jeju City. Around 184,000 people live on the southern side of the island.

Jeju is a Special Self-Governing Province, which means the island has some powers to run itself. Why is this important to you? Well, it means that tourists from many countries can visit the island without getting a visa in advance if they arrive directly via either Jeju Airport or Jeju International Ferry Terminal.

Getting into Jeju

The main way into Jeju is via Jeju International Airport. The route between Jeju and Seoul Gimpo is the busiest flight route in the world!

Flights make the trip every five or ten minutes from morning to evening every day of the week. This means it’s super easy and cheap to make the one-hour-ten-minute journey. Flights typically start at 50,000 KRW after tax.

Seoul isn’t the only domestic location you can fly in from, however. There are plenty of flights every day from Busan, and regular flights from Cheongju, Yeosu, Daegu, Gwangju, and other Korean cities.

Frustratingly for international travelers, there are currently no flights from Incheon to Jeju. You have to make the trip from Incheon to Gimpo yourself via either the subway or the airport limousine bus.

You can also get the ferry from mainland Korea to Jeju. Routes currently run from Busan, Yeosu, Wando, Mokpo, Goheung, and Incheon. Ferry times range from just 2 hours 40 minutes to go from Jeju to Wando, to 13.5 hours from Jeju to Incheon.

There are also international options, although these often change. At the time of writing, you can fly to Osaka, Singapore, Taipei, and Bangkok.

Read more: Find out how to get to Jeju Island for both domestic and international travelers

Where to stay in Jeju

There are hotels, resorts, guest houses, pensions, and camping sites all over Jeju. You can stay pretty much anywhere on the island. But, most people will want to stay in one of the following areas.

Jeju City is near to the airport and has easy travel links to the rest of the island. You get all the convenience of city life, while easily being able to spend your days seeing the sights in the countryside. Consider staying in Nohyeong in Shin Jeju or Tapdong in Gu Jeju City.

Seogwipo City is home to some of Jeju’s most popular natural sites, including Jeongbang Falls and Cheonjiyeon Falls. It’s easy to travel throughout the island by bus or taxi from this southern city base. The city is much smaller than Jeju City, but still offers plenty of conveniences.

Jungmun Tourist Complex is a resort destination on Jeju’s southwest coast. It’s filled with large resorts and has everything tourists needs to enjoy a relaxing trip, including the popular Jungmun Beach. Other places we think it’s worthwhile staying at include Seongsan, Hamdeok, and Shinhwa World.

Find out more: Read our detailed guide on where to stay in Jeju

How to get around Jeju

You can get around Jeju by bus, taxi, or renting a car. Just choose the option that suits your travel style and budget.

Jeju has a comprehensive bus system that will take you anywhere on the island. The buses are incredibly affordable, with the regular buses costing 1,200 KRW and express buses costing 4,000 KRW when paid in cash.

The system can be confusing for newcomers who don’t speak Korean, so we thoroughly recommend that you download either the Kakao Maps or Naver Maps app (both have English versions). From here you can enter your location, choose bus as your method of travel, and the app will highlight exactly how to get to your chosen location.

You can also rent a car. There are English language options available including Kayak and Lotte Rent-a-car. You will need either an international driving license or a Korean driving license that was issued at least one year prior.

Taxes are another good and affordable option. Prices start at 3,300 KRW for the first 2 kilometers, then go up by 100 KRW. You can hail taxis in the street or sign up for the Kakao Taxi app, which is similar to Uber, if you have a Korean phone number.

You can also rent drivers for an entire day and there are several companies on Google with English options and high star raitngs. .

Jeju time zone

Jeju is in Korea Standard Time, meaning it’s the same timezone as the rest of Korea and Japan. It’s 1 hour ahead of Singapore, Malaysia, and China.

Jeju nature

Jeju is known as a place of great natural beauty. If you come to the island, it’s almost certain that you’ll visit some of these spots. There are a ton of places that you could go and see, but here are the absolute highlights.

Hallasan Mountain

Hallasan Mountain sits in the center of the island, and you can see its silhouette no matter where you are, as long as the weather is clear. The mountain is a shield volcano and its eruptions are responsible for much of what you see on Jeju today. It’s also the highest in Korea, with the Baekrokdam Crater at its summit reaching a height of over 1,950 meters above sea level. Two paths go to this summit, as well as several other hikes you do in the area.

Read more: Hiking Hallasan Mountain: All you need to know

Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak

Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, also known as Sunrise Peak, is a tuff cone and crater at the island’s easternmost point. It was formed by volcanic activity 5,000 years ago and the structure rises dramatically out of the sea reaching a height of 180 meters above sea level. You can climb to the top, where you’ll see a giant crater, as well as panoramic views out around Jeju.

Read more: The complete guide to Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak

Sanbangsan Mountain

Sanbangsan Mountain is a bell-shaped lava dome on the southern side of the island. It rises up to 395 meters above sea level, which is especially noticeable thanks to the flatness of the area that surrounds it. The mountain is home to a temple with a giant Buddha statue, and you can climb up to cave situated halfway up the mountain.

Read more: Sanbangsan area guide: What to see when visiting

Despite having almost no running water, Jeju is known for its waterfalls. The three most famous waterfalls on Jeju are Jeongbang Waterfall, which is famous for being the only waterfall in Korea that falls directly into the sea, Cheonjiyeon Falls, which comes at the end of short and relaxing river walk, and Cheonjeyeon Falls, a tiered waterfall in Jungmun Tourist Complex.

Oreum are the volcanic hills that dot the island’s landcape. These are parasitic cones formed by volcanic activity on the island. There are more than 360 of them around the island and you can find them in every corner. They are great places for short hikes and they tend to offer outstanding views of the surrounding area.

With around 220 km of coastline, it’s no surprise that Jeju has plenty of beautiful beaches. There is plenty of variety, from the white sand and turquoise ocean of Hyeopjae and Gimyeong to the golden sand and waves at Jungmun and the bustling seaside atmosphere of Hamdeok.

Next up: The complete guide to Jeju’s best beaches

Olle Trails

Jeju’s Olle Trails are a system of coastal walking paths that circumnavigate the island. There are 21 main routes as well as six sub-routes that offer alternative paths around some of Jeju’s most popular spots.

The majority of the routes are around 15 km, with the longest being 20.9 km and the shortest being the stroll around Gapa-do, a small island off Jeju’s southwest coast. Each trail has its own character, but they all typically include sections along the coast, through rural villages, and into the island’s inland forests and countryside.

Jeju culture

There are many differences between Jeju’s culture and that of mainland Korea. Those interested in experiencing the culture of Jeju should look out for following highlights.

Haenyeo divers

Haenyeo Divers are women that dive in the waters around Jeju to collect shellfish. They are free-divers, meaning they do so without breathing equipment. Many of the divers ar middle-aged or older, with oldest being in their 80s. You can see Haenyeo Divers working in areas around the island.

Dolharubang stone grandfathers

Dolharubang stone grandfathers are statues that you’ll see all around Jeju. They’re a popular symbol of the island and the statues come in all shapes and sizes, usually being placed outside gates to act as guardians and protect the homes inside.

Traditional markets

Jeju’s has two types of traditional markets. First are the permanent markets that open every day. Second are is the five day market, which opens on every fifth day at various points around the island. Each market sells everything from fresh produce to souvineers and street food. The Jeju City 5-Day Market is the biggest market. Dongmun Traditional Market in Jeju City and Seogwipo Maeil Market are the other notable markets in the northern and southern cities.

Jeju language

While the vast majority of people on the island speak standardized Korean, Jeju has it’s own language, called Jejueo, which still lives on. It’s especially prevalent among the older generation in rural areas, so if you speak Korean but don’t understand what someone is saying to you while visiting a rural village, it could be because they’re speaking a different language.

Jeju food and drink

You can find all the standard Korean favorites on Jeju, as well as plenty of restaurants selling high-quality foreign fare. But, the island does have some dishes that it is especially well-known for.

Jeju black pork is perhaps the most well-known Jeju food. It comes from pigs with black skin and fur, although the actual meat looks the same as standard pork. You can buy black pork around the island, usually at a slight premium compared to regular pork. The most famous black pork dishes are barbecue and Gogi Guku, a type of noodle soup.

As an island, you’ll be unsurprised to hear that Jeju has a lot of seafood. You can try raw shellfish freshly collected by Haenyeo divers, giant abalones either grilled or served up in rice porridge, and cutlassfish served either in a clear broth or a spicy stew.

Gamgyul mandarins

Walk around Jeju in late fall to mid-winter and you’re sure to fields full of mandarin trees. These fields with their bright orange baubles don’t just look pretty, they are also a sign of one of Jeju’s most well-known food types, the Jeju mandarin.

There are various types of fruits from smaller mandarins, to the large Hallabong’s with their distinctive button at the top. There are also several new varieties such as Red Hyang and Cheonhye Hyang which are sweeter, juicier, and genuinely among the best fruit I’ve ever tasted.

Next up: Must try Jeju food: What to eat during your trip

The complete guide to Jeju travel.

Jeju island guide

© 2024 Inside Jeju

Things to Do on Jeju Island in South Korea: A Complete Travel Guide

Jeju Island (also known as the Hawaii of Korea) is a popular travel destination for locals and other travelers from all over the world. While I can’t honestly say it was actually as good as Hawaii (Hawaii’s my favorite!), it was definitely a nice escape from the city life in Seoul. This is everything you need to know for your trip to Jeju Island in South Korea – how to get there, all of the best places to see, things to do, where to stay, and other Jeju Island travel tips!

Table of Contents

About Jeju Island

Jeju Island, a volcanic island, is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Korea. It is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and was recently named one of the new ‘Seven Wonders of Nature’. Jeju Island is well known for it’s beach resorts, multiple stunning waterfalls, Hallasan Mountain (a dormant volcano and South Korea’s tallest mountain!), and some of the most impressive temples in all of Asia.

The locals on Jeju Island are very friendly and help make your vacation here enjoyable. It’s by far one of the most memorable places I’ve visited while living in Korea. I’ve seen and heard many people say that none of the locals on Jeju speak English but that’s just not true. Almost every attraction and restaurant/cafe that I visited had multiple people who spoke English, even if it was just the basics. You’ll definitely have no real problem with language barriers here.

If you’re just looking for a fun and easy escape while in South Korea, this is the perfect island to visit! Whether you’re in need of a romantic weekend away or planning your next family vacation, Jeju has something for everybody to enjoy.

Getting to Jeju Island

By airplane:.

You can fly to Jeju Island from Seoul, Busan, or one of the smaller airports like in Cheongju. Most flights to Jeju will take just over an hour. Flights are usually fairly cheap (I was able to fly to Jeju for just $7!) and can easily be booked online. Keep in mind that all flights from Seoul to Jeju Island will depart from Gimpo airport, not Incheon (the main airport).

You may also like: Things to Do in Busan, South Korea: A Travel Guide .

If you’re heading to Jeju Island from Busan, there are only three ferry services per week and it is a very long ferry ride (about 12 hours). Prices for the ferries are often pretty comparable to flights to Jeju Island, sometimes even more expensive. In my opinion, the best place to take a ferry to Jeju Island is from Busan or Wando Island.

Transportation on Jeju Island

Car / motorbike rental:.

A car rental is by far the most convenient way to get around Jeju Island. There are plenty of options for rental companies should you choose to do this but you must have your Korean drivers license or IDP (International Driver’s Permit). If you are in Korea with your own car, you can take your car with you to Jeju Island via the ferry (just keep in mind that not all ferries provide this service).

Personal Driver:

Yes, it’s actually possible to hire your own personal driver for the day! It’s definitely expensive and while it might be convenient it’s also a bit limiting as they will only drive you around until a certain time each night.

Public Transportation:

The public transportation system on Jeju Island is definitely not as great as you’ll find in cities like Seoul or Busan. However, the bus routes cover most of the island including all of the main touristy spots so it’s still very easily doable. If you’re limited on time, this might not be the best option as it definitely takes much longer getting from one place to the next. I often found myself waiting 30+ minutes just for the bus to arrive at the stop!

You’ll have no problem finding a taxi anywhere on the island. It’s definitely a convenient way of getting around but far from cheap. Jeju is a much bigger island than many people realize so taxi costs can add up quick! However, if you’re wanting to save some time and avoid taking the bus everywhere, a taxi could be more than worth it.

Things to Do on Jeju Island

Jeju stone park.

Jeju Stone Park showcases stonework of all kinds in an indoor museum as well as many large outdoor displays. The main theme of the park is based on the legend of Jeju Island’s mythological grandmother, Seolmundae Halmang. This park is the perfect place to visit if you’re a fan of mythology and learning about the history of the island!

One of the most famous features of Jeju is all of the stone men you’ll see around the island. These stone statues are called ‘dolharubang’, which translates to ‘stone grandfather’. They are believed by locals to offer fertility and protection from demons. You’ll often see them outside of gates and doorways for this reason!

Address: 2023 Namjo-ro, Jochon-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 9AM – 6PM (Closed on the first Monday of every month).

Admission: 5,000 KRW with discounts for groups and children.

Gimnyeong Maze Park

Gimnyeong Maze Park is a fun spot to visit whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids! Once you purchase your ticket you’ll be given a map of the maze. Use this map to try and find your way to the center platform where you’ll find a large bell. If you make it all the way through the maze and ring the bell at the end, you get a free prize; I got a really cute postcard for free!

Address: 122 Manjanggul-gil, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 9AM – 6PM.

Admission: 5,500 KRW with discounts for children and the elderly.

Manjanggul Cave / Lava Tube

The Manjanggul Cave is a massive lava tube that was formed hundreds of thousands of years ago. It’s actually over a kilometer long and it takes a while to walk the entire cave and back. It can get pretty cold inside the cave and water is constantly dripping from the top, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket with you – even in the summer!

Address: 182 Manjanggul-gil, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 9AM – 5:30PM (Closed on the first Wednesday of every month).

Admission: 4,000 KRW with discounts available for children and groups.

Jeju Folk Village

Jeju Folk Village was a fun spot with a good mix of traditional and modern Korean attractions. Most of the park was filled with traditional Korean huts like in the photo above, but there were also fun things like Instagram photo spots complete with props and even a cool garden maze!

Address: 631 Minsokhaean-ro, Pyoseon-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 8:30AM – 6PM.

Admission: 11,000 KRW. Each ticket comes with a brochure and a map of the park.

Seongsan Ilchulbang Peak (Sunrise Peak)

Seongsan Ilchulbang Peak is by far one of the most beautiful spots on Jeju Island. I wasn’t able to make it for sunrise (or sunset) but it was gorgeous during the day; I can only imagine how pretty it would be with a sunrise or sunset in the background!

There are two ways to visit Sunrise Peak; you can take the trail to the left of the entrance for free, or you can pay 5,000 KRW to hike the trail to the right. If you hike the trail to the right, it’s estimated to be about a 50 minute hike (round trip) and will take you all the way to the tip of the peak. If you walk the trail to the left you can either walk down to the black sand beach and watch the divers or just walk out to a great viewpoint of the peak.

Address: 284 Ilchul-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 7:30AM – 7:30PM.

Admission: 5,000 KRW with discounts for groups and children. Free for the trail to the left.

Hike Mount Hallasan

Mount Hallasan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the tallest mountain in all of Korea. It’s located right in the center of the island and rises 1,950 meters above sea level. Mount Hallasan, also called Halla Mountain, is by far one of the most popular spots on Jeju Island.

Mount Hallasan is a completely free attraction and has hiking trails of all different levels of difficulty making it a great hike for anyone. Whether you choose to hike all the way to the top or just take one of the shorter trails, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views all along the way. One of the most popular ways to hike the mountain is to go up the Seongpanak Trail and back down the Gwaneumsa Trail.

Jusangjeolli Cliffs

The hexagonal pillars of Jusangjeolli Cliffs may look man-made but they were actually formed from lava that spilled from Mount Hallasan when it erupted. The observatory platform, 20 meters above the ocean, makes for a perfect spot to watch the sunset and marvel at these unique rock pillars.

Address: Jungmun-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 9AM – sunset, daily.

Admission: 2,000 KRW.

Yakcheonsa Temple

Yakcheonsa Temple is home to the largest Buddhist prayer hall and main temple in all of Asia and provides an amazing view of the coast. I’ll be honest, pictures do this place no justice. It looks so amazing in person, it’s definitely one you have to see for yourself!

Admission to the temple is free but you can also take part in a temple stay here should you choose to do so. There are gift shops located inside the temple, a large free parking lot at the entrance, and even a small convenience store. There is a bus stop right outside the entrance so this temple is easily accessible if you’ll be taking public transportation.

Address: 293 Ieodo-ro, Daepo-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 7AM – 6PM.

Admission: Free.

Lee Jung Seop Street

Lee Joong-seop was an artist known for creating some of the greatest paintings in the history of modern Korean art. The street is now named after him and is home to his art gallery. Lee Jung Seop Street is full of cute, colorful cafes and unique shops. You’ll often see markets, festivals, and even concerts taking place here!

Walk the Olle Trails

The Olle Trails are actually a system of 26 different hiking paths (21 main courses and 5 sub-courses) that go all the way around the entire island. And yes, you can walk them all! This adds up to a total of 422 kilometers so it would obviously take a while to hike them all, but many people make it their mission to complete every trail! Each trail features different popular attractions along the way making it a great and unique way to see the island.

The trails are all broken up into different sections so you can choose which ones you do or don’t want to hike. The trails are easy to follow and range in difficulty from super easy to very difficult. You can pick up an ‘Olle Trail Passport’ at any one of the information centers on the island; this passport allows you to collect stamps along the way to keep track of which trails you’ve completed.

For more info on the Olle Trails, click here or here .

Jungmun Tourist Complex / Resort Area

The Jungmun Tourist Area is one of my favorite spots on the whole island. It’s not just one thing, it’s a whole area full of different attractions. You could easily spend an entire day of your trip just exploring all of the different museums and attractions in this area. These are some of the best spots that you’ll find here!

Yeomiji Botanical Garden

Yeomiji has a large indoor garden as well as the outdoor gardens. The indoor garden is a 3-acre glass greenhouse that has an observation tower right in the center, various floral and plant exhibitions, a ‘Mystery Garden’, aquatic gardens, cactus gardens, jungle gardens, and even a tropical fruits garden.

The outdoor gardens are spread over 24 acres and consist of multiple different themed gardens including Japanese gardens, Korean gardens, and even a French lawn and gardens. You could easily spend an hour or two exploring all of the different gardens – it’s the perfect spot to spend a spring afternoon!

Address: 93 Jungmungwangwang-ro, Saekdal-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do.

Admission: 9,000 KRW with discounts for children and the elderly.

Chocolate Land

Chocolate Land is basically a small museum about chocolate. Not the most exciting attraction, perhaps, but still worth checking out – especially if you plan to attend one of the chocolate making classes! There are a few “paintings” in the museum which are made entirely of chocolate, and even a display with kimchi chocolate!

Address: 2864 Saekdal-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 10AM – 6PM, last entry is at 5:30PM.

Admission: 3,000 KRW for general admission to the museum, an added fee if you plan to take one of the chocolate making classes.

Seonimgyo Bridge / Cheonjeyeon Waterfall

Cheonjeyeon might be my favorite waterfall on all of Jeju (more on that below) but the real star here is Seonimgyo Bridge! The bridge features seven white nymphs on each side (each playing their own musical instrument), and these nymphs represent a Korean legend about seven nymphs descending from heaven each night.

From atop the bridge you can see part of Cheonjeyeon Falls as well as gorgeous views over the park. There is a small cutout before you reach the bridge which makes the perfect spot for photos! This was by far one of my favorite attractions on the island.

Address: 2232 Jungmun-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 9AM – 7PM.

Admission: 2,500 KRW.

Teddy Bear Museum

The Teddy Bear Museum is a fun spot to visit especially with kids. There are multiple different teddy bear exhibits in the museum and each exhibit has its own theme. One of the best exhibits would have to be the one with many famous historical sculptures and works of art (ex: The Angelus painting, statue of David) reimagined with teddy bear heads – it makes for a good laugh!

Address: 2889 Saekdal-dong Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 9AM – 7PM daily, 9AM – 9PM in the summer.

Admission: 10,000 KRW for adults, 8,000 KRW for children.

Jungmun Beach

I won’t lie, I wasn’t too impressed with Jungmun Beach. It was the first beach that I visited on Jeju and after hearing so many people compare Jeju Island to Hawaii, I guess I just expected a bit more! But, if you’re just looking to get your toes in the sand, this is a great spot to go after visiting everything else in the Jungmun Resort Area.

Ripley’s Believe it Or Not

After living in the USA and visiting many of the beaches there, I feel like no beach town is really complete without a Ripley’s Believe it Or Not Museum, and Jeju is no exception! The museum consists of multiple different galleries with unique themes, a cafe, an outdoor park, and a souvenir shop. Ripley’s is the perfect way to spend an entertaining afternoon!

Admission: 12,000 KRW with discounts for children and the elderly.

Camellia Hill

Camellia Hill is a gorgeous botanical garden. It’s so pretty that you’ll often see couples dressed up taking photos all throughout the gardens – even their wedding pictures! If you’re lucky enough to visit in the summer you’ll find the whole garden filled with beautiful blue flowers.

Address: 166 Byeongang-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do.

Admission: 8,000 KRW with discounts for children.

Check Out The Fun Cafes

You may also like this post: The Best Cafes on Jeju Island in South Korea .

Jeju Island is home to some of my favorite cafes in all of South Korea. And, there are tons to choose from! I honestly could have spent days just checking out all of the great cafes. Of course, in typical Korean fashion, the cafes have tons of fun and unique themes like the Hello Kitty cafe!

Soingook Miniature Theme Park

The Soingook Miniature Theme Park has tiny replicas of some of the most famous monuments in the world! Most of them are built to 1/25th of their actual size which makes for an incredible park full of monuments that you may never get a chance to see otherwise!

Address: 1878 Jungsanganseo-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do.

Admission: 9,000 KRW for adults, discounts for children and elderly

Geumgeung Stone Hareubang Park

The Geumgeung Stone Park is a small but unique park filled with all kinds of fun stone statues created over the years. The stones are set up in different sections that each depict different traditional Korean lifestyles. Some are religious, some are very traditional, and some are just really funny! At the entrance of the park you’ll find a couple of different cafes as well as a small gift shop where you can purchase some local handmade souvenirs.

Address: 181 Hallim-ro, Hallim-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do.

Admission: 4,000 KRW.

O’Sulloc Tea Museum

While the O’Sulloc tea fields are not quite as grand as the ones at the Boseong Green Tea Plantation , they’re definitely still worth visiting! Entry is free and there are tons of cute photo ops as well as a rooftop observatory which provides a great view of all the tea fields from above. Don’t forget to try the Mount Halla cake at the Innisfree Cafe while you’re here!

Address: 15 Sinhwayeoksa-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do.

Hallim Park

Hallim Park is one of the most popular botanical gardens on Jeju Island. One of my favorite things about Hallim Park was that it actually has caves that you can walk through in addition to the unique gardens and exhibits. You’ll also find a folk village here as well as an outdoor children’s amusement park. It’s a must-see for families and it’s located right by the beach!

Address: 300 Hallim-ro, Hallim-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 8:30AM – 5:30PM.

Admission: 12,000 KRW for adults, discounts available for children and senior citizens

Jeju Glass Castle

Jeju Glass Castle is one of the most unique attractions on the island. There is an outdoor garden as well as many beautiful indoor exhibits and everything is made of glass. It’s definitely a sight to see! Should you choose to do so, you can even experience making your own glass masterpiece for an extra fee.

Address: 462 Nokchabunjae-ro, Hangyeong-myeon, Jeju-si, Jeju-do.

Admission: 11,000 KRW for adults, discounts available for kids and seniors

It wouldn’t truly be Korea if it didn’t include something as weirdly unique as Love Land, the purely sex-themed park. This one is definitely not kid friendly but it’s a fun spot for couples to go and have a good laugh! If you’re feeling extra naughty, head to the gift shop for some sexy souvenirs!

Address: 2894 Cheonbaek-ro, Yeon-dong, Jeju-si, Jeju-do.

Hours: 9AM – Midnight.

Admission: 12,000 KRW.

Day Trip to Udo Island

Udo Island, or “cow island”, is great day trip from Jeju. It’s a much smaller island off the east coast of Jeju that’s easily accessible by ferry. If I’m being totally honest, I loved Udo Island way more than I did Jeju. It was way more relaxed, the locals were some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met, and the whole island was gorgeous .

Other Things to Do on Jeju Island

• Bangdupo Lighthouse
• Alive Museum
• Daheeyeon Cave Tea House & Zipline
• Jeju Mini Land
• Eco Land Theme Park
• Spirited Garden
• Chilsimni Food Street
• Jeju Waterworld
• Kim Kyung Suk Sunflower Farm
• Sangumburi Crater
• Mystery Maze Virtual Tour
• Aewol Coastal Walk
• Jeju 5-Day Market
• Museum of African Art
• Seongeup Folk Village
• Mysterious Road

Chasing Waterfalls on Jeju Island

Cheonjiyeon falls.

Cheonjiyeon Falls is located inside of a small but gorgeous park. The falls themselves are pretty impressive but the park is worth spending some time exploring as well.

Eongtto Falls

Unfortunately, I wasn’t lucky enough to catch Eongtto Falls in action; the waterfall only makes an appearance after a certain amount of rain, and even though it was rainy during my trip, it wasn’t rainy enough for the falls to appear! Depending on what the weather is like when you go, Eongtto Falls can either be stunning or completely disappointing. However, the short hike to the falls is full of beautiful scenery (and not crowded at all!) so you can still easily make the best of your trip there whether you see the falls or not.

Cheonjeyeon Falls

Not to be confused with Cheonjiyeon Falls mentioned above, Cheonjeyeon actually consists of three separate waterfalls. There are walkways through the park that take you from one waterfall to the next. The first waterfall was the least impressive but the other two made it more than worth the long walk up and down all of the wooden stairs.

Jeongbang Falls

Jeongbang Falls is the only waterfall in Korea that actually falls directly into the ocean. It’s one of my favorite waterfalls on the island! You can walk down the steps and over the rocks for a view right beside the falls or you can view them from above at one of the many viewing platforms along the way. The steep cliffs beside the ocean and the many tall pine trees surrounding the falls create a picture-perfect backdrop for photos.

Near the entrance of Jeongbang Falls, you’ll find multiple vendors selling street foods, ice cream, and other souvenirs. There is also a small park just outside the waterfall entrance that has a small stream and traditional Korean pagoda which makes for great photos. Don’t forget to check it out on your way to the falls!

Jeju Island Beaches

As I said earlier, Jeju Island is known as the “Hawaii of Korea”. However, if you come to Jeju expecting the beaches to be anything like Hawaii’s.. you’ll be extremely disappointed. I know I was! Don’t get me wrong, there are nice beaches here but nowhere near as stunning as the white sandy beaches of Hawaii. With that said, these are some of the most popular beaches on Jeju Island!

Geumneung Beach

Geumneung Beach is a great beach for families! It has smaller waves and shallow waters making it perfect for younger children. Most families seemed to favor this beach over the others. It’s also a great spot to go and watch the sunset!

Hyeopjae Beach

Right up the road from Geumneung Beach is Hyeopjae Beach. I heard from many people that Hyeopjae was the best beach on the island but I have to say.. I disagree. It’s in a cute little beach town area and there are great shops and restaurants nearby but the beach itself was nothing special. It’s definitely much more popular and crowded than Geumneung Beach!

Jungmun Beach is a really small beach located in the Jungmun Resort Area. It didn’t have soft, white sands but it definitely had the beach town vibe! It’s surrounded by tons of great shops and other attractions and it seemed to be a pretty popular spot for people trying to surf!

Gwakji Beach

Gwakji was actually probably the nicest beach on all of Jeju. There is a free parking lot at the entrance, it’s surrounded by some of my favorite cafes on the island, and it had soft, white sands!

Where to Stay on Jeju Island

Jeju Island is actually much larger than you may realize and there are tons of different options for accommodations. I would suggest mapping out all of the sights that you want to see and staying somewhere easily accessible to those sights. While there are hotels in all areas of the island, there are two main cities on Jeju where you’ll find some of the best hotels: Jeju City and Seogwipo.

This is where you’ll likely arrive into Jeju as the airport and most of the ferry ports are located here. It’s not very close to a lot of main attractions so staying here can be a pain if you plan on using public transportation. The city itself doesn’t have all that much to see but it’s worth staying here if you plan on doing any of the following:

• Flying into Jeju late at night or flying out of Jeju on an early morning flight
• Only visiting Jeju to hike Mount Hallasan (it’s an easy bus ride from Jeju City)
• Shopping and visiting some of the top restaurants
• Leaving or arriving via ferry
• Renting a car / not using public transportation

View Tower Resort

The View Tower offers great rooms with private balconies right in the center of Jeju City. It’s close to the traditional market as well as beaches and tons of shopping, and it’s only a few miles away from the airport.

For more info or to book a room, click here .

Jeju Noblesse Hotel

The Jeju Noblesse Hotel is less than $50/night and has a buffet Korean breakfast every morning, is less than a mile from Jeju Airport, and even provides a complimentary airport pickup service. The rooms are simple but nice and the hotel is in a great location!

Maison Glad Jeju

Maison Glad Jeju has spacious rooms as well as a pool and spa. The hotel offers a buffet breakfast every morning and is located less than two miles from the airport. At just over $100/night, it’s not the cheapest option but this one is definitely worth it!

Seogwipo City

Seogwipo is close to most of the main attractions on Jeju and has a ton of hotels with great ocean views. The fact that it’s so close to the main attractions makes using public transportation so much easier. Stay in Seogwipo if you plan on doing any of the following:

• Visiting Jeju Island’s main waterfalls
• Hiking the Yeongsil Trail at Mount Hallasan
• Eating at trendy cafes and restaurants / shopping
• Seeing the botanical gardens and tea fields

The Pino Hotel is located right in the center of Seogwipo City! It’s situated close to tons of the main attractions on the island, it has large rooms with a balcony, free parking, and all of the amenities you could possibly need for your stay.

Artstay Seogwipo Harbor

Artstay Seogwipo Harbor was honestly in the perfect location. So many attractions, cafes, and restaurants were walking distance from the hotel and the rooms were extremely clean with great ocean views!

Ocean Palace Hotel

The Ocean Palace Hotel has some of the nicest rooms I’ve seen in all of Korea and for less than $50/night! This hotel provides amazing views of the ocean or Halla Mountain and even has a cafe and small market on site!

Best Time to Visit Jeju Island

Spring | The absolute best time of year to visit Jeju Island would definitely have to be spring. The weather is (typically) perfect and the whole island is covered with some of the most gorgeous spring flowers. It’s a popular time for tourists on Jeju Island so it can get a bit crowded but the beauty of spring in Jeju is hard to beat.

Summer | Summers on Jeju Island can be unbearably hot and humid. If you plan on spending your days on the beach or at one of the resorts, then this won’t be much of a problem; if you plan on doing a lot of hiking, it can be pretty miserable. Summer is also monsoon season in Korea so keep it mind that it can tend to be quite rainy for long periods of time.

Fall | Fall is the perfect time to visit if you plan on doing a lot of hiking. The weather has cooled down quite a bit and the mountains will be bright and filled with color from all of the beautiful fall foliage.

Winter | Believe it or not, Jeju Island is actually a pretty popular winter travel destination in Korea. It doesn’t get quite as cold as the rest of the country but it still makes for a gorgeous snow-covered Mount Hallasan and cheaper prices which is always a plus.

4-Day Jeju Island Travel Itinerary

• Check out the O’Sulloc Tea Museum and tea fields
• Enjoy the scenery and beautiful flowers at Camellia Hill and Hallim Park
• Spend some time on Jeju’s beaches
• Do some cafe hopping and find your new favorite cafe
• Marvel at the many waterfalls
• See famous monuments from around the world at Soingook Miniature Theme Park
• Be amazed by the art at Jeju Glass Castle
• Enjoy a sexy stroll through Jeju’s Love Land
• Learn some history behind the famous stone men at Jeju Stone Park
• Check out some gorgeous art on Lee Jung Seop Street
• Watch the sunrise at the Jusangjeolli Cliffs
• Explore Yakcheonsa Temple, one of the largest in Asia
• Check out the many attractions in the Jungmun Tourist Complex
• Immerse yourself in the history and culture at Jeju Folk Village
• Get lost in the mazes at Gimnyeong Maze Park
• Day trip to Udo Island
• Walk Olle Trail #1
• Explore the caves by Geommeolle Beach
• Try some peanut ice cream at Jimmy’s
• Take the ferry back to Jeju Island
• Watch the sunset at Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak

Jeju Island Travel Tips

• Try some of the local foods. Korean street foods are the best! Some must-try’s on the island are Jeju black pork, peanut ice cream, Jeju green tea, and hallabong (tangerine) smoothies!
• Spend at least 3-4 days here, though I would recommend a week. It’s a pretty big island and you definitely need at least a few days to see just the main attractions. Don’t forget to leave yourself some time to relax on the beaches!
• Rent. A. Car! Trust me on this one – public transportation may be available on Jeju Island but it’s definitely not the quickest (or easiest!) way to get around. Renting a car will allow you to spend more time at the attractions than you do on the bus!
• Download the Visit Jeju app. It provides tons of valuable information for your trip including info about top tourist attractions, emergency services, and sample travel itineraries!

What are some of your favorite things to do on Jeju Island? Share in a comment below!

Like it? Pin it!

Don’t forget to check out these other South Korea posts:

• Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea
• A Trip to Cheongpung Land in Jecheon
• Things to Do in Busan, South Korea: A Travel Guide
• Sweets & Snacks to Try in South Korea
• Things to Do in Buyeo, South Korea
• All of the Best Cafes on Jeju Island in South Korea
• Anyang Art Park in South Korea: A Day Trip From Seoul
• Things You Should Know Before Traveling to South Korea

Share this:

You may also enjoy:, anyang art park in south korea: a …, one day in damyang, south korea: all …, a guide to myeongdong district in seoul, …, navigating noi bai airport in hanoi, vietnam, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Hiking the Stairway to Heaven on Oahu: The Legal Back Way

Ddong cafe in seoul: the most unique cafe in south korea, where to eat in washington dc, where to next.

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Bundle & Save
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

Top 10 must-See Attractions on Jeju Island

Hallasan: South Korea's Tallest Peak

Seongsan sunrise peak: reach the top to become a hero, jeju olle: the most beautiful and peaceful path, udo: the shape of this island is like a cow lying down, teddy bear museum: the largest in the world, daepo jusangjeolli cliff: the best place to see the sunset.

• Seopjikoji: A Famous TV Drama Film Location

Dragon Head Rock: Enjoy the Beautiful Coast

Sangumburi: rare low-level crater, seongeup folk village: the place where “dae jang geum” was filmed.

Show More 

Top 10 must-see attractions on Jeju Island

South Korea's tallest peak is Hallasan (aka Halla Mountain). This dormant volcano has a very strange landscape that is quite beautiful year-round. Without a cable car, the only way to get a look at Halla Mountain is by hiking up to the summit. Summer is a time for green forests and streams, while autumn brings out luscious red leaves all over the mountainside. The one-way hiking route on Halla Mountain is 10km long, and most people can hike up and down the same day. Both spring and autumn are the peak times for tourists. Halla Mountain is definitely a place nature-lovers will want to visit.

# Climbing up the first giant rock on Jeju Island # Seongsan Sunrise Peak is the biggest rock on Jeju Island, and is a global natural heritage site. You have to climb up to the top when you visit! After a long journey, you can breathe in the fresh air while standing on the top of the mountain. Look out over the blue sea and the green grassland, and let the natural scenery of Jeju Island instantly cure your fatigue from hiking.# Hiking Tips #Seongsan Sunrise Peak is about 182m above sea level. There are steps along the road leading to the peak. It takes about 1 hour to get there and back from the entrance. Although there is no difficulty in climbing this route, it is also very difficult for people who have not exercised for a long time. There is a rest pavilion midway.

There are 26 hiking routes on Jeju Island which are referred to as "Jeju Olle." The difficulty of the routes vary from scenic seaside trails to steep and narrow mountain trails. Each route has its own characteristics. Take a trip to Jeju Olle, slowly travel around Jeju , and watch the mountains and enjoy the smell of oranges. Recommended routes: Route 1: This is the first route which is composed of hills and seascapes. Climb up Moumei Mountain and Egg Mountain and enjoy the scenery of Seongsan Sunrise Peak and Udo; No. 5 Road: South Korea's premier seascape path; Route 6: This route runs through Seogwipo City and past Cheonjiyeon Waterfall and extends to Independence Rock.

Udo , located in the eastern part of Jeju Island, is surrounded by the blue sea. There are a few unique cafes on the island that face the coastal lighthouse. It is both beautiful and quiet. You can rent a bicycle with friends or on your own, then look out to sea and ride around the island. It is far more romantic than you can imagine. If you have enough time, you should stay on this beautiful and pure island for at least one night. Enjoy the sunset and sunrise. Find a cafe and sit down for one afternoon. This simple way of passing time on the island may be the key to travel.

Teddy Bear Museum on Jeju Island is the largest one in the world, and showcases a century-old teddy bear culture, ranging from simple stuffed toys to collectible pieces of art. Here you can find a collection of limited-edition teddy bears from all over the world. As you experience this visual feast, you'll feel like you've gone back to your childhood.

Daepo Jusangjeolli is a spectacular volcanic rock formation at the southern coast of Jeju Island. The plants on the banks of the mountains are lush and the scenery is very charming. If you like eating seafood, you can also go to some haenyeo booths to buy some fresh sea cucumbers and abalone, which will be a very memorable experience.

Seopjikoji : A Famous TV Drama Film Location

Seopjikoji gets its name from the land's geographic features, with "koji" meaning a cape or a piece of land jutting into the sea in the local Jeju dialect. The cape features black volcanic rocks and reddish volcanic soils. You'll find quirky sea stones, romantic winding roads, and lovely lighthouses. You can also meet some of the few remaining "haenyeo," female divers who carry on the traditional ways of diving for fish and other sea creatures. Seopjikoji is also famous as a film location for Korean TV dramas. Fans of the show "All In" can visit one of the series' familiar sets, which is located on Seopjikoji.

On the coast of Jeju City, there is a huge rock that's 10m high and 30m long. This is a famous sightseeing spot called Dragon Head Rock . It was formed by the accumulation of lava from the Halla Mountain 200 years ago. Because the rock is shaped like a dragon head floating on the surface of the sea, it is thus called the Dragon Head Rock. Many tourists go to Dragon Head Rock to take photos or go on walks. There are places along the coast where sea girls catch seafood, so the nearby canteens are full of conches and abalones.

Sangumburi is where some scenes from the Korean movie "Love Wind Love Song" was filmed. There aren't many tour groups here. Korean locals, especially students, often come here for picnics in the fields of rape flowers, purple reeds and sunflowers. It is said that autumn is the best time to travel to Sangumburi. The endless reed ocean is beautiful to look at. There are continuous peaceful greetings and music constantly within earshot here.

Located on Hallasan Mountain, Seongeup Folk Village is a folk village that completely maintains Korean traditions. There are many cultural heritage sites that maintain the original appearance of ancient villages. Therefore, they have been designated as folk villages and are thus protected by the government.

Trending Travelogues

Popular trip moments, popular travel types, popular attractions, popular destinations, recommended attractions at popular destinations.

• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback

• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List My Property
• Become a Supplier

50 Things to Know Before visiting Jeju Island

Jeju Island is one of people’s favorite destinations in South Korea, even Koreans themselves. Known as Samdado, or the “Island of Three Lacks and Three Abundances,” it has beautiful natural landscapes, adventurous hiking trails, beautiful beaches, impressive waterfalls, delicious food, and an almost tropical atmosphere within Korea. Therefore, it is only natural that it is a popular destination among national and foreign travelers.

In this guide, we will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Jeju, providing travel tips that allow you to travel freely, without stress, and make the most of what Jeju Island offers. And believe me, that’s a lot!

So, to make this information easy to understand, we created the 50 things you need to know before traveling to Jeju Island , analyzing the best destinations, the interaction with people, the best ways to travel, costs, ways to save, and much more…

If you are also visiting South Korea, you can read the 50 things to know before traveling to South Korea.

Page Contents

About Jeju and its people

#1 With 1,833.2 km2 (707.8 sq mi), the Jeju archipelago is relatively small in terms of area, accounting for just 1.83% of the country’s total land area. The Chuja and Udo islands are also part of the archipelago despite being small and having a very small population.

#2 Located on the Korea Strait, Jeju is about 80 km south of the Korean coast, more than 400 km from Seoul, and about 300 km from Busan.

#3 Despite being relatively small, Jeju Island is quite mountainous and was formed from volcanic eruptions around 2 million years ago. The highest point in Jeju is the Hallasan volcano, which is 1,950 meters (6,400 ft) high. This is also the highest point in all of South Korea.

#4 Despite its relatively small size, Jeju has almost 700,000 inhabitants, with the majority living in Jeju City on the north coast.

With almost 500,000 inhabitants, Jeju City is the largest city, capital, and economic center of Jeju. The second city is Seogwipo on the south coast, with 150,000 inhabitants. In other words, the population is almost completely concentrated in the two main urban centers of the island.

#5 One of the biggest curiosities of Jeju Island is the Haenyeo – the famous woman of the Sea of Jeju.

The Haenyo are divers whose work consists of diving into the sea to collect different types of shellfish and mollusks, including octopus, abalone, oysters, and urchins. Their work and physical capacity are incredible as they can dive to incredible depths and for long periods without oxygen.

Known for their independent spirit, will, and determination, the Haenyeo represent Jeju’s semi-matriarchal society. Currently, most of the Haenyeo are over 50 years old, and therefore, it is feared that it is an activity on the verge of extinction. Also, Haenyeo and its surrounding culture have become a world UNESCO intangible heritage.

What language to speak in Jeju

#6 In Jeju, the primary official language is Korean, but there is also Jejuan, a Koreanic language (some people consider it a dialect) only spoken on the island. This is just a curiosity because no one expects you to know how to speak Jejuan.

They don’t even expect you to know any Korean. Most visitors don’t speak more than two or three words as it is a really difficult language to learn from scratch. So you will need to speak English or use an automatic translator. Any other language is unlikely to get you far.

#7 Communication with Koreans in general is tough- and believe me, it’s not a lack of goodwill on their part or ours. Our languages simply have absolutely nothing in common with theirs. The alphabet is different, the words are completely different, and even the sound is different.

Even Koreans who know some English have tremendous difficulty speaking English because their way of speaking and intoning words is completely different. For example, they change the “f” sound to “p”, so “left” becomes something similar to “lept”. They also have problems with “z” and “r”.

The reverse is equally difficult! After weeks in Korea, we continue to have immense difficulty saying anything other than “Thank you” and “Hello.” And even those… I have doubts that they are said correctly! Even in the names of cities, sometimes we need to show them in writing to make sure they understand what we are talking about!

#8 The solutions to all these issues and difficulties come in the form of technology! You have two options: either buy an automatic translator or use the Papago app. See here for more information about the translator we tried.

Both the Papago app and FluentTalk allow us to translate from Korean to English automatically and vice versa, allowing for simple conversations. Both also have the chance to translate text and even take photographs and translate what is written in there: advertisements, menus, receipts, or whatever. It’s extremely useful.

In no other country we visited (and you can see on our website that there are many), we had to use a translator, but it was an invaluable help in Korea.

#9 Despite some exceptions, in our experience, the Koreans in Jeju are friendly and helpful. For example, when we were looking a little lost at the airport looking for buses, they came to ask us if we needed help without having asked. This, even though they speak little or no English…

This way of being attentive ends up making the travel experience more pleasant. Especially because the cultural experience of dealing with lots of new and different things is one of the significant advantages of traveling to South Korea and Jeju, and believe me, you will find many things that are curious, strange, or simply different from what you are used to.

Other things to know about Jeju

#10 Jeju is a volcanic island marked by typical black rocks and various distinctive volcanic landscapes such as calderas, black sand, lava caves, “oreum,” etc.

The “oreum” – the so-called hills of Jeju – are small volcanoes normally covered in vegetation. Many of them do not exceed 50-100 meters in height, but as there are more than 360 “oreum,” they ultimately mark the views and the entire territory with their peculiar conical shape.

Due to the high rainfall and rich soil, Jeju is also an incredibly green island, with immense vegetation and plenty of agricultural production.

#11 Another characteristic of the island is the wind. Jeju is famous for its strong northerly wind. The north of the island is completely exposed, and the wind from the sea is constant throughout the year, but at times it is very strong.

The importance of wind (and stone) in Jeju is as visible in the stone fences as in the farm fields. These walls serve mainly to block the wind and allow the cultivation of various foods. They are pretty similar to the walls you see on the island of Pico (Azores) that protect the vineyards.

The wind is also quite cold in winter, making everything a little less pleasant. The mountains protect the southern part of the island, so the wind is a little less.

Whatever the expected weather and time of year, be prepared and bring clothes to protect yourself from the likely wind that will blow.

Jeju Weather

#12 The climate in Jeju is considered humid subtropical with four clear seasons. Summers are hot and rainy, while winters are cool and drier but still with some rain. However, following what we said above, due to the mountainous interior, the southern part of the island is more protected from northerly winds in winter, so temperatures are milder.

In general, in Jeju City, the average maximum temperatures vary between 9ºC in January and 30ºC in August, while the minimum temperatures reach 4ºC in January and February and 25º in August. The months with the most rain are August, September, and July (in that order).

The Hallasan volcano region is much colder, especially in winter, regularly experiencing negative temperatures. If you plan to go there, check the weather carefully, as it can change quickly.

When to travel to Jeju?

#13 Given Jeju’s climate characteristics, the best times of year to go to Jeju are May-June and September-October, which combine pleasant temperatures and little rain.

Furthermore, the high season – the time with the most tourists – is summer, between June and August. This period is also when there are more events and festivals on the island, and South Koreans take the opportunity to vacation here.

Thus, despite being very attractive due to the high temperatures and the possibility of going to the beach, summer has the disadvantage of high rainy days, many more people, and higher prices.

Winter is the low season and when prices are lowest. Temperatures are much lower (although hotter than in Seoul), but on the other hand, there are much fewer rainy days. If you want to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, it could be a good opportunity, but going to the beach is not a realistic possibility.

Is it safe to travel to Jeju?

#14 In a word, Yes! In many… there may be few safer places to travel than Jeju. During our time on the island, we didn’t have any problems, we didn’t feel at risk in the slightest, nor did we have any sense of danger.

South Korea is generally a very safe country where you are unlikely to have any problems. In Jeju, the crime level is considered relatively low compared to the rest of South Korea.

Therefore, we advise you to take the necessary care with your personal property and be aware of schemes and in crowded places, but only with bad luck will you encounter these issues.

Tourism in Jeju

#15 Jeju is a very touristy island, and this is visible everywhere. However, most tourists are South Koreans, especially after Covid-19.

Among foreign tourists, the most common are those from other Asian countries such as China, Taiwan, Japan, or Malaysia – which is natural given the more excellent proximity of these countries to Jeju and Korea.

What to visit on Jeju Island

#16 Jeju is a very touristy island and, as such, has lots of activities for all types of travelers, but given that almost all visitors come from Korea and Asia, it is also very geared towards these tourists.

Jeju City is the capital and largest city of Jeju, but it is also a small city of relatively little interest to tourists. Jeju’s best and biggest attractions are elsewhere on the island.

However, if you don’t rent a car it’s the ideal place to base yourself as there are buses from Jeju City to all parts of the island and given the size of the city you won’t have any problems finding convenience stores, restaurants, bars and street food. .

We stayed in Jeju City, next to the city hall, and we found it to be an ideal spot as most buses pass there, and there are many options for eating and cheap accommodation.

#17 Hallasan volcano is perhaps the main point of attraction on Jeju Island for adventurous travelers, hikers, and mountain lovers. As we are all these things, we wanted to climb to the top of the volcano and enjoy the spectacular view of the caldera and the rest of the island.

Access to the top can be via two different trails that only connect at the top, so the usual thing is to go up one of the trails and down the other. This was our plan. The climb is quite challenging, going from 700 to almost 2000 meters. However, whoever conquers the 4000 meters Acatenango can also climb this…

Unfortunately, that didn’t happen, and we had to turn back after 4 km due to the weather. Despite it being sunny in Jeju City and the rest of the island, the climb to the mountain was closed halfway due to heavy rain and lack of visibility.

If you are planning to do this climb, and we advise you to do so if you like and are used to mountain walks, prepare yourself for the possibility that it won’t happen or you will have to turn back. The weather in the mountains is always unstable. We advise keeping your calendar as open as possible and try to go on the day with the best weather.

Still, even though we only did 8 km of walking, it made us realize that it would be a very hard day, but with spectacular landscapes, even though we only saw the forest part.

#18 Despite being an almost tropical island with very warm temperatures for many months, Jeju is not a beach destination, or at least it’s not just about beaches, nor is that why it’s best known.

There are good beaches in Jeju, and the sea is warm during some months, but Koreans are not typical vacationers as they don’t like sunbathing and go to the sea “dressed up”.

Still, there are some well-known and quality beaches, such as:

• Hamdeok Beach : a small sand beach 30 minutes from Jeju City, ideal for swimming and kayaking, with small tide pools for kids to play.
• Hyeopjae Beach: White sandy mixed with crushed seashells beach located on the island’s west side.
• Iho Tewoo Beach : this beach is close to Jeju City and has two iconic lighthouses shaped like horses.
• Hongjodangoe Haebin: Known as Coral Sand Beach, this is a beautiful crescent-moon-shaped coral located in Udo Island.

If you like the beach and visit Jeju in hot, sunny weather, you can also enjoy these beautiful beaches, but don’t expect an experience similar to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Southeast Asia, which is an experience in itself!

#19 The tiny Udo Island is one of the highlights of Jeju due to its natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and even its beautiful white sand beach. Or rather, white coral that passes for sand.

One of the visitors’ favorite activities in Udo is renting bicycles (preferably electric) and traveling along the entire coast of the island, enjoying the magnificent views and even the beautiful beach. There are also many restaurants and cafes with sea views.

It was a super nice day, and it was our first time riding an electric bike. Fun!

#20 Quite close to Udo, we have another volcanic tourist attraction not to be missed in Jeju: Seongsan Ilchulbong.

This volcanic caldera that rises 180 meters above sea level emerged from an eruption in the ocean 5000 years ago. Although it was once cultivated, it is currently a natural reserve and habitat for various wild animals and plants.

It is possible to climb to the top of the caldera via staircase walkways and, from there, have one of the best views on the entire island, including Udo Island, Mount Hallasan, and the entire landscape of the island’s east coast. Therefore, this is a place visited by thousands of people daily.

#21 In Seongsan Ilchulbong, there is yet another point of interest as it is one of the best places to see the famous haenyeo – the female divers from Jeju mentioned above.

From there, we can see them diving and hunting for seafood, particularly abalone. A traditional show is also held every day, however it is always best to confirm the time as it may vary.

Ultimately, going to a small restaurant by the sea and eating the seafood caught by the haenyeo is still possible.

#22 Another incredible attraction on Jeju Island is the Lava Caves, namely Manjanggul.

The Manjanggul lava tubes are caves over 7 km long, with the main tunnel being 23 meters high and 18 meters wide. They are considered one of the largest and most impressive in the world and have been registered as a UNESCO heritage site since 2007.

Despite being formed thousands of years ago, they are still well preserved and are a fundamental object of study on the island. Several rock formations along the tunnel, including stalactites and stalagmites, among many others. The column, more than 7 meters high, at the end of the route, is considered the largest lava column in the world.

Only a section of 2km is accessible to the public, but it is completely flat and easily accessible. The only issue is that it is pretty cool down there, and access can be closed due to the weather.

#23 Waterfalls are another of Jeju Island’s main attractions, particularly those in the south. The best known and the ones we visit are:

• Jeongbang: a several-meter-high waterfall known for falling directly into the sea, creating a very beautiful effect.
• Cheonjiyeon : waterfall inside a very beautiful park with a lot of water.
• Cheonjeyeon: triple waterfall because, in reality, there are three waterfalls very close to each other. It is perhaps the most impressive, and the entire surrounding area is beautiful, with an impressive bridge and even some levadas.

#24 Jusangjeollidae are lava escarpments on the south coast of Jeju. It is a very popular place due to the beauty of this natural monument. Hexagonal rocks joined together to form the cliffs, creating a curious and rare appearance.

It’s a place reminiscent of the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, but it’s much smaller and less impressive. Still, it’s worth a stop to get to know this natural monument and take the opportunity to take a walk along the seafront.

#25 Jeju Island is quite big, so many other interesting places are worth visiting. Some of the best known, but which we have not visited in person, are:

• Osulloc Tea Plantation and Museum
• Jeju Folk Village
• Seopjikoji: beautiful viewpoint next to the sea. It is very close to the ones mentioned above.
• There are many other trails near Mount Hallasan, so you have several options for a more leisurely hike with less chance of bad weather.
• Bijarim Forrest
• Jeju Loveland: a theme park for adults.
• Camellia Hill: especially beautiful when camellias are in bloom.

What to eat in Jeju

#26 In Jeju you will find almost all traditional South Korean dishes, however the island has many unique and region-specific dishes. Jeju is also the ideal place to eat fresh and cheap fish, in general Koreans eat and love fish, but on the island this is even more foreshadowed.

#27 Being surrounded by sea, Jeju has a wide variety of fish and seafood at your disposal. One of the specialties is abalone, which is abundant, fresh, and cheaper than in other places. It is especially good grilled, but it is very typical to find abalone porridge or with rice.

Another traditional fish dish is Haemultang, a fish and seafood stew. It is quirky and fun to eat because, basically, you do the cooking! It is served in a pan over a stove on each table in restaurants. Each person is supposed to add the fresh fish and vegetables to the pan and let them cook slightly. You can serve and eat when you feel that the fish and vegetables are done.

A great place to eat fish is at the restaurant by the sea in Seongsan Ilchulbong. The fish served is caught by the haenyeo, so it is very fresh and an opportunity to get to know the haenyeo culture.

#28 Black pig is another traditional dish and island specialty. The Jeju Black Pig is native and raised exclusively on the island. It has a distinctive flavor compared to other pigs. It is typically grilled and eaten as a Korean barbecue with lettuce or perilla leaves. It’s crunchy but soft and juicy.

In the city of Jeju, there is a street specializing in black pork, with several restaurants serving this specialty. Any of them is a great place to eat Jeju Black Pig.

#29 Another famous ingredient in Jeju is Hallabong Oranges, a breed of tangerine native to the island. Which was created by crossing Kiyomi orange and tangerine, giving rise to a large, juicy, sweet tangerine. Furthermore, it has a cartoonish appearance with a protruding stem, which makes it unique. We recommend you try this unique Jeju ingredient and, if you can, even take a few boxes of oranges home. There are also bottles of Hallanbong orange juice.

Jeju is so proud of its orange Hallabong that it has become its mascot. You will find references and products related to orange everywhere, there are hats, key rings, umbrellas, etc.

#30 In Jeju, you must try all the dishes with peanuts: peanut ice cream, peanut sweets, or roasted and salted peanuts. They are produced in Udo, an island belonging to the Jeju archipelago.

Udo has volcanic soil ideal for peanut production, which produces large quantities of good-quality peanuts. Some say that Udo peanuts are tastier than others.

#31 In Jeju and throughout Korea, tipping is not expected. In fact, we didn’t feel the need to give any tips, nor did we see anyone doing so, whether foreigners or Koreans.

Currency and Costs of Traveling to Jeju

Currency and payments.

#32 The island of Jeju is part of the Republic of Korea and, as such, uses the South Korean won. So, if you come from South Korea, you won’t have to worry about changing currency, but if you come from anywhere else, you will have to exchange to won.

The ATM network is extensive, and you can withdraw money anytime. In our experience, exchange costs and fees are low and virtually always lower than changing before arriving at your destination. Our suggestion is not to bring wons with you.

#33 Furthermore, nearly all stores and restaurants accept payments with cards or with T-Money (we will explain below what it is and how to use it). Even in the markets, many vendors accept card payments without problems and for amounts as low as three or four thousand won.

However, as there may be a problem with the system or some smaller stores may not accept it, we always suggest you have some cash.

Therefore, we suggest making as many payments as possible by card as it is safer and avoids withdrawing money frequently/carrying a lot of cash. To give you an idea, in more than three weeks in Korea, we only withdrew money once, as we made almost all payments by card.

What is the T-Money?

#34 T-Money is Korea’s public transport card and digital wallet.

One of the first things to do when you arrive in South Korea (be it Jeju, Seoul, or any other city) is to buy T-Money (it should cost between 3000-5000 won, depending on the design). This card allows you to use any urban transport (subway, bus, and even most taxis) in any city in South Korea, including Jeju.

To top up T-Money, go to a convenience store (7-11, GS25, or any other) and ask to top up. In metro stations, there are also charging machines. The top-up must be done in cash.

Once loaded, you must swipe your card when entering the metro or buses. Please note that you must always swipe your card upon entry and exit, as the transport system allows you to make free transfers between lines and even means of transport.

It is also possible to make other types of payments with T-Money, but this is more useful for locals than tourists.

Costs of Traveling to Jeju Island

Going to Jeju is relatively cheap, especially if you are already in South Korea or some neighboring countries with direct flights.

Fly to Jeju

#35 Flights from Seoul, Busan, and other major cities in Korea are pretty cheap due to the high competition between the various low-cost airlines. For example, a low-cost Seoul-Jeju flight costs 20 Euros per person, and a Jeju-Busan flight costs 40 Euros per person.

So, if you are planning a trip to Korea, seriously consider going to Jeju, as it will not increase your travel cost much, and if you have a good itinerary, you can even avoid a trip between Seoul and Busan.

Costs in Jeju

#36 Travel costs in Jeju largely depend on the travel season. As in all tourist destinations, particularly on islands, in high season, prices rise exponentially, particularly for accommodation, car rental, and, of course, flights.

We traveled in mid-season and generally found the costs similar to the rest of South Korea. In 5 days/4 nights, we spent 333 Euros (plus 120 Euros on flights) for two people. But note that we are backpackers and like to control our travel costs.

#37 Food costs are quite low, making it possible for two people to eat for 15-20 Euros. A little more if it’s non-Korean food or seafood and meat. We like to try all the local specialties, so we mostly eat local food in local restaurants and markets.

There is accommodation for all costs, starting at around 30-40 Euros per night in double rooms in cheap hostels.

If you decide to travel by public transport, transport costs are almost negligible, we spend around 25 Euros per person (already with the ferry to Udo). If you rent a car, count on at least another 300 to 400 euros for a week.

Tourist attractions and activities are another source of costs that sometimes weigh heavily on the travel budget. Fortunately, in the case of Jeju (and throughout Korea), many attractions are free or have very low entry prices, from 1 to 3 Euros. Therefore, this is not a significant concern in budgetary terms.

How to Travel to Jeju

#38 Traveling to Jeju is relatively cheap, especially if you come from Mainland Korea. There are many flights from Seoul and some from other cities, and the prices are usually very attractive as low-cost companies, such as Jeju Air or Jin Air, do this route.

It is said that the Seoul-Jeju City route is one of the most competitive in the world, and this competition can be seen both in the availability of supply and in prices.

It is also possible to travel by ferry, but the costs are higher and the journey time is a few hours. Therefore, it will hardly be worth it unless you don’t want to or can’t fly. In any case, we have not explored this hypothesis, so we cannot give recommendations.

Rent a car in Jeju

#39 Renting a car in Jeju is probably most travelers’ favorite option, and it’s easy to see why… it allows us to have all the flexibility in the world and go more quickly and to more places.

However, to rent a car, we must have an international driving license, so don’t forget to get your international license before traveling. From what we’ve seen, renting a car is not very expensive outside of high season – 300 to 400 Euros per week, plus insurance costs. In low season, you will definitely get even less.

#40 We chose not to rent a car, as we wanted an utterly relaxed trip without worries about driving, parking, or renting a car. If there’s one thing we don’t like, it’s dealing with rent-a-cars.

Therefore, we cannot give many tips when it comes to renting a car or driving, but from what we saw in Jeju, if you are used to driving in different countries, you shouldn’t have any major problems. Jeju City is a large city with some traffic but peaceful and orderly. The roads are also quite good.

Public transportation

#41 In Jeju, public transport is limited to buses and taxis, but the good news is that buses go everywhere, and you usually don’t have to wait long for them. Oh, and there are ferries to the smaller islands around Jeju, namely Udo.

In fact, traveling by car can give you more flexibility and be faster, but you can travel to any attraction in Jeju by bus. We went to all the places we wanted without any problems.

The Naver Maps app is the secret to navigating the Jeju (and Korean) transport system. This works excellently and in real-time, giving us all the transport options between the destinations we want, including options with more or fewer transfers, walks, etc.

Our number one tip for public transport in Korea is to use Naver Maps and spend some time understanding how it works, as it has all the information there.

#42 The second essential tip is buying and loading the T-Money card we discussed above. Armed with these two instruments, choose your destination, wait for the bus, and swipe your card upon entering. It will remove the value of the ticket from your balance, and you’re done.

When exiting the bus, don’t forget to validate your card again because if you need to transfer in the next 30 minutes, you won’t pay for the second ticket.

It’s incredibly simple and functional, and the fact that T-Money works on all public transport in Korea makes everything so easy for the traveler that it makes us wonder why it’s not similar everywhere.

Bus trips have different prices depending on the type of bus. Normal buses cost between 1200 and 1500 Won, while express buses (red) and airport buses are much more expensive. Prices are usually indicated on Naver Maps, but not always.

Ah, one more nice tip: All buses in Jeju have free Wifi… and it works!

Other Jeju Travel Tips

Jeju souvenirs.

#43 Jeju is a unique destination from which you will want to bring back memories and souvenirs. Luckily there are many things to bring, so leave some space in your suitcase for souvenirs.

Some of our suggestions are:

• Green Tea – Jeju green tea is one of Korea’s best and most renowned.
• Hareubang – These statues made from lava are one of the most popular things in Jeju.
• Hallabong tangerines: are probably Jeju’s most famous product. If you can’t bring your own tangerines, many products are alluding to them, such as caps, key rings, and soft toys.
• Beauty Products – Like all of Korea, beauty products are top-rated. Those from Jeju have the peculiarity of having ingredients such as green tea, lava, aloe vera, and even Jeju cacao.
• Chocolate : Jeju also has a small production of chocolate. So take the opportunity to try it and bring it with you. Chocolates are a souvenir that never goes wrong!
• Udo Peanuts : Udo produces a lot of peanuts and products derived from them. Some things to bring from this small island next to Jeju are cookies, biscuits, and many other peanut products.

Internet in Jeju

#44 As in any developed country, any accommodation is expected to have free WIFI, so this should not be a significant concern. However, confirming the signal quality in the comments is always a good idea.

But as with everything, sometimes it’s a matter of luck because, for example, our accommodation had excellent WIFI everywhere that we tried with different routers… except in our room! Luckily, we had mobile data… 🙂

As we mentioned above, the buses all have free WiFi. In addition, there is also free public WiFi in many parts of the island, so it is unlikely that you will be offline for long, even without mobile data.

#45 If you want to use mobile data, then any data card from South Korea works in Jeju without paying extra. Note, however, that South Korean data cards are some of the most expensive in the world.

That’s why we ended up using an e-sim card. Our suggestion is Nomad, as it worked pretty well for us. You can buy it here. If you buy one in Korea, prices can go up to 50 Euros. The good news is that the ceilings are unlimited or almost unlimited.

Cleaning, pollution, and recycling

#46 The garbage issue in Korea and Jeju is a bit complex. On the one hand, the more rural areas, parks, and tourist areas are quite clean. On the other hand, Jeju City, particularly the market areas, street food, and restaurants, are not very clean.

In other words, Jeju (and the rest of Korea) is much cleaner than most Asian countries (except Japan, of course). Yet, there is still much work to be done, and some areas are not very clean.

A curious note is the absence of rubbish bins on the street, even in the city. Finding trash or recycling bins is very difficult, which is annoying. It is, therefore, essential to always have a bag to store the rubbish until we find a bin or recycling point.

#47 Regarding recycling, we have the same problem with rubbish bins. They are pretty difficult to find, and when you do, it is a little difficult to understand what is supposed to go in each crate. Apparently, it differs, as we never concluded what it is supposed to do.

Our solution ended up being to open the bins and try to put our rubbish where there was similar rubbish.

A situation where we would like there to be a change in South Korea in the use of plastics and single-use products. There is still a lot of unnecessary plastic use, especially using cups, cutlery, and other disposable products.

Important: Southeast Asia and even Mexico are a world apart, but much can still be done to improve in Korea.

Electrical outlets

#48 Electrical sockets in Jeju are the same as in the rest of South Korea, type C (Europlug) and F, with a voltage of 220V and a frequency of 60 Hz.

In other words, you do not need an adapter if you come from Continental Europe or other countries with the same type of sockets. Note, however, that the voltage and frequency are different. This means computers, cell phones, and the like work normally, but household appliances and hairdryers need a transformer.

If you come from countries with other types of sockets, we suggest this adapter. If you need a frequency converter, we suggest this one.

Documentation to enter South Korea

#49 The documentation required to enter Jeju is the same as for South Korea. If you come from mainland South Korea, they will confirm you have the stamp/sticker and K-Eta. If you come from abroad, the process is the same as arriving from elsewhere.

So, don’t forget to do K-Eta. Most Western passports need K-Eta to enter Korea. But see here for updated information and everything you need to know.

Important to know

If you are considering going to Udo, the tiny island next to Jeju we discussed above, you must bring identification to buy the ferry ticket. Don’t forget, otherwise you won’t be able to go.

Jeju/South Korea Travel Guide

#50 Finally, if you want to buy a travel guide, we suggest this guide from Lonely Planet , which has a lot of helpful information.

This is a general guide to South Korea, but if you go to Jeju, you will probably visit other parts of Korea, which is very useful. There are also travel guides just for Jeju, like this one, but we have no references about it.

Pin for later

Sharing is caring!

• Destinations
• Travel Tips
• Travel With Us
• Paid Travel Internship
• TTIFridays (Community Events)
• SG Travel Insider (Telegram Grp)

• South Korea

17 Exciting Things to Do in Jeju — From Bucket List Experiences to Lesser-Known Sights

The ultimate checklist for your next trip to Jeju — the Hawaii of South Korea.

Pristine beaches, quaint cafes, and scenic coastal walks, it’s no wonder why many K-dramas are filmed in Jeju.

But stunning views aside, a short road trip around this island also brought us to adrenaline-filled experiences and exciting local delicacies.

Whether it’s your first or 10th time on this paradise island, here are 17 of the most exciting things to do the next time you’re in Jeju.

Read more: 4-Day Jeju Itinerary Under S$500 — Road Trip Adventure Around South Korea’s Island Paradise

1) Tea tasting at the Osulloc Tea Museum

Shoutout to all matcha lovers — you wouldn’t wanna miss the iconic Osulloc Tea Museum in Jeju. The museum features a teacup gallery, a roasting space, and a stone house where tea-tasting sessions are conducted.

When you’re done with the museum, stop by Osulloc Tea Museum Cafe for their signature premium green tea ice cream (₩6,000/S$6) or the Osulloc Set consisting of Green Tea O Fredo, a Green Tea Swiss Roll, and a Green Tea Ice Cream (₩18,800 KRW/~S$18.90).

*Pro-tip: Book a guided day tour of West Jeju via Klook to visit Osulloc Tea Museum and Songaksan Mountain , among other attractions. This is a more convenient option if you aren’t driving, plus it comes with a lunch buffet too.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM How to get there: Take Bus 151 from Jeju International Airport, then exit at Osulloc ( Google Maps )

2) Let Your Inner Child Out at Shinhwa World

Located in Jungmun Jeju, Shinhwa World features thrilling rides in different magical worlds and animations that bring stories to life. 

Photo credit: Visitjeju.net

The park also houses the biggest indoor and outdoor waterpark in Jeju with 18 wave pools, rapids, spas, and slides. Daredevils, you wouldn’t want to miss Asia’s first 230m water slide located in the water park itself!

*Note: The outdoor water park only operates during peak season (Jun – Sep) .

Shinhwa Theme Park Entrance fee: ₩40,000 (~S$40.10) Opening hours: 10AM – 8PM How to get there: Take Bus 151 from Jeju International Airport, then exit at Jeju Shinhwa World Entrance. Then, walk 11mins ( Google Maps ) Shinhwa Water Park Entrance fee: ₩63,000 (~S$63.10) ( varies by season ) Opening hours: 12PM – 8PM How to get there: Take Bus 151 from Jeju International Airport, then exit at Jeju Shinhwa World Entrance. Then, walk 12mins ( Google Maps )

*Pro-tip: Book a stay at Shinhwa Jeju Shinhwa World Hotel & Resorts if you’re planning to spend more than a day at both Shinhwa Theme Park and Shinhwa Water Park! Use our code <THETRAVELINTERN> for 5% off!*

3) Go Fast and Furious at Wind 1947 Cart Riding

Fans of Fast and Furious , don’t miss this thrilling cart riding experience at Wind 1947 ! Drive down the 1,947m track, it’s one of the longest circuit tracks in the country with scenic views of Mount Halla.

Drift around in a classic vintage cart — no driving licence needed!

Cost: From ₩25,000/ticket (~S$25) (varies depending on course length) Opening hours: 10AM – 6PM (last boarding 5:30PM) How to get there: Take Bus 181 from Jeju International Airport, then exit at Seogwipo Industrial Science High School. Walk 14mins ( Google Maps )

4) Feast on Street Food at Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market

For affordable Korean street food — think Tteok-bokki and Kimbap — Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market is the place to be!

This traditional market built in the early 1960s has over 200 shops and 140 street vendors. Products here include local Korean food such as hallabong , a famous breed of tangerines native to Jeju, as well as souvenirs and clothes!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 7AM – 9PM (Varies on weekdays for individual stalls) How to get there: Take Bus 181 from Jeju International, then exit at Seogwipo Registration Office Bus Stop. Walk 10mins ( Google Maps )

Read also: Seoul Food Guide — 15 Korean Food and the Best Places to Try It

5) Visit Jeju’s Most Unique Waterfall — Jeongbang Waterfall 

Photo credit: @viajesng via Instagram

One of Jeju’s most iconic waterfalls, Jeongbang stands at 23m high and is the only waterfall in Korea where its water flows directly into the sea.

The path down is a short 5 – 10 minute walk from the carpark — not bad at all for the Instagram-worthy photos you can capture right next to the falls.

Be sure to wear proper hiking shoes as the stairs are slightly steep, and the rocks can get slippery.

Entrance fee: ₩2,000/pax (~S$2) Opening hours: 9AM – 5:40 PM How to get there: Take Bus 600 from Jeju International Airport and exit at Seobok Exhibition Hall. Then, walk 2mins ( Google Maps )

6) Admire the Sunset at Yongmeori Coast

Photo credit: VisitJeju.net

Also known as the Dragon’s Head Cliff, Yongmeori Coast is located in southwest Jeju. Resembling a dragon’s head on one end and its tail on the other, the Sanbangsan Mountain stretches into the ocean — making it look like a dragon’s head in the water, hence its name. 

Certified by the Global Geopark Network in 2010, Yongmeori is a scenic coastal walk. The coast also grants you access to Yongmeori Haen Beach which features seashore cliffs and an epic horizon view.

Sabangsan Mountain & Yongmeori Beach Combined Ticket Entrance fee: ₩2,500 (~S$2.70) Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM (subject to change depending on weather conditions) How to get there: Take Bus 600 from Jeju International Airport, and exit at Changcheon-ri. Switch to bus 752-2(운진항) and exit at Sanbangsan Mountain. Then, walk 2mins ( Google Maps )

7) Discover Undersea Marine Life at Aqua Planet Jeju

Aqua Planet Jeju is the largest aquarium in South Korea and home to 48,000 marine creatures including otters, walruses, rays, and sharks! 

Other than the mesmerising displays, there are interactive experiences like ecology presentations moderated by aquarists or the “Jeju dive” where you get to dive in the mega-sized pool with underwater creatures.

Be sure to also look out for the Jeju Haenyeo (female) divers performance — only available in Aqua Planet Jeju.

The ocean arena also houses an underwater musical show that spotlights several sea animals such as dolphins and seals! 

*Pro-tip: Use our code <THETRAVELINTERN> on Klook to get 5% off all activities * with a min. spend of S$50 (discount cap at S$15). Apply the promo code at checkout. One-time use only. (* – see list of excluded activities )

Cost: From ~S$34/pax via Klook Opening hours: 9.30AM – 6PM (last admission at 5PM) How to get there: Take Bus 111 from Jeju International Airport and exit at Goseong Bus Transfer Station. Switch to bus 721-3 and exit at Cape Seopjikoji. Then, walk 11mins ( Google Maps )

8) Take a Stroll along the Seopjikoji Coastal Walk 

Just a stone’s throw away from Aqua Planet Jeju lies Seopjikoji , a scenic coastline with rock formations made of red volcanic ash. 

Hike up the hill to a field of canola flowers. The Hyeopjae Beacon Fire Station on the peak is a popular filming site for Korean dramas and has been featured in shows such as Boys Over Flowers and Orange Marmalade .

Entrance fee: Free Duration of hike: 2hrs How to get there: Take Bus 111 from Jeju International Airport and exit at Goseong Bus Transfer Station. Switch to bus 722-2 and exit at Sinyanghang Port. Then, walk for 24mins ( Google Maps )

9) Catch the Sunrise at Seongsan Peak 

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the cone crater at Seongsan Ilchulbong is one of Jeju’s most epic sunrise views. 

The hike up is quite steep and takes around 20 minutes to reach the peak but the view is worth it!

* Pro-tip: Stay overnight in Seogwipo and get to the park when it opens an hour before sunrise.

If you’re looking to explore other attractions on top of this one, you can also book an Eastern Jeju Island Day Tour via Klook . It provides round-trip transfers and there’s even a local guide to teach you more about each area.

Entrance fee: ₩2,000/adult (~S$2.30), ₩1,000/youth (~S$2.30) Opening hours: 7AM – 8PM (trail closes first Mon of every month) How to get there: Take Bus 111 or 112 from Jeju International Airport and exit at Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone Entrance. Then, walk 14mins ( Google Maps )

10) Get Your Mind Blown by the Jeju Female Divers

Photo credit: @wondersofjeju via Facebook

These tough elderly ladies are known as Haenyeo and can dive up to 10m deep in cold waters without the help of oxygen masks.

Watch these women catch fresh shellfish and seafood right in front of your eyes. They’ll even prepare them right away so you can buy a plate to try! 

*Pro-tip: Catch the Haenyeo show at the foot of Seongsan Ilchulbong after your hike — also included in your entrance fee!

Entrance fee: ₩5,000 (~S$2.30) Show timings: 1:30PM and 3:30PM  How to get there: Take Bus 111 from Jeju International Airport and exit at Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone Entrance. Then, walk 14mins ( Google Maps )

11) Walk Through Lava Tubes in Manjanggul Cave

One of the longest lava tunnels in the world, the Manjanggul Cave was formed 300,000 years ago when the Geomunoreum volcano erupted.

Walk through the cave and you’ll spot unique rock formations made of molten lava. It’s also known to house the largest bat colony on the island, so don’t be alarmed if they fly over your head.

To preserve the natural formation, only a small section of the cave is open to the public — which you can easily explore on your own!

*Pro-tip: Bring a torch and wear proper hiking shoes as the path can get wet and slippery. They are also closed on the first Wednesday of every month.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM (last admission 5:10PM), closed on first Wed of each month How to get there: Take Bus 101 from Jeju International Airport and exit at Gimnyeong Bus Transfer Station (Kimnyeong Elementary School). Switch to bus 711-2 and exit at Manjaggul Cave. Then, walk 3mins ( Google Maps )

12) Figure Your Way Out of a Maze at Jeju’s Mazeland

Is it anything like the Glade in The Maze Runner ? Yes, only without the Grievers. Boasting the world’s longest stone maze, Mazeland measures up to 5.3km in total length.

Once you’ve found your way out of the different mazes, pop by the indoor museum that houses a maze gallery and other interactive activities such as puzzles and games. 

Entrance fee: ₩12,000/pax (~S$12) Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM (last entry at 5PM) How to get there: Take bus 111 from Jeju International Airport and exit at Songdang Rotary. Switch to bus 711-1 and exit at Maze Land ( Google Maps )

13) Satisfy Your KBBQ Cravings at Famous Black Pork (Heuk-Dwaeji 흑돼지) Street

KBBQ? Been there, done that. But have you tried KBBQ with the famous Jeju black pork? It’s a whole new ball game. The black pork street in Jeju houses rows of restaurants that serve up the local delicacy. 

Cooked over charcoal, the Jeju black pork is often grilled with garlic for an aromatic flavour and is said to have a chewier texture than the usual pork meat. 

Cost: ₩24,000/pax (~S$28.10) Opening hours: Varies but most restaurants open from 11AM – 12AM

14) Be Amazed at the Jusangjeollidae Lava Cliff

Made out of molten lava, the hexagonal rock formation of the Jusangjeollidae Lava Cliff is a geological wonder and a must-visit in Jeju. During high tide, the waves get turbulent and can reach a height of 20m — creating an incredible and breathtaking sight. 

Pop by The Cliff Cafe & Pub , a beachfront bar located just next door — the perfect place to chill and unwind. 

Fun fact: The cafe was used as a filming location in Twice’s music video for their summer hit Alcohol-Free !

Entrance fee: ₩2,000/pax (~S$2.20) Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM (last entry at 5:40PM) How to get there: Take bus 800-1 from Jeju International Airport and exit at Hoesu Village Hall. Walk 1 min to Hoesu-dong. Switch to bus 240 and exit at Georin Saseum Observatory. Then, walk 20mins ( Google Maps )

Read also: 7 Must-visit K-pop and K-drama Filming Locations Out of Seoul — Busan and Jeju Travel Guide

15) Marvel at the Natural Wonders of Mount Hallasan

At 1,950m above sea level, Mount Hallasan is the highest mountain in South Korea. The mountain has a unique ecosystem and is home to all sorts of vegetation and wildlife.

There are seven hiking trails available but only two trails — Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa — lead to the summit of the mountain, where the crater lake is located.

For beginners, the Seongpanak trail is the more manageable option. It’s 9.7km in length but the incline is gradual. Once you’re at the top, we suggest hiking down the summit via the Gwaneumsa trail (8.7km) which offers a more scenic route.

The total hike takes around 6 – 8 hours, but trust me, it’s the perfect nature getaway!

*Note: Hikers who wish to climb to the summit of Hallasan Mountain using the Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa trails must first make a reservation online .

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 5AM (May – Aug), 6AM (Sep – Apr), varies depending on season. Check the opening schedule of Hallasan National Park before going How to get there: For Seongpanak, take bus 181 from Jeju International and exit at Seongpanak. Then, walk 1min. ( Google Map ) For Gwaneumsa, take bus 181 from Jeju International and exit at Sancheondan. Switch to bus 475 and exit at Gwaneumsa Temple Trail Entrance. Then, walk 2min ( Google Maps )

16) Be In Awe of the Floral Paradise at Camellia Hill

Photo credit: @camelliahilljeju via Instagram

Immerse yourself in the flora and fauna of Jeju island at Camellia Hill , the biggest Camellia arboretum in East Asia. Located in Sanchang Village, the 20-hectare park is home to 6,000 camellia trees and over 500 different types of flowers and plants.

The vibrant colours of the blooming camellias make the perfect photo backdrop — you wouldn’t want to miss this Instagrammable spot! Once you’re done snapping pics, you can also check out the gallery exhibiting camellia-themed crafts.

Entrance fee: ₩10,000/pax (~S$10) Opening hours: 8:30AM – 6PM (last entry at 5PM), varies depending on season How to get there: Take bus 801 from Jeju International Airport to Sangchang junction. Take a 5min walk to Saesomang Geriatric Hospital. Switch to bus 752-1 and exit at Dongbaek Hill ( Google Maps )

17) Spot Dolphins on the Gimnyeong Yacht Cruise Tour

Photo credit: Klook

The Gimnyeong sea is home to southern sea dolphins, and one of the best ways to see them is on board one of these luxurious vessels .

While you’re spotting dolphins, grab a glass of wine or beer while enjoying scenic views of the emerald-green ocean.

Cost: ~S$47/pax via Klook Duration: 1hr How to get there: Take bus 101 from Jeju International Airport and exit at Hamdeok Bus Transfer Station (Hamdeok Beach). Switch to bus 201 and exit at Yeongdeungmul. Then, walk 5mins ( Google Maps )

Pro-tips for planning your trip around Jeju Island

There are lots to see, eat and do in Jeju so if you’re planning a trip to this scenic island, here are some pro-tips:

Public transport: Jeju has an islandwide public bus service — which allows you to immerse in local culture. A one-way ticket on either the intercity buses, airport shuttles or tourist shuttle buses cost around ₩1,200 (~S$1.20). The fare is cheap but the journey and interval timings can be long.

Car Rental: Since there were four of us, we decided to rent a car via Klook . For 6 days, a standard sedan car cost S$300, which means it’s only S$75/pax when you travel in a group of four!

Private Charter: For non-drivers, you can opt for a Jeju private car charter for the freedom and flexibility to plan your own itinerary. The car charter can be booked for an 8-hour duration between 8AM and 10PM, and you’ll be able to cover around four to five attractions a day!

Pre-booking Jeju Activities

Activities: Most of the activities we wanted to experience were available on Klook , which meant we didn’t have to comb through individual Korean websites to find out what each experience included. At many popular attractions, it actually costs less on Klook than purchasing on the spot!

Day tours: Stress not about getting from one place to the other! Those looking for a quick way of touring the island can book one of the many Jeju Island Day Tours via Klook . From join-in to private tours exploring different areas, you’re bound to find a tour that’s apt for you.

*Pro-tip: Use our code <THETRAVELINTERN> on Klook to get 5% off all activities and day tours * with a min. spend of S$50 (discount cap at S$15). Apply upon checkout. One-time use only. (* – see list of excluded activities )

Just an hour’s flight from Seoul, this volcanic island is the perfect paradise for nature lovers. We experienced its stunning beaches, explored scenic hiking trails, and met incredible locals like the Haenyeo women divers. Beyond the great outdoors, we also got to explore different museums and feast on local delicacies all around the island!

With excursions for both the young and old, chill and adventurous, it is no wonder that Jeju makes the perfect island getaway!

What did you think of this Jeju list? Share with us in the comments below!

This post was brought to you by  Klook .

Like what you see? Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram , and  YouTube  for more travel updates!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by thetravelintern.com 🇸🇬 (@thetravelintern)

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

9 Hanok Stays in Seoul for the Authentic Korean Experience

South Korea Cherry Blossom Guide 2024 — The Only Guide You’ll Need

Where to Stay in Seoul — 13 Aesthetic Yet Affordable Accommodations In Rising Hipster Districts

Fly Scoot and win tickets to Jeju, London, and more — Scoot 10th Anniversary Giveaway

7 Hidden Gems You Can Find Less Than 3hrs From Busan

Cultures Explained: South Korea — Are What We See in K-dramas Real or Reel?

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

11 Unique Things to Do in South Australia — Quirky Wineries,...

7 Boutique Hotels in Singapore For an “Out of the Country”...

How to Pay in China Without WeChat or Alipay — New...

11 Things to do in Clark, Philippines — A Quiet Adventure...

20 Things to Eat-See-Do in Sabah’s Capital Besides Climbing Mount Kinabalu

• Terms Of Use
• Privacy Policy

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

How To Visit South Korea’s Stunning Jeju Island

• Destinations
• South Korea

Jeju Island lies to the south of mainland South Korea. It sits between several seas — the Yellow Sea, the East China Sea, and the Sea of Japan (also known as the East Sea). Getting there is very easy if you’re in South Korea.

If you’ve read my other article on amazing things to do on Jeju Island , this article will cover more of the practical details of planning a trip there.

How To Get There From Mainland South Korea

You can travel there by plane or ferry. Jeju is a 1-hour flight from both Seoul and Busan. There are several airlines that fly there, including Korean Air. High winds in Jeju often ground or cancel flights. Make sure you have flexibility in your itinerary in case your flight is impacted. When I went, my flight back to Busan was canceled due to the winds. If your flight gets canceled, be persistent in going to your airline’s help desk to get booked onto another flight if you want to leave the same day.

You can also get a ferry to Jeju from certain ports, such as Incheon and Busan. However, it’s a long ride and much more expensive than flying.

Where To Stay

Though Jeju is a fairly small island, it has much to offer. Figuring out where to stay can be overwhelming. If you can stay at least a week, I’d recommend splitting your time between Jeju City in the north and Seogwipo in the south. It takes a little over an hour to drive between the two.

Jeju City is where the airport is located and hotels are about a 10-minute drive away. If you plan to take any day tours, most of them depart from the airport or are pick-up only at Jeju City hotels; another reason to stay in this area. You could also rent a car at the airport which is a great way to see more places.

In Jeju City, I stayed at the Gallery Hotel BnB . It’s a no-frills, budget hotel. I found the room quiet and perfectly located, about a 2-minute walk from the main street in Jeju City. If you prefer more luxurious accommodation, I recommend searching for other hotels nearby.

Staying in Seogwipo is a great way to see a very different part of the island than Jeju City. It’s easy to walk to most of the places if you don’t have a car and it was one of my favorite cities in all of South Korea. Most buses stop in Seogwipo, offering you another easy way to get around without a car. Seogwipo is next to the coast, so you can enjoy some of the beautiful water views while there.

I enjoyed the Hotel Rest Seogwipo . The budget price left me incredulous at the room. It was huge and came with its own washing machine! This is a great place to stay without a car as it’s a few minutes’ walk to downtown. If you have a car, however, you might prefer to stay at the Seogwipo KAL Hotel.

How To Get Around

There are plenty of buses, however, you’ll be at the mercy of their schedules. It can be difficult to decipher which stop gets you where you want to go and which bus you need. Full-day tours will take you to many of the major sites. Renting a car is the easiest way to see most of the island. 

Pro Tip: If you plan to rent a car, make sure to get an international driver’s license in your home country before arrival. Without it, you won’t be permitted to rent a car.

Where To Eat

Visit Neulbom Heukdwaeji in Jeju City for black-pork barbecue. Be sure to go someplace where the pork is not overly greasy. It was great here, however, the staff tries to cook for you and hurry you. Be persistent, insist on cooking it yourself, and take your time.

Dae Hyang in Jeju City has some of the best Korean barbecue meat you’ll find. It’s hard to find red meat as opposed to pork barbecue on Jeju. If that’s what you’re craving, come here, and don’t leave out the Soju!

The Seogwipo Olle Market is a must. There are so many different options, including a food court just outside the main market. My favorite meal was the seafood pancake I found. It was hearty, delicious, and where I had my first taste of Makgeolli — a delightful South Korean alcohol.

Seogwipo also has a restaurant street near Cheonjiyeon Falls called Chilsimni Food Street, reputed as having some of the best restaurants in the area. 

I lucked into what I thought was the best place in Seogwipo, Oneunjeong Gimbap — a gimbap restaurant. It looks like a complete dive, so I was dubious until, after placing my order, there was a line out the door. It was so good I tried to go back another night, only to find a 45-minute wait to get my food.

How Long To Stay

I would say forever, but if you don’t have that luxury, at least a week, ideally 2 or 3 weeks. There’s so much to see and being able to stay in different parts of the island in order to see more is well worth it.

Heather is a full-time travel coach who is passionate about helping professionals seeking more freedom and flexibility to ditch their desk and discover their destiny through full-time travel. She provides her clients with the path to the mindset, money, and mastery to make a full-time travel lifestyle possible. Since quitting, she's become an international best-selling author and is about to do her first TEDx talk! Learn more about Heather's travel adventures on her website, Heather Begins.

• Foreign Affairs
• Multicultural Community
• Environment & Animals
• Law & Crime
• Health & Science
• Cryptocurrency
• Thoughts of the Times
• Today in History
• Tribune Service
• Blondie & Garfield
• Letter to the Editor
• Travel & Food
• People & Events
• Around Town
• Fortune Telling
• Shows & Dramas
• Theater & Others
• Korean Storytellers

Jeju Island's Sehwa Village made it onto the list of the Best Tourism Villages. / Captured from UNWTO website

Three Korean tourist sites ― the villages of Dongbaek and Sehwa on Jeju Island and Mosan in South Jeolla Province ― have been recognized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as among the world's Best Tourism Villages.

The U.N. agency unveiled the third edition of the list last week during the 25th General Assembly in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. This year's list features 54 villages, chosen out of almost 260 applications for their contributions to fostering rural areas and preserving landscapes.

Located in Jeju’s Seogwipo City, Dongbaek Village is reputed for producing local products made from camellia including oil and soap. The name Dongbaek means camellia in Korean.

Sehwa Village has been actively promoting the culture of the “haenyeo” (female divers) that was inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Culture Heritage list in 2016.

Mosan Village in Hwasun County is one of the world’s top dolmen sites where visitors can get a glimpse of life during the Bronze Age. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

“Tourism can be a powerful force for inclusivity, empowering local communities and distributing benefits across regions," UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said. “This initiative acknowledges villages that have harnessed tourism as a catalyst for their development and well-being.”

Launched in 2021, the UNWTO’s Best Tourism Villages initiative is part of its Tourism for Rural Development Programme that seeks to facilitate development and inclusion in rural areas and fight depopulation, among others. It evaluates the submitted villages based on nine criteria including environmental sustainability, infrastructure and connectivity and health, safety and security.

Other villages on this year’s list include Cantavieja in Spain, Douma in Lebanon and Xiajiang in China.

World Water Day 2024

Busan World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals

Super Bowl 2024

Welcoming Lunar New Year around world

Daily life in Afghanistan under Taliban rule

Labour Day Travel Trends 2024: Where are workers escaping to for a break?

As Labour Day approaches, the global workforce eagerly anticipates a well-deserved respite from the daily grind, seeking solace and excitement in a variety of destinations across the globe. Celebrated as May Day in many regions, this holiday offers a precious opportunity for workers to unwind and explore, with some enjoying an extended break spanning several days.

According to Trip.com Group’s latest data, Asia is the hottest travel destination during this period among travellers worldwide, with cities such as Tokyo, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Seoul and Taipei leading the pack in holiday momentum.

China,  one of the biggest travel markets during the Labour Day holiday unfolding from May 1st to 5th, also saw a rise in outbound travel bookings. Chinese travellers set their sights on overseas destinations such as Japan and Korea, fuelled by the photo-worthy cherry blossom season which persists in areas such as Hokkaido in May. China’s domestic tourism also saw a boom with majestic sites such as the “Avatar” mountains of Zhang Jia Jie and Dajue Mountain set to draw crowds.

In Southeast Asia,  island paradises like Hon Thom Island in Vietnam, Similan Island in Thailand and Mabul Island in Malaysia beckoned travellers with their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Adventure tourism also saw a rise in bookings. Travellers were keen to explore beautiful ruins and waterfalls in Laos such as the Vat Phou temple and Kuang Si waterfall, or active volcanos in Indonesia like Mount Bromo. Singapore, meanwhile, saw travellers heading for exhilarating experiences such as the amphibious DUKW TM  Tours and thrilling Skyline Luge.

Japan  was also another key region which saw a remarkable rise in travel bookings, with the early May period coinciding with its Golden Week holiday from April 29th to May 5th.

Golden Week  marks one of the nation’s most significant holidays, and globetrotters took advantage of the break to visit destinations such as Korea, Japan and Thailand. Domestic travellers were found making a beeline for Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka, with attractions in nature gaining favour: Mother Farm, a charming ranch destination, and Huis Ten Bosch, a Dutch village town with a sea of flowers, were among the top booked attractions.

As for  Korea,  Seogwipo city and Udo island in Jeju were favourites among travellers, who also visited conventionally popular cities such as Seoul and Busan. They were found enjoying the sunset from beach train rides, or opting for experiential shows such as kitchen performance art and even ladies-only shows.

In Europe,  Germany and Italy stood out with a triple-fold increase in travellers compared to the same period in the previous year. Historic castles, palaces and cathedrals were a favourite: Neuschwanst Castle, Nymphenburg Palace,  Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower and Milan Cathedral were among the top-ranked attractions.

Labour Day holiday: A time for culture, family fun and hidden gems

Labour Day also saw a diverse array of travel trends emerging, reflecting the evolving preferences of holidaymakers worldwide.

Cultural and historical tourism took centre stage as travellers favoured iconic landmarks such as the Winter Palace in Saint Petersberg, the Louvre Museum in Paris, and the Acropolis of Athens, immersing themselves in the rich history, architecture, and heritage of these revered destinations.

For families and thrill-seekers alike, theme parks and entertainment hubs emerged as hotspots for holiday fun, with Universal Studios Singapore, Tokyo DisneySea, and Disneyland Paris captivating visitors with a mix of rides, shows, and immersive experiences.

Unique destinations like Giethoorn, a fairytale village in the Netherlands, and the Chocolate Hills in the Philippines, also rose in popularity, offering travellers off-the-beaten-path experiences and picturesque landscapes that promise to leave a lasting impression.

There’s a collective recognition that after months of hard work, Labour Day presents a well-deserved opportunity for workers to unwind and recharge. And what better way to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul than through the transformative power of travel?

Since you're here...

...there are many ways you can work with us to advertise your company and connect to your customers. Our team can help you design and create an advertising campaign

We can also organize a real life or digital event for you and find thought leader speakers as well as industry leaders, who could be your potential partners, to join the event. We also run some awards programmes which give you an opportunity to be recognized for your achievements during the year and you can join this as a participant or a sponsor.

Let us help you drive your business forward with a good partnership!

Yes, contact me I want to download the media kit

Comments are closed.

LATEST STORIES

Samar Province, DOT tout 3 new tourism circuits

Sustainable pathways with the ‘JW Garden’ at JW Marriott Khao Lak, Thailand

Check in for the Official Launch of Hengqin's 2024 Global Investment Promotion Campaign

Bob W unveils Tallinn's newest gem: A tech-infused oasis in Arter Quarter

Welcome, Login to your account.

Sign in with Google

Powered by wp-glogin.com

Recover your password.

A password will be e-mailed to you.

Welcome back, Log in to your account.

SIGN UP FOR FREE

Be part of our community of seasoned travel and hospitality industry professionals from all over the world.

• LOGIN / SIGN UP
• Middle East
• UK & Europe
• USA & Canada
• Hospitality
• HR & Careers
• Luxury Travel
• MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions)
• Travel Tech
• Travel Agents
• Airlines / Airports
• Conferences
• Cruising (Ocean)
• Cruising (River)
• Destination Management (DMC)
• Hotels & Resorts
• Hotel Management Company
• Hotel Technology
• HR / Appointments
• Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions (MICE)
• Travel Agents (all)
• Travel Technology
• Tourism Boards
• Industry appointments
• Travel Bloggers
• Podcasts – Features
• How to join
• RSVP Portal
• Event Photos/Videos
• Competitions
• Search for Jobs
• Destination NaJomtien BanAmphur BangSaray *NEW*
• จุดหมายปลายทาง นาจอมเทียน หาดบ้านอำเภอ บางเสร่ *NEW*
• South Australia Reward Wonders *NEW*
• Ponant Yacht Cruises and Expeditions
• Encore Tickets (Chinese Guide)
• Affordable Luxury in Thailand by Centara Hotels
• Rising Above the Oridinary by Conrad Bangkok
• The Best of Thailand
• Who is IWTA
• Philippines
• Recommend Someone
• Recommend yourself
• IWTA AWARDS
• TRAVEL CLUB

Showbizz Daily (English)

Must-visit: Recommended tourist destinations in South Korea

Posted: April 29, 2024 | Last updated: April 29, 2024

Holiday in South Korea

Have you thought of going on vacation to South Korea? It's a country where you can enjoy historical cultural heritage and delicious gourmet food, beauty salons, massages, popular cosmetics, and shopping. Let's take a look at some tourist attractions in Korea.

Gyeongbokgung Palace / Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace was built in 1395 by Lee Seong-gye, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty. It is the largest of the five ancient palaces in Seoul, with national treasures and other valuable buildings dotted around the approximately 120,000 Pyong grounds.

Follow Showbizz Daily to see the best photo galleries every day

Changing of the guard

What you can't miss is the Grand Palace Guard Changing Ceremony that takes place every day, reenacting the ritual of the changing guards of the gate during the Joseon Dynasty.

Image: Konrad Ziemlewski / Unsplash

Changdeokgung Palace / Seoul

It was founded in 1405 as a villa but came to be used as a replacement for the main palace (Gyeongbokgung Palace) after it was burnt down in the war. This royal palace has maintained most of its original appearance and is also registered as a World Heritage Site.

Make sure you see the garden

In addition to the 13 historic buildings, the garden, which incorporates Korean landscaping techniques, is a major attraction.

Image: Soyoung Han / Unsplash

Insadong / Seoul

In this area of Seoul, you can feel the atmosphere of 'good old Korea', with shops selling antiques, old art, ceramics, galleries, and traditional crafts. On Sundays, it becomes a pedestrian paradise with a flea market.

A flea market and great restaurants

In addition to traditional teahouses, the back streets are dotted with Korean restaurants and taverns where you can enjoy Korean gourmet food.

Image: Andrea Wilkins / Unsplash

Bongeunsa Temple / Seoul

Bongeunsa Temple, built in 794 during the Silla period, is located in the center of Gangnam amidst rows of skyscrapers. There are many attractions, including the Maitreya Buddha, the largest Buddha statue in Korea.

Experience the life of a monk

Some programs let you experience the life of a monk, zazen meditation, and the tea ceremony, making it popular with domestic and international tourists.

Image: Roméo A / Unsplash

Jongmyo Shrine / Seoul

This mausoleum was built in 1394, and the tablets of the Joseon Dynasty's kings and royal family members are enshrined here. At 101m (331.36 ft) long, it is the longest wooden structure among the existing shrines.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Jongmyo Shrine is also a World Heritage Site, and the Jongmyo Festival held every May is also designated as an intangible heritage by UNESCO as the world's oldest ritual culture with a history of 500 years.

Image: Hanvin Cheong / Unsplash

Myeongdong / Seoul

The largest downtown area in Seoul, Myeongdong is popular for its department stores, fashion buildings, and Korean beauty salons and cosmetics stores.

Evening shopping and dining

There are many restaurants and cafes, and in the evening, many Korean B-class gourmet food stalls appear on the main street.

Image: Nathan Park / Unsplash

Bukchon Hanok Village / Seoul

In this village, Hanok, the traditional Korean houses, are clustered on a slope. The royal family and aristocrats of the Joseon Dynasty lived in these Hanok, so the village exudes elegance.

Elegant houses

Take a break at one of the stylish cafes dotted around the area and enjoy visiting the 'Bukchon Hakkei' selected by the city of Seoul.

Image: YK / Unsplash

Dongdaemun area / Seoul

In this area of Seoul, an old-fashioned wholesale market and modern wholesale fashion stores coexist. Domestic and international buyers shop in the wholesale district from night until dawn, so many shops and restaurants are open all night. Some even call Seoul 'The City that Never Sleeps'! Although strictly, the clothes are sold wholesale, there are many shops where the general public can purchase at retail.

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress / Suwon

This fortress is surrounded by a wall of about 5.5 km (3.4 miles) long. Built in the 18th century, it has gates, artillery batteries, and military training camps at key points.

European influences

The fortress is registered as a World Heritage Site as the finest military building of its era, incorporating traditional Korean-style decorations and the latest 18th-century technology found in European fortifications.

Image: Ratapan Anantawat / Unsplash

Hwaseong Haenggung Palace

Although it was a temporary palace for the king within the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, the castle was built as a formal palace. It was large and frequently used. Since then, it has been a filming location for several dramas and movies. In the surrounding area, there are many trendy cafes and general stores.

Busan is Korea's largest port city and the second-largest city in the country. There are many sightseeing spots, including Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, built on a rocky area by the sea.

Image: Patrick / Unsplash

Great place to eat fresh fish

Famous as a gourmet destination, Jagalchi, Korea's largest seafood market, is surrounded by many restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood. It is also famous for its romantic night view.

Gamcheon Culture Village / Busan

Gamcheon Culture Village, with its colorful houses lined up on a slope, has become popular as an Instagram spot in recent years.

Image: Sung Jin Cho / Unsplash

Originally a refuge for North Koreans

It was originally a village where people who evacuated from North Korea during the Korean War lived. Since 2009, the town has been revitalized, its landscape has been improved, and it has become Busan's leading tourist spot.

Naakan-eup Seong Folk Village / Suncheon

A walled village in Suncheon, southern Korea, Naakan-eup Seong is one of Korea's three major folk villages. It holds many interesting cultural properties. The village is packed with Korean-style thatched-roof houses and there are plenty of exhibits that introduce the lives of Korean people 400 years ago.

Jeju Island is known as the 'Hawaii of Korea,' drawing tourists from home and abroad. The area is full of attractions, such as Ushijima, famous for its emerald green sea and white beaches.

The Hawaii of Korea

Other attractions include Seongsan Ilchulbong (image), which was born from the eruption of an undersea volcano 100,000 years ago. You can also see the world's longest lava cave and a waterfall, Seongbang Falls, that flows into the sea.

Photo: Linda Yuan / Unsplash

Mt. Ura is famous for its autumn leaves, where the entire mountain is dyed red. The area is dotted with waterfalls and temples, so we recommend trekking to see the autumn leaves.

Image: Ken Cheung / Unsplash

Take the ropeway up

If you are not confident in your physical strength, take the ropeway to the observation deck and enjoy the panoramic view of autumn leaves. Also, azaleas and cherry blossoms are in full bloom in spring.

More for You

Everything you need to know about Alien: Romulus

Democrats Massively Overperform In Special Election Triumph

29 common human foods you may not realize are poisonous to your dog

Ghosts of the USA: The Most Haunted Places in America

We Tried And Ranked 17 Of The Best Frozen Pizzas And The Winner Had Us Shook

5 Most Powerful Dodge Crate Engines Ever Built (And What They Cost)

Christian Bale Transforms Into Frankenstein In First Look At Maggie Gyllenhaal's 'The Bride' | THR News Video

So THAT'S Why Singers Lose Their Accent When They Sing

The most successful musician of all time, based on data—and see the rest of the top 50

This type of supplement may increase heart disease risk, new study finds

The 10 happiest places to live in the US

16 Popular Pizza Chains, Ranked Worst to Best

The Coolest Car From the Year You Were Born (1945-1995)

Netflix Originals: The 21 Must-See Series

Surprise F-16 Update Issued by Ukraine

Justin Hartley shifts gears in new drama "Tracker"

The biggest song in country music history, according to data. Plus, see if your favorite is in the top 100.

The Best Steakhouse in Every State

How much protein do you need to build muscle?

Taylor Swift Makes History on Billboard Hot 100 Chart

We could not find any results for: Make sure your spelling is correct or try broadening your search.

Trending Now

It looks like you aren't logged in. Click the button below to log in and view your recent history.

Already a member? Sign in

Interactive Brokers

Market Data

• Latest News
• News Scanner
• News Alerts

Trading Tools

• Economic Calendar
• Trader Alerts
• Price Alerts

Follow Feed

• Currency Converter
• Commodities
• World Exchanges
• Market Movers

Options Flow

• Bitcoin ETFs
• Broker Review
• Global Interest Rates

Hot Features

Connect with traders and investors in our Follow Feed community.

Explore comprehensive options data and use advanced filters with Options Flow.

Organize and monitor your stock and asset watchlist with Monitor.

• 1-888-992-3836
• [email protected]
• United States
• United Kingdom
• Deutschland
• México
• 日本
• 대한변국

SINGAPORE , April 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As Labour Day approaches, the global workforce eagerly anticipates a well-deserved respite from the daily grind, seeking solace and excitement in a variety of destinations across the globe. Celebrated as May Day in many regions, this holiday offers a precious opportunity for workers to unwind and explore, with some enjoying an extended break spanning several days.

According to Trip.com Group's latest data, Asia is the hottest travel destination during this period among travellers worldwide, with cities such as Tokyo , Bangkok , Hong Kong , Seoul and Taipei leading the pack in holiday momentum.

China ,  one of the biggest travel markets during the Labour Day holiday unfolding from May 1st to 5th , also saw a rise in outbound travel bookings. Chinese travellers set their sights on overseas destinations such as Japan and Korea, fuelled by the photo-worthy cherry blossom season which persists in areas such as Hokkaido in May. China's domestic tourism also saw a boom with majestic sites such as the "Avatar" mountains of Zhang Jia Jie and Dajue Mountain set to draw crowds. 

In Southeast Asia ,  island paradises like Hon Thom Island in Vietnam , Similan Island in Thailand and Mabul Island in Malaysia beckoned travellers with their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Adventure tourism also saw a rise in bookings. Travellers were keen to explore beautiful ruins and waterfalls in Laos such as the Vat Phou temple and Kuang Si waterfall, or active volcanos in Indonesia like Mount Bromo. Singapore , meanwhile, saw travellers heading for exhilarating experiences such as the amphibious DUKW TM Tours and thrilling Skyline Luge.

Japan was also another key region which saw a remarkable rise in travel bookings, with the early May period coinciding with its Golden Week holiday from April 29th to May 5th .

Golden Week marks one of the nation's most significant holidays, and globetrotters took advantage of the break to visit destinations such as Korea, Japan and Thailand . Domestic travellers were found making a beeline for Tokyo , Osaka and Fukuoka , with attractions in nature gaining favour: Mother Farm, a charming ranch destination, and Huis Ten Bosch , a Dutch village town with a sea of flowers, were among the top booked attractions.

As for Korea, Seogwipo city and Udo island in Jeju were favourites among travellers, who also visited conventionally popular cities such as Seoul and Busan . They were found enjoying the sunset from beach train rides, or opting for experiential shows such as kitchen performance art and even ladies-only shows.

In Europe , Germany and Italy stood out with a triple-fold increase in travellers compared to the same period in the previous year. Historic castles, palaces and cathedrals were a favourite: Neuschwanstein Castle, Nymphenburg Palace,  Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower and Milan Cathedral were among the top-ranked attractions.

Labour Day holiday: A time for culture, family fun and hidden gems

Labour Day also saw a diverse array of travel trends emerging, reflecting the evolving preferences of holidaymakers worldwide. 

Cultural and historical tourism took centre stage as travellers favoured iconic landmarks such as the Winter Palace in Saint Petersberg, the Louvre Museum in Paris , and the Acropolis of Athens , immersing themselves in the rich history, architecture, and heritage of these revered destinations.

For families and thrill-seekers alike, theme parks and entertainment hubs emerged as hotspots for holiday fun, with Universal Studios Singapore, Tokyo DisneySea, and Disneyland Paris captivating visitors with a mix of rides, shows, and immersive experiences.

Unique destinations like Giethoorn, a fairytale village in the Netherlands , and the Chocolate Hills in the Philippines , also rose in popularity, offering travellers off-the-beaten-path experiences and picturesque landscapes that promise to leave a lasting impression.

There's a collective recognition that after months of hard work, Labour Day presents a well-deserved opportunity for workers to unwind and recharge. And what better way to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul than through the transformative power of travel?

SOURCE Trip.com Group

Copyright 2024 PR Newswire

Your Recent History

It looks like you are not logged in. Click the button below to log in and keep track of your recent history.

• Investor Relations
• Advertise With Us
• Broker Listing
• Data Accreditations
• Consent Preferences

Get The App

Support: 1-888-992-3836 | [email protected]

By accessing the services available at ADVFN you are agreeing to be bound by ADVFN's Terms & Conditions

• Cookie and Privacy Policy
• Investment Warning