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Jeju Island, 대한민국 - Things to Do in Jeju Island

Things to Do in Jeju Island

Jeju Island, 대한민국 - Complete Travel Guide

Jeju Island, South Korea's largest island and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a volcanic paradise located off the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula. Known for its dramatic landscapes, pristine beaches, and unique cultural heritage, Jeju offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and modern attractions. The island is famous for its three abundances: wind, stones, and women, referring to the strong coastal winds, volcanic rock formations, and the legendary female divers called 'haenyeo' who have harvested the sea for generations. From the majestic Hallasan mountain at its center to the stunning coastline dotted with waterfalls, lava tube caves, and black sand beaches, Jeju provides an escape from mainland Korea's bustling cities. The island's subtropical climate, diverse ecosystems, and rich folklore make it a year-round destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience authentic Korean island culture.

Top Things to Do in Jeju Island

Explore Hallasan National Park

Hike South Korea's highest mountain and dormant volcano, Hallasan, which dominates the center of Jeju Island. The mountain offers various trails through diverse ecosystems, from subtropical forests to alpine vegetation, with the summit providing panoramic views of the entire island. The park is home to over 1,800 plant species and numerous endemic animals.

Booking Tip: No booking required for hiking trails, but check weather conditions as trails can close during bad weather. Best visited early morning (6-7 AM start) to avoid crowds and afternoon weather changes. Wear proper hiking boots and bring layers as temperature drops significantly with altitude.

Discover Manjanggul Lava Tube Cave

Venture into one of the world's longest lava tube caves, stretching over 13 kilometers with 1 kilometer open to the public. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases incredible geological formations created by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. The cave maintains a constant cool temperature year-round and features impressive stalactites and lava formations.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 2,000 KRW for adults. Open daily 9 AM-6 PM, but closes one hour earlier in winter. Bring a light jacket as cave temperature stays around 11-21°C. Wear non-slip shoes as surfaces can be wet and uneven.

Experience Haenyeo Culture

Meet the legendary female divers of Jeju, known as haenyeo, who dive without breathing equipment to harvest seafood from the ocean floor. These remarkable women, ranging from their 50s to 80s, represent a unique matriarchal tradition recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Watch their diving demonstrations and learn about their sustainable fishing practices.

Booking Tip: Visit Haenyeo Museum (5,000 KRW entry) or coastal areas like Seongsan or Udo Island to see them in action. Best viewing times are early morning or late afternoon. Some cultural centers offer hands-on experiences for 20,000-30,000 KRW including traditional diving gear trials.

Visit Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak

Climb this dramatic volcanic crater, also known as Sunrise Peak, for one of Korea's most spectacular sunrise views. The tuff cone rises 182 meters from the sea and was formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions. The relatively easy 30-minute hike to the summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the coastline and surrounding landscapes.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is 5,000 KRW for adults. Arrive by 5:30 AM for sunrise viewing, especially popular during New Year. The trail can be steep and crowded during peak times, so visit on weekdays if possible. Combine with nearby Seopjikoji coast for a full day experience.

Explore Jeju's Waterfalls and Beaches

Discover the island's stunning waterfalls including Cheonjiyeon, Jeongbang (the only waterfall in Asia that falls directly into the ocean), and Sekisanbong. Relax on unique beaches like Hyeopjae with white sand, Jungmun with black volcanic sand, or the pristine shores of Udo Island. Each location offers distinct geological features and photo opportunities.

Booking Tip: Most waterfalls charge 2,000-3,000 KRW entry fee. Visit waterfalls early morning or late afternoon for best lighting and fewer crowds. Beach access is generally free, but parking may cost 2,000-5,000 KRW. Udo Island requires a ferry ride (5,500 KRW round trip) from Seongsan port.

Getting There

Jeju International Airport is the main gateway to the island, with direct flights from Seoul (1 hour 20 minutes), Busan (1 hour), and other major Korean cities. International flights connect Jeju to major Asian cities including Tokyo, Osaka, Beijing, Shanghai, and Taipei. Ferry services operate from Busan, Mokpo, and Wando on the mainland, taking 4-11 hours depending on the departure port. The airport is modern and efficient, located just 5 kilometers from Jeju City center.

Getting Around

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Jeju Island, with rental agencies available at the airport and throughout the island. Public buses connect major attractions and cities, with routes 100-200 serving intercity travel and 300+ serving local areas. Taxis are readily available but can be expensive for long distances. Many tourists opt for organized day tours or hire private drivers. The island has a circular highway that makes navigation relatively simple, and most road signs include English translations.

Where to Stay

Jeju City
Seogwipo
Jungmun Resort Area
Seongsan
Udo Island
Hallim

Food & Dining

Jeju's cuisine centers around fresh seafood, particularly abalone, sea urchin, and various fish caught by the haenyeo divers. Must-try dishes include heukdwaeji (black pork barbecue), galchi jorim (braised cutlassfish), and momguk (seaweed soup). The island is famous for its tangerines, green tea, and unique dishes like omegi-tteok (millet rice cake). Jungmun and Seogwipo areas offer upscale restaurants, while traditional markets in Jeju City and Seogwipo provide authentic local experiences. Many restaurants specialize in raw fish (hoe) and offer stunning ocean views.

Top-Rated Restaurants in South Korea

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When to Visit

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather with mild temperatures, clear skies, and beautiful natural colors. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid with frequent rainfall and typhoons, but it's peak season for beach activities. Winter (December-March) is mild compared to mainland Korea, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, making it ideal for hiking and indoor attractions. Cherry blossoms bloom in early April, while autumn foliage peaks in late October to early November.

Insider Tips

Download the Citymapper or KakaoMap app for navigation, as Google Maps has limited functionality in South Korea
Many attractions offer discounts for online bookings or combination tickets - check official websites before visiting
Learn basic Korean phrases or use Papago translation app, as English signage can be limited outside major tourist areas

Complete Jeju Travel Guide

Explore our dedicated guide to Jeju with detailed neighborhood guides, activities, and local tips

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