Jeju Travel Part 4: Hidden Gem with Unparalleled Charms

What is Jeju Island?

Jeju Island, also known as Jeju-do in Korean, is a volcanic island located off the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula. It is the largest island in South Korea and is considered a popular tourist destination due to its unique natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse range of attractions. Jeju Island is known for its volcanic landscapes, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes. It is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, as well as traditional Korean culture and history. The island is easily accessible by air or sea, with regular flights and ferries connecting it to mainland South Korea and other parts of East Asia.

Natural Landscapes of Jeju Island

Jeju Island is famous for its diverse natural landscapes, including volcanic terrain, beaches, waterfalls, and forests. Here are some of the top natural attractions to see on Jeju Island:

1. Hallasan National Park - Hallasan Mountain is the highest mountain in South Korea and is located in the center of Jeju Island. The national park surrounding the mountain offers numerous hiking trails, scenic vistas, and unique flora and fauna.
2. Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak - This is a volcanic crater formed over 5,000 years ago, which rises 182 meters above the sea level. It offers stunning views of the surrounding ocean and is a popular spot for sunrise hikes.
3. Cheonjiyeon Waterfall - This waterfall is located on the south coast of Jeju Island and is known for its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings.
4. Jeju Olle Trail - This is a network of 26 walking trails that cover over 400 kilometers around the island's coastline, offering breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and countryside.
5. Jeju's Beaches - Jeju Island is home to numerous beaches, including Hyeopjae Beach, Geumneung Beach, and Jungmun Beach. These beaches offer a range of activities, from swimming and surfing to beachside dining and shopping.
6. Seogwipo Submarine - Visitors can take a ride on a submarine to explore the underwater world of Jeju Island, including its coral reefs and marine life.
7. Jeju Stone Park - This park showcases the island's unique geological features, including basalt rocks and lava tubes, and offers insight into the island's volcanic history.

Overall, the natural landscapes of Jeju Island offer visitors a unique and unforgettable experience of the island's natural beauty and geological
 

Cultural Heritage of Jeju Island

Jeju Island has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by its unique history, natural environment, and regional customs. Here are some of the top cultural attractions and traditions to explore on Jeju Island:

1. Dol Hareubang - These are large stone statues that are believed to have been erected during the Goryeo Dynasty to ward off evil spirits. They are now considered a symbol of Jeju Island and can be found all over the island.
2. Haenyeo - These are female divers who have been harvesting seafood from the sea for generations. They are a vital part of Jeju's culture and have been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
3. Jeju Folk Village Museum - This museum showcases traditional Jeju Island houses, artifacts, and cultural traditions, including traditional farming and fishing techniques, handicrafts, and games.
4. Jeju Nanta Performance - This is a traditional Korean percussion performance that originated in Jeju Island. The show features high-energy music and dance, and is a must-see for visitors to the island.
5. Jeju's Traditional Cuisine - Jeju Island has its unique culinary traditions, including seafood dishes, black pork, and Jeju mandarin oranges. The island's cuisine reflects its history and culture, and is a must-try for food lovers.
6. Seongeup Folk Village - This is a traditional village that showcases Jeju Island's cultural heritage, including thatched-roof houses, stone walls, and folk traditions.
7. Jeju Stone Culture Park - This park showcases Jeju Island's unique volcanic geology and traditional stonework, including stonewalls, bridges, and sculptures.

Overall, Jeju Island's cultural heritage offers visitors a glimpse into the island's rich history and traditions, from its ancient stone statues and traditional fishing culture to its unique cuisine and traditional arts.
 
 

Jeju Island's Cuisine and Food Culture

Jeju Island has a rich food culture and unique cuisine that reflects the island's history, geography, and climate. Here are some of the top foods and dishes to try on Jeju Island:

1. Black Pork - This is a specialty of Jeju Island, and refers to a type of pork that comes from pigs that are fed a special diet of acorns, chestnuts, and other natural foods. It is considered a delicacy and can be found in many local restaurants.
2. Seafood - Due to its location in the southern sea, Jeju Island is known for its fresh seafood, including abalone, squid, octopus, and shellfish. There are many seafood restaurants throughout the island that offer a variety of dishes using fresh local ingredients.
3. Jeju Tangerines - These small, sweet oranges are a popular local specialty, and can be found in many forms, including juice, candies, and jams.
4. Jeju Black Cow - This is another local specialty that refers to beef from cows raised on the island. It is known for its tenderness and unique flavor, and is often used in dishes like bulgogi and galbi.
5. Traditional Jeju Cuisine - Jeju Island has a unique culinary tradition that includes dishes like heukdwaeji (black pork) bulgogi, hwae (raw fish), and hongeo (fermented skate). These dishes reflect the island's history and culture, and are a must-try for food lovers.
6. Jeju Tea Culture - Jeju Island has a long tradition of tea cultivation, and is known for its green tea, black tea, and tangerine peel tea. Visitors can explore tea farms and tea houses throughout the island, and sample a variety of teas and tea-based products.

Overall, Jeju Island's cuisine and food culture offer visitors a unique and delicious experience of the island's local specialties, traditional dishes, and tea culture.
 
 

Top Tourist Attractions in Jeju Island

Jeju Island is a popular tourist destination in South Korea, known for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to visit on Jeju Island:

1. Hallasan National Park - This park is home to Mount Hallasan, the highest mountain in South Korea, and offers hiking trails, scenic views, and diverse flora and fauna.
2. Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak - This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Jeju Island's most iconic landmarks, featuring a volcanic crater, hiking trails, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Jeju Loveland - This is a quirky and unique theme park featuring erotic sculptures and art, and is popular among couples and adults.
4. Manjanggul Cave - This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the longest lava tubes in the world, featuring unique rock formations and a fascinating geological history.
5. Jeju Folklore and Natural History Museum - This museum showcases Jeju Island's natural history, cultural heritage, and traditions, and is a great place to learn more about the island's unique culture and history.
6. Jeju Teddy Bear Museum - This museum features a vast collection of teddy bears from around the world, as well as exhibits on the history of teddy bears and their cultural significance.
7. Jeju Jungmun Resort - This is a luxury resort area on the southern coast of Jeju Island, featuring high-end hotels, golf courses, and a variety of outdoor activities.
8. Jeju Olle Trail - This is a network of hiking trails that crisscross the island, offering scenic views, cultural landmarks, and a chance to experience the island's natural beauty up close.

Overall, Jeju Island offers visitors a wide range of attractions and activities, from hiking and outdoor adventures to cultural museums and unique theme parks.
 

Accommodation Options in Jeju Island

Jeju Island offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the most popular types of accommodation on Jeju Island:

1. Hotels and Resorts - Jeju Island has a range of hotels and resorts, from budget-friendly options to high-end luxury hotels. Many of these properties offer stunning ocean views, outdoor pools, and other amenities like spas, restaurants, and golf courses.
2. Guesthouses - Guesthouses are a popular option for budget travelers and backpackers. They offer affordable accommodation in shared dorm rooms or private rooms, and often include communal areas like kitchens, lounges, and outdoor spaces.
3. Homestays - Homestays provide a unique opportunity to experience local culture and hospitality by staying with a local family in their home. Many homestays offer traditional Jeju-style housing and meals made with local ingredients.
4. Pension Houses - Pension houses are similar to guesthouses, but usually offer more private accommodation options like cottages or cabins. They often have beautiful gardens or outdoor spaces, and may offer amenities like BBQ grills or private hot tubs.
5. Camping - Camping is a popular option for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore Jeju Island's natural beauty up close. There are a number of campgrounds on the island, some of which offer tents and camping gear for rent.

Overall, Jeju Island offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and camping options.
 
 

Fun Activities to Do in Jeju Island

Jeju Island is a popular destination in South Korea, known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the most fun and exciting activities to do in Jeju Island:

1. Hike Mount Hallasan - Mount Hallasan is the highest peak in South Korea and offers a challenging but rewarding hiking experience with breathtaking views of the island.
2. Visit Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak - This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Jeju Island's most iconic landmarks and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Explore Manjanggul Cave - This fascinating lava tube cave system is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique underground adventure with stunning rock formations.
4. Relax on Jeju's Beaches - Jeju Island has a number of beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters and soft sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
5. Learn About Jeju's Culture - Jeju Island has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional music, dance, and cuisine. You can visit museums, cultural centers, and historic sites to learn more about the island's unique history and traditions.
6. Enjoy Outdoor Activities - Jeju Island offers a variety of outdoor activities, including zip-lining, ATV riding, horseback riding, and more.
7. Visit Theme Parks - Jeju Island has a number of unique and exciting theme parks, such as Jeju Loveland and Jeju Shinhwa World, which offer fun attractions, rides, and activities for all ages.
8. Shop and Dine - Jeju Island has a vibrant shopping and dining scene, with traditional markets, trendy cafes, and restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialties.

Overall, Jeju Island offers a wide range of fun and exciting activities for visitors of all ages and interests.
 
 

Travel Tips for Jeju Island

If you are planning a trip to Jeju Island, here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your visit:

1. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Jeju Island is during the spring and autumn months (April to June and September to November), when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
2. Getting around: The most convenient way to get around Jeju Island is by rental car or taxi. Public transportation is available but can be limited in some areas.
3. Currency exchange: It's a good idea to exchange your currency for Korean won before arriving on Jeju Island. Currency exchange services are available at airports and banks.
4. Language: While Korean is the primary language spoken on Jeju Island, many locals in tourist areas speak English and other languages.
5. Dress code: Jeju Island is a casual destination, so you can dress comfortably for most activities. However, it's important to dress appropriately when visiting cultural sites or attending formal events.
6. Tipping: Tipping is not common in South Korea, so you do not need to tip at restaurants or for other services.
7. Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is widely available in Jeju Island, including at most hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites. You can also rent a portable Wi-Fi device or purchase a SIM card for your phone.
8. Weather: Jeju Island has a mild climate, but it can be rainy and windy at times. Be sure to check the weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing and gear.
9. Safety: Jeju Island is generally a safe destination, but it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
10. Plan ahead: Jeju Island is a popular tourist destination, so it's a good idea to book accommodations, tours, and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.