Discover the Wonders of Jeju: Top Things to Do in South Korea’s Island Paradise
Jeju Island, located in South Korea, is a beautiful destination that has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for natural wonders, cultural experiences, or incredible food, Jeju has it all. The island’s beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and unique attractions make it a must-see for travelers. We’ll list the top Jeju Island activities in this post. Here are Things to do in Jeju, South Korea’s amazing island!
1. Hike Hallasan Mountain, a dormant volcano at the center of Jeju Island.
For those seeking adventure and breathtaking views, hiking Hallasan Mountain is a must-do activity while visiting Jeju Island. As the highest peak in South Korea, this dormant volcano is a natural wonder with a stunning crater lake at the top. The Seongpanak and Donnaeko Trails are the most popular hiking routes, with the former being the most convenient and taking around 4.5 hours to reach the summit. But, the Yeongsil Trail offers a more mystical experience through dense forests and rocky cliffs. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, there’s a path for everyone to enjoy the beauty that Hallasan has to offer. Hiking Hallasan is just one of the many incredible things to do on Jeju Island, so be sure to check out the other exciting spots while on your trip.
2. Immerse yourself in nature at Yeomiji Botanical Garden.
One of the most beautiful places to explore in Jeju Island is Yeomiji Botanical Garden. The garden is a peaceful retreat from city life for nature lovers. In Seogwipo, it has Japanese, Italian, French, and Korean gardens and a large collection of plants from around the world. In addition to the stunning vegetation, visitors can also enjoy the view of the ocean from the garden’s observation deck. The Yeomiji Botanical Garden is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families seeking a fun day out, or solo travelers in search of peace and tranquility. It is definitely worth a visit for anyone who loves nature and enjoys taking long walks in beautiful gardens.
3. Take a Jeju Island UNESCO day tour to see the island’s most iconic sights.
For those who want to experience Jeju Island’s most iconic sights in a hassle-free way, taking a UNESCO day tour is the perfect option. This full-day tour allows travelers to visit famous sites such as the Manjanggul Lava Cave, Woljeongri Beach, and the Jeju Folk Village Museum, all in one day. A licensed guide will lead the way, providing insightful commentary and background information about each stop. This is a great way to get a comprehensive overview of the island’s culture, nature, and history. So, pack your camera and join in on the adventure!
4. Watch the sunrise over Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak.
One of Jeju Island’s must-see attractions is Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak. As the name suggests, the peak offers a captivating view during sunrise that is simply breathtaking. Visitors can wake up early and make their way to the beach to experience the stunning sight of the sun rising over the peak. For those who want to avoid the early wake-up call, visiting during sunset is also a good option. The peak, an archetypal tuff cone formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions upon a shallow seabed thousands of years ago, offers panoramic views of the surrounding verdant valley, making it a popular spot for tourists. Free binoculars are available at various points for visitors to take in the beautiful surroundings. Seongsan Ilchulbong, along with other attractions such as hiking Hallasan Mountain and exploring Manjanggul Lava Cave, is a must-visit on any trip to Jeju Island.
5. Relax and play at Hamdeok Beach.
After exploring the natural wonders of Jeju Island, it’s time to unwind and soak up the sun at Hamdeok Beach. This beach is not only one of the best beaches in Jeju, but it’s also a popular summer resort for locals and tourists alike. The clean and shallow waters of the bathing area make it perfect for swimming, while kayaking, snorkeling, and water skiing are just a few of the watersports available to visitors. After a day of relaxation and play, grab a bite to eat at one of the beachside cafes and watch the sun set over the Korea Strait. Whether you want to lounge on the sand or enjoy some adventurous water activities, Hamdeok Beach has something for everyone.
6. Explore the fascinating Manjanggul Lava Cave.
For those who are looking for a unique and natural experience on Jeju Island, exploring the fascinating Manjanggul Lava Cave is a must-do. One of the largest lava tubes in the world, this cave was formed over 300,000 years ago by the eruption of the Geomunoreum volcano, and is now a popular tourist site. Visitors can follow the wooden path and explore the majestic beauty of the lava tunnel, with light systems along the way for visibility. Although only 1 km is open for visitors, it is still widely regarded as a must-visit attraction on the island. The Manjanggul Cave possesses stunning geological features, making it an experience that will definitely leave an impression. It is definitely worth adding this location to your itinerary along with other famous spots like Hallasan Mountain, Seongsan Ilchulbong, and Udo Island.
7. Walk the beautiful Seopjikoji coast.
For a scenic coastal walk on Jeju Island, the Seopjikoji coast is a must-visit. This 2-km trail offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the unique rock formations that line the shores. The area is also famous for being a filming location for several South Korean dramas, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Those exploring Seopjikoji can also take some time to visit the nearby cultural sites and sandy beaches. After a leisurely walk, visitors can head to Aqua Planet, which is just a 10-minute walk away from Seopjikoji Beach. Don’t miss this opportunity to soak in the natural beauty of Jeju Island on a refreshing coastal walk.
8. Visit Udo Island, a miniature version of Jeju Island.
After exploring the many natural wonders of Jeju Island, take a short ferry ride to Udo Island, a miniature version of its larger neighbor. With beautiful beaches, scenic peaks, and flowery fields, Udo Island is perfect for a day trip. Visitors can take a shuttle bus that loops around the island when they disembark from the ferry. Alternatively, private transportation or renting a bicycle are other options. A visit to unique museums and lookouts, such as Seongsan Ilchubong, should be on every traveler’s itinerary. With its lava rocks and cliffs, Udo Island boasts stunning scenery along its coastal road. Those who want to experience the best of Jeju Island in a day should definitely pay a visit to Udo Island.
9. Let your inner child out at Shinhwa World.
For families with kids, Jeju Island offers plenty of opportunities to let your inner child out and have some fun. One of the best places to do just that is at Shinhwa World. This amusement park is dedicated to a local Jeju Korean animation character and offers a range of rides and attractions to enjoy. From classic amusement park rides to unique experiences, like a long green maze and a water world inspired by famous mythical creatures, there’s something for everyone at Shinhwa World. This family-friendly attraction is perfect for a summer adventure, and it’s sure to be a highlight of any trip to Jeju.
10. Experience the culture of Jeju by visiting Bukchon Dol Hareubang Park.
For those interested in experiencing the unique cultural traditions of Jeju Island, a visit to Bukchon Dol Hareubang Park is a must. This park showcases the iconic Dol Hareubang sculptures, which are a symbol of strength and protection on the island. Visitors can admire a wide variety of these stone sculptures and learn about their shamanistic origins and cultural significance. The park also includes a museum that delves deeper into the history and artistry of the Dol Hareubangs. With so many interesting sights and sounds to explore, it’s easy to see why Bukchon Dol Hareubang Park is a top destination for those looking to experience the rich culture of Jeju Island.
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