Located south of mainland Korea, Jeju Island is the most popular destination among Korean and foreign visitors. The island is just an hour’s flight from Seoul — with hundreds of flights from Seoul to Jeju every day.
In 2011, Jeju Island was named among the New 7 Wonders of Nature because of its dramatic volcanic terrain, rich local culture, and culinary delights. These natural and cultural wonders offer ample opportunities for exploration and a deeper connection with nature.
In this article, we show you why Jeju Island is called the “Hawaii of South Korea.”
Why Jeju Island is Korea’s top tourist spot
1. Sunrise at Seongsan Ilchulbong
Seongsan Ilchulbong, also called Sunrise Peak, is an amazing spot for watching the sunrise over the ocean. Besides watching the sun rise over the stunning beach below, this spot offers a trekking route up the 597-foot tuff cone.
This climb to the summit rewards visitors with views of sheer cliffs, a crater view, and picturesque landscapes.
2. Meet the Jeju Haenyeo
After taking in the scenic view of Sunrise Peak, a unique cultural experience awaits you as you meet the Jeju haenyeo. Take a detour to the haenyeo house and see the renowned all-female divers dive up to 98 feet to catch various sea creatures.
At the Jeju Haenyeo Museum, you can learn more about their history and art of collecting seafood without modern equipment.
Interestingly, this practice dates back to the 17th century, and most of these female divers are over 60 years old — yet they can hold their breath for more than three minutes.
3. Enjoy spicy local cuisine
If you like seafood, Jeju Island is the place to sample fresh seafood, such as octopus, scallops, clams, abalone, and crab. Some local Jeju delicacies to savor include black pork, haemultang (a blend of seafood), sashimi, momguk (gulfweed soup), hairtail fish, and more.
All these meals are cooked before you, so you enjoy them fresh.
4. Hike Mount Hallasan
At around 6,398 feet, Mount Hallasan is the highest peak in South Korea. The dormant volcano — declared a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site — offers several hiking trails for different fitness levels.
Seongpanak Trail is the easiest hike. But take Gwaneumsa Trail for the best views of serene crater lakes, lush forests, and panoramic vistas of the island and ocean.
5. Explore Manjanggul Cave
Jeju Island has several lava caves, but Manjanggul is among the longest lava caves in the world (5.6 miles). Its intricate network of passageways and unique stalagmite formations create a fantastic atmosphere perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. Also, you won’t feel claustrophobic because it is 98 feet high by 75 feet wide.
If you are exploring the cave, carry a jacket for warmth and appropriate shoes, as the ground can become slippery.
6. Visit Samseonghyeol
According to legend, Samseonghyeol, also called “Three Grandfather Holes,” is where it all began. Jeju’s creation myths say three divine beings emerged from the earth through these three holes at Samseonghyeol.
These beings are called “San Sin” or “Three Grandfathers,” and the place is closely tied to the island’s cultural identity and creation myth. This is one of the reasons Jeju Island is also called the “Island of the Gods.”
7. Relax at the beaches
Jeju Island boasts several beaches, each with its own unique attraction. For instance, Jungmun Saekdal Beach is the most popular beach in Korea among South Koreans and foreign tourists.
One of the distinct features of Jungmun Beach is its striking black sand. The black sand results from the island’s volcanic origins, forming a beautiful contrast against the azure waters of the sea. Besides the breathtaking scenery, the waters offer activities like bodyboarding and surfing.
8. Learn about green tea culture at the Osulloc Museum
Tea enthusiasts can visit the Osulloc Museum and learn more about Korean tea culture. The museum overlooks the Osulloc Tea Plantation. Explore traditional utensils and artifacts from the Joseon Dynasty and learn more about tea plantations, packaging, and green tea supply chains.
You can enjoy green tea ice cream, lattes, and cakes.
9. Experience Jeju Folk Village
Seongeup Folk Village offers visitors a portal into Jeju’s history and lifestyle. The village provides traditional thatched-roof huts called “hanoks,” well-preserved artifacts, and cultural performances that take you back in time.
10. Visit Jeju Stone Park
This park is an ecological hub that blends the island’s rich geological history and the importance of stones in Korean stories. Stone sculptures around the park incorporate legends and local folklore, enhancing visitors’ connection to the island. These sculptures depict roles such as protecting the house, guarding tombs, and repelling evil and misfortune.
11. Explore the ocean with a submarine
Jeju’s submarine tour provides an immersive experience of the island’s vibrant marine life. This underwater tour usually goes to a depth of about 98 feet, where you can see colorful coral, diverse kinds of fish, enchanting underwater sculptures, and more.
The submarine tour is a family-friendly, all-weather activity — it can be enjoyed anytime.
Conclusion
Jeju Island captivates the hearts of mainland Korean visitors due to its harmonious blend of unique experiences, cultural treasures, and natural wonders. Whether you are an adventurer, a food lover, or simply seeking a relaxing place, the island has something for you.
So as you dream of your next adventure, consider Jeju Island, where the richness of culture and beauty of nature converge.
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