Located southwest of the Korean Peninsula is the largest island of Korea, Jeju Island. The island is one of the most relaxing vacation spots found in Korea thanks to its unique local atmosphere and beautiful natural environment. The volcanic lava tubes that make up nearly 10% of the island’s area are a designated UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.
Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone, Manjanggul Lava Tube, and Hallasan National Park are must-see sights. Additional attractions include forests, waterfalls, and parasitic cones. With so many beautiful things to see, it can be hard work to plan your itinerary. Following our guide, you can enjoy a stress-free, relaxing retreat, no matter which part of Jeju you choose to visit.

UNESCO World Heritage Course

Rising from the sea, Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone
Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone, a landmark attraction of Jeju, was formed about 5,000 years ago from an eruption of magma on the ocean floor. It is especially famous as a sunrise viewing spot, known to be one of the top ten exquisite sceneries of Jeju Island.
Besides viewing the sunrise, Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone is also known to be an excellent trekking spot. The Seongsan-Ojo Trail connects two villages by crossing the peak. Another popular trail, the Jijil Trail, offers a closer look at the UNESCO-designated geopark as well as Jeju’s local culture. Walking along one of these paths is recommended to really experience the area; walking all the way to the summit offers views of both the vast volcanic crater in the center and the blue ocean surrounding the area. To complete your trip, head to Seongsanpo Port to watch haenyeo (female divers) at work.

Feel the breeze at Cape Seopjikoji
A short drive from Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak will take you to Cape Seopjikoji. The name comes from the Jeju dialect for a “Cape of Small Land” due to its peculiar cliff formation that protrudes into the ocean. The picturesque harmony of the hill and ocean attract tourists all year round. You might even be able to sight Jeju ponies grazing on the field of grass.
Walking northeast along the cliff, you will arrive at Bulgeunoreum Parasitic Cone, offering an exquisite view of a white lighthouse with the dark blue sea in the background. Additional noteworthy attractions of Cape Seopjikoji are the Glasshouse and Yumin Art Gallery, two masterpieces designed by world-renowned architect Ando Tadao. The two buildings blend in remarkably well with the surrounding nature.

Observe the beauty of ridges at Yongnunioreum Parasitic Cone
You can’t say you’ve been to Jeju Island without visiting one of the many oreum, Jeju dialect for parasitic cone. There are approximately 360 oreum scattered throughout Jeju. Among these hundreds of oreums, Yongnunioreum Parasitic Cone is undoubtedly the most well-known. It’s not far from Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone and has a moderately gentle slope, providing a fairly convenient trail for trekking.
Both Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone and Udo Island can be seen from the peak of Yongnunioreum, offering an unforgettable panorama. The view of curvy ridges along with the ocean also serves as an excellent backdrop for memorable photos. If you are looking for a perfect spot for souvenir photos, be sure to check out Yongnunioreum Parasitic Cone.

A long-lasting garden of nutmeg yews, Bijarim Forest
In contrast to Yongnunioreum’s open vistas, Bijarim Forest is an ideal spot for a relaxing forest retreat. The dense forest is home to hundreds of bija (nutmeg yew) trees, and is the largest forest in the world to be made up of one plant species. Most of the trees in the forest have lived for 500 to 700 years, earning the forest the nickname “Forest of a Thousand Years.” Must-see sights while at Bijarim Forest are none other than the 800-year old tree and the conjoined nutmeg yews.

Enter the mysterious underground castle, Manjanggul Lava Tube
Of all the oreum on Jeju, Geomunoreum is the only parasitic cone to be designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. The oreum holds over 20 caves within its body, although only Manjanggul Lava Tube is open to the public. With its profoundly mysterious and grand appearance, taking a step inside the cave is like stepping into Hades’ underworld. Follow the tunnel of articulate lava rock formations, and you will soon reach a giant rock pillar that indicates the end of the cave. The cave’s temperature fluctuates within 11-21℃ regardless of season, allowing visitors to enjoy the magnificent cave all year round.

Seogwipo Nature & Culture Course

Enjoy artwork along the ocean, Jeongbangpokpo Falls and Waljong Art Gallery
Seogwipo, which includes the entire southern half of Jeju, exhibits a great amount of sunshine and warm temperatures, attracting crowds of tourists all year round. One attraction many people choose to visit is Jeongbangpokpo Falls, one of the top three waterfalls on Jeju Island. The water falls 23 meters straight down off the cliff and into a pool before flowing to the sea.
Located on the cliff behind Jeongbangpokpo Falls is Waljong Art Gallery. This gallery is dedicated to the Korean artist Lee Wal Jong, who settled in Jeju decades ago. The gallery is filled with his inspiring artworks, expressing the beauty of Jeju in his own unique way. The strategic location and glass-walled second floor also offer visitors an amazing view looking over the sea.

Nature-made art, Jusangjeolli Cliff and Cheonjeyeonpokpo Falls
Jeju Jungmun Resort is blessed with not only beautiful natural scenery but also with numerous entertainment and convenience facilities catering to both domestic and international tourists. Jusangjeolli Cliff, near the International Convention Center Jeju, delivers a sight to behold with its gigantic rock pillars running along the costal line. Cheonjeyeonpokpo Falls, a three-tiered waterfall, is another attraction not to be missed in Seogwipo. While the first section of the waterfall is only active after rain, the second and third sections are active all year round.

Rekindle childhood memories at the Teddy Bear Museum
Another favorite tourist attraction at Jungmun Resort is the Teddy Bear Museum. The museum boasts quite an impressive collection of teddy bears from all over the world. Exhibition halls are designed with different themes, such as 20th century history exhibition and fable parodies, all portrayed by teddy bears. The Teddy Bear Museum is a popular museum loved by visitors of all ages, recommended as an excellent place to visit with friends, families, or even on a date. The museum also has a souvenir shop, cafeteria, and a park that offers a splendid view.

Downtown Jeju History & Culture Course

Discover the history and culture of Jeju Island
Yongduam Rock, a top tourist attraction in downtown Jeju, is one of the many natural wonders of Jeju Island. Formed by underwater lava millions of years ago, eons of weathering from the rain and wind have formed it into the likeness of a dragon’s head.
After visiting Yongduam Rock, head down to the Jeju Folklore & Natural History Museum to learn about the development of the island people and culture over time. Not only does Jeju Island have its own dialect, it also has a distinct culture that separates it from the rest of mainland Korea, all of which you can see and enjoy from a quick tour of the museum. Right next to the museum is Samseonghyeol Shrine, a religious site that is also the birthplace of Jeju’s ancient mythology. The old trees and traces of the past create a devotional atmosphere.

•The above article is courtesy of VisitKorea, the official website of the Korea Tourism Organization (www.visitkorea.or.kr)
  
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