Jeju Island, South Korea

Jeju Island, South Korea: Ultimate Travel Guide

Welcome to Jeju Island, a breathtakingly beautiful destination nestled in the crystalline waters of the Yellow Sea! This comprehensive guide will help you navigate your way through this magical island, from must-visit attractions to delightful dining experiences, comfortable accommodations, essential travel tips, and more. Let’s dive in!

Attractions:

  1. Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes (Seongwipo Seongsan Ilchulbong): Discover Jeju’s volcanic roots at these UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The volcano Seongsan Ilchulbong offers a stunning sunrise view, while the lava tubes provide an intriguing subterranean adventure.
  2. Jeju Ocean World: Explore the marine life in one of Korea’s largest aquariums, featuring exhibits from all over the world. Don’t miss out on the spectacular shark and dolphin shows!
  3. Manjanggul Cave: Experience the longest lava tube cave in Jeju, offering a fascinating insight into the island’s volcanic past.
  4. Jeju Folk Village: Step back in time as you explore traditional Jeju houses, learn about local customs and folklore, and participate in cultural activities.
  5. Hallim Park: Enjoy beautiful gardens, waterfalls, and a variety of attractions such as the Hallim Cliff, the Sea of Flowers, and the Volcanic Rock Museum.
  6. Jusangjeolli Cliff: Marvel at the unique columnar joints formed by lava flow along the coast.
  7. Cheonjeyeon Waterfall: Visit this three-tiered waterfall, with its pristine pools and lush greenery.
  8. Teddy Bear Museum: Indulge in a whimsical experience as you explore Korea’s largest teddy bear museum, featuring over 20,000 bears!

Activities:

  1. Hiking: Jeju offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views. Don’t miss out on the trails to Seongsan Ilchulbong, Sanbanggul Cave, and Hallasan Mountain.
  2. Beaches: Relax on some of the island’s beautiful beaches like Hyeopjae Beach, Hamdeok Beach, or Jungmun Beach.
  3. Jeju Loveland: Get a taste of romance at this unique open-air park filled with erotic sculptures and interactive exhibits.
  4. Spas and Hot Springs: Jeju is famous for its volcanic hot springs and spas; try the mud baths or the seaweed wraps for a truly rejuvenating experience!
  5. Golfing: Enjoy a round of golf at one of Jeju’s beautiful courses, such as the Yeomiji Botanical Garden Golf Club or the Club Jeju.
  6. Zip Lining and Climbing: Experience the thrill of soaring through the air or scaling cliffs with activities like zip lining or rock climbing.

Where to Eat:

  1. Jeju Black Pork Restaurants: Taste this delicacy at restaurants such as Hwayobapjeong or Jeju Gwang-an Joryeok BBQ Restaurant.
  2. Seafood Markets and Restaurants: Visit markets like Jungmun Fisheries Market and sample fresh seafood at nearby restaurants.
  3. Banchan and Kimchi Restaurants: Try traditional Korean side dishes (banchan) and fermented cabbage (kimchi) at local eateries like Maeil Okra or Jeju Myeonok.
  4. Cafes and Bakeries: Savor sweet treats from popular cafes and bakeries such as Babo Cafe, The Cake House, and Angel-in-us Bakery.

Where to Stay:

  1. Hotels: Choose from luxury hotels like the Park Hyatt Jeju or Jeju Shinhwa World, mid-range options like Maeil Hotel & Resort Jeju, or budget-friendly accommodations like BnB Minji House or Guesthouse Iris.
  2. Villas and Apartments: Rent villas or apartments for a more personalized stay at places like Jeju Island Villa, JEJU STAY, or Airbnb.
  3. Guesthouses: Stay in guesthouses for a more social experience, such as Mango House or O’tinggu Guesthouse.

Things to Know:

  1. Language: While English is spoken at tourist hotspots, it’s helpful to learn a few Korean phrases or use translation apps.
  2. Currency: South Korea uses the Won (₩). Credit cards are widely accepted in most places.
  3. Transportation: Jeju has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and taxis. Consider renting a car for more flexibility.
  4. Weather: Jeju’s climate is temperate, with mild winters and cool summers. Pack layers to accommodate the changing temperatures throughout the day.
  5. Safety: Jeju is generally a safe destination, but always be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

Tips:

  1. Rent a car for more freedom to explore the island.
  2. Download translation apps like Google Translate or Naver Papago for communication.
  3. Bring an umbrella and waterproof gear, as Jeju’s weather can be unpredictable.
  4. Taste local street food from food trucks or night markets for a unique culinary experience.
  5. Visit during the off-peak season (late fall to early spring) for smaller crowds and lower prices.

Enjoy your journey through Jeju Island, where ancient volcanoes meet pristine beaches, lush gardens bloom, and heartwarming traditions abound!