Calling all K-drama and K-pop fans — Jeju Island in South Korea calls for you!
If you're up for a South Korean escapade that's anything but ordinary, make Jeju your top priority. With its UNESCO World Heritage-listed natural wonders, exhilarating outdoor activities, and fascinating cultural experiences, Jeju Island’s attractions are undoubtedly must-visit destinations.
How can I visit Jeju?
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When planning your journey to Jeju, you have two primary options:
- You can conveniently book a direct flight that will take you to Jeju International Airport.
- If you find yourself in Busan or Seoul, the fastest and most efficient way to reach Jeju is by taking a short 1-hour flight from either of these bustling cities.
Now that your travel plans are sorted, it's time to dive into the exciting activities and Jeju Island attractions to include in your itinerary.
1. Hallasan
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Get ready for an out-of-this-world adventure at Hallasan Mountain, the superstar of Jeju Island attractions! Known as Yeongjusan Mountain, it earned its name for being "high enough to pull the galaxy," and became a national park in 1970. It boasts 368 parasitic cones, known as oreum, scattered around its majestic peak. For an unforgettable experience, visit in spring, when vibrant azaleas adorn the trails, or during autumn, when the mountainside is painted in a tapestry of golden leaves.
2. Seongsan Ilchulbong
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Rising 180 meters above sea level, Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone is a geological wonder shaped by ancient magma flows beneath the sea over 5,000 years ago. Once isolated, it now connects to the mainland. Its immense crater, formed by fiery lava meeting cold ocean waters, has transformed into a striking silver grass field. Stand atop this natural marvel to witness breathtaking views of Udo Island and catch a legendary sunrise!
3. Manjanggul Cave
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Discover the awe-inspiring Manjanggul Cave, a colossal lava tube within the Geomunoreum Lava Tube system in Jeju. Stretching a remarkable 7,400 meters and reaching heights of up to 25 meters with a width of 18 meters, it holds the title of Asia's longest lava tube. Don't miss the grand finale — the world's largest recorded stone pillar, standing tall at an impressive 7.6 meters!
4. Jeju Arte Museum
Experience the captivating world of Jeju Arte Museum, one of Jeju Island's top attractions. As Korea's largest media art museum, it offers an immersive and colorful experience. Housed in a transformed speaker factory, the museum showcases ten dazzling digitally projected exhibitions on towering walls. Lose yourself in the mesmerizing visuals, enchanting sounds, and evocative fragrances, all inspired by the theme of “Eternal Nature: Nature beyond Time and Space.”
5. Jeju Haenyeo Museum
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Immerse yourself in the rich haenyeo culture at the Jeju Haenyeo Museum, a celebration of the remarkable contributions of these female divers! The museum's exhibits shed light on the local environment, fishing villages, folk culture, and the thriving fisheries industry, with the haenyeo culture at the heart of it all. Explore the exhibition halls, which showcases the haenyeo diver's daily life with restored traditional homes and utensils, artifacts like haenyeo divers' goggles and fishing spheres, and intricate ship and salt farm models.
6. Camellia Hill
A visit to Camellia Hill is a treat for the senses all year round. While camellias are the star attraction, the park boasts a delightful array of blooms in every season. From vibrant tulips in spring and the iconic cherry blossoms in April to lush hydrangeas in summer and a tapestry of wildflowers in autumn, there's always something beautiful to behold. Nestled in Sangchang Village, Andeok-myeon, this 20-hectare park is home to 6,000 camellia trees, over 500 species of wildflowers, trees, and plants, including enchanting hydrangeas! Just an hour by bus from Jeju City, it's a nature lover's paradise waiting to be explored.
7. Snoopy Garden
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Whether you're a die-hard Snoopy fan or simply in search of an afternoon filled with cuteness, Snoopy Garden is a must-visit Jeju Island attraction. With five themed indoor halls and 11 outdoor zones, this Peanuts-inspired garden offers endless photo opportunities and whimsical charm. It provides a serene escape to rejuvenate both mind and body amidst the ever-changing seasons, while reminding you of your childhood memories!
8. Go Kart Racing at 9.81 Park
Get your heart pulsating at 9.81 Park with thrilling go kart racing! Reach speeds of up to 60km/h as you zoom through Jeju's scenic routes. Perfect for family fun, kids are welcome and double seater options are available. Laser tag and bumper cars add to the excitement for all ages.
9. Osulloc Tea Museum
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Discover the enchanting world of Korean teas and traditional tea culture at O'sulloc Tea Museum! This cultural oasis, nestled beside O'sulloc's Seogwang Tea Plantation, harmoniously blends the East and West, modernity, and tradition. Explore the tea gallery, relax in the eco-friendly rest area, and indulge in delicious tea-based desserts at the cozy café.
10. Jeongbang Falls
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Discover the enchanting Jeongbang Falls, one of Jeju Island's top three waterfalls and a renowned scenic wonder. With water flowing directly into the sea, this 23-meter-high marvel offers breathtaking views and a mesmerizing soundscape. Don't miss the observatory atop the cliff, providing stunning vistas of the falls and the vast ocean beyond!
11. Seogwipo Forest of Healing
Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Seogwipo Forest of Healing, where an 11 km-long trail winds through a dense forest of cypress and cedar trees. Indulge in the signature "Forest Healing" program, led by qualified instructors, offering a range of activities to boost your immune system, foster harmony with nature, and promote overall well-being.
12. Jeju Shinhwa World - Theme Park and Water Park
Experience the ultimate getaway at Jeju Shinhwa World, a premier integrated resort in South Korea! Enjoy luxurious hotels, delectable dining, and thrilling attractions, as you dive into excitement at Shinhwa Water Park’s exhilarating slides, soothing water spas, and rejuvenating jjimjilbang.
13. Indulge in Jeju black pork
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While exploring Jeju Island, don't miss out on indulging in the famous black pork. Numerous BBQ restaurants across the island serve this local delicacy. Experience the traditional dining style as your waitress grills the succulent black pork and other meats. Enjoy it the local way by wrapping a piece of meat, roasted garlic, kimchi, or gochujang in a crisp lettuce leaf. Delicious and satisfying!
14. MINT at Glasshouse Jeju
A scrumptious dining experience awaits you at MINT Restaurant in Glasshouse Jeju. With breathtaking views of the ocean and rolling hills through floor-to-ceiling glass windows, savor a delectable 3 or 4-course meal. The Korean-Italian fusion cuisine, including a mouthwatering fish cutlet and a refreshing orange mousse with raspberry sorbet, will leave you wanting more.
15. Stay at Grand Hyatt Jeju
Prepare for an extraordinary stay at Grand Hyatt Jeju, part of the integrated Jeju Dream Tower resort. Indulge in 14 dining options, two premium spas, event spaces, and an outdoor pool deck with a heated infinity pool. With spacious rooms offering breathtaking city views, this is the perfect base for your Jeju getaway!
Explore the best of Jeju with this UNESCO Walking Day Tour
Embark on a remarkable Jeju Island tour and make the most of your adventure with a convenient Jeju Island car rental. Explore the island's breathtaking UNESCO-listed sites, hike Mt. Halla, and visit iconic attractions like Jusangjeolli Cliff, Cheonjiyeon Falls, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Manjanggul Cave, and Woljeongri Beach at your own pace and convenience.
The South route will take you to Mt. Halla, Jusangjeolli Cliff, and Cheonjiyeon Falls. There's also the East route that will take you to Seongsan Sunrise Peak to reach sites of interest including Manjanggul Cave and Woljeongri Beach. Experience the freedom to discover the beauty of Jeju Island on your terms.
