Jeju, also known as the Island of the Gods, is a volcanic island situated in the country’s smallest province, proving that size does not matter since the beauty of the location outweighs its tiny size.
It is a popular vacation and holiday destination for Koreans, as well as a popular honeymoon location. Summer in South Korea occurs between July and August.
Jeju was formed by three brothers who established an independent country named Tamna, according to tradition. Unlike now, Jeju was infrequently visited, and it functioned as an exile for over 200 persons during the Joseon dynasty.
Having been essentially isolated from Korea for so long, the island, unlike Busan, has evolved its own culture, customs, and even accent. Unesco designated its lava tunnels as a World Natural Heritage Site.
So you can picture the beauty and significance. The island is ideal for hiking through the mountains, interacting with animals and nature, and disconnecting from the outer world. Curious? So make sure to learn all there is to know about the island of Jeju on the map!
How to get to Jeju Island
The route between Seoul’s Gimpo Airport to Jeju International Airport is one of the busiest in the world.
This option is available from all Korean firms. Jeju Air only operates more than 10 flights every day to the island.
Other flights leave from Incheon International Airport and Busan as well. It is feasible to go by ferry from Busan. The journey becomes less expensive and longer, but it may also be a lot more enjoyable.
Jeju Island Landmarks
Hallasan Mountain in Jeju is South Korea’s highest peak.
You may also arrange for a private transport to Hallasan Mountain. It has been home to a dormant volcano for almost 800 years, reaching 1950 metres above sea level.
A crater near the summit of the mountain has generated a lake of crystalline waters. A sizeless beauty! When the volcano was active, the famed Lava Tunnels developed.
As a result, 120 caverns arose, providing entertainment and a wealth of scientific data for geological investigations. The Manjang Caves are situated in the island’s northeast.
Only around 1 km of the 13-kilometer tunnel is exposed to visitors, while researchers and archaeologists continue to explore the vast tube, which is home to several animal species. The temperature in the cave is seldom higher than 20°C.
Theme park and museum
You may take a more adventurous trip by going to Jeju Loveland, a sexual theme park with 140 sensual sculptures.
The works were created by 20 artists who graduated from Hongik University’s Faculty of Fine Arts.
Visit the Museum of the Bears if you want a lighter tour where you won’t feel ashamed in front of your family members.
It brings together a number of teddy bears. It’s about to burst with cuteness!
As symbols of civic and military leaders, stone sculptures with soldier caps are spread around the island.
The oldest people believe that the sculptures safeguard the area.
Seosang Ichulbong
The Seosang Ichulbong in the south of the island provides visitors with a wonderful view of Seogwipo’s harbour.
It takes around 20-30 minutes to climb, but the reward is definitely worth it. A private transport from Jeju to Seosang Ichulbong is available.
The Gimnyeong Maze Park is a sort of botanical park featuring species from all across Asia.
The most renowned attraction, however, is the plant-filled labyrinth, which guarantees tourists a good time. While you’re there, be sure to visit the observatory and snap plenty of photos.
Of course, if you visit Jeju, you will see several beaches, but don’t overlook the one at Hyeopjae. Hanrim Park includes the location. Bathers will find peace and tranquillity among the white beach and azure waters.
How to get around Jeju Island
Because many buses only operate every hour and do not stop at all spots, renting a vehicle or bicycle is the easiest method to explore the island. So, check out the costs for vehicle rentals at Jeju Airport.
In that vein, here are some pointers for finding affordable vehicle rentals. If you don’t want to or are unable to drive, arrange to pay for a cab.
Where to stay on Jeju Island
I went on a hunt for the top lodgings on Jeju Island to assist you decide where to stay.
After all, we understand the value of a good stay, whether it’s merely a place to sleep and wash or a part of the experience.
The Saes Hotel and Resort
The Seaes Hotel & Resorts, located in Jungmun Tourist Complex, provides accommodations with an open-air terrace and spectacular sea views.
The Bear Museum is a 2-minute drive away, Hallasan Mountain is 17 km away, and the airport is a 50-minute drive away.
While staying at this resort, you may unwind in the spa and sauna or massage.
Jeju Gillime Pension
The inn is similar to a hostel, providing airport transportation and breakfast.
The Jeju Gillime Pension is about 20 minutes from Jeju International Airport. The facility also rents out motorcycles and scooters.
The rooms provide air conditioning, heating, and complimentary amenities. The guesthouse also has grilling facilities, laundry facilities, parking, and complimentary bicycles.
Hallasan Mountain is a 57-minute drive away, while Halla Arboretum and Yongduam Rock are both 18 minutes distant.
Hotel Nanta
The Hotel Nanta has a live performance theatre, a ballroom, and a variety of eating choices.
It is located 10 km from Jeju International Airport and offers free parking. Dinner and lunch menus include dishes made using local ingredients.
The hotel is just across the street from Jeju Starlight World Park and Planetarium, while Jeju Science Park is 3.6 km away.
What to eat on Jeju Island
Barbecued black pig, a renowned pig grown solely on the island, is one of Jeju’s most famous meals. The island is also rich in eateries providing Korean varieties of fish and shellfish. Try the omeggi-teok as well.
It is a glutinous rice flour dumpling packed with sweet red bean paste (a popular Korean ingredient) or soy flour, cooked, and covered with red bean powder or mashed bean paste.
Korean mugwort may be added to the flour used in this recipe to give the dumpling a flavour and a dark green colour.
Other coatings used in current dish versions include black sesame seeds, soy flour, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and almonds, which may also be utilised in the filling.