Jeju City: Jeju City, the capital of Jeju Province, is a vibrant hub located on Jeju Island, South Korea. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the city is surrounded by volcanic landscapes, including the prominent Hallasan Mountain, which offers scenic hiking trails. Jeju City is rich in cultural experiences, featuring attractions like the Jeju Folklore & Natural History Museum, which delves into the island’s heritage, and Dongmun Market, where visitors can sample local delicacies and crafts. The bustling Jeju Harbor provides picturesque ocean views and fresh seafood. As the island’s main gateway, Jeju City combines modern amenities with a unique charm, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the island’s diverse natural wonders and cultural landmarks.
Hallasan Mountain:Hallasan Mountain, South Korea’s highest peak at 1,947 meters, is a striking shield volcano on Jeju Island. Its summit features Baengnokdam Lake, a picturesque crater lake that enhances its allure. The mountain’s diverse ecosystems include subtropical forests at lower elevations and alpine flora near the top. Popular hiking trails, such as Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa, offer breathtaking views and unique volcanic landscapes.Hallasan is rich in geological features, including lava tubes and cinder cones, and is recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its ecological significance. The mountain also holds cultural importance, featuring prominently in Korean mythology and local traditions. Its blend of natural beauty, ecological diversity, and cultural heritage makes Hallasan a celebrated landmark on Jeju Island.
Jeju Loveland: Jeju Loveland is a distinctive theme park in Jeju City, South Korea, that opened in 2004 and is known for its adult-themed artwork. The park showcases over 140 sculptures and installations created by Korean artists, exploring themes of love, sexuality, and relationships with a blend of humor and artistic expression. Spread across an open-air space, Jeju Loveland offers a playful and interactive experience, where visitors can engage with the art and explore various provocative and imaginative displays. Its unique concept sets it apart from traditional theme parks and provides an unconventional attraction on Jeju Island, aimed at adults looking for a different kind of cultural experience.
Dongmun Market: Dongmun Market is a bustling and vibrant traditional market located in Jeju City, South Korea. Established in 1945, it’s one of the island’s oldest and most famous markets. The market is a lively hub where visitors can experience local culture and cuisine. It features a diverse range of stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, meats, and traditional Korean snacks. You can find everything from exotic fruits and vegetables to freshly prepared dishes like Jeju black pork and seafood pancakes. The market also has sections dedicated to handicrafts and souvenirs. With its lively atmosphere and variety of goods, Dongmun Market offers an authentic taste of Jeju’s culinary and cultural heritage.
Jeju National Museum: Jeju National Museum, located in Jeju City, showcases the island’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Established in 2001, the museum features a comprehensive collection of artifacts, including ancient relics, traditional Korean crafts, and archaeological finds from Jeju Island. Its exhibits highlight Jeju’s unique history, from its volcanic origins to its cultural developments.The museum’s permanent collections include displays on Jeju’s folk culture, maritime history, and significant archaeological sites. Notable exhibits feature artifacts from the island’s early settlements and the remnants of ancient Jeju stone tools and pottery. The museum also offers educational programs and cultural events, making it a vital center for preserving and promoting Jeju’s heritage. With its modern design and engaging displays, the Jeju National Museum provides an informative and immersive experience for visitors interested in Jeju’s past and cultural significance.
Manjanggul Lava Tube:Manjanggul Lava Tube, located on Jeju Island, is one of the world’s finest and longest lava tubes, stretching about 7.4 kilometers in length. Formed by volcanic activity over 200,000 years ago, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant geological formation. The lava tube features impressive formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and lava columns, showcasing the dynamic processes of volcanic eruptions.Visitors can explore a 1.1-kilometer section of the tube, which is well-lit and accessible for most people. The tube’s interior maintains a consistent cool temperature, making it a comfortable experience year-round. Manjanggul is also home to unique biological features, including rare species of bats and insects adapted to the subterranean environment. The tube is a valuable site for studying volcanic activity and subterranean ecosystems. Its striking geological formations and role in understanding volcanic processes make Manjanggul Lava Tube a must-visit attraction on Jeju Island.
Lotte Hotel Jeju: Situated near Jeju’s main attractions, this luxury hotel offers spacious, elegantly designed rooms with ocean views. It features multiple dining options, a golf course, a large outdoor pool, a spa, and beautiful gardens.
Location: Near Jeju’s central attractions and beaches.
Features: Elegant rooms with ocean views, a golf course, an outdoor pool, a spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining options, including a buffet and Korean restaurant.
Hyatt Regency Jeju: This upscale hotel boasts a prime beachfront location with direct access to the shore. It offers contemporary rooms, an outdoor pool, a full-service spa, and a variety of dining options, including a buffet restaurant and a seafood grill.
Location: On the beachfront of Jeju Island, close to local dining and shopping areas.
Features: Contemporary rooms with sea views, an outdoor pool, a full-service spa, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options, including a seafood grill and buffet restaurant.
Grand Hyatt Jeju: Located in the heart of Jeju City, this hotel combines modern luxury with excellent service. It features stylish rooms, a fitness center, an indoor pool, several dining options, and panoramic views of Hallasan Mountain and the ocean.
Location: Central Jeju City, close to cultural sites and shopping districts.
Features: Modern luxury rooms with panoramic views, an indoor pool, a fitness center, a range of dining options, a bar, and proximity to local attractions.
The Shilla Jeju: A premium resort renowned for its elegant accommodations and high-end amenities. The hotel includes a golf course, multiple restaurants, a large outdoor pool, a spa, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Its location provides easy access to popular local attractions.
Location: On the southern coast of Jeju Island, offering easy access to scenic spots and beaches.
Features: High-end rooms and suites, a golf course, an outdoor pool, a spa, various restaurants (including Korean, Japanese, and international), and lush gardens
Ramada Plaza Jeju: Conveniently located near Jeju’s shopping and dining areas, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It features a fitness center, an indoor pool, a restaurant serving Korean and international cuisine, and is well-suited for both business and leisure travelers.
Location: In the heart of Jeju City, close to shopping and dining areas.
Features: Comfortable rooms with modern amenities, an indoor pool, a fitness center, a Korean and international restaurant, and convenient access to local attractions and transportation
Jeju Black Pork (Heukdwaeji): Jeju Black Pork, or Heukdwaeji, is a prized local specialty known for its rich flavor and tender texture. Sourced from Jeju’s unique black pigs, this pork is often grilled and enjoyed with dipping sauces and fresh vegetables, making it a must-try for visitors to Jeju City.
Abalone Porridge (Jeonbokjuk): Abalone Porridge, or Jeonbokjuk, is a comforting Korean dish made with tender abalone, rice, and a savory broth. Known for its delicate flavor and health benefits, it’s a popular choice for a nourishing meal in Jeju City.
Jeju Tangerines (Hallabong): Jeju Tangerines, or Hallabong, are renowned for their sweet, tangy flavor and juicy texture. Grown on Jeju Island, these tangerines are prized for their rich taste and are often enjoyed fresh or used in a variety of local desserts and beverages.
Seafood Stew (Haemul Jeongol): Seafood Stew, or Haemul Jeongol, is a flavorful Korean dish brimming with a variety of fresh seafood like squid, clams, and shrimp, simmered with vegetables in a rich, spicy broth. It’s celebrated for its hearty and aromatic flavors, making it a popular choice in Jeju City.
Grilled Mackerel (Godeungeo Gui): Grilled Mackerel, or Godeungeo Gui, is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring mackerel seasoned and grilled to perfection. Served with rice and pickled vegetables, it’s a popular and satisfying choice in Jeju City, appreciated for its crispy skin and tender, savory flesh.
Buses: In Jeju City, buses are a popular and efficient way to travel. The city has a well-organized public bus system with routes covering major attractions, neighborhoods, and the airport. Buses are categorized into local, express, and intercity types, making it easy to get around and explore the island. Passengers can use T-money cards for convenient fare payments.
Taxis:Taxis in Jeju City are widely available and offer a convenient way to get around. They come in regular and luxury options, and fares are generally reasonable. Taxis can be hailed on the street, booked via phone, or through ride-hailing apps. They’re ideal for direct travel to specific destinations and can also be hired for day trips to explore the island.
Car Rentals:Car rentals in Jeju City are a popular choice for exploring the island at your own pace. Numerous rental agencies offer a variety of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs. Rental services are available at Jeju International Airport and throughout the city. Renting a car provides flexibility to visit Jeju’s diverse attractions, scenic routes, and remote areas conveniently. Most agencies require a valid international driver’s license or Korean driver’s license.
Bicycle Rentals: Bicycle rentals in Jeju City offer a great way to explore the island’s scenic routes and attractions. Several rental shops provide bikes for hourly or daily use, including options for electric bikes. Cycling is popular for touring coastal paths, parks, and local neighborhoods, making it an eco-friendly and enjoyable option for tourists.
Jeju City Tour Buses: Jeju City Tour Buses provide a convenient and organized way to explore key attractions around the city and the island. These buses typically offer guided tours with pre-set routes covering popular sites, including historical landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural spots. They are a great option for visitors who prefer a structured itinerary and informative commentary, often with options for full-day or half-day tours.
● Hallasan Mountain: Ideal for hiking as the weather is mild and flowers are in bloom.
● Jeju Loveland: Enjoy the outdoor sculptures in comfortable temperatures.
● Dongmun Market: Pleasant weather makes strolling through the market more enjoyable.
● Jeju National Museum: Explore indoor exhibits comfortably.
● Manjanggul Lava Tube: The cool, moderate temperatures make underground exploration comfortable.
● Hallasan Mountain: Enjoy beautiful autumn foliage and crisp air during hikes. .
● Jeju Tangerine Orchards: Perfect for fruit picking and tasting fresh tangerines
● Seogwipo’s Waterfalls: Fall foliage adds to the natural beauty of these waterfalls.
● Beaches like Hyeopjae Beach: Comfortable weather for a relaxing visit.
● Jeju City’s Cultural Sites: Cooler temperatures make exploring historical sites more pleasant.
● Jeju’s Beaches: Ideal for beach activities and water sports.
● Outdoor Festivals and Events: Enjoy the vibrant summer festivals and outdoor activities
● Tangerine Farm Tours: Fresh tangerines are in season, although it can be hot.
● Jeju’s Hot Springs: Enjoy the warm, relaxing experience of hot springs during cooler weather.
● Indoor Attractions like the Jeju National Museum: Escape the colder weather while exploring exhibits.
● Hallasan Mountain: Winter hikes offer a unique view of the snow-capped mountain, though be prepared for colder conditions.
Overall, spring and fall offer the best weather for a range of outdoor activities and are ideal for exploring Jeju’s diverse attractions