South Korea's Most Beautiful Island - 12 Things to Do in Jeju Island

Jeju Island, located off the southern coast of South Korea, also known as the “Hawaii of Asia,” is the largest island in the country and one of Korea’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting travelers. The island is known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, lush vegetation, and a unique culture that is different from that of mainland Korea.

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Jeju is known for its diverse landscapes, which include volcanic peaks, picturesque coastlines, beautiful waterfalls and lush forests. The island’s focal point is the Hallasan volcano, which rises to 1 meters above sea level, making it the highest mountain in South Korea. Hallasan is also a national park, offering numerous hiking trails through forests, alpine meadows and volcanic rock formations. Climbing to the top is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers, and the view from the top, especially on clear days, is spectacular. Jeju Island is also home to many lava caves, the most famous of which is Manjanggul, one of the longest such caves in the world. The cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a fascinating insight into the island’s geological history and is a popular tourist attraction.

Jeju Island in South Korea

Jeju boasts a unique culture that is different from the rest of Korea, a result of its geographic and historical isolation. The island is known for its traditional thatched houses, the stone statues of Dol hareubang that are the island’s symbol, and the matriarchal system that has dominated Jeju’s fishing community for centuries. Particularly famous are the haenyeo, female divers who have been collecting seafood from the ocean floor for centuries without the use of modern equipment. This unique way of life has been designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Also worth a visit is the Seongeup Folk Village, where you can see traditional houses and learn about the daily lives of Jeju residents before modern urbanization.

Jeju is also an ideal place to relax during your South Korea vacation. The island has many beautiful beaches, such as Hyeopjae and Hamdeok, which offer crystal clear waters, white sands and great conditions for swimming and water sports. In addition, the numerous spas and health resorts on the island offer traditional Korean wellness treatments, allowing for complete relaxation.

HOW TO GET TO JEJU ISLAND?

Getting to Jeju Island is relatively easy, thanks to good connections both with the rest of South Korea and with some international destinations.

The most popular and fastest way to get to Jeju is by plane. The island has its own airport, Jeju International Airport (CJU), which serves numerous domestic flights from major Korean cities such as Alone, Busan, Daegu or Gwangju. Flights usually take about an hour and are operated by a variety of airlines. Jeju Airport also has several international flights, mainly to cities in China, Japan, and other East Asian countries. For those who prefer to travel by sea, there is the option of ferrying to the island from various ports in South Korea, such as Busan, Mokpo, Wando, and Yeosu. Ferry travel times vary depending on the departure point and usually range from 4 to 12 hours. Some ferries offer overnight crossings, which are a convenient option for those looking to save money on accommodation. The choice of mode of transport depends on the traveler's preferences, but each option provides a convenient connection to this picturesque island.

JEJU ISLAND TRIP – WHAT TO SEE

JEJU'S BIGGEST ATTRACTIONS

Seongsan Ilchulbong – Jeju Island

Trip to South Korea wouldn't be complete without visiting Jeju, which offers a unique combination of nature, culture and history. Here are the island's top attractions.

HALLASAN NATIONAL PARK

Hallasan National Park and Mountain are some of the most important natural attractions on Jeju Island, as well as in all of South Korea. Hallasan, an extinct volcano, is the highest peak in South Korea, reaching a height of 1950 meters above sea level. Located in the central part of the island, it dominates the Jeju landscape, offering spectacular views and a diverse range of fauna and flora, which are listed as UNESCO biosphere reserves.

The park’s biggest attraction is Baengnokdam, a massive volcanic crater at the top of Hallasan, about 600m across and 100m deep. The crater, whose name means “white deer lake,” is filled with water, creating a small lake that changes shape with the seasons. Sunrise here is an unforgettable experience, and the view of the entire island from the top is one of the greatest rewards for hikers. There are numerous hiking trails in the national park, with two of the most popular being the Seongpanak Trail and the Gwaneumsa Trail. The Seongpanak Trail is the longest but less steep of the two, leading to the summit, at about 9,6km. The Gwaneumsa Trail, at 8,7km, is more demanding but offers more dramatic views. Both trails require good physical preparation, but are accessible to most tourists and offer a wealth of natural landscapes, including lava fields, rocky cliffs, dense forests, and in spring – picturesque meadows covered with rhododendrons.

Hallasan National Park’s flora is incredibly diverse, with over 1800 species of plants, including unique endemic species that only grow on Jeju. In spring and summer, you can admire colorful flowers such as rhododendrons, while in autumn the mountain shimmers in shades of red and orange. In winter, Hallasan turns into a snowy wonderland, providing a striking contrast to the green forests around it. Hallasan’s fauna is also impressive. The park is home to many species of wildlife, including rare birds such as the cairn-billed crow and the steppe eagle. Mammals including porcupines and weasels can also be found here, as well as a variety of reptiles and amphibians. An additional attraction is the rich network of waterfalls and streams that can be seen while hiking along the trails. One of these is the Eoseungsaengak Falls, which is especially beautiful after heavy rainfall.

Hallasan National Park is also a place of great cultural and historical significance. It is home to Buddhist temples such as the Gwaneumsa Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in South Korea.

GUANEUMSA MONASTERY

Gwaneumsa Monastery is one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist monasteries on Jeju Island, and a unique religious site that is both spiritually significant and picturesquely situated at the foot of Mount Hallasan. Named after the goddess of mercy, Guanyin (Kwanseum Bosal in Korean), Gwaneumsa is a haven of peace and spiritual reflection, and is an important center of Korean Buddhism on the island. It is located about 8 kilometers south of Jeju City, making it easily accessible to tourists and pilgrims. Founded during the Goryeo Kingdom (918–1392), Gwaneumsa Monastery has a long history of changes and reconstructions. Although the original structure of the monastery was destroyed, the modern Gwaneumsa was rebuilt in the XNUMXth century and has been one of Jeju’s most important pilgrimage sites ever since. The monastery is dedicated to Guanyin, the goddess of mercy and compassion, whose worship is widespread in East Asia. Guanyin is the patroness of those seeking enlightenment and spiritual guidance, and her image can be seen in many forms throughout the monastery.

The architecture of Gwaneumsa combines traditional Buddhist style with elements of Jeju local culture. The temples and pavilions are surrounded by lush greenery, creating a harmonious atmosphere conducive to meditation and contemplation. The monastery's charm is enhanced by numerous Buddha sculptures, statues of Buddhist deities, and carefully and intricately decorated pavilions. One of the most impressive features of Gwaneumsa Monastery is the large statue of Guanyin in the center of the complex. This majestic sculpture, made of white stone, dominates the monastery grounds and is a symbol of compassion and mercy. The statue is a popular place of prayer and meditation for visitors, both tourists and pilgrims.

Gwaneumsa Temple is also known for offering a templestay program, which gives visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the daily lives of Buddhist monks. The templestay program allows participants to meditate, participate in prayers, eat with the monks, and explore Buddhist philosophy. It is an ideal opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the principles of Buddhism, as well as experience the peace and quiet that monastic life offers. A templestay is not only a time of reflection, but also a chance for spiritual renewal surrounded by the natural beauty of Hallasan Mountain.

The monastery becomes especially charming in spring and autumn, when the surrounding nature blooms in all its glory. In spring, flowering trees and shrubs create a beautiful backdrop for Buddhist temples, and in autumn, the leaves take on intense colors of red, orange and gold, making Gwaneumsa one of the most beautiful places on Jeju Island.

SUNRISE PEAK, OR SEONGSAN ILCHULBONG

Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak, is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks on Jeju Island. Formed by an underwater eruption some 5 years ago, this impressive volcanic crater is one of the best preserved in the world and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Seongsan Ilchulbong offers both spectacular views and unique experiences for nature lovers.

The mountain rises to a height of about 180 meters above sea level and is located on the eastern coast of Jeju Island, making it an ideal place to watch the sunrise. This is where its name comes from – Seongsan Ilchulbong, which literally means “Sunrise Peak”. The sunrise seen from this point is one of the most picturesque views on the island, and for many people, visiting the peak in the morning is almost a ritual.

The Seongsan Ilchulbong crater is approximately 600 m in diameter and is surrounded by steep, jagged rocks that form the characteristic 99 prongs surrounding the peak. The crater is not volcanically active and is now covered in lush greenery, with meadows full of vegetation, which adds to its charm. A well-maintained trail leads to the summit, which, despite its steepness, is accessible to most hikers, and the hike to the top takes about 30 minutes. During the climb, you can admire not only spectacular views of the coast, but also picturesque farmlands and fishing villages below. At the foot of Seongsan Ilchulbong is a traditional fishing village that offers visitors a glimpse of local life. One of the unique attractions of this place is the Haenyeo, or traditional female divers, who have been engaged in fishing for seafood for generations, diving without the use of equipment. Haenyeo performances are held regularly on the beach near Seongsan Ilchulbong and are a fascinating cultural experience.

Seongsan Ilchulbong is also a popular hiking and photography spot, and the changing seasons add to its unique charm. In spring, the crater is covered in vast meadows of rapeseed flowers, which create bright yellow carpets that contrast with the blue sky and sea. In autumn, the mountain shimmers with shades of red and gold, making it an ideal place for autumn walks.

Thanks to its unique location, Seongsan Ilchulbong is an attraction not only for nature lovers but also for those seeking cultural experiences. The area offers a wide range of additional attractions, such as horseback riding and seafood tasting at nearby restaurants serving freshly caught clams and sea urchins. Seongsan Ilchulbong is also a great vantage point, from where there is a panoramic view of Udo Island, known for its pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes, which can be admired during boat trips. For those wishing to fully discover Jeju Island, a visit to Seongsan Ilchulbong is an absolute must, providing not only unforgettable views, but also the opportunity to commune with the wildlife and traditions of the region.

MANJANGGUL CAVE

Manjanggul Cave is one of the largest and best-preserved lava caves in the world. This impressive cave, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was created around 200-300 thousand years ago as a result of a volcanic eruption that carved out extraordinary lava tunnels, which are now one of the island's main natural attractions. Manjanggul is over 13 km long, of which about a kilometer is open to visitors, allowing you to admire the unique volcanic formations, including the famous lava columns and stalactites, which create an almost magical landscape underground. The cave is impressive in its size - in some sections it is up to 25 m high and up to 18 m wide, which makes a visit to its interior an unforgettable experience.

One of the cave's biggest attractions is the lava column, which is 7,6 m high and is considered the tallest in the world. This formation was created when the flowing lava cooled and solidified, creating a massive structure resembling stalactites known from limestone caves. It is this column that attracts the attention of many tourists and researchers, becoming one of the symbols of Manjanggul Cave. While wandering through the cave, visitors can see various lava formations, such as lava stalagmites, lava shells and extremely rare gas voids. The cave walls are crisscrossed with zigzags and bends, which are evidence of the dynamic movements of the lava, making this place unique in the world. The constant temperature in the cave of around 11-21 ° C makes it an ideal place to visit, regardless of the season.

Manjanggul Cave is also home to unique fauna, including a large colony of bats that inhabit its deeper parts. The cave’s ecosystem is well-preserved, making it not only a tourist attraction but also a valuable object of scientific research into volcanism and speleology. A visit to the cave is not only an opportunity to admire the extraordinary geological formations, but also to learn about the unique life that thrives in such conditions. In addition to its natural value, Manjanggul also has great cultural significance. Lava caves are a rare phenomenon, and Manjanggul is one of the most important such sites in the world. For many, it is evidence of the powerful volcanic forces that shaped Jeju Island and left such spectacular traces behind.

Jeju Island – Jungmun Daepo

OLLE TRAILS

Olle Trails on Jeju Island is one of the most beautiful and extensive hiking trail networks in South Korea, offering opportunities to explore the island’s natural and cultural treasures. Spanning over 425 km, Olle Trails consists of 26 main trails and several additional trails that take you along the scenic coastline, mountainous terrain, quaint fishing villages, farmland and volcanic landscapes that characterize Jeju. These trails are designed to allow visitors to explore the island at a leisurely pace, while also providing deeper insight into local culture, history and nature.

The Olle Trails were inspired by famous hiking trails in Europe, especially the Camino de Santiago in Spain. The idea for the trails came from Seo Myung-sook, a former journalist who, after returning from Europe, decided to create a similar trail system on Jeju. In 2007, the first Olle Trail was opened and quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike. The name “Olle” in the local Jeju dialect refers to “a narrow road leading from home to the main road” and symbolizes the connection between man and nature, which is a key element of this network of trails. Each of the Olle Trails has its own attractions and varies in length and difficulty. These trails range from easy, relaxing routes, ideal for beginners, to more challenging ones, leading through mountains and volcanic landscapes. The trails are well-marked with distinctive blue and orange ribbons and seahorse symbols, which are the official symbol of the Olle Trails. Each route offers something unique – from spectacular ocean views, through green farmland, to dense forests and volcanic rock formations.

One of the most famous trails is the Olle 1 trail, which starts in Siheung-ri and heads east towards the Seongsan Ilchulbong volcano. This trail offers amazing views of the East China Sea, as well as rapeseed fields that bloom yellow in spring, creating a picturesque landscape. The trail ends at Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as the “Sunrise Peak,” which is one of Jeju’s most important viewpoints.

Another popular trail is the Olle 7 trail, which follows the coastline and offers stunning views of cliffs and beaches, as well as the chance to visit charming fishing villages. This trail also passes Jungmun Beach, one of the most famous beaches on the island, making it a great place to rest during your hike. This trail is also a great opportunity to meet locals and immerse yourself in their daily lives.

The Olle Trails offer more than just beautiful views, though. Along the way, you’ll meet local artists, craftsmen, and farmers who are part of Jeju’s unique culture. Many of the trails take you through villages where you can see traditional thatched houses, and visit local markets selling fresh produce like seafood, peanuts, and tangerines—the symbol of Jeju Island. For history and culture buffs, hiking the Olle Trails is a great way to learn about local traditions and customs. Some of the trails take you through picturesque mountains and hills, including Hallasan Peak, the highest mountain in South Korea. Hiking the trails up the mountain offers incredible views of the entire island, as well as volcanic rock formations and the Baengnokdam crater, which sits atop Hallasan.

One of the key aspects of Olle’s trails is their accessibility and variety. Each trail has a set length and difficulty level, allowing you to tailor your hikes to your individual preferences and abilities. For those looking for a short, relaxing walk, there are shorter trails that can be completed in a few hours. For more experienced hikers, there are longer, more challenging trails that take in higher elevations and volcanic landscapes. Each trail has something unique to offer, and many hikers choose to do more than one trail during their stay on Jeju, allowing you to fully explore the island’s diversity.

Jeju Island - Cheonjiyeon Waterfall

CHEONJIYEON WATERFALL

Cheonjiyeon Waterfall is one of the most beautiful and famous natural attractions on Jeju Island. Its name means “where heaven meets earth,” which perfectly captures the mystical nature of this place, where water falls from a height into a calm, deep pool surrounded by lush vegetation. Located near the city of Seogwipo, Cheonjiyeon Waterfall attracts both nature lovers and tourists, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting. The waterfall is about 22 m high, and its pool is about 20 m deep and 12 m wide. The water falls from the cliff with a gentle, relaxing sound, making it an ideal place for contemplating nature. The water reservoir under the waterfall has exceptionally clear water, and its deep blue color contrasts with the green of the surrounding vegetation, creating a breathtaking view. At night, the waterfall is illuminated, which adds to its charm, and evening walks around the area become a unique experience. The path leading to Cheonjiyeon Falls is a short, pleasant walk through a beautiful park filled with exotic plants and trees typical of Jeju Island’s subtropical climate. Along the path, there are several monuments and information boards that tell the local history and legends surrounding the falls. One of the most famous stories is that of seven fairies who descended from the heavens to bathe in the waters of the falls. This legend adds a magical and mystical dimension to this already extraordinary place.

Cheonjiyeon is not only a waterfall, but also a nature reserve that is home to many protected species, including unique plant and animal species. One of the most important is the Mandarin Mantis, which is listed as an endangered species. The area around the waterfall also features rare flora, such as evergreen laurel trees, which create a natural canopy over the paths leading to the waterfall.

Along with nature and legends, Cheonjiyeon also has cultural significance. Festivals are held here every year, where the local community celebrates their traditions and heritage. The waterfall is also an important place for artists, photographers and painters who come here to capture the beauty of this natural wonder.

JEONGBANG WATERFALL

Jeongbang Falls is one of the most beautiful and unique places on Jeju Island, and one of the few waterfalls in Asia that falls directly into the ocean. Located on the southern coast of the island, near the city of Seogwipo, Jeongbang Falls is not only notable for its spectacular scenery, but also for its deep cultural and historical significance that gives it a mystical character. The waterfall is one of Jeju's three biggest water attractions, along with Cheonjiyeon and Cheonjeyeon. Jeongbang Falls is a waterfall about 23 meters high, whose waters roar down a cliff into the turquoise waters of the East China Sea. It is a breathtaking sight, as it is rare for a waterfall to connect directly to the ocean. The water, which falls with force downwards, creates a cloud of small droplets that cool the air around, and the sound of the waves mixing with the roar of the waterfall creates an almost hypnotizing atmosphere. At the foot of the waterfall there is a small bay surrounded by rocky shores, which gives this place a raw, primeval charm.

According to local legends, Jeongbang Falls was the place where a former queen from the Qin Dynasty (China) sent a servant named Seobul to search for magical medicinal plants. A stone tablet near the waterfall commemorates these events, and the legend is still circulating among the island's residents. The tablet also contains an inscription in Chinese that says, "Jeongbang is a waterfall that falls directly into the sea," emphasizing its uniqueness compared to other waterfalls in the region.

The path leading to Jeongbang is short but steep and rocky, making a visit here not only a leisurely stroll but also a bit of an adventure. Along the way, visitors can enjoy scenic views of the coast and the East China Sea. Local Haenyeo women, traditional Jeju divers who have been harvesting seafood without diving equipment for centuries, can also be found around the waterfall. The scene of women fishing fresh clams and sea urchins from the ocean adds an additional cultural element that makes the visit even more authentic.

There are convenient viewing platforms below the falls, from which you can safely admire the huge jets of water. However, more adventurous tourists can go down to lower levels to experience the power of the falls up close and immerse their hands in the cool, salty water. Although bathing in the falls themselves is not permitted, many people enjoy the view of the falling water up close, feeling the gentle spray, which can be a refreshing experience on hot days.

SEOPJIKOJI CAPE

Seopjikoji is another picturesque place on Jeju Island. The name "Seopjikoji" comes from the Jeju dialect, where "seopji" means "land by the sea" and "koji" means "small cape".

Seopjikoji Cape is famous for its unique, wild scenery, the main feature of which are the high, volcanic cliffs stretching along the coast. These cliffs are intersected with black, volcanic rocks, contrasting with the lush green meadows and grasses, especially beautiful in spring, when the cape is covered with fields of bright yellow rapeseed flowers. A walk around Seopjikoji is a pleasant hike along the coast, during which you can admire the power of nature and the peaceful, unspoiled landscape.

One of the most recognizable landmarks of Seopjikoji is the Red Lantern at the tip of the cape, which offers a breathtaking view of the entire area. It is the perfect place to stop for a moment, admire the stretching waters of the East China Sea and feel the sea breeze. There is also a viewpoint near the lighthouse, from which you can see both the coast and the peak of the Seongsan Ilchulbong volcano, rising majestically over the horizon. This panoramic view is one of the most recognizable landscapes of Jeju and attracts many tourists at any time of year.

Seopjikoji is also a place with a rich cultural history. In the past, it was a fishing village, and to this day you can see traditional houses built of volcanic stone, characteristic of Jeju Island. On the cape is also the Church of All Saints, especially popular with young couples who come to Jeju for wedding photo shoots. The church, although small, stands out with its charming architecture and provides a beautiful contrast to the surrounding flower fields and rugged coastline.

In addition to the magnificent views of the cliffs and the sea, Seopjikoji also offers many other attractions. There are several well-maintained hiking trails that lead through fields and meadows, as well as down to rocky beaches where you can admire rock formations and coastal caves. In spring and summer, the surrounding meadows are covered with blooming rapeseed fields and wildflowers, making it an ideal place for romantic walks and photo sessions.

Udo Island

HAMDEOK BEACH

Hamdeok Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Jeju Island, often referred to as the “paradise of turquoise waters”. Located just 14 km east of the island’s capital, Jeju City, Hamdeok Beach attracts with its white, soft sand and crystal clear, turquoise waters. It is one of the best places on the island to relax by the sea, perfect for families, couples and water sports enthusiasts. Hamdeok Beach is divided into several sections, each offering different attractions. The main part of the beach is characterized by shallow waters, safe for swimming, even for small children, making it a popular place for families. Just a few meters from the shore, the water is only about half a meter deep, making the beach perfect for walking in the water or recreational swimming. During low tide, you can see huge stretches of sand, creating ideal conditions for sunbathing and playing.

One of the main advantages of Hamdeok Beach is its incredibly picturesque scenery. The surrounding green hills, volcanic rocks and lighthouse create a spectacular backdrop, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the entire beach shimmers in shades of gold and orange. There are numerous bridges and jetties along the shore that lead to small islands and viewpoints, from where there are even more beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. Hamdeok Beach is not only a place to relax, but also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Thanks to its shallow, calm waters and suitable winds, the beach is ideal for snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding. You can also rent water equipment, such as windsurfing boards and boats, which allow you to explore the surrounding bays and volcanic rock formations. In summer, the beach becomes a center of water activities, attracting tourists who want to enjoy various forms of recreation.

The beach area is full of restaurants, cafes and shops, making Hamdeok a great place to spend the day. Here you can sample local delicacies such as fresh seafood, or relax at one of the beachside cafes while admiring the ocean views. During the summer season, there are also various events and festivals, including open-air concerts and fireworks displays, which add to the beach’s charm.

Hamdeok is also a popular place to walk and explore. There is a walking path along the beach, leading along the picturesque coastline, offering beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding hills. The lighthouse, perched on one of the volcanic cliffs, is a popular photo spot, offering breathtaking views of the island and its surrounding waters.

SEONIMGYO BRIDGE

Seonimgyo Bridge, also known as the “Goddess Bridge,” is one of Jeju’s most beautiful and iconic structures. It is located near the Cheonjeyeon Falls, near the city of Seogwipo, and serves as a link between the two banks of the picturesque Cheonjeyeon Gorge. This seven-span, 128-meter-long arch bridge is not only a practical piece of infrastructure, but also an aesthetically pleasing work of engineering and architecture. The name Seonimgyo means “Bridge of the Seven Heavenly Goddesses,” referring to the sculptures of seven nymphs on either side of the bridge. These figures, carved in white stone, refer to a legend associated with the nearby Cheonjeyeon Falls, which was believed to be a place where fairies descended from the sky to bathe in its waters. The bridge symbolizes the connection between heaven and earth, and the goddesses are meant to remind us of the heavenly guardians of the island.

This bridge is not only unique for its cultural and mythological significance, but also for the breathtaking scenery it offers. Connecting both sides of the gorge, it provides magnificent views of the surrounding areas – both down, where the gorge cuts through dense forest and tumbling waterfalls, and up, where you can admire the green hills and the sky reflected in the waters below. The view from the bridge of Cheonjeyeon Falls is one of the most beautiful on the island, and the opportunity to walk along Seonimgyo is often considered one of Jeju’s top attractions.

The bridge is made in a traditional architectural style, with white marble and intricate decorations that reference Korean art and tradition. Its arches are elegantly curved, and the entire structure seems to be delicately suspended over the gorge, giving it an almost ethereal feel. Walking across the bridge, you can feel the unique atmosphere of a place where nature and culture intertwine into one harmonious whole. Seonimgyo is not only a visual attraction, but also a place of important cultural events. The bridge is part of the trail leading to Cheonjeyeon, which means “Pond of God” in Korean. Various festivals are held around the falls, such as the Fairy Festival, which attracts tourists and locals every year. During the festival, the bridge becomes the backdrop for numerous performances and ceremonies celebrating the legends and spirituality of Jeju Island.

There are paths on both sides of the bridge leading to other attractions. The area also features a Botanical Garden, which is home to a variety of plants, including exotic flowers, and numerous temples and statues that add to the mystical feel of the place. The walking paths around the bridge and waterfall are well-maintained and suitable for all ages, making Seonimgyo an accessible attraction for everyone.

UDO ISLAND

Udo Island, located east of the main island of Jeju, is one of the most beautiful and charming corners of South Korea. Its name means “Ox Island,” referring to its shape, which resembles an ox lying in water. Udo is a popular destination for its pristine beaches, picturesque landscapes, and a peaceful, unhurried atmosphere that contrasts with the more touristy areas of Jeju Island. Despite its small size (about 6 km²), the island offers a wide range of attractions that attract visitors at any time of year.

Udo is easily reached by regular ferries from Jeju’s Seongsan and Jongdal-ri ports. The journey itself takes just 15 minutes, and once on the island, visitors can explore the island in a variety of ways – on foot, by bike, scooter or electric vehicle, which are available for rent. Many people choose to rent bikes or scooters, allowing them to leisurely explore all that the island has to offer, from its coastlines to the central hills.

The island is best known for its spectacular beaches. Seobin Baeksa, the most famous of them, stands out for its white sand and turquoise water, which is why it is often called one of the most beautiful beaches in South Korea. Seobin Baeksa is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and other water sports, and the crystal clear waters allow you to admire underwater rock formations and colorful fish. Another popular beach is Hagosudong Beach, known for its clean sand and calm waves, making it an ideal place to relax and walk along the shore.

In addition to its beaches, Udo also boasts scenic cliffs and hills that provide incredible views of the East China Sea and Jeju Island in the distance. One of the best viewpoints is Udobong Peak, the highest peak on the island, which offers panoramic views of the entire island, the surrounding ocean, and the nearby Seongsan Ilchulbong volcano. The peak is easy to reach on foot, and the path takes you through picturesque fields and meadows that are covered in blooming flowers in spring and summer. It is also a popular spot to watch the sunrise, making it a favorite among photographers.

Udo is also known for its traditional lifestyle and local culture, which is still strongly connected to the sea. Visitors can see Haenyeo – traditional Korean female divers who have been gathering seafood for generations, diving without diving gear. Haenyeo are a symbol of the perseverance and strength of Jeju women, and their daily work has become one of the most fascinating cultural attractions of Udo Island.

While visiting the island, it is also worth trying the local delicacies. Peanut ice cream and peanut coffee are some of the most famous specialties of the island. Udo is famous for growing these peanuts, and these unique food products have become a popular souvenir for tourists. In addition, many local restaurants offer fresh seafood, served in a traditional way, often by the Haenyeo themselves.

Udo Island is also home to many festivals that attract tourists from all over Korea and beyond. In spring, when the entire island is covered in yellow rapeseed flowers, creating a spectacular landscape that is perfect for romantic walks and photo sessions, the Rapeseed Flower Festival is held. In summer, various water sports events take place, such as snorkeling and swimming competitions.

With its peaceful nature, Udo is the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Despite its growing popularity as a tourist destination, the island retains its authentic charm, and the lack of large hotels and resorts means that you can experience the traditional lifestyle of Jeju residents. Picturesque fishing villages, where time passes more slowly, allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of this place.

JEJU FOLK VILLAGE

Jeju Folk Village is a fascinating cultural attraction that offers visitors a unique opportunity to travel back in time and experience traditional life on Jeju Island from hundreds of years ago. Located in the picturesque area of ​​the eastern part of the island, Jeju Folk Village is a carefully reconstructed open-air museum that showcases authentic villages and buildings from the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910). Opened in 1974, the village has since become one of Jeju’s most important cultural attractions, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the history, culture, and traditions of this unique island. Spread over approximately 40 hectares, Jeju Folk Village features over 100 buildings, including traditional houses, huts, warehouses, forges, stables, and temples, which have been meticulously reconstructed to accurately reflect the appearance and architectural style that dominated Jeju hundreds of years ago. All the buildings are original and come from different parts of the island – they were brought to the village and recreated using traditional building techniques. Each structure was built using local materials, such as basalt, which is common on the volcanic island, and thatched roofs, characteristic of Jeju architecture.

Divided into different sectors, Jeju Folk Village showcases life in four different types of villages – the mountain village, the fishing village, the farming village and the manor village. Each of these villages reflects the unique lifestyles and activities of the different social groups living in Jeju. In the farming village, visitors can see traditional farming and animal husbandry, while in the fishing village, visitors can learn how locals caught fish and dried seafood, which was an essential part of their daily lives.

The mountain village shows the more rugged lifestyle of people living in the more remote and inaccessible parts of Jeju. The people of these areas relied mainly on gathering, hunting, and farming. The village grounds contain traditional warehouses where harvested crops were stored, and houses built from local materials. Here, you can see the living conditions of people who adapted over generations to the harsh climate and geography of the island. The court village, on the other hand, shows the lifestyle of the upper classes, such as officials and landowners. This part of the village features more impressive buildings, with ornate architecture, as well as gardens and courtyards. It is a stark contrast to the simple houses in the other villages, showing the social and economic diversity of the island at that time.

In addition to authentic buildings and crafts, Jeju Folk Village also features numerous displays of traditional arts, crafts, and ceremonies that were part of Jeju’s daily lives. Here, visitors can see how farm tools, fabrics, and pots were handcrafted in the past, as well as the production processes for traditional products such as Jeju paper (hanji), made from wood fibers. The village also features displays of traditional ceremonies, such as wedding ceremonies and harvest festivals, that introduce visitors to the rich culture and traditions of Jeju’s people.

One of the biggest attractions of Jeju Folk Village is also the traditional entertainment shows, such as Jeju bullfights and dance and music performances. Traditional Jeju music, performed on instruments such as the buk (drum) and gayageum (traditional zither), is an integral part of the cultural life of the islanders, and visitors have the opportunity to see these performances live. It is also worth mentioning the rich ethnographic collections located on the village grounds. The Folk Museum, part of Jeju Folk Village, houses numerous exhibits related to the daily life, religion and culture of the islanders, including traditional clothing, tools, vessels, as well as household and ceremonial utensils. It is a unique place that allows you to better understand what life was like on Jeju in the past and appreciate the rich traditions of the island.

For those planning a trip to South Korea, Jeju is a must-see. It is a place that will surely provide unforgettable experiences and moments of relaxation.