Jeju Island, a gem off the southern coast of Korea, is home to natural beauty and cultural mystique, offering various experiences for the eager traveler. With its UNESCO-listed sites, stunning landscapes, and unique island culture, Jeju Island is a place that promises unforgettable memories.
And if you’re planning your first visit, here are the top things to do to ensure a rich and diverse experience on this magical island.
1. Visit Jeju’s Iconic Sunrise Peak
Start your Jeju Island adventure with a hike to the top of Sunrise Peak, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This extinct volcano offers panoramic views of the island, especially at sunrise. The climb is fairly easy and rewards you with breathtaking views of the sea and the crater at the summit.
2. Explore the Mysterious Manjanggul Lava Tube
Jeju Island is home to one of the longest lava tubes in the world, Manjanggul Cave. This UNESCO Natural Heritage site provides a peek into the island’s volcanic origins. Inside, you’ll see the largest known lava column and a magical landscape formed by cooling lava.
3. Relax on Hyeopjae Beach
Hyeopjae Beach is renowned for its clear blue waters and white sand made from crushed seashells. It’s a perfect spot in Jeju for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, with stunning views of Biyangdo Island on the horizon. The shallow waters here are ideal for families and first-time snorkelers.
4. Discover the Haenyeo Female Divers
The Haenyeo, female divers of Jeju, represent the island’s unique matrifocal culture. These women dive into the ocean’s depths without oxygen tanks to harvest seafood. Visiting the Haenyeo Museum or watching a diving demonstration is one of the ways to connect with Jeju’s traditions.
5. Walk Through Jeju Olle Trails
The Jeju Olle Trail, a series of trails that traverse the island, offers the perfect opportunity to explore Jeju Island’s diverse landscapes at your own pace. These trails wind through small villages, past beaches, and over hills, giving a serene and intimate view of the island’s beauty.
6. Indulge in Jeju’s Culinary Delights
Jeju Island’s cuisine is as unique as its landscape, with specialties like black pork, fresh seafood, and Jeju tangerines. For a truly local experience, visit a traditional place like Dongmun Market, where you can taste a variety of street foods and local dishes.
7. Experience the Jeongbang Waterfall
Jeongbang Waterfall is one of the few waterfalls that falls directly into the ocean. The sound of the water, the spray in the air, and the scenic backdrop make for a refreshing and picturesque stop. It’s an ideal spot on Jeju Island for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
8. Take in the Views from O’sulloc Tea Museum and Fields
O’sulloc Tea Museum, near Seogwipo, is dedicated to the traditional Korean tea culture. Surrounded by sprawling tea fields, the museum offers tastings and displays on the history of tea in Korea. Walking through the tea fields is a peaceful experience that you should not miss.
9. Explore the Loveland Theme Park
For those with an open mind and curiosity about modern Korean culture, visiting Loveland is one of the intriguing things to do in Jeju Island. This adult-themed park boasts art installations and sculptures exploring love and sexuality in humorous and creative ways. It’s a special cultural experience that reflects the more modern and open aspects of Korean society.
10. Visit the Teddy Bear Museum
A lighter, family-friendly attraction, the Teddy Bear Museum showcases a vast collection of teddy bears from various periods and countries. The museum is a fun place to visit for all ages, with bears dressed in traditional Korean clothing and even scenes depicting Jeju Island’s history and folklore.
Embracing Jeju Island’s Wonders: A Memorable First Journey
Jeju Island is a place of natural beauty and cultural depth, offering a wide range of activities for every traveler. From the heights of Sunrise Peak to the depths of Manjanggul Cave, the tranquility of tea fields to the vibrant life of the sea with the Haenyeo, Jeju Island invites first-timers to immerse themselves in its wonders. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Jeju Island promises various experiences that are as enriching as they are memorable.