Jeju Travel Guide (South Korea/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Jeju

Jeju, a volcanic island located in the Korean Strait, is an idyllic destination known for its natural beauty, stunning beaches, and unique culture. Jeju is the largest island in South Korea, and its subtropical climate makes it a year-round tourist destination. The island is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, museums, hiking trails, waterfalls, and charming villages. In this travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best things to do, see, and eat in Jeju.

List of Places to Visit in Jeju

Jeju has a wealth of attractions and landmarks to explore, each offering a unique glimpse into the island’s history and culture. Below is a list of some of the top places to visit in Jeju.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Jeju Folklore and Natural History Museum
Jeju National Museum
Seongeup Folk Village
Bangsatap, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Haenyeo Museum

Natural Attractions of Jeju: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Hallasan National Park
Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak
Manjanggul Cave
Jeju Olle Trail
Jeju Island beaches, including Hamdeok Beach and Hyeopjae Beach

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jeju

Jeju’s natural beauty is best explored on foot or by bicycle. The island offers a variety of trails that cater to all levels of fitness and skill. Below are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Jeju.

Hallasan Mountain Trail
Jeju Olle Trail
Udo Island Coastal Road
Saryeoni Forest Trail
Jeju 4.3 Peace Trail

Best Things to Do in Jeju: Activities and Tours

Jeju offers plenty of activities and tours to satisfy any kind of traveler. Whether you want to explore the island’s natural beauty, get a taste of local culture, or enjoy some outdoor sports, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Jeju.

Take a tour of Jeju’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Go kayaking or paddleboarding around the island
Enjoy a hiking or biking tour of Jeju’s natural beauty
Experience the thrill of a zipline tour
Learn how to dive like a Haenyeo, the diving women of Jeju

Week-Long Itinerary for Jeju

Jeju is a destination that requires at least a week to explore. Below is a suggested itinerary that will allow you to experience the best of Jeju in seven days.

Day	Activity
Day 1	Visit Jeju Folklore and Natural History Museum, Seongeup Folk Village, and Bangsatap.
Day 2	Hike Hallasan Mountain or explore Seongsan Ilchulbong.
Day 3	Visit Jeju’s beaches, Hamdeok Beach, and Hyeopjae Beach.
Day 4	Explore Manjanggul Cave and take a sunset cruise around Udo Island.
Day 5	Take a tour of Jeju’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Day 6	Enjoy a day of adventure sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, or ziplining.
Day 7	Spend the day learning about the Haenyeo and the island’s culture at Jeju Olle Trail.

Food and Drink Scene of Jeju

Jeju’s unique food and drink scene are a must-try for any visitor. The island is famous for its fresh seafood, black pig meat, and tangerines. In this section, we’ll explore the top dishes to try and local beverages to taste.

Must-Try Dishes

Grilled Abalone
Black Pork BBQ
Seafood Hotpot
Tangerine Makgeolli (a type of Korean rice wine)
Jeju-style Noodle Soup

Local Beverages

Jeju Island Coffee
Tangerine Juice
Hallasan Mulberry Wine
Soju (a Korean distilled spirit)

Where to Stay in Jeju: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Jeju offers a wide range of accommodation options to fit any budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, a cozy guesthouse, or a quaint hostel, Jeju has something for you.

Popular hotels in Jeju include the Shilla Hotel, the Hyatt Regency, and the Lotte Hotel Jeju.
For budget-conscious travelers, guesthouses and hostels like Hostel Lyndon, Artstay Seogwipo, and Jeju Hiking Inn offer affordable accommodation options.

What to Buy in Jeju: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Jeju offers a range of souvenir options for visitors to purchase, including handmade crafts, local produce, and unique gifts. Here are some popular souvenirs you can bring home from Jeju.

Jeju Tangerines or Citrus Soju
Black Pork Jerky
Handmade Buckwheat Pillows or Ceramic Pottery
Jeju Island Tea
Haenyeo Diving Women Statues

Local Culture and Customs of Jeju

Jeju’s culture is unique and deeply ingrained in its history and customs. Visitors to Jeju can respect local customs by observing the following:

Take off your shoes when entering a home or temple.
Respect the elderly and address them comfortably.
Observe silence when visiting sacred sites.
Refrain from taking photos of the Haenyeo diving women without permission.

Best Time to Visit Jeju

Jeju has a subtropical climate, making it a great year-round destination. The best time to visit Jeju is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the island is covered in beautiful foliage. The summer months can be hot and humid, and the winter tends to be cool and windy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jeju

Do:

Try local cuisine and drink.
Pack comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring.
Respect the local culture and customs.
Explore Jeju’s natural beauty.

Don’t:

Litter or vandalize public areas.
Ignore local customs.
Swim in the ocean during restricted months.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jeju

Jeju is a relatively safe destination, with low crime rates and a low incidence of natural disasters. However, visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. It’s essential to follow safety rules when engaging in adventure sports or outdoor activities.

Health in Jeju

Jeju has a well-developed healthcare system, and visitors can receive medical treatment from the island’s hospitals and clinics. It’s a good idea to pack a basic first aid kit and any necessary medication before traveling.

Getting to Jeju: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jeju

Jeju International Airport is the primary gateway to the island, with flights arriving from major international airports in Asia and beyond.

Bus Stations Near Jeju

Jeju has several bus stations throughout the island, including Jeju City Bus Terminal and Seogwipo Bus Terminal.

Other Options

Visitors can take a ferry from major port cities in South Korea, including Busan and Mokpo.

How to Get Around in Jeju

Jeju offers several transportation options to help visitors explore the island. These include buses, taxis, and rental cars. Jeju is also a popular destination for bicycling and hiking.

Where to Go Next from Jeju: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jeju is part of a region known as the Jeju Province, which contains several other small islands and natural areas. Visitors can take excursions from Jeju to nearby destinations, including:

Udo Island
Seogwipo City
Hallasan National Park
Mount Songaksan

Conclusion

From stunning natural beauty to unique cultural experiences, Jeju is a destination that offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking to explore on foot, relax on the beach, or learn about the island’s history, Jeju is an unforgettable destination that’s sure to captivate and amaze.