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Jeju - An Island of Endless Wonders
As South Korea’s largest island, Jeju does live up to its moniker as ‘Island of Gods’
Boasting some interesting customs, traditions and folklore, as well as an awesome landscape carved from pre-historic times, Jeju Island is the result of spewed lava surfacing from a sub-sea volcano some 700 to 1,200 thousand years ago.
Lying south of the Korean peninsula just an hour’s flight from Seoul, Jeju Island offers a totally different experience for the traveller. Its charming slower pace, mild climate and distinctly different culture will tame even hardened city souls, while adventure-seekers will find a plethora of adrenaline-boosting activities available.
Commonly known to locals as Samdado, or the island of three abundances, Jeju offers plenty of rocks, wind and women. As much as it has in abundance, the island is also famous for its absence of thieves, beggars and gates.
With its many scenic wonders, it’s no surprise that Jeju Island became the backdrop for the popular Korean drama serial, All In, starring real-life couple, Lee Byung Hyun and Song Hye Gyo.
The show’s intriguing and romantic storyline has won over many fans, with breath-taking shots of Seopjikoji, location of the church where Song Hye Gyo almost became a nun, and Hotel Lotte Jeju, both of which are fast becoming recognizable landmarks to viewers.
While some itineraries to Korea may not include Jeju Island, a visit is nevertheless recommended. Stretching 73km wide and 31km long, the island is compact enough for travellers to explore on their own.
The following introduces some of Jeju’s attractions, sights and activities that visitors might like to include in their itineraries when planning their holiday:
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1. Sightseeing
Climb Every Mountain |
Jeju has many mountains and for climbing/hiking enthusiasts, making it up any one of the mountains regardless of height and difficulty is a feat in itself.
Mt. Hallasan
Soaring 1,950 metres as the highest mountain in South Korea, Mt. Hallasan presents visitors with a spectacular view in any of the four seasons.
Climbers who make it to the summit will be visually rewarded with a magnificent crater and lake. |
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Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)
Jutting out into the sea, Sunrise Peak is probably one of the most photographed and well-recognised mountains on Jeju Island. Ascending the steps to the summit begins enjoyably, till the steps become steeper and paths narrower. But the promise of a panoramic view from the summit is enough to inject renewed energy into tired muscles. |
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| Natural Paradise |
The natural wonders of Jeju Island is legendary and visitors will be amazed at the co-existence of modern structures amid these natural giants.
Sangumburi Crater
The fury of volcanic activities from eons ago has produced some mammoth craters on Jeju Island. Sangumburi Crater, measuring 650m in diameter is a gentle lava mound located 23km east of Jeju city and a botanical habitat where 420 native species of subtropical, temperate and some alpine flowers and plants flourish.
Nearby restaurants serve local ‘islander’ food. |
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Manjanggul Cave
The longest lava cave in the world at 13.4 km, Manjanggul Cave reveals the magnificent underground existence of Mother Nature’s handiwork.
Jeongbang Falls
Famous for its water which falls directly into the crystal-clear blue of the sea, the waterfall is one of the three famous falls on Jeju Island.
Cheonjiyeon Falls
Accessible through a sub-tropical forest, the waterfall offers a picture-perfect backdrop for shutterbugs. Some natural monuments can also be found in the pond and nearby valleys. |
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| Gardens Of Plenty |
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With a mild oceanic climate, Jeju island is prime area for the flourish of flora.
Yeomiji Botanical Garden
Considered Asia’s best botanical garden, Yeomiji provides visitors with a mind-boggling insight of 2,000 species of flowers and trees. Attractions include Korean, Italian and French-styled gardens, tropical fruit tree garden, cactus garden and an aquatic plant garden. |
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Bunjae Artpia
The world’s largest bonsai garden with about 10,000 pieces of bonsai, the garden was created over 30 years through the dedication of a farmer. Visitors will also have the opportunity to appreciate 100 rare tree species. The attraction proved popular even with China’s President Jiang Zemin when he visited Jeju Island in November 1995.
Halla Arboretum
A perfect place to enjoy the surroundings of a forest, the arboretum provides an educational aspect of the many birds, trees and flowers.
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| Special Attractions/Museums |
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Some of the attractions on Jeju Island are interesting and unique to the island, qualifying as must-visits for all.
Teddy Bear Museum
As the name suggests, the museum features teddy bears depicting historical events of the 20th century. The museum also introduces visitors to teddy bear fashion shows and wedding ceremonies
Chocolate Castle
Chocolate lovers will be amazed at Korea’s first chocolate museum, featuring the sweet delicacy in all shapes and sizes collected from all over the world. Unique flavours such as ginseng, mango and green tea will surely tempt hardcore chocolate fans, and visitors can also catch a glimpse of the traditional production methods where chocolates are hand-made.
Tamna Mokseokwon
As an island with plenty of stones and rocks, it’s only natural for this resource be used to create a unique park featuring interestingly-shaped stones and tree branches put together to make up human forms. Each section tells the story of man, and the ‘Life Story of Gapdol’ is particularly engaging.
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| Jeju’s Diving Women ? Udo Island |
Although still very much a part of Jeju Island, the number of Jeju’s famous diving women is slowly dwindling with lesser women willing to take up the skill. With the capacity to remain underwater for up to three minutes, these women can be seen diving for the day’s catch off Udo Island.
The only beach in Korea with coral sand, Udo Island boasts eight splendid scenic attractions including the famous cave, Gwangdae-koji. On calm days during October and November, the reflection of sunlight on the cave’s ceiling shows an image of a full moon.
Other attractions include Jeonpo-mangdo, which presents a view of the ocean and Cheonjin-gwansan where visitors can see Mt. Halla. |
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| Local Folklore |
One of Jeju Island’s charm lies in its rich mythical beliefs and traditions.
Seongeup Folk Village
Designated as National Folk Asset No. 188, the village was site of the island’s former capital. With old nettle trees shading the village houses, Seongeup is the most representative folk village of Jeju.
Jeju Folk Village Museum
An open-air museum that reflect the lives and culture of 19th century Jeju islanders. Forming the village are 81 traditional thatched roof houses.
Jeju Folk Tourist Town
Features daily performances of local folk art such as the Haenyeo’s Dance (Female Divers) and Folk Song Open Session, both of which depict the lively emotions and energy of the people of Jeju.
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| Spring in Jeju |
With its milder climate, Spring begins earlier on Jeju Island than on the mainland, with wide open fields blanketed with spring blooms such as rapeseed and cherry blossoms.
Jeju Rape Flower Festival
Every spring, the open fields of Jeju Island are awash in an awesome spectacle of bright yellow rape flowers. From 26 to 28 March 2004, the islanders will be celebrating the annual Rape Flower Festival, a large scale event, at the Jeju Sport Complex. Visitors can expect various activities including photography and drawing contests, while enjoying the beautiful wonder of the island.
Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival
Cherry trees line the streets on some parts of Jeju Island where cherry blossoms change the colours and landscape of the island. Traditionally, the cherry blossom will bud in early April, and during the festival, visitors will be treated to a spectacular array of activities charmingly combining both traditional and modern customs.
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2. Activities for All
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With its wide-open spaces and coastal waters, Jeju Island has an infinite variety of activities to suit everyone.
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| Submarine Tour |
Take a trip on these glass-bottomed boats to Munseom Islet where visitors can marvel at the island’s marine life which includes unique corals and starfish, as well as schools of colourful fish, up to a depth of 35 metres.
Golf
Played alongside the sea, the links-styled golf courses of Jeju Island are a big draw. Currently, eight golf clubs welcome guests with international-standard fairways and greens.
Horseback Riding
One of the greatest outdoor activities, horseback riding on Jeju is a popular method for locals to de-stress. Even local honeymooners ride and bring home a memorable picture complete with riding gear.
Paragliding
Recommended atop mountains with wide landing ground, paragliding is especially popular on a ‘parasite’ volcano called ‘Oreum’. With clean sea breezes and a streamlined slope, paragliding on Jeju Island is ideal for beginner and intermediate levels.
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3. Jeju’s Indigenous Buys
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Being an agricultural and manufacturing country, Korea has much to offer in terms of indigenous products. Jeju Island has some unique produce not available in other parts of Korea.
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| Tangerine |
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Produced only on Jeju Island, Korea’s tangerines are smooth-skinned, sweet and juicy.
Shiitake Mushrooms
Grown in the Mt. Halla region at above 700m sea level, the flavours of Jeju’s Shiitake mushrooms are well-known, with many buying as gifts.
Mt. Halla Omija Tea
Grown only on Mt. Halla, the black tea contrasts greatly with the standard omija which is produced from a small red fruit. The omija fruit of Mt. Halla is black and larger, and highly recommended as a supplement for those with asthmatic and respiratory problems.
Dolhareubang
This little stone statue is symbolic as the guardian of Jeju Island. Locals believe that women who touch the nose of the island’s ‘grandfather’ can hope to bear sons.
Native Jeju Honey
 Extracted from citrus trees and Jeju’s rapeseed flower, the honey is natural with a unique taste.
Gal-ot (Local Costume)
Worn by the working people on Jeju Island, this local costume is dyed using persimmons, which make the cloth stronger while acting as a preservative. Made of highly absorbent cotton or hemp, the gal-ot is favoured by Koreans during summer as it keeps then cool. |
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4. Jeju Cuisine
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Jeju prides itself in offering fresh produce as well as cuisine which retains much of its natural flavours.
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| Abalone Porridge |
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Traditionally considered a delicacy and presented to the king in the olden days, Jeju’s abalones are looked upon as highly nutritious and beneficial especially for restoring the functions of the liver. The island’s abalones are purely organic and totally void of pollutants.
Black Pork (heukdwaeji)
Famous for its chewy texture, the meat is usually cooked over a hotplate with vegetables and chilli sauce (gochujang).
Seafood Soup (haemul-ttukbaegi)
A hotpot of top shell, shrimp, clams and other seafood, the soup is then further flavoured with spicy chilli powder, and is especially good during the cool season.
Saengseon-hoe (raw fish)
A haven for raw fish lovers, Jeju Island’s fresh local fish has a chewy texture and light flavour popular with tourists. The common raw seafood served at restaurants are dom (a species of sea bream), abalone, turbo and sea-urchin.
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5. Jeju Travel Notes
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| Accommodation, restaurants, and shopping |
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One-star to Five-star hotels available. Price ranges from S$60 to S$530 per room night. For reservation of hotels, check here. For information on motels, restaurants, and shopping, please click onto www.worldinn.com.
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| Transportation |
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There is no direct airline from Singapore to Jeju Island.
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-Airlines:
One hour’s flight from Gimpo Airport in Seoul either on Asiana Airlines or Korean Air.
-Ferries:
Passenger ferries available from Busan (12 hours).
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| Within Jeju |
| Airport Limsousine Bus: | No. 600. Runs every 15 minutes from 06:20 to 22:10 between airport and Seogwipo area. Also stops at Jeju City downtown and major hotels at Jungmun resort.
For inner city buses, please click here.
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Citytour Bus: |
For reservation, contact Jejuro Tour (tel: 82-64-749-6001/2, Korean, fax: 749-6004).
Fare: Free pass ticket for one-day and two-day (25,000won)
* Guide: only Korean speaking guides available
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| | * Tour courses
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Sinjeju / Gujeju District (departing from 08:00 - 09:00)
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| Western Trail Tour |
Pleasure boat Pier - The 5.16 Road - Sin (new) Jeju /
Gu (old) Jeju Lodging -Yongduam Rock - Mysterious Road - Western Tour
Road - Bunjae Artpia - Mt. Songaksan Coastline Road - Cheonjiyeon Falls
- via World Cup Stadium - Jusang Jeolli Cliff - via Jeju International
Convention Center - Yeomiji Botanic Garden - Jungmun Resort
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| Eastern Trail Tour |
Local Product Shopping - Yongduam Rock - Sin Jeju / Gujeju
Lodging - Mini World - Sangumburi Crater - Mongolian Horse Riding Show
- Seongeup Folk Village - Dongbok-ri Tourist Sea Village experience -
Eastern Coastline Tour Road - Seopjikoji - Micheongul Cave - Racecourse
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Jungmun / Seogwipo District (departing from 08:00 - 09:00)
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| Western Trail Tour |
Pleasure Boat Pier - Hotels in Jungmun Resort - Sanbanggulsa
Grotto - Bunjae Artpia - Mt. Songaksan Coastline Road - Cheonjiyeon Falls
- via World Cup Stadium - Jusang Jeolli Cliff - via Jeju International
Convention Center - Yeomiji Botanic Garden (Cheonjeyeon Falls / Teddy
Bear Museum)
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| Eastern Trail Tour |
Local Product Shopping - Seogwipo/Jungmun - The 5.16 Road - Mini World - Sangumburi Crater - Seopjikoji
- Micheongul Cave - Racecourse - Seongeup Folk Village - Mongolian Horse
Riding Show
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Guides
