Jeju Island Attractions, Culture, and Hidden Gems: Plan Your Perfect Trip

Jeju Island: A Tour Guide's Travel Companion to Korea’s Volcanic Gem

Annyeonghaseyo and welcome to Jeju Island! As your virtual tour guide, let me take you on a journey through South Korea’s beloved island paradise. Known for its volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, seaside cliffs, and unique island culture, Jeju is a dream destination for nature lovers, foodies, and adventurers alike.
 

In this guide, we’ll explore not only the top attractions but also the hidden spots only locals know. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or a week-long adventure, this is everything you need to make your Jeju trip unforgettable.

📍 Where Is Jeju Island?

Jeju Island (Jeju-do) lies to the south of the Korean Peninsula and is South Korea’s largest island. It’s part of Jeju Province and is often referred to as the “Hawaii of Korea” thanks to its volcanic origin, subtropical climate, and breathtaking coastlines.

Getting here is easy—Jeju has its own international airport, and there are dozens of daily domestic flights from Seoul, Busan, and other Korean cities.

🌋 Hallasan Mountain: The Heart of Jeju

At the center of Jeju Island stands Hallasan, South Korea’s tallest mountain and a dormant volcano. Hiking Hallasan is a must for any adventurer. The mountain offers multiple trails, each rewarding hikers with panoramic views, wildflowers, and volcanic crater lakes.

Seongpanak Trail and Gwaneumsa Trail are the most popular routes to the summit.

Expect to spend 4–8 hours on a round trip, depending on the trail and your pace.

In winter, the snowy summit provides a magical alpine experience.

Tip: Start your hike early, as the park enforces strict cut-off times for safety.

🌊 Jeju’s Iconic Coastal Wonders

1. Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a tuff cone formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions. Climb to the top for an unforgettable sunrise over the East China Sea.

Best time: Arrive before dawn for sunrise

Nearby: Try fresh sea urchin bibimbap at local restaurants

2. Manjanggul Lava Tube

One of the longest lava tubes in the world, this natural cave system lets you walk through ancient molten rock paths.

Length: Over 13 km, though only 1 km is open to the public

Don’t miss: The lava stalagmites and turtle-shaped rock

3. Jusangjeolli Cliffs

Near Jungmun Resort, these hexagonal basalt columns are Jeju’s version of Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway—created by lava meeting the sea.

Photo tip: Visit at high tide when the waves crash dramatically

🌿 Jeju’s Natural Beauty: Forests, Waterfalls, and Beaches

1. Bijarim Forest

A dense forest of 800-year-old nutmeg trees, perfect for a peaceful walk among ancient giants.

Good for: Families, nature photographers, quiet walkers

2. Cheonjiyeon, Jeongbang, and Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls

These three waterfalls are iconic to Jeju’s southern coast.

Jeongbang is the only waterfall in Asia that falls directly into the ocean.

Cheonjeyeon (“Pond of the Gods”) is tied to local legends and linked by a beautiful arched bridge.

3. Hyeopjae Beach & Hamdeok Beach

White sand, turquoise water, and calm waves make these beaches perfect for a swim or picnic.

Hyeopjae: Great for sunsets and views of Biyangdo Island

Hamdeok: Clear waters and family-friendly amenities

🧑‍🌾 Jeju’s Unique Culture and History

1. Haenyeo – The Women Divers of Jeju

These legendary women free-dive for shellfish without scuba gear, a tradition recognized by UNESCO.

Watch live Haenyeo performances at Seongsan or visit the Haenyeo Museum

Their resilience represents the matriarchal spirit of Jeju

2. Jeju Stone Culture and Dol Hareubang Statues

The grandfather statues you’ll see all around Jeju are called Dol Hareubang. These volcanic stone guardians were traditionally placed at village entrances.

Visit Jeju Stone Park to learn more about stone culture

Great photo opportunity for cultural travelers

3. Folk Villages and Traditional Houses

Explore Seongeup Folk Village to see preserved thatched-roof homes, black lava stone walls, and ancient wells.

Experience: Traditional performances, horseback archery, and local crafts

🍜 What to Eat on Jeju Island

As your local food guide, here’s what you must try:

Black Pork BBQ (Heuk-dwaeji): Juicy, smoky pork from native Jeju pigs. Look for restaurants with outdoor stone grills.

Abalone Porridge (Jeonbok-juk): A nutritious and comforting dish made with locally caught abalone.

Seafood Hot Pot (Haemul-tang): Loaded with shellfish, crab, and octopus—fresh from Jeju’s waters.

Tangerines (Gyul): Jeju’s citrus fruits are famous throughout Korea—buy them fresh or as juice, tea, or candy.

Don't forget to stop by Dongmun Market in Jeju City for street snacks and local delicacies.

🏨 Where to Stay: Regions and Accommodation Tips

1. Jeju City (North)

Best for: Convenience, airport access, shopping, budget stays

Stay near: Dongmun Market, Yongduam Rock

2. Seogwipo (South)

Best for: Waterfalls, beaches, nature, luxury resorts

Stay near: Jungmun Resort, Cheonjiyeon Falls

3. East Jeju (Seongsan Area)

Best for: Sunrise lovers, island hopping to Udo Island

Stay near: Seongsan Ilchulbong, Haenyeo villages

4. West Jeju (Aewol, Hallim)

Best for: Laid-back cafes, ocean views, trendy photo spots

🚗 Getting Around Jeju

Public buses are available, but Jeju is best explored with a rental car. The island’s sites are spread out, and flexible transport makes it easier to explore scenic routes and hidden gems.

Tip: Korean GPS apps like Naver Map or KakaoMap are more accurate than Google Maps.

🌅 Hidden Gems Only Locals Know

Gwangchigi Beach: Black sand and views of Seongsan—perfect for sunrise without the crowds.

Gapado Island: A peaceful boat ride away, this is Korea’s first carbon-free island.

Camellia Hill: A flower park with seasonal blooms and romantic photo spots.

📆 Best Time to Visit Jeju Island

Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms, rapeseed flowers, ideal hiking weather

Summer (June–August): Beach season, water sports, lush greenery

Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, fall foliage on Hallasan

Winter (December–February): Snow-capped Hallasan and quieter attractions

🛍️ What to Bring Home: Jeju Souvenirs

Tangerine chocolate and cookies

Jeju black pork jerky

Local sea salt and cosmetics made from volcanic ash

Haenyeo-themed crafts

🧳 Final Tips from Your Jeju Tour Guide

Pack for changing weather: Jeju's coastal winds and mountain air can shift quickly.

Be respectful of Haenyeo: Watch but don’t disturb while they work.

Explore beyond tourist areas: Jeju is full of quiet roads, hidden trails, and scenic spots.

📖 Conclusion: Why Jeju Island Should Be on Your Bucket List

Jeju Island isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that blends ancient traditions with wild beauty. From volcanic peaks to ocean cliffs, from black pork BBQ to the fearless Haenyeo, Jeju is unlike anywhere else in Korea.

As your guide, I hope this travel companion helps you plan a meaningful, exciting, and enriching visit. Whether you're a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, Jeju Island will surprise you.