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Top 5 Must-Visits for Your First Jeju Island Trip

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Jeju Island

South Korea’s Jeju Island is more than just a pretty postcard. This volcanic island is a treasure trove of natural wonders, rich culture, and unparalleled relaxation.  

If you're planning your first visit and feeling overwhelmed by options, don't worry.  

This guide highlights the absolute essentials to experience the heart and soul of Jeju. 

Start Your Trip Here:

1. Udo Island

2. Seongeup Folk Village

3. Dongmun Traditional Market

4. Seongsan Ilchulbong 

5. Halim Park

 1. Udo Island

Jeju Island
Udo is an absolute must-visit if you're setting foot on Jeju Island for the first time. 
 

Udo Island, also known in Korean as “Cow Island” because of its cow-like shape, is a hidden gem offering both peace and adventure.  

Majestic cliffs rise above clean beaches, and the lively local culture thrives among stunning natural beauty.  

Udo is where you can truly disconnect and recharge. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of authentic Korean island life, this charming spot has it all.  

 

You can discover these beaches at Udo Island:

  • Dolcani Beach
  • Geommeolle Beach
  • Udo Sanho Beach
  • Hagosudong Beach

Jeju Island

Things to do at Udo Island 

  • Relax on the Beach or hike to Black Cow Rock. 

  • Bike around or explore underwater. 

  • Enjoy fresh seafood, peanut ice cream, or local drinks. 

 

How to get there 

You can hop on a ferry at Seongsan Ferry Terminal. It's a quick 15-minute ride to Udo. Once there, you can choose between two ports:  

  • Cheonjin Port in southwest Udo (Ferry departs every half hour) 

  • Haumokdong Port in northwest Udo (Ferry departs hourly) 

 

Admission Fees  10,000 KRW 
Ferry Available Time 7:30 – 18:00 

 

2. Seongeup Folk Village

Jeju Island

Seongeup Folk Village (Hanok) is like stepping into a living history book. It's a traditional Korean village where people used to live.  

The houses are old and made of stone, and the streets are narrow and quiet. It's a perfect place to escape the busy world and learn about how people lived in the past. 

Jeju Island

Why should you go there? As a first-time visitor to Jeju, Seongeup Folk Village offers a unique chance to experience the island's rich culture and history.  

You'll get a feel for what life was like for Jeju locals, and you'll appreciate the island's natural beauty even more after seeing how people lived in harmony with it. It's a great way to understand the soul of Jeju. 

Source: Visit Jeju

 

Things to do at Seongeup Folk Village 

  • Enjoy traditional music and dance performances 
  • Join a guided tour to gain deeper insight into the history and culture of the village 
  • Participate in local workshops like traditional crafts, cooking 

How to get there 

Seongeup Folk Village is located some distance from the city, so taxis are the preferred mode of transportation.  

However, if you have extra time, you can take bus 201 or 202 from the Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal or the Seogwipo Intercity Bus Terminal.

 

Admission Fees  FREE
Ferry Available Time Open all year round 

 

3. Dongmun Traditional Market

Jeju Island

If you’re passionate about fresh seafood or eager to dive into Korean street food, Dongmun Traditional Market in Jeju is an absolute must-visit.  

Established in 1994, it holds the title of Jeju’s largest and oldest traditional market. 

Dongmun Market is divided into several vibrant sections: 

  • Dongmun Public Market 

  • Dongmun Traditional Market 

  • Dongmun Aquatic Market 

  • Dongmun Night Market 

Here, you’ll find an incredible variety of goods, from fresh produce and seafood to local specialities, clothing, and household items.  

Jeju Island

The market buzzes with life as vendors enthusiastically engage with shoppers, often offering samples of their delicious products. 

Whether you’re a seasoned food lover or a curious traveller, Dongmun Traditional Market promises an unforgettable experience. 

The MUST-try in this market 

  • Raw Octopus 

  • Hairtail fish 

  • Hotteok (Filled Pancake)

  • Hallabong (oranges) 

 

Opening hours 

8:00 – 21:00 

 

4. Seongsan Ilchulbong

Jeju Island

Seongsan Ilchulbong, aka Sunrise Peak, is a stunning volcanic tuff cone that emerged from the sea around 5,000 years ago 

Recognising its unique geological beauty, UNESCO designated it as a World Natural Heritage Site in 2007. 

The trail from the entrance to the peak is a manageable 0.8 km, taking approximately 20 to 30 minutes to reach the top.  

As you ascend, be prepared for a breathtaking panorama of Jeju Island, with its pristine beaches and rolling mountains. 

For an unforgettable experience, plan your visit during the early morning hours to witness the spectacular sunrise.  

The sight of the sun emerging over the horizon is mesmerising and will leave a lasting impression. 

Admission Fees 

  • Adults (25+): 5,000 KRW
  • Teenagers/Children (under 25): 2,500 KRW
  • Children under 6 and seniors over 65: Free of charge

Ferry Available Time The peak is open throughout the year, but the hours vary with the seasons: 

  • Summer: 7:10 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Winter: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Note: Seongsan Ilchulbong is closed for maintenance on the first Monday of every month. 

 

5. Halim Park

Think you’ve seen it all? Think again. Hallim Park is a natural wonder, with towering palms swaying against the sky and ancient bonsai whispering their wisdom.  

Explore the glowing Hyeopjae and Ssangyong Caves, shaped by volcanic forces.  

Source: Visit Jeju

Hallim Park is a haven for nature lovers and curious explorers, offering a harmonious blend of flora and fauna.  

Let Hallim Park be your escape, where every corner reveals a new masterpiece. 

 

Things you can do at Halim Park 

  • Explore the colourful gardens filled with lots of different flowers and trees. 

  • Discover unique lava tubes shaped by a volcano long ago. 

  • Keep your eyes open for colourful birds as you walk around the park. 

Source: Visit Jeju

Jeju Island is a world of its own, beckoning explorers to immerse themselves in its natural beauty and rich culture.  

While this guide has highlighted 5 essential stops, remember that this is just the beginning of your Jeju adventure.  

So, pack your bags, open your heart, and let Jeju cast its captivating spell on you. 


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