Jeju Island, often referred to as the “Hawaii of Korea,” is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. From volcanic formations and lush forests to pristine beaches, Jeju offers breathtaking sites that make it one of the most popular destinations in South Korea. Here’s a guide to the top natural wonders you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Jeju, along with how to get to each site.
1. Hallasan Mountain: The Heart of Jeju
Hallasan Mountain, a dormant volcano, is the highest peak in South Korea and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Towering at nearly 2,000 meters, it offers hiking trails of various lengths, all showcasing Jeju’s diverse flora and fauna.
- How to Get There: Take the Jeju Intercity Bus to Hallasan National Park (Seongpanak or Gwaneumsa trailheads). The bus ride from Jeju City to Seongpanak takes about 40 minutes, while the trip to Gwaneumsa takes about 50 minutes. Alternatively, you can rent a car or take a taxi for a faster and more flexible option.
2. Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak): A UNESCO Treasure
Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak, is a 182-meter volcanic crater and one of Jeju’s most iconic landmarks. The short hike to the top rewards you with stunning coastal views.
- How to Get There: From Jeju City, take Bus 201 or Bus 111 directly to Seongsan Ilchulbong; the ride takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. Alternatively, from Seogwipo, take Bus 295 for about an hour. You can also reach Seongsan Ilchulbong by car or taxi, which is faster but more costly.
3. Manjanggul Cave: An Underground Marvel
Manjanggul Cave is one of the largest lava tubes in the world, stretching for over 13 kilometers. The accessible section is a great escape on hot days and provides a unique glimpse into Jeju’s volcanic history.
- How to Get There: Take Bus 202 from Jeju City to Manjanggul Cave; the ride takes around 1 hour. From the bus stop, it’s a short taxi ride or a 30-minute walk to the cave entrance. Driving directly by car takes about 35 minutes from Jeju City.
4. Jeongbang Waterfall: Ocean Meets Freshwater
Jeongbang Waterfall is a unique natural wonder, known as one of the few waterfalls in Asia that flows directly into the ocean. Located near Seogwipo, it’s a beautiful spot for photography.
- How to Get There: From Jeju City, take Bus 281 or Bus 781 to Seogwipo, then transfer to a local bus or walk 10-15 minutes to Jeongbang Waterfall. Alternatively, a taxi from Seogwipo takes around 5-10 minutes. Driving directly to Jeongbang from Jeju City takes about 1 hour.
5. Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls: The “Pond of Heaven”
The Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls, consisting of three tiers, is a scenic spot surrounded by lush greenery and legends of heavenly nymphs. It’s located close to the Jungmun Tourist Complex.
- How to Get There: From Jeju City, take Bus 600 to the Jungmun Tourist Complex and walk about 15 minutes to reach Cheonjeyeon Falls. If you’re already in Seogwipo, Bus 600 also connects to the site, or you can take a taxi from central Seogwipo (about 10 minutes). By car, it takes about 50 minutes from Jeju City to Cheonjeyeon.
Final Thoughts
Jeju Island’s natural wonders are a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. With these transportation tips, it’s easy to access Jeju’s most stunning spots by bus, taxi, or car. Make sure to set aside time to visit these unforgettable sites and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that makes Jeju a truly magical destination.