Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Jeju’s West Coast
Welcome to Jeju
Arriving at Jeju International Airport, breathe in the fresh island air and prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey. Collect your rental car—your key to unlock the treasures of Jeju at your own leisure. For those preferring public transport, Jeju offers a comprehensive bus system that can take you to all major attractions.
Discover Hallim Park
Your adventure begins on the western side of the island at Hallim Park. More than just a park, it’s a wonderland where nature and culture intertwine. Packed with beautiful botanical gardens, a fascinating bird garden, and two of Jeju’s famed lava caves—Hyeopjaegul and Ssangyonggul, which are a marvel of natural architecture.
Experience Jeju’s Folk Village and Stone Statues
After a light meal, continue to Jeju Folk Village, where the island’s rich history comes vividly to life. With over 100 houses and facilities that were once used in ancient Jeju, the village is a profound way to understand the traditional life of the island.
Adjacent to the village is the Stone Statue Park, featuring hundreds of dol hareubangs, or ‘stone grandfathers,’ each with their own unique facial expressions and poses. Here, you can also learn about the stone masonry that is so characteristic of Jeju cultural heritage.
Dinner and Evening Stroll in Jeju City
Head back for a rest at your hotel before a night out in Jeju City. Savor the culinary delights that the city has to offer, perhaps trying out a local specialty such as heuk dwaeji (black pork) barbecued to perfection, or mulhoe, a refreshing cold seafood soup perfect for recharging after a day of exploration.
Day 2: Sunrise at Seongsan and East Jeju’s Wonders
Catch the Sunrise at Seongsan Ilchulbong
Start early and make your way to Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak. It’s a mild hike to the summit, but the 360-degree panoramic view of the sunrise over the sea is well worth the effort. The area is recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, and its stunning beauty will leave you in awe.
Seopjikoji’s Cinematic Views
Next, drive to the picturesque Seopjikoji. Its rock formations, set against the backdrop of the blue sea and clear sky, have made it a favorite filming location for Korean films and dramas. The iconic Seopjikoji Lighthouse offers Instagram-worthy shots, and if you’re lucky, you might catch the vibrant yellow of canola flowers in bloom.
Afternoon at Manjanggul Cave and Bijarim Forest
After a local lunch, delve beneath the earth’s surface at Manjanggul Cave. This UNESCO site is one of the finest lava tunnels in the world, featuring a spectacular array of stalactites and the largest known lava column. Following your subterranean adventure, find tranquility in the Bijarim Forest, home to a vast collection of nutmeg trees that are over 500 years old.
Relaxing Evening at Hamdeok Beach
After an eventful day, take a break at Hamdeok Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. The beach offers a great spot for a relaxing dip in the sea or simply unwinding with a book, the sound of the gentle waves rounding off a perfect day.
Day 3: Central Jeju Cultural Day
Immerse Yourself in Jeju’s Cultural Heritage
The day is dedicated to the heart of Jeju’s culture. Visit the Jeju National Museum for a deep dive into the island’s archeological history and folk culture. The museum’s extensive collection of artifacts showcases Jeju’s unique past, revealing stories of ancient communities and their way of life.
Traditional Hanok Lunch and Tea Ceremony Experience
Enjoy an authentic experience of dining in a Hanok, a traditional Korean house, where you can sit on the floor at a low table and be served a variety of Jeju’s finest dishes. After satisfying your taste buds, participate in a traditional Korean tea ceremony at the Green Tea Plantation in O’sulloc, indulging in the peaceful atmosphere while sipping on aromatic teas.
Visit to Mysterious Road and Spirited Horse Show
No visit to Jeju would be complete without experiencing the optical illusion of the Mysterious Road, where objects and water seem to roll and flow uphill due to the surrounding terrain. Later, head to the Jeju Horse Park for an exhilarating display of horseback riding and acrobatics, a nod to Jeju’s storied past with these beautiful animals.
Day 4: Jeju’s Southern Charms and Departure
Explore Jusangjeolli Cliff and Jungmun Beach
On your final morning, start by experiencing the awe-inspiring Jusangjeolli Cliff, a set of impressive rock pillars formed by ancient volcanic activity. Afterward, enjoy some downtime lounging on the golden sands of Jungmun Beach, letting the rhythmic waves soothe your soul.
Last Glimpses of Jeju: Sculpture Park and Goodbyes
Spend your last few hours meandering through the Jeju Sculpture Park. The venue harmoniously combines art with nature, allowing you to walk among imaginative sculptures set against the island’s lush landscape. It’s the perfect place to reflect on your incredible journey through Jeju.
Departure: As you head to the airport, drive past the picturesque fields and quaint villages one last time, carrying the memories of an island that has woven its way into your heart with its captivating culture and stunning natural beauty.
Post-Trip Reflection and Planning Your Return
As you ascend into the skies, leaving Jeju behind, your thoughts will already be turning to when you can return. The island’s deep culture, inviting landscapes, and warm people leave a lasting impression that’s hard to forget. Jeju is not just a destination; it’s a feeling that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
