If you’re interested in exploring Nature, Volcanoes, and Lava Tubes, a trip to Jeju Island is definitely worth considering. The island’s quieter off-peak months are also a great time to visit. Read on for some tips to make your trip to Jeju Island a truly unforgettable experience. And remember to pack your sunscreen and your swimsuit for an afternoon of fun in the sun.
Nature
If you’re looking for a little bit of adventure while on vacation in Korea, nature on Jeju Island is the place for you. Jeju is famous for its oranges, particularly the Hallabong orange. The sweetest orange on the island, these fruits are harvested by women in the deep sea. Hallabong oranges are eaten fresh, and the season lasts from the beginning of winter to early spring. A few centuries ago, they were heavily taxed and even forced pregnant women to dive into the cold waters.
The island has been shaped by erosion and weathering over millions of years, and you can see this in its geology. The black pig BBQ restaurants are a small blip in Jeju’s history, but the island is mostly untouched and wild. The colors are so vibrant on Jeju, ranging from volcanic blacks to greens and blues created by rich vegetation. And, if that’s not enough to make you feel the power of nature, don’t fret! There are daily tours leaving from Seoul and Busan.
Beaches
The South Korean island of Jeju is a popular destination for vacationers looking for beaches and an exhilarating volcanic landscape. The dormant Hallasan Mountain features hiking trails and a crater lake at the summit, a nearby temple, and the Geomunororeum Lava Tube System, which includes the seven-kilometer-long Manjanggul Cave. The Jeju Island National Park is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The secluded southern side of Jeju Island is ideal for swimmers and surfers who seek privacy. The island’s north and south sides offer some of the best beaches in the world, but the three most popular ones are perfect for a family vacation or a romantic weekend getaway. If you’re an experienced swimmer, you’ll love a day spent in the ocean on Jeju Island.
Volcanoes
If you’re a geology buff, you may enjoy a trip to Jeju Island’s volcanic region. Jeju is home to the tallest mountain in South Korea, Hallasan, which rises over 1,950 meters above sea level, and its 360 satellite volcanoes. Volcanic activity on Jeju began in the Cretaceous era and lasted until the early Tertiary period, with the most recent eruptions occurring 5,000 years ago. Several volcanic features can be seen on the island, including extensive lava tube caves.
The Seongsan Ilchulbong monolith is 200m high and formed by an underwater eruption that took place 5,000 years ago. To reach the top of this impressive structure, you can walk across wooden platforms. Seongsan Ilchulbong is an internationally recognized Natural Monument, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a UNESCO Global Geopark Site. You’ll also get to see the crater itself, which is home to 120 lava flows.
Lava tubes
One of the most interesting parts of a trip to Jeju Island is exploring its lava tubes. This unique geological formation was formed by lava flowing through the island. Though many of these lava tubes are now empty, Jeju Island is known for its UNESCO protected Geomunoreum cave. Its Manjanggul cave is more than eight kilometers long and is characterized by its well-preserved passage shapes.
When visiting Jeju Island, make sure to spend a day exploring its crater and lava tubes. The ilchul-bong crater is an essential stop. This unique geological formation is an interesting way to experience Jeju’s unique culture. The island is home to many waterfalls and stone grandfather statues. If you’re planning to rent a smaller vehicle for your trip, consider staying in Jeju City. Seogwipo is also a great place to stay.
Culture
The haenyeo culture is an expression of traditional maritime economy. Historically, only men practiced diving, but wars and sea accidents pushed women to take over these jobs. Now, haenyeo women work as breadwinners, care for children, and contribute to the local economy. Free-dive fishing suits women better than men, since their body fat content is higher and their shivering threshold is higher than a man’s.
While exploring the island’s culture, the authors of the book were not limited to local artists and museums. The project included intangible heritages like the art of female divers and a natural dyeing technique, and showcased the diverse nature of Jeju. Though the book was written from a unique inside perspective, it still only scratches the surface of the island’s culture. Further research and discussions with local culture experts are needed in order to fully understand Jeju’s culture.
Transportation
While there are no subways or elaborate public transportation systems on Jeju Island, buses can get you around the island. Buses are relatively cheap and air-conditioned, but they tend to have limited stops and may only be in Korean. If you are on a tight budget, buses are a great option for getting around the island. A taxi service from the airport is another option, as the driver is usually a friend of the islander’s. You can also use an electric bike for transportation.
Rental cars on Jeju Island are also available. These vehicles are ideal for groups as they are much easier to drive and tend to be cheaper as well. Additionally, electric cars don’t need to be refueled, which means you’ll save a few dollars. Fortunately, electric charging stations are scattered throughout the island, as well as at many larger hotels. If you’re not comfortable driving, consider renting a bike.