Jeju Island, located at the southernmost tip of Korea, is a popular resort destination often called ‘Korea’s Hawaii.’ While its clear, beautiful beaches and luxurious hotel stays are appealing, the true charm of Jeju Island lies in its unique natural environment shaped by volcanic activity, and its distinctive local culture symbolized by ‘Samda’ (meaning ‘three abundances’: stones, wind, and women).
In this article, a professional travel writer has carefully selected 5 ‘Jeju Island tourist attractions’ that are highly recommended for everyone, from first-time visitors to repeat travelers. We’ll go beyond textbook historical explanations to provide an abundance of real information, including the local atmosphere, best times to visit, and hidden deep insights known only to locals!
Bijarim Forest
📍 Address: 55 Bijasup-gil, Gujwa-eup, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea
Located in the eastern part of Jeju Island, ‘Bijarim Forest’ is the world’s largest pure forest, home to approximately 2,900 nutmeg trees (bija trees) ranging from 500 to 800 years old. Designated Natural Monument No. 374, stepping into this ‘Forest of a Thousand Years’ immediately disconnects you from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, enveloping you in profound tranquility.
The flat promenade, paved with red scoria (volcanic gravel), is easy to walk for everyone, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. As you venture deeper into the forest, the aroma of phytoncides (healing scents emitted by trees) intensifies, creating a mysterious atmosphere reminiscent of a Studio Ghibli film.
The main highlights are the ‘Thousand-Year Tree,’ a majestic 800-year-old nutmeg tree standing tall at the heart of the forest, and the ‘Linked Branches,’ where two trees are joined at their roots. While the sunlight filtering through the trees on a clear day is beautiful, visiting on a rainy or foggy day is actually the connoisseur’s choice. The red soil and green moss become more vibrant with the rain, enhancing the contrast and offering an even more mystical and deep healing experience.
Seongeup Folk Village
📍 Address: 30 Seongeupjeonguihyeon-ro, Pyoseon-myeon, Seogwipo, Jeju-do, South Korea
If you want to experience Jeju Island’s traditional way of life firsthand, ‘Seongeup Folk Village’ at the foot of Hallasan Mountain is a must-visit. This village, which flourished as an administrative center for hundreds of years since the 15th-century Joseon Dynasty, is not just a theme park; it’s a ‘living folk village’ where about 200 residents still live today. It’s also famous as a filming location for the super-hit Korean drama ‘Dae Jang Geum (Jewel in the Palace)’.
Everywhere you look, you can see the wisdom of people who coexisted with Jeju Island’s harsh natural environment: black lava stone walls skillfully stacked to block strong sea winds, winding narrow alleys called ‘olle,’ and thatched roofs tied down in a grid pattern with ropes. Also, Jeju Island has long been known for ‘having no thieves,’ and instead of grand gates, three wooden logs called ‘jeongnang’ are placed at the entrances of homes – a sight not to be missed.
Within the village, you’ll often find local volunteer guides who speak fluent Japanese and offer entertaining explanations, including deep insights into traditional customs like the ‘Ttongttongsi’ (a traditional system combining pig farming and toilets). At the end of the tour, they might enthusiastically recommend local specialties like Cordyceps or Omija tea, but embrace it as part of the lively local business culture of Korea.
Jeongbang Waterfall
📍 Address: 37 Chilsimni-ro 214beon-gil, Seogwipo, Jeju-do, South Korea
One of Jeju Island’s three major waterfalls, ‘Jeongbang Waterfall,’ is an incredibly rare coastal waterfall in Asia, where a magnificent column of water plunges 23 meters directly into the sea from a black cliff. The contrast of the lush pine trees, the vertical cliff, and the dynamic cascade into the deep blue sea is truly breathtaking.
Legend has it that Xu Fu, who was ordered by China’s Qin Shi Huang to find the elixir of immortality, was so captivated by the scenery that he carved the words ‘Xu Shi Guo Zhi’ (Xu Fu passed through here) into the rock face.
A highlight of the visit is the opportunity to descend the stairs to the rocky area right beside the waterfall basin. The exhilarating sensation of being drenched in negative ions and spray amidst the roaring sound is exceptional. If you’re lucky, you might even encounter haenyeo (female divers) near the waterfall, freshly preparing and selling sea urchins, sea cucumbers, and abalones they’ve just harvested. Enjoying fresh seafood with this spectacular view is a connoisseur’s way to experience Jeju Island. Be sure to wear comfortable sneakers, as the ground consists of large, slippery rocks.
Jungmun Tourist Complex
📍 Address: Saekdal-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
The ‘Jungmun Tourist Complex,’ sprawling across the southern part of the island, is Jeju Island’s most vibrant area, catering to every traveler’s needs. Developed since 1978, this vast area is home to luxurious 5-star hotels like Shilla Hotel and Lotte Hotel, and brings together beautiful beaches, museums, and natural scenic spots.
You can leisurely surf or gaze at the ocean at ‘Jungmun Saekdal Beach,’ or marvel at the mysteries of nature at ‘Cheonjeyeon Waterfall’ and the ‘Jusangjeolli Cliff,’ where hexagonal columns line the coast. Additionally, attractions like the ‘Teddy Bear Museum,’ ‘Yeomiji Botanical Garden,’ and various hands-on indoor facilities mean that you can enjoy a full day of fun, rain or shine, suitable for children and adults alike.
The dining scene is also incredibly rich. You can enjoy an elegant lunch with an ocean view at a luxury hotel’s opulent buffet, or choose from numerous BHC Chicken outlets, famous black pork BBQ restaurants, and stylish cafes in the surrounding area. This area offers a high-level culmination of ‘fun, nature, food, and relaxation’ all in one place, making it an absolute must-visit for short-term travelers looking to save on travel time, and families seeking a safe and comfortable stay.
Jeju Stone Park
📍 Address: 2023 Namjo-ro, Jocheon-eup, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea
Jeju Island is famous for its ‘Dol Harubang’ (stone grandfathers) statues seen everywhere, but ‘Jeju Stone Park’ offers a systematic way to learn about their deep history and the island’s stone culture. Built within the vast ‘Gotjawal’ (a pristine forest on a volcanic rock formation), this park is designed around the creation myth of Jeju Island, featuring the gigantic goddess ‘Seolmundae Halmang’ and the Five Hundred Generals.
Within the park, countless Dol Harubang with unique shapes and expressions, traditional thatched-roof stone houses recreating ancient lifestyles, and bizarre natural rock formations are displayed in abundance. The museum exhibits are also very comprehensive, making you feel the romance of Jeju Island’s formation, which began with volcanic eruptions.
Given its immense size, you’ll need at least 2-3 hours to explore thoroughly. Despite being a famous resort destination, it’s not overly crowded, and its greatest appeal is the quiet space where nature and art merge, allowing for a leisurely stroll. There are many photo-worthy spots, but remember to bring a hat, umbrella, and plenty of drinking water in summer, as there are few shaded areas. On ‘Culture Day,’ the last Wednesday of every month, admission can sometimes be free, so you might get lucky if your timing is right.
Local Tips to Enjoy Jeju Island 120%
Optimal Transportation: Rental Car or Chartered Taxi
Jeju Island is larger than Okinawa Main Island in Japan, and its main tourist attractions are scattered across the entire island. While bus travel is possible, the frequency can be low and transfers complicated. Therefore, for travelers who want to make efficient use of their time, a rental car (international driver’s license required) or a full-day chartered taxi is highly recommended. Chartered taxi drivers often share insider tips on delicious local eateries!
Dress for Sudden Weather Changes
True to its nickname, ‘Samda Island’ (island of many winds, stones, and women), Jeju Island is characterized by very strong sea winds and unpredictable weather. Especially when visiting coastal spots like Seongsan Ilchulbong or areas around the higher altitudes of Hallasan Mountain, it’s advisable to bring a light windbreaker, even in summer. Also, since you’ll often be walking on cobbled streets and rugged volcanic rock paths, always wear comfortable, broken-in sneakers.
