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Jeju Island, also known as “The Island of the Gods,” is a precious gem of Korea, famous for its majestic and diverse natural beauty. Located in the south of the Korean peninsula, Jeju attracts tourists with its fine white sand beaches, clear blue sea water, and fresh air. In particular, Hallasan Mountain – the highest volcano in Korea – is one of the places not to be missed when coming to Jeju, with snow-covered peaks in winter and brilliant azalea flowers in spring.
With a mild climate year-round, Jeju is an ideal destination for those who want to experience a relaxing vacation and explore nature. Not only is it a paradise for adventurous travelers, Jeju is also the perfect destination for couples on their journey to find a romantic and peaceful space.
Join us to discover what’s special about Jeju Island, what’s delicacy in Jeju, what to do in Jeju and where to stay!
Jeju blog: Where Is Jeju Island?
Jeju Island is a large island located in the south of the Korean peninsula, in the Yellow Sea. This is the smallest and most southerly autonomous province of Korea, about 90 minutes by flight from Busan, one of Korea’s major cities. Jeju Island is not only a famous tourist center with majestic and diverse natural landscapes but also a culturally and historically important place.
Jeju is known for its mild climate, white sand beaches, extinct volcanoes, and vast national parks. The island was formed by volcanic activity about 2 million years ago and is currently home to Mount Hallasan, the highest mountain in Korea. With its natural beauty and rich cultural values, Jeju Island has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Global Geopark and Biosphere Reserve.
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Jeju Island, Korea?
For Vietnamese tourists who want to travel to Jeju Island, South Korea, there is good news that you do not need a visa if you only stay in Jeju Island. Jeju Island has a special visa exemption policy for citizens of more than 180 countries, including Vietnam, with conditions of stay not exceeding 30 days and visitors only staying in the Jeju Island area.
However, if you want to travel from Jeju Island to other areas of Korea, you will need to apply for a visa before departure. Therefore, if your plans include exploring more than Jeju Island, make sure you have prepared all the necessary documents for a Korean visa.
Note that visa regulations may change depending on the political situation and epidemic, so you should check the latest information from the nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate before planning your trip.
Which season is the best to travel to Jeju?
In spring, from March to May, the weather here is very “chill” and many festivals take place. This is considered the best time to travel to Jeju. The scenery of Jeju in the fall from September to November is equally beautiful with slightly cool weather and beautiful clouds and sky, promising to bring you “magical” check-in photos. Nature exploration activities are also much more convenient and economical.
If you come to Jeju in winter (from December to February next year), you will be immersed in the “white snow dream”. This is also an ideal time for couples to take wedding photos, celebrate their love anniversary or want to recreate classic scenes in popular Korean dramas.
Means of Transportation on Jeju Island, Korea (#Jeju island guide)
Jeju Golden Bus (Jeju blog)
What’s more “cheap than traveling by bus? With affordable prices and especially convenience, the bus promises to bring you a memorable experience when arriving in Jeju. For example, there is the 45-seat Jeju Golden Bus, which can take you around the island for about USD 9.82/trip.
The bus departs from the center of the island, stopping at 22 stops at famous landmarks, airports or large hotels. There are about 12 trips a day, 1 hour apart from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Travel time for each trip is about 50 minutes.
Taxi
Traveling by taxi will cost a little more than the bus, but will help you “reach” faster. In addition, on Jeju Island there are many providers of sightseeing tours and taxi tours with prices starting from USD 117.86/trip.
Rent a private car
Going anywhere when you want is certainly something many people desire. Renting a car and planning a trip with friends and family is really comfortable, right? Besides convenience and savings, local drivers can give you many useful tips about schedules.
Take a Tour
Whether you go with your family, a group of friends, your other half or even alone, the choice to go on a tour is always your smart choice. You will be able to travel comfortably with a tour guide without having to think about transportation.
Some great tours on Jeju island you should book
As one of the seven natural wonders worth visiting in Korea, Jeju Island has many interesting things waiting for you to explore. Let’s take a look at some outstanding tours with us!
Southern Jeju island tour
What is special in southern Jeju Island that attracts thousands of visitors every year? You should book a Southern Jeju tour now and explore interesting stops such as: Dokkaebi mysterious road, Jeong Bang waterfall, Hallasan mountain and more.
Dokkaebi Mysterious Road
The mysterious Dokkaebi road has a height of more than 300m above sea level and a length of 1.1km. So what brings mystery to this road? Due to volcanic impact, the shape of this road is quite special. In addition, another unbelievable thing is that if you try to place a can of water at the foot of the slope, you will definitely be surprised because it will strangely roll up the slope on its own. So, what are you waiting for? Come here to explore this strange phenomenon?
Jeongbang Waterfall
As a large waterfall pouring straight into the sea, Jeongbang waterfall will be an interesting stop that is hard to miss. The 23m high white water stream is what makes Jeongbang one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Jeju. Sitting on large rocks, enjoying the fresh seafood that the people here catch is also an experience not to be missed when coming to Jeju.
Hallasan Mountain Discovery Tour
The Hallasan shield volcano trekking tour is a “must-try”. Hallasan is a volcano recognized by UNESCO as a world natural heritage site. Hallasan is the highest volcano in Korea, known as the mountain that reaches the Milky Way. With an altitude of up to 1950m, the mountain top is covered with soft clouds, creating a scene that is both poetic and majestic. Leisurely watching the cloudy sky on the mountain will give you a truly relaxing feeling.
Jusangjeolli Cliffs
With a shimmering and magical black color scheme, Jusangjeolli Cliffs with unique octagonal stones promise to be a beautiful – unique – strange check-in location. The rocks here were formed from the lava flows of Hallasan volcano thousands of years ago. Standing on the mountain and looking down, you will see that this rocky beach looks like tall buildings close together.
Manjanggul Lava Cave Discovery Tour
No less than South Jeju, the Eastern Jeju tour will bring memorable experiences in your journey to the land of kimchi. The beginning is the exploration of Manjanggul lava cave. This is Manjanggul lava cave – the longest tunnel made of lava in the world. This is truly a unique miracle on the dream island. Do you want to pack your backpack and come here to explore?
Seopjikoji Hill
If you come here in April, we are sure that you will have “million-like” photos. This is the time when yellow mustard flowers are in full bloom, which have appeared many times in Korean movies. There’s nothing more beautiful than this delicate romantic scene as a background for muses or couples! And more specifically, this place is open 24/7 for free!
Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)
Watching the sunrise on the crater, just hearing about it makes you feel excited, right? Looking back from afar, Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak looks like a giant crown. To conquer this mountain, you have to walk on a small stone path for about 200m. One very interesting thing when you climb Seongsan Mountain is the image of people waiting for you at the top of the mountain with a pot of hot tea. From the top of the mountain, looking down at the blue sea, white sand, and yellow mustard flowers is really “chill”, don’t miss it!
Jeju Island Western Tour
If you’re tired of climbing mountains and admiring the scenery, just buy a tour to West Jeju and go swimming! This place has beautiful Hyeopjae beach with blue water and endless sand. There is the poetic Cheonjiyeon waterfall pouring beautiful white water all year round and many other “top of the top” stops.
Don’t miss famous Jeju Island tourist attractions
World Automobile Museum in Jeju Island
- Address: 1610 Jungsanganseo-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Hours: 9 AM–6 PM
If you are a car enthusiast, visit the Jeju World Automobile Museum. Here, you will see the rare wooden ‘Hillman Straight 8’ – only 6 in the world, a driving experience for all ages. Even more interesting things will appear when you go to the next floor of the museum. It’s called a car museum, but the upper floor also displays pianos.
Chocolate Museum in Jeju Island (Jeju island blog)
- Address: 551-18 Ilgwa-ri, Daejeong-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Hours: 10:30 AM–5 PM
Chocolate has long been a favorite sweet snack of many people. Making delicious chocolate yourself will be an unforgettable experience on your trip to Jeju. Coming to the Chocolate Museum in Jeju, you will be immersed in the world of history, the secrets of chocolate, try many types of chocolate and wrap them as gifts for loved ones.
Hwajowon Flower & Bird Park In Jeju Island
- Address: 804 Aewon-ro, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Hours: 9 AM–6 PM
Exploring nature is an activity not to be missed on trips to the land of Kimchi. Coming to Hwajowon Park, you will experience the natural life of colorful birds and parrots, along with other wild animals. Have you ever thought you would be able to see with your own eyes and even interact directly with birds that you only see on TV or in books? All will appear before your eyes when you come here to visit.
Dolphin Watching in Jeju Island, Korea
On the island of love Jeju, at sunset, watching dolphins with your other half is truly romantic. If you go with your family or friends, Gimnyeong cruise will be the best choice to relax and watch dolphins. Watching fish dive and jump out of the water like in the movie Extraordinary Attorney Woo will definitely make you admire!
Aqua Planet Jeju – Jeju Island’s Leading Aquarium
If you love the colorful ocean world, don’t miss Aqua Planet Jeju. Home to 48,000 species of marine flora and fauna, this aquarium will let you admire thousands of colorful fish and corals, listen to presentations about the vast undersea world and much more!
Sanghyowon Botanical Garden In Jeju Island
- Address: 2847-37 Sallongnam-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Hours: 9 AM–6 PM
Sanghyowon Botanical Garden is a very poetic and picturesque check-in location. Immersing yourself in the colors and scents of flowers, wearing headphones and listening to your favorite music, it really can’t be more “chill”. We guarantee that the troubles in life will “disappear” immediately and you will feel your soul as clear as poetry.
Nanta Show In Jeju Island
Korea is famous for its rich artistic culture. Coming to Jeju, participating in the Nanta Show, you will enjoy a wordless musical performance that is both humorous and unique. The special feature of the performances is that the characters will transform into professional, intelligent and witty chefs. Try it out, you won’t be disappointed!
9.81 Park Jeju
- Address: 880-24 Cheondeok-ro, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Hours: 9 AM–6:20 PM
If you are passionate about speed racing, don’t miss the opportunity to race at 9.81 Park Jeju. This park is located on the west side of Hallasan mountain. Admire the exhibition of real car models in the exhibition room, immerse yourself in speed races and admire the poetic scenery of Jeju Island and buy souvenirs as gifts. Are you ready to start a race?
Walk and Take Photos With Hanbok In Jeju Island
Of course, when you come to Korea, you can’t help but take photos wearing a hanbok. Participating in the hanbok walking and photography tour, you will enjoy walking around Yongduam and Yongyeon valleys in beautiful traditional hanbok. In addition, if you love cultural and historical beauty, this trip will satisfy you because the local tour guide will enthusiastically tell you the history of this place.
Where to stay in Jeju Island?
A relaxing getaway is one of the things that makes a memorable travel vacation. Coming to Jeju but don’t know where to stay? Don’t worry, below are a few hotels that we recommend for you.
Hotel Alice And Trunk
- Address: Korea, Jeju-si, KR특별자치도제주시연동연동12길 4
- Reference price: $55/night
Located right in the center of Jeju Island, Alice and Trunk Hotel is an ideal stopover, very convenient to get to attractions on the island. With a team of attentive customer service staff, this classy hotel promises to bring you a wonderful vacation. (Agoda, Booking)
Best Western Jeju Hotel
- Address: 27 Doryeong-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Reference price: $39.28/night
With a simple but no less luxurious design, Best Western Jeju Hotel is especially suitable for those who love minimalism, monotony but still attractive. Modern equipment, fragrant blankets and mattresses and a “great” view overlooking Jeju are what attract many people to choose this place as a place to rest. (Agoda, Booking)
Ventimo Hotel & Residence Jeju
- Address: Korea, Jeju-do, Jeju-si, 특별자치도, Yeon-dong, 290-3 KR
- Reference price: $51/night
Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, Ventimo Hotel & Residence Jeju provides you with great amenities, from gym, restaurant, cafe, parking, wifi, private bathroom in the rooms. Too convenient for a place to rest, right? (Agoda, Booking)
Cutie Pie Hotel
- Address: 610 Aewolhaean-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Reference price: $47/night
With a beautiful view of the sea, what could be more chill than relaxing in your room, sipping a cocktail, and watching the rolling waves? Coming to Cutie Pie Hotel, you will definitely be very satisfied with the quality of service here. (Klook, Booking)
Ocean Suites Jeju Hotel
- Address: 74 Tapdonghaean-ro, Samdoi-dong, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Reference price: $58.94/night
Only 30 minutes by car from the beach, Ocean Suites Jeju Hotel is where you can rest and relax after a long day of fun travel. All amenities like wifi, TV, free parking, bathroom and all modern equipment are available in this hotel. (Agoda, Booking)
Below are some best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.
- Yeha guesthouse (Address: 9 Samo-gil, Samdo 1(il)-dong, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea / Phone: +82 64-724-5506), 2-star hotel with room rates from $11/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com).
- Best Western Jeju Hotel (Address: 27 Doryeong-ro, Nohyeong-dong, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea / Phone: +82 64-797-6000), 4-star hotel with room rates from $56/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com).
- Maison Glad Jeju (Address: 80 Noyeon-ro, Yeon-dong, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea / Phone: +82 64-747-4900), 5-star hotel with room rates from $75/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com).
- Shilla Stay Jeju (Address: 100 Noyeon-ro, Yeon-dong, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea / Phone: +82 64-717-9000), 4-star hotel with room rates from $78/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com).
- Lotte City Hotels Jeju (Address: 83 Doryeong-ro, Yeon-dong, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea / Phone: +82 64-730-1000), 5-star hotel with room rates from $93/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com).
In additional, you can find, check rates, availability & booking for Jeju island hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com.
What to Eat in Jeju Island? Irresistibly delicacy in Jeju Island
Cuisine is one of the things not to be missed when traveling to Jeju. What to eat in Jeju? Join us to find delicious Jeju Island dishes that every foodie should try.
Jeon Bok Juk Abalone Porridge
This is the most expensive dish on Jeju Island. However, that still cannot stop the attraction of abalone porridge to diners. If you have tasted this specialty, you will definitely remember its rich and delicious flavor, extremely suitable for cold weather days.
Black Pork
When you come to Jeju Island, don’t forget to try black pork! Black pork is so famous that there is a whole street on Jeju Island dedicated to this dish. Black pork has the same color as beef. When eating black pork, the fragrant fatty layer of fat combined with the sweetness and richness of lean meat is a unique flavor that you cannot find elsewhere. With a very reasonable price for a cozy black pork meal with the family, about $15 – $30, you will definitely enjoy it.
Sashimi
On Jeju Island, there are many types of fresh seafood, especially fresh fish caught every day. For that reason, sashimi is a dish not to be missed when coming here. Most seafood is caught and processed immediately, so sashimi in Jeju is very fresh and hygienic.
Jeju tangerine
If you travel to Jeju Island on your own, why don’t you try visiting tangerine gardens and taste the refreshing taste of Jeju tangerines? The tangerines here have large fruit, bright yellow skin, and a sweet flavor. You can also buy a few pounds to bring home as gifts.
Memil Guksu Buckwheat Noodles
In Jeju, the main agricultural product is buckwheat, so memil guksu is one of the dishes not to be missed on a trip to Jeju Island, Korea. This dish also has another name: cold soba noodles. Under the summer heat, eating a cool bowl of memil guksu with a harmonious broth and delicious toppings can be called “the best of the best”.
What should you buy as a gift when traveling to Jeju? Cool Souvenirs in Jeju Island
When traveling to Jeju Island, Korea, tourists often look for unique souvenirs to bring back as souvenirs or to give to relatives and friends. Below are popular and meaningful souvenirs from Jeju:
- Products from Hallabong Orange: Hallabong is a typical Jeju orange, famous for its sweet and fragrant flavor. Visitors can buy products made from Hallabong such as jam, candy, or even wine as gifts.
- Natural cosmetics in Jeju: Jeju Island is famous for its natural cosmetic products, containing ingredients from endemic island plants such as coconut water, seaweed, green tea, and lava. Korean cosmetic brands often have separate product lines using ingredients from Jeju.
- Jeju Scenic Postcards and Stickers: For those who love simplicity, a set of postcards or stickers with images of famous Jeju attractions such as Hallasan Mountain, Seongsan Ilchulbong Beach, or folk village Jeju Folk Village, will be a great way to preserve and share memories.
- Lava rock: Jeju is a volcanic island, and souvenir products made from lava rock are a unique choice. The lava rock not only symbolizes the island’s origin but is also believed to bring good luck.
- Jeju green tea: Jeju Island is also famous for growing green tea, with lush green tea hills. Green tea from Jeju, thanks to its special climate and soil conditions, has a unique flavor, making it a delicate and enjoyable gift.
- Jeju cakes and sweets: Besides Hallabong oranges, Jeju also produces many other unique cakes and sweets such as Omegi rice cakes, candies with typical fruit flavors of the island. These products are not only delicious but also beautifully packaged, suitable as gifts.
Each souvenir from Jeju is not just an item but also contains a story about the culture and nature of the island, making them a memorable memory for anyone who has ever visited this place.
The post first appeared on Klook Vietnam and was translated by Living Nomads. If you find any images or text that belong to you, please contact us, so we can credit you or give us permission to use them. Thank you very much!
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Jeju you can refer to
- Private Jeju International Airport Transfers (CJU) for Jeju City
- Private Jeju International Airport Transfers (CJU) for Seogwipo City
- Jeju City Bus
- Eastern Jeju Discovery
- Western Island Exploration
- Eastern Jeju Private Day Tour
- Western Jeju Private Day Tour
- Southern Jeju Adventure Day Tour
- Jeju Private Car Charter
- Jeju Island UNESCO Day Tour
- Jeju Island UNESCO & Must-visit Day Tour (By Wondertrip)
- Customize Day Tour in Jeju Island (9 Hours)
- Aqua Planet Jeju Ticket [Foreigners Only]
- Jeju Private Car Charter by Wonder Trip
- Jeju 9.81 Park Ticket
- [Limited Offer] AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket in Seoul
- 4G Prepaid SIM Card (SK Airports Pick Up) for South Korea
- [SALE] South Korea 4G Pocket WiFi (KR Airports Pick Up) from KT Olleh
- 4G WiFi (MY Airport Pick Up) for South Korea (Unlimited Data)
- 4G Portable WiFi for South Korea from Uroaming (Unlimited Data)
- [SALE] Instant Ticket: Korea Rail Pass (KR PASS) 2/3/4/5Days
- [Limited Offer] Incheon International Airport (ICN) Luggage Services (Between Airport and Hotel) by Safex
Are you looking for more Jeju travel guide and top things to do in Jeju: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Jeju travel blog (Jeju blog) — The fullest guide for a budget trip to Jeju island, South Korea.