Jeju Island: Latest 2025 Travel Guide
🏝 Editor's Guide: A Complete Guide to Traveling to Jeju Island
Jeju Island, South Korea's largest island, boasts stunning beauty year-round, earning it the nickname "Hawaii of Korea." It boasts magnificent volcanic terrain, pristine beaches, waterfalls, seas of flowers, and a tranquil countryside. As a duty-free zone, Jeju is convenient for shopping, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing vacation.
📍 Must-see attractions in Jeju Island
1. Seongsan Ilchulbong
- Features : A world natural heritage site, a huge hill formed by a volcanic eruption, it is the best place to watch the sunrise.
- Editor's Tip : Waking up early to watch the sunrise can be tiring, but it's definitely worth it! Just remember to bring a jacket, as it can be quite windy in the early morning.
2. Seopjikoji
- Features : The coastline is spectacular and was the filming location for the Korean drama "All In".
- Editor's Tip : In spring, the rapeseed flowers are in full bloom, making for dreamy photos; in summer, the sea is a luminous blue.
3. Manjanggul Cave
- Features : One of the longest lava tubes in the world, cool and mysterious.
- Editor's reminder : The temperature inside the cave is low, so it's very comfortable to visit in summer, but the ground is slippery, so you need to wear non-slip shoes.
4. Cheonjiyeon Waterfall
- Features : One of the three major waterfalls, it is lit up at night, romantic and spectacular.
- Editor's tip : Go to see the sunset and night view in the evening to capture two atmospheres at once.
5. Udo Island
- Features : A small island next to Jeju, famous for its white sand beaches and Udo peanut ice cream.
- The editor recommends : rent an electric car or bicycle to travel around the island, and the scenery along the way is postcard-quality.
6. Hallasan National Park
- Features : The highest mountain in South Korea, with different scenery in each season and a variety of hiking routes.
- Editor’s tip : The snowy scenery is stunning in winter, but be sure to wear cold-weather gear.
🍊 Must-try foods in Jeju Island
| gourmet food | Recommended locations | Editor's Thoughts |
|---|---|---|
| Black Pork Bulgogi (흑돼지구이) | Jeju City Black Pork Street | The meat is chewy and fragrant, and it goes great with kimchi. |
| Seafood Soup (해물탕) | Seogwipo Port, Jeju City | It has a rich seafood flavor and lots of ingredients, and it’s super warming to drink on cold days. |
| Abalone Stone Pot Rice (전복돌솥밥) | Seogwipo, Udo Island | Abalone is fresh and sweet, and it is super satisfying when paired with hot stone pot rice. |
| Jeju tangerine dessert | Island Café | Jeju tangerines are sweet and juicy, and they are delicious in smoothies and cakes. |
| Niudao Peanut Ice Cream | Ushi Island | The peanuts are fragrant but not too sweet, and it is a great pleasure to eat them while looking at the seaside. |
🚎 Jeju Island Transportation Guide
1. Bus
- There are city buses (Jeju City, Seogwipo City) and sightseeing buses (connecting major attractions).
- Editor’s tip : Use Kakao Map or Naver Map to find directions, as Google Maps is not accurate in Korea.
2. Rent a car
- The most recommended way! Tourist spots are scattered, bus routes are infrequent, and renting a car is the most time-saving option.
- Editor's reminder : You need an international driver's license and pay attention to right-hand driving habits.
3. Taxi/chartered car
- Suitable for travelers who do not drive. If you charter a car, you can ask the driver to take you to the scenic spots.
- The fare is higher than the bus, but it saves effort and time.
4. Airport to city center
- Jeju International Airport is located in the north and it takes 15 to 30 minutes by bus or taxi to reach Jeju City.
🎯 Editor recommends a 3-day itinerary
Day 1 : Jeju City → Black Pork Street → Cheonjeyeon Waterfall
Day 2 : Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak → Seopjikoji → Udo Island Circle
Day 3 : Hallasan Mountain Hike → Manjanggul Cave → Orange Orchard Experience
