Visible throughout the island is Hallasan Mountain, a dormant volcano that features hiking trails, nearby Gwaneumsa Temple and a crater lake at the 1,950 meter summit. Exploring the natural wonders of the island provides sight-seeing opportunities like no other. The Manjanggul Lava-tube, for example, reaches 23 meters high-created by lava streams running through. Gimnyeonggul Cave is a similar attraction nearby, though it is for the daring adventurers since it is technically closed to the public.
Seongsan Ilchubong, also known as Sunrise Peak, is a round almost-island-the peak of a tuff volcano that many hike up to watch the sunrise. You will see pictures of it all over the island, and it's about a 25 minute walk to the top. Other popular attractions include beaches like Hyeop-jae and Iho, Jungmun Lava Columns with a cove of vertical boulders that lead to the sea, Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, Hallim Park's botanical gardens and lava caves, and Yeomiji Botanic Garden with a selection of cacti, tropical fruits, flowers, water lilies, and many others for a total of 2000 species of rare plants and 1700 species of flowers and trees.
With all of Jeju's natural volcanic wonders, it is very common for visitors to hike Mount Halla, Jeju's most distinctive landmark, one of three UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites on the island, and South Korea's highest peak. The webpage of Hallasan National Park gives details and hiking advice on all of the park's trails. There are five hiking routes available: Yeongsil, Eorimok, Donnaeko, Gwaneumsa, and Seongpanak.
Another popular activity is to experience the culture of Jeju's folk villages which include Seongeup Folklore Village, Jeju Folk Village Museum, and the Folklore and Natural History Museum. There is also a vast selection of museums in history, art, wildlife, and culture to be found in locations throughout the island-the Green Tea Museum, African Art Museum, and Aqua Planet Aquarium are just a few.
The Jeongwol Daeboreum Fire Festival is another popular activity that is usually held in February, while the Loveland sculpture park, Kimyoung Maze of hedges, and Glass Castle theme park which specializes in glass sculptures can all be visited year round.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Cheju (Jeju). Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- 1Day Jeju Tour for Gangjeong Seogwipo Port Cruise Guests Layover for $67 details
- Small Group Day Tour in East Jeju Healing Island for $115 details
- Jeju Luxury Private Tour Including UNESCO Yacht Cruise for $168 details