Jeju

Korea's largest volcanic island, where Hallasan, Seongsan Ilchulbong and the lava tubes are UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites, known for its seascapes, Olle trails and haenyeo culture.

This region is Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, which administers Jeju City and Seogwipo City and includes the main island of Jeju and outlying islands such as Udo, Gapado, Marado and the Chuja Islands.

Highlights: “Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes” is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, including Hallasan, Korea's highest peak at 1,947 m, Seongsan Ilchulbong and Manjanggul Cave; there are also Seopjikoji, the coral sand beach on Udo, Yongduam Rock, Cheonjiyeon and Jeongbang waterfalls, the Jusangjeolli columnar joints, Sanbangsan and the Yongmeori coast, and the haenyeo (women divers) culture inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. More than twenty Olle trails circle the island's coast and are well suited to hiking in sections.

Classic itinerary: one day each for the east (Seongsan Ilchulbong, Udo, Seopjikoji, Manjanggul), the west (Hyeopjae Beach, Sanbangsan, Yongmeori coast) and the south (Seogwipo, Jungmun Resort, waterfalls), plus one day to climb Hallasan; 4–5 days is recommended.

Getting around: Jeju International Airport has direct flights from many Chinese cities, and Chinese citizens flying directly to Jeju can enjoy 30 days of visa-free entry (valid only for staying on Jeju). Island buses cover the main sights, but Chinese driver's licenses cannot be used directly to drive in Korea, so check car rental requirements in advance.

Good to know: the Baengnokdam route up Hallasan must be reserved online in advance, and you must pass the checkpoint before the designated time; sea winds are strong in winter, so bring windproof clothing.

Destinations

Itineraries