Jeju Island South Korea tourist spot, is a captivating destination off South Korea’s coast known for its natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. The place offers a diverse range of attractions, each with its unique charm and allure. From the picturesque Udo Island, shaped like a reclining cow, to the stunning Hamdeok Beach with its disappearing sandbar, there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy.
To make the most of your trip, we have compiled the must-visit places you should include in your itinerary, the ideal time to plan your trip, and, most importantly, how travel insurance safeguards you from unforeseen circumstances.
Top Places to Visit in Jeju
Following are some of the excellent places to visit in Jeju Island.
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Udo Jeju
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Hamdeok Beach
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Manjanggul Cave
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Dongdaemun Market
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Bijarim Forest
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Udo Jeju
Udo Island, one of the excellent Jeju Island places to visit, is a picturesque lava plateau shaped like a reclining cow. Its settlement history dates back to the Joseon Dynasty in 1697. The Korean government has established a horse ranch there. Udo Island, a beloved destination for locals and tourists, offers its unique charm and attracts visitors with its natural beauty and historical significance.
Things to Do at Udo Jeju
Udo Jeju, one of the most favoured Jeju Island South Korea tourist spots, offers diverse attractions.
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Jugan Myeongweol, a sea cave beneath Udobong, dazzles with a moonlight-like glow during mid-morning.
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Jeonpo Mangdo showcases the panoramic view of Udo during a ferry ride.
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Jidu Cheongsa unveils breathtaking vistas from Udobong.
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Hamdeok Beach
Hamdeok Beach, one of the excellent places to visit on Jeju Island, is situated on the northern shores. When planning a visit to Hamdeok Beach on Jeju Island, there are three primary options: renting a car, taking a bus, or joining a tour. Renting a car allows for flexible exploration at your own pace, ensuring freedom from public transportation schedules. Although one can visit Jeju Island year-round, the ideal beach weather is the summer months.
Things to Do at Hamdeok Beach
Hamdeok Beach, one of the excellent Jeju Island places to visit, offers unique attractions.
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The disappearing sandbar is a massive feature that reappears each morning and vanishes at night.
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During low tide, walking to the other beaches is possible.
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Manjanggul Cave
The Manjanggul lava tube cave, one of the excellent Jeju Island places to visit, was formed around 200,000-300,000 years ago during volcanic activity on the island. Manjanggul Cave is the 14th largest lava tube globally and the second largest in Jeju, measuring 18 meters (60 feet) wide and 23 meters (100 meters) tall. It extends for approximately 7.4 km (4.6 miles), with only a portion accessible to the public.
Things to Do at Manjanggul Cave
Manjanggul lava tube cave, one of the most favoured Jeju Island South Korea tourist spots, offers the following.
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This unique cave showcases stunning lava stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones.
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Adorned with multi-coloured lights, the cave exudes a mysterious ambience.
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Manjanggul Cave offers an underground world filled with diverse rocks.
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Dongdaemun Market
Established after the liberation in 1945, Jeju Dongdaemun Traditional Market, one of the excellent places to visit on Jeju Island, has a rich history. A devastating fire in March 1954 resulted in the complete destruction of the market and its surrounding area. However, the market was relocated to its current site while retaining its original name. Over the years, Dongdaemun Market has become one of the most famous traditional markets in Jeju, catering to a large number of customers.
Things to Do at Dongdaemun Market
Dongdaemun Market, one of the excellent Jeju Island places to visit, offers the following.
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Street food stands out with creative menus.
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Seafood restaurants nearby are worth trying.
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Sample and buy famous Jeju tangerines.
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Dol Haerubang-shaped chocolates with tangerine flavours make great souvenirs.
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Find fair-priced magnets and trinkets.
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Bijarim Forest
Bijarim Forest, designated as a natural monument, is renowned for its abundant emission of phytoncide, known to enhance the human body's immune system and natural healing capabilities. The forest, also known as the Forest of Torreyas, has 2800 Torreyas, rare orchids and other unique plant species. The forest sees a steady footfall throughout the year as the trees retain leaves even in winter.
Things to Do at Bijarim Forest
Bijarim Forest, one of the excellent places to visit on Jeju Island, offers the following.
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Visitors can enjoy a rejuvenating stroll through the largest forest of nutmeg trees in the world, some of them up to 800 years old.
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Botanical enthusiasts will appreciate the rare parasitic plants and colourful orchids.
Best Time to Visit Jeju
The optimal time to visit any Jeju Island South Korea tourist spot is during the months of April to June or September to October. In the spring and summer seasons, from April to June, visitors can enjoy pleasant weather, occasional rainfall, and the mesmerising beauty of blooming cherry blossoms. September to October spans autumn and offers stunning views of foliage as leaves turn vibrant shades of yellow and red.
Travel Insurance for Jeju
While visiting is generally safe, unexpected medical emergencies can occur anywhere. It is advisable to obtain travel insurance to protect yourself financially. Quality medical facilities on the island can be expensive. Additionally, look for emergency evacuation coverage to mainland South Korea if necessary. Investing in comprehensive travel insurance offers coverage for trip interruptions/cancellations, misplaced/lost/stolen baggage, extended periods of stay if you need to stay longer due to unforeseen circumstances, and more.