Five Days in Jeju Island Shattered My Spending Perspective

Jeju Island is South Korea's largest island, famous for its volcanic landscapes, beautiful coastlines, rich culture, and delicious food. It's perfect for leisure vacations, nature exploration, and culinary experiences. Here's a detailed Jeju Island travel guide covering transportation, attractions, food, and important tips: --- ### **I. Transportation** 1. **Getting to Jeju Island** - **By Air**: Flights from Seoul (Gimpo/Incheon Airport) to Jeju take about 1 hour with frequent departures; direct flights available from many Chinese cities (Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, etc.). - **By Ferry**: From Busan or Mokpo (takes longer, suitable for travelers who want to experience ocean views). 2. **Getting Around the Island** - **Bus**: Covers major attractions across the island, economical but time-consuming; check routes in advance (Naver Map or Kakao Map). - **Car Rental**: Requires an International Driving Permit (IDP), ideal for group travel, offers flexibility and freedom. - **Taxi**: More expensive but convenient and fast; download Kakao T app for ride-hailing. - **Bicycle/Electric Scooter**: Popular for coastal routes (like Udo Island). --- ### **II. Must-Visit Attractions** **Natural Landscapes** 1. **Mount Hallasan** - Korea's highest peak, a paradise for hikers. Recommended routes: Seongpanak or Gwaneumsa Trail, takes 5-7 hours. - *Tips*: Bring plenty of water and warm clothing; some trails require advance reservation. 2. **Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)** - UNESCO World Heritage Site, a volcanic crater offering stunning sunrise views, about 30 minutes to reach the top. - *Nearby Activity*: Haenyeo (female divers) performance at the foot of the mountain (shows at 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM). 3. **Seopjikoji** - Romantic coastal walking path, filming location for "The Legend of the Blue Sea," great photo spots at the lighthouse and church. 4. **Udo Island** - Mini island off Jeju's east coast; rent bicycles or electric scooters to tour the island. Try the famous peanut ice cream and seafood noodles. - *Transportation*: Take a ferry from Seongsan Port (about 15 minutes, remember to bring your passport for tickets). **Cultural & Experience Sites** 1. **Teddy Bear Museum** - Great for families or photography, located in Jungmun Tourist Area, features themed teddy bear exhibitions. 2. **Jeju Folk Village** - Recreates traditional Korean houses and life scenes, experience Jeju's historical culture. 3. **O'Sulloc Green Tea Museum** - Green tea plantation and Innisfree experience hall, taste green tea ice cream, DIY soap making. **Leisure & Entertainment** 1. **Aewol** - Popular area for trendy cafes (like Bomnal Cafe, Monsant Cafe), perfect for sunset views in the evening. 2. **Jungmun Tourist Area** - Comprehensive resort area with beaches (like Jungmun Beach), museums, duty-free shops, and Lotte Hotel. --- ### **III. Food Recommendations** 1. **Black Pork (Heuk-dwaeji)** - Jeju specialty, visit Black Pork Street (Jeju Heuk-dwaeji Street), enjoy with kimchi and soju. - *Famous Restaurants*: Donsadon (G-Dragon's favorite), Heukdongjip. 2. **Seafood Stew (Haemul Ttukbaegi)** - Fresh abalone, octopus, and crab stew; recommended at Dongmun Market or Samseonghyeol seafood restaurants. 3. **Jeju Tangerines (Gamgyul)** - Seasonal in autumn; tangerine chocolates and juice make great souvenirs. 4. **Other Snacks** - Peanut ice cream (Udo Ttangkong Ice Cream), Hallabong cake, horse meat dishes (less common but worth trying). --- ### **IV. Suggested Itinerary (3-4 Days)** - **Day 1**: Eastern Route Seongsan Ilchulbong → Udo Island cycling → Seopjikoji sunset - **Day 2**: Central/Southern Route Mount Hallasan hiking (or Saryeoni Forest Path) → Teddy Bear Museum → Aewol cafes - **Day 3**: Western/City Route Hallim Park → Hyeopjae Beach → Dongmun Market Night Market --- ### **V. Important Tips** 1. **Weather**: Jeju is windy, has big temperature differences in winter, and typhoons in summer; check the weather forecast before your trip. 2. **Payment**: Most places accept credit cards, but night markets and small vendors require cash. 3. **Language**: English works at tourist sites and hotels, but have a translation app ready (Papago). 4. **Environmental Protection**: Jeju prohibits single-use items (hotels don't provide toothbrushes), bring your own. 5. **Safety**: Pay attention to tide changes at beaches, and hike Mount Hallasan according to your physical ability. --- Jeju Island is perfect for slow travel. Adjust your pace based on your interests and enjoy the island's natural and cultural charm! If you need more specific recommendations (like hotels or lesser-known attractions), let me know your preferences!