Discover the Island of Jeju, home to UNESCO heritage sites and surrounded by spectacular coastlines, an emerald Isle that delights in every season - perfect for you to put Jeju on your Korean adventuure itinerary. Although there are currently no direct flights from Singapore to Jeju, you can still arrive at the island via connecting flights in cities like Hong Kong or Bangkok.
Jeju is also a great place to visit if you wish to see fascinating fall foliage admist the city. Do check out these other amazing fall foliage destinations as well to snap that Instagram worthy shot.
Situated on the eastern end of Jeju Island, Udo Island was named because it resembles a lying cow. It boasts fertile soils, abundant schools of fish, and scenic sights; local heritage (female divers, stone walls, and stone tombs) as well as natural attractions abound on the island, making it a miniature of Jeju Island. The island is also full of amenities and tourism outlets: fishing, bike trails, sand massaging, tour submarines and cruises.
The peaks huge crater at the top measures about 600m in diameter and 90m high. With the 99 sharp rocks surrounding the crater, it looks like a gigantic crown. Don't miss the opportunity to climb up the top to reward yourself with sweeping views of Jeju. At the foot of the decent head down the path to your right to the volcanic beach, you might be lucky enough to see some of the Haenyeo divers bringing back their catch of abalone and be able to have some freshly cooked for you.
The Jusangjeolli are stone pillars piled up along the coast and is a designated cultural monument of Jejudo Island. The Jusangjeolli was formed when the lava from Hallasan Mountain erupted into the sea of Jungmun. They are rock pillars shaped like cubes or hexagons of various sizes and almost seem as if stonemasons had carved them out. You can pick up a speed boat nearby to experience the cliffs from the sea or just head to the food stalls in the car park to sample some local snacks and refresh yourself.
Formed when the lava that was deep in the ground spouts from the peak and flowed to the surface this tunnel has been designated a natural monument of Jeju and is said to be one of the finest in the world. Manjanggul Cave has a variety of interesting structures inside including 70cm lava stalagmites and the lava tube tunnels. Whilst only 1km of the 13,422m Manjanggul Cave is open to visitors there is plenty to see as the natural stone pillars and stalactites are widely spread and the tunnel shows off the cave's topographical features. See if you can spot the Stone Turtle shaped like Jeju-do Island.
Directly next to the Jusangjeolli cliffs you can find the picturesque Cheonjeyeon Waterful. Known as 'The pond of God', Cheonjeyeon Waterfall consists of 3 parts. Around the falls, a variety of plant life thrives, while to the east, there is a cave where cold water pours from the ceiling to create a waterfall. See if you can find Cheonjeyeon Valley where you can find the ‘Seonimgyo Bridge' (an arch bridge that has 7 nymphs carved on the side) and the octagonal ‘Cheonjeru tower'.
Make the most of the fresh air in Jeju by taking part in one of the people of Jeju's most popular post times by following an Olle Trail. Join Jeju Olle Trail route 10 to enjoy the beautiful scenery of nearby Mount Sanbang. This trail mostly involves walking along the coast, where you can enjoy a scenic view of the Sogeummak Hangmandae cliffs located below Sanbangsan Mountain. The route leads up to Songaksan Mountain, an inactive volcano with a beautiful crater. The summit offers a spectacular view of Marado Island and the other islands surrounding Jeju.
As there are very few halal-certified eateries, be prepared to go on a seafood or vegetarian diet when you're on Jeju Island. The good news is, Jeju Island is well known for its really fresh seafood! Do note that almost every eatery serves alcohol, as this is part of the Korean culture.
If you're travelling with a bigger group (at least 3-4 people), the best way to travel around Jeju Island is to hire a private driver. As the island is huge, taking public transport will be more inconvenient. Your driver will be able to provide a local's perspective for sights you have to visit as well!
Are you a massive fan of tea? You'll love the O'Sulloc Tea Museum where you can learn more about Korea's traditional tea culture. End off your visit at the tea store for a cuppa green tea and if you're lucky, you might catch the staff roasting the tea leaves too!