This coastal capital of South Korea's Jeju Province has black sand beaches, volcanic peaks, and fresh seafood markets. Visit temples, climb Mount Hallasan, or explore the Dongmun Market's food stalls.
Jeju City, the capital of Jeju Province in South Korea, receives over ten million visitors annually through its international airport and seaport. From the city center, you can walk to Dragon's Head Rock, a volcanic formation jutting from the sea, or climb the slopes of Mount Hallasan, which rises 1,950 meters above the city. Stop at local markets to taste abalone porridge, explore the three mysterious holes of Samseonghyeol, or walk through Bunjae Artpia's 1,000 miniature trees.
Getting to Jeju City
You can fly to Jeju International Airport on the world's busiest air route from Seoul, with departures every 15-20 minutes. The city's seaport connects to multiple mainland destinations including Busan, Mokpo, and Wando. Both the airport and seaport are within 3 kilometers of downtown, with regular bus connections to the city center.
Natural Landmarks Around the City
Mount Hallasan rises 1,950 meters above sea level, with hiking trails leading to its crater lake. Along the northern coast, Dragon's Head Rock (Yongduam) creates a distinctive silhouette against the horizon. A 15-minute ferry ride takes you to Udo island, where you can walk along black volcanic cliffs and white coral beaches.
Ancient Sites and Museums
At Samseonghyeol in downtown Jeju, three holes in the ground mark the legendary birthplace of Jeju's founding families. The 40-hectare Jeju Stone Park displays over 1,000 stone statues and structures, including traditional grave markers and shamanic shrines. In the Jeju National Museum, you'll find artifacts from shipwrecks and volcanic excavations.
Local Food and Agriculture
Mandarin orchards spread across the southern slopes, producing over 600,000 tons of citrus fruit annually. Try local specialties like okdom gui (grilled sea bream) and jeon-bok-juk (abalone rice porridge) at the traditional markets. Farmers sell fresh tangerines and preserved mandarin peels year-round at the daily markets.
Walking and Hiking
Follow the marked Jeju Olle Trail routes through the city and around the island. Each trail section takes between three to eight hours to complete, with distance markers every 0.5 kilometers. The Geomun Oreum trail connects nine volcanic peaks, with viewing platforms facing the city and coast.
Religious and Cultural Sites
Yakcheonsa temple houses 18,000 Buddha statues and a three-story prayer hall. The temple's mineral spring flows year-round, and visitors can join morning meditation sessions at 4:30 AM. The building's curved roof and painted columns follow traditional Korean Buddhist architectural patterns.
