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Jeju Island

Korea's volcanic holiday island - a subtropical isle of a great crater volcano, lava-tube caves, waterfalls and beaches, a UNESCO natural wonder and the nation's favourite escape.

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UNESCO World Heritage

Typeisland
WhereJeju
Nearest cityJeju City
Best seasonApril to June and September to November
Time to allowSeveral days
Getting thereOff the south coast; by short flight from Seoul, then car
EntryFree; sites and park fees charged

Jeju is South Korea's volcanic holiday island, a subtropical isle off the south coast and the nation's favourite escape, honeymoon spot and outdoor playground. A UNESCO natural wonder, it is crowned by Hallasan, a great shield volcano and the country's highest peak, and dotted with dramatic waterfalls, spectacular lava-tube caves, the sunrise peak of Seongsan Ilchulbong, and beaches, all wrapped in a distinct island culture including its famous women free-divers.

What you actually see

  • Hallasan - the great volcano and highest peak in South Korea.
  • Seongsan Ilchulbong - the dramatic sunrise crater peak by the sea.
  • The lava-tube caves - the vast Manjanggul lava tube.
  • The waterfalls and coast - the Jeongbang falls and coastal scenery.

When to go

Spring and autumn for the mildest weather; spring brings blossom and canola flowers, autumn crisp clarity. Summer is warm and busy with Korean holidaymakers, and can bring typhoons. It is a large island best explored by car over several days.

Honest expectations

It is a large island best toured with a rental car, as public transport is limited; the highlights are scattered around the coast and interior. It is very popular with domestic tourists, so it can be busy and developed in parts. Climbing Hallasan is a long, strenuous full-day hike. Weather can be windy and wet.

Nearby

The smaller islands of Udo and Marado are nearby; the mainland is a short flight or ferry.

What to pack for Jeju Island

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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