Best things to do in Jeju

A 30 m tall (98.5 ft) and 23 m (75.5 ft) wide lava tube penetrating more than 13 km (8 mi) into the earth, Manjanggul Cave makes up part of a World Heritage Site sheltering exceptional volcanic rock formations and wildlife. Observe the world's largest lava column standing 7.6 m (25 ft) tall, and a stone shape resembling Jeju Island. Part of a larger lava tube system, the cave features the greatest number of living creatures of all tubes on the island, including bats and the Jeju cave-spider. Formed 200,000-300,000 years ago, the tunnel remains remarkably well-preserved with lava stalagmites and stalactites and cascades of funky flowstones. Watch the slippery steps and dress for 10 C (50 F).

The largest of the islets sprinkled around the city of Jeju, Udo and its scenic landscapes make a popular hangout spot for locals. Escape the city hustle and bustle and take a ferry to the small island to enjoy the natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. Hike the verdant trails, hang out on the coral beach, or sample the famous peanut ice cream. You can hire a bike and cycle the island, exploring the numerous bike trails that criss-cross through nature.

Hike to Cheonjiyeon Falls, a popular spot for photography. Enjoy a 1 km (0.6 mile) stroll through a peaceful area filled with subtropical plants, then take a moment to admire the picturesque waterfall, 22 m (72 ft) in height and dropping into a clear pool. Illuminated at night, the waterfall makes for a romantic outing spot.

Stroll through the landscaped and wild areas of Hallim Park, a popular public space with cultural and natural attractions. Established in 1971 with the planting of subtropical plants on what was then a barren area, the park has grown into an array of well-maintained gardens, including a bonsai garden, water garden, and a subtropical botanical garden, as well as a children's amusement park and folk village. The park also features mysterious and impressive caves, including a cave-within-a-cave, often considered to be the only natural formation of its kind in the world. The 10 ha (24 ac) park directly joins up with two pristine beaches, and offers extensive views of the island's coast.

Rising from the ocean like a rocky crown, the World Heritage Site of Seongsan Ilchulbong stands as a testament to the region's ancient volcanic activity. Formed nearly 5,000 years ago by an eruption, the formation, known as a "tuff cone," features sheer walls with a depressed center. Hike your way up to the top of the raised crater, which stands 180 m (591 ft) high and has a diameter of nearly 600 m (1,969 ft), and look out over the rugged interior. You'll also get to enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding ocean and coastline from the rim.

At the center of Jeju Island lies Halla Mountain, a designated nature reserve which contains hundreds of cone-shaped volcanos surrounding the main mountain. Famous for its diverse ecosystem due to changes in altitude and temperature, the park shelters 1,800 species of identified plant life and 4,000 species of animals. Go on a hiking trip of 10 km (6.2 mi) to explore the natural haven, or you can even head to the mountain top with no terrain difficulties. Bear in mind that the weather unpredictably changes, so make thorough preparations, especially before ascending to the peak.

A rock-studded, wide, and white sandy stretch of Jeju Island, Hamdeok Beach makes a popular spot for swimming, strolling, and snorkeling. Families visit during holiday season, filling the spot with colorful parasols and people dressed in consevative swimwear. A small footbridge will take you to a rocky islet for a close-up view of the ocean and coastal marine life, and you can admire bronze figures of fishermen drawing their net, or sit with them on a bench under a palm tree. You can also use the beach's showers and dressing rooms, as well as renting motorboats and banana boats. Pubs and restaurants on the shore offer a wide variety of dishes and drinks.

Formed by winds and waves over millennia, Yongduam Rock remains one of the city's finest natural attractions. The dragon-like figure juts out towards the sea, as if preparing to take off. As you frame your perfect snapshot, you'll be accompanied by the strong winds and crashing waves that created the figure in the first place, along with a broad vista of the sea.

Experience the illusion of Mysterious Road (Dokkaebi Road), a road in the hilly mountain slopes north of Jeju that seems to defy gravity. Take a drive up to the 100 m (328 ft) long road and put your vehicle in neutral, you’ll feel like your car is slowly going uphill. In reality, the road has a downward slope, and the elevated surroundings create an optical illusion and play a trick on your mind, making it seem like the car is rolling upwards.

One of Jeju's most visited old-style markets, Dongmun Market will overwhelm your senses with its colors, smells, and bustle. Under a huge covered hall, hundreds of stands display fish, spices, fresh produce, meat, sausages, and anything you could possibly imagine to eat. Immerse yourself in the array of sensations and try famous Jeju chocolate, spicy tteokbokki, hotteok pancakes, and tangerines. Established in 1945, the traditional market remains particularly well-known for a wide variety of fresh seafood. You can also get some good, authentic souvenirs here.

Pay a visit to Jeongbang Waterfall, one of three scenic falls on Jeju island notable for plunging almost directly into the ocean. According to local legend, a dragon used to live in the cavern behind the falls, whose waters can allegedly cure ailments and illnesses. Enjoy the view of the 23 m (75 ft) tall waterfall, flowing from an ocean-side cliff with an old tree on top of it. Scramble to the top of the cliff for a panoramic view of the sea.

Take a short tour of O’sulloc Tea Museum, and sample some delicious green tea-based treats. Learn about the history of green tea in Korea, its production, and the traditions and rituals that surround it. Enjoy the scenic views of the tea estate setting, or admire a collection of tea cups from all over the world. In the store and cafe, you can purchase a couple of bags for yourself, or hang out in the garden with a refreshing green tea latte, cake, or ice cream.

At 800 years old and reaching 25 m (82 ft), the world's oldest nutmeg tree--“Ancestor tree of the Bija trees”--grows in the green oasis of Bijarim Forest. The evergreen forest contains around 2800 nutmeg trees between 500-800 years old, with their nutmeg known for its beneficial effect on the immune system. Walk around the picturesque pathways and breathe the fresh air, or sit on the park's benches and large rocks, enjoying the vista of rich treetops spreading like spider's webs. Feel the soothing ambiance and energizing power of the beautiful forest.

Romantic souls will enjoy visiting Sarabong Park, famous for its stunning sunsets. Take your camera, climb the 143 m (469 ft) hill, and have fun taking spectacular nature shots. If you're looking for something more adventurous, there are paragliding runways in the east part of the park.