Must-visit Attractions in North Jeju Island

When it comes to captivating natural beauty and cultural treasures, North Jeju stands out as a gem waiting to be discovered. From the majestic Mt. Hallasan, South Korea’s highest peak, to the iconic Dragon Head Rock and the inviting shores of Iho Taewoo Beach, there’s plenty to see and do. Check out our list of the most popular attractions in North Jeju to explore the enchanting sights and experiences that await in North Jeju.

Hallasan Mountain 한라산

• Address: 2070-61, 1100-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
• Contact: (+82) 064-713-9950
• Website: www.jeju.go.kr/hallasan

If you love nature or hiking, you can’t miss Hallasan Mountain. As the tallest peak in South Korea at 1,950 meters high, it’s a dormant volcano with a lake in its crater. The whole area around it is a protected nature zone. Each season offers a different view, but spring is especially stunning with blooming azaleas. In autumn, the trees turn fiery red and yellow. If you visit in early to mid-November, you might see the colorful leaves dusted with snow near the summit, creating a breathtaking scene. 

Hallasan is part of Hallasan National Park, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. There are several hiking trails, but if you want to reach the top, you need to book in advance for the Gwaneumsa Trail or Seongpanak Trail. Check out their website for booking (here). 

Jeju National Museum 국립 제주 박물관

• Address: 17, Iljudong-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 제주시 일주동로 17
• Open hours: 9:00 – 18:00 daily
• Contact: (+82) 064-720-8000
• Admission: Free (except from some special exhibitions)
• Website: jeju.museum.go.kr

The Jeju National Museum, which opened in June 2001, is a place where you can explore the history and culture of Jeju Island. It has permanent and special exhibitions, and there’s a new section just for kids. They also have a cool interactive room where you can feel like you’re sailing on a traditional fishing boat in Jeju waters. Plus, there’s a corner where you can try rubbing inscriptions from old maps and cultural artifacts for free. If you need materials for this, you can buy them at the Museum Shop.

Iho Tewoo Beach 이호 테우 해변

• Address: 1665-13 Iho 1(il)-dong, Jeju-si, Jeju-do

If you’re seeking a spot to cool down during the summer, look no further than Iho Tewoo Beach. Conveniently located near the airport and Jeju-si, this beach is a sought-after spot among tourists.  

It offers a sandy shore, gentle slopes, and a mix of city amenities and natural beauty. You can rent boats for fishing or fish off the seawall, known for its abundance of sea smelts. Relax and stroll along the beach and pine forest which are particularly beautiful at night. Then make sure to stop by a restaurant or cafe with a beach view nearby to recharge your energy. 

Yongduam (Dragon Head Rock) 용두암

• Address: 15 Yongduam-gil, 용담2동 Jeju-si, Jeju-do

Yongduam Rock, true to its name, resembles a roaring dragon emerging from the ocean, with the crashing waves adding to its dramatic effect. Standing at a height of 10 meters above the water, and with an underwater body extending approximately 30 meters, it’s a sight to behold.

During sunset, the rock takes on an enchanting aura, creating an illusion that the dragon is in motion. For the best view, it’s recommended to observe Yongduam Rock from a distance of 100 meters to the west. From this vantage point, you can also catch a glimpse of the Haenyeo, or women divers, as they diligently gather seafood along the coast. Nearby, you’ll find a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants. 

Halla Arboretum 한라 수목원

• Address: 72 Sumogwon-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
• Open hours: All day
• Contact: (+82) 064-710-7575
• Website: sumokwon.jeju.go.kr

For those seeking a serene stroll in a peaceful setting, Halla Arboretum offers a serene forest trail suitable for solitary walks or group outings. Established to preserve nature, it houses a diverse collection of 506 tree species and 90 plant varieties in its gardens. Additionally, the greenhouse features the Subtropical Plant Hall and Native Plant Hall, totaling 208 types of plants. With 2,722 stumps of endangered species like Michelia Compressa and Euchresta Japonica, the arboretum serves as a sanctuary for rare flora such as Chloranthus Glaber. 

Here, you can explore the vast grounds, encountering colorful forests and a four-season flower forest. The Halla Arboretum is large, requiring over an hour to explore fully. For a shorter visit, you can take a route to see the glasshouse, orchid exhibition hall, Jukrimwon, and Ikkiwon, returning in about 30-40 minutes.

Jeju Jeolmul Recreational Forest 제주 절물 자연휴양림

• Address: 584, Myeongnim-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 제주시 명림로 584
• Operating hours: 7:00 – 18:00 daily
• Contact: +82 64-728-1510
• Website: www.foresttrip.go.kr

If you’re in need of a place to unwind and recharge, we really recommend Jeju Jeolmul Recreational Forest. Opened in 1997, it offers a blend of natural and artificial greenery, providing a cool retreat with shaded walking paths. 

The main attraction is “Jeolmul Oreum,” a magnificent mountain adorned with a Japanese cedar forest. A hike to the summit takes about an hour and rewards you with stunning views, including Seongsan Ilchulbong on clear days. Designed to enhance emotional well-being, the forest provides various amenities such as trails, a water spring, a pond, sports facilities, and accommodations for visitors to unwind and enjoy. So kick back, relax, and leave all that stress behind.

Jeju City Folk Five-Day Market 제주시 민속 오일장

• Address: 26 Oiljangseo-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
• Open hours: 7:00 – 18:00
• Contact: (+82) 064-743-5985
• Website: jeju5.market.jeju.kr

The “Jeju City Five-Day Market,” located in Jeju City, is a popular market held at five-day intervals. True to its name, it operates every fifth day of the month, including the 2nd, 7th, 12th, 17th, 22nd, and 27th. Here, you’ll discover a diverse range of goods at budget-friendly prices, including food, clothing, daily essentials, and more. The market is renowned for its selection of Korean cuisine, such as Sundae (a sausage made of beef and bean curd stuffed in pig intestine), Teokbokii (a seasoned bar rice cake), and boiled rice served in soup. If you happen to be in Jeju on one of the market days, make sure to check it out.

Jeju Folklore & Natural History Museum 제주 민속 자연사 박물관

• Address: 40, Samseong-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 제주시 삼성로 40
• Operating hours: 09:00 – 18:00 daily
• Contact: +82-64-710-7708
• Website: museum.jeju.go.kr

The “Jeju Folklore & Natural History Museum” is Korea’s only museum dedicated to folklore and natural history. It explores Jeju’s unique culture and environment through four exhibition halls: Natural History, Folklore I, Folklore II, and Outdoor Exhibition. 

The Natural History Hall showcases marine life, soil, rocks, and local flora and fauna. Folklore I depicts Jeju’s ancient lifestyle and architecture. Folklore II displays diving and farming equipment, while the Outdoor Exhibition features traditional tools and stone structures made from volcanic rock. Coming here, you will get a chance to have a deeper understanding of Jeju, both natural and humane. 

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Gwandeokjeong Pavilion 관덕정

• Address: 19, Gwandeok-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
• Contact: (+82) 064-710-6718

Constructed in 1448 as a site for soldier training, the Gwandeokjeon Pavilion holds the distinction of being Jeju Island’s oldest existing structure. Initially designed to bolster soldiers’ mental and spiritual resilience through meditation, it attained National Treasure status in 1963. 

Today, it serves as a destination for those seeking to admire ancient architecture and perhaps draw inspiration from the strength cultivated by generations of soldiers at this site. There is a little pond where you can go for a walk and rest. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to observe certain festivals or traditional ceremonies here.

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Yongyeon Valley 용연계곡

• Address: Yongdam 2(i)-dong, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
• Open hours: all day

Yongyeon Valley, situated just 200 meters east of Yongduam Rock, derives its name from the belief that dragons, known as “Yong” in Korean, once inhabited the area. It’s a captivating site where saltwater and freshwater converge, offering breathtaking views of dense forests, rocky cliffs, and submerged rocks. This picturesque setting has long been favored by artists and musicians for its inspiration, as evidenced by the inscriptions carved into the cliffs.

Crossing the Yongyeon Bridge, you can take in the scenic vista of the valley and the charming pavilion in one panoramic view. Undoubtedly, it’s a perfect spot to elevate your Instagram feed.

In conclusion, each attraction in North Jeju promises a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you with cherished memories to last a lifetime. So pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and let the beauty of Jeju Island captivate your heart and soul.

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