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Jeju For Nature And Culture Lovers

3 min read
Be awestruck by geological wonders, savour mouthwatering seafood and learn about traditional island life

AA Autoventure is heading to Jeju Island on a 8D6N South Korea island cycling trip this autumn, from 1 – 8 September 2024! Being one of South Korea’s most popular destinations, Jeju requires no introduction. As Jeju is South Korea’s largest island, there are plenty of spots worth exploring, some of which even the most seasoned travellers may have missed!

Hallim Park’s Volcanic Caves

Even though Hallim Park is one of Jeju’s most visited attractions, it is never too busy due to its sheer size. Apart from themed gardens, Hallim Park is also home to Hyeopjaegul and Ssangyonggul caves, which formed some 25 million years ago when Hallasan erupted. In the limestone caves, you can marvel at stalactites and stalagmites while basking in the otherworldly scenes within the caves.

Tip: Hallim Park is especially stunning in the autumn, when the foliage in the park turns into a sea of red and gold!

Sanbang Mountain

Standing at almost 400m tall, Sanbangsan, or Sanbang Mountain, is another volcanic relic located in the south of Jeju Island. It is especially worth exploring if you’re visiting Jeju Island for its nature and culture as Sanbangsan has the best of both worlds. It not only boasts a diverse native population of flora and fauna, but also features other natural wonders, such as a cave located 150m above sea level.

At the foot of the mountain are two Buddhist temples, which point visitors towards a large Buddhist shrine further up in the mountains, about a 20-minute hike up. This is why it’s best to explore Sanbang in the cooler months.

Tip: Pop by One and Only Cafe near Sanbangsan for a rejuvenating cuppa, with superb views of Sanbangsan.

Haenyeo Museum

The Haenyeo (‘women of the sea’) are what legends are made of. These incredible ladies of Jeju Island, who are on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, make their living by free diving into the sea to harvest seafood such as abalone. While it is a dying tradition, the Haenyeo Museum pays homage to them and offers insights into their lives, from a peek into their day-to-day lives and the equipment they use.

Address: 26 Haenyeobangmulgwan-gil, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do

Myeongjin Jeonbok Abalone

Craving seafood after being inspired by the Haenyeo? Then head towards the Myeongjin Jeonbok Abalone restaurant! Located in the northeastern part of Jeju, the eatery specialises in – you’ve guessed it – abalone dishes. Jeju’s seafood, especially their abalone, is renowned for their freshness, so you’re in for a treat here.

Address: 1282 Haemajihaean-ro, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do

Seongeup Folk Village

A living museum of sorts as residents still live there, a visit to Seongeup Folk Village is like travelling back in time, with its thatched roof and stone wall houses. Free tours are provided by the villagers, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional life as it was in the past, from folk music to snippets of local dialect.

Address: 104 Seongeupjeonguihyeon-ro, Pyoseon-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

If you are interested in participating in the Autoventure South Korea Jeju Island Cycling trip, contact AA at aa-events@aas.com.sg or call them at 6333 8811 ext *140