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Getting Around Jeju City

Getting Around Jeju City

Jeju City Jeju-do, South Korea Travel Guide

Public Transportation: Buses

Jeju Island's public transportation system mainly relies on an extensive bus network. There are no metro or tram systems on the island.

The Jeju Bus Information System operates various types of buses: City Buses (Blue, Green) for local routes, and Intercity/Express Buses (Red, Yellow, Express) for island-wide connections.

Ticketing & Fares

  • Rechargeable a smart passs (T-Money or Cashbee) are highly recommended.
  • Cards offer discounted fares compared to cash, and free or discounted transfers within 40 minutes.
  • City Buses: ~₩1,200. Intercity/Express Buses: ₩2,000 to ₩4,000+.
  • Purchase and top-up cards at convenience stores and tube stations across South Korea.

Route Maps & Hubs

Bus numbers are displayed. Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal and Jeju International Airport (CJU) are hubs.

Hours & Frequency

Buses typically operate from ~6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Main routes run frequently; rural routes have less frequent service.

Efficiency Tips

Use Naver Map or KakaoMap for real-time tracking and route planning (Google Maps is limited).

Accessibility Information

Bus Accessibility
  • Newer public buses may feature lower-level floors and ramps.
  • Not all buses or stops are fully accessible.
  • Comprehensive information on specially adapted routes is limited.
Planning for Mobility Needs
  • Research specific sites and routes in advance for accessibility.
  • Some challenges may exist for natural sites and older areas.
  • Contact tourist information for specific accessibility inquiries.

Intercity Bus Terminal Jeju City

Main Hub

For all intercity and express routes.

Island Wide

Connects to destinations across Jeju.

Tourist Access

Direct links to major attractions.

Convenient

Easy to navigate and use for visitors.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel, especially for shorter distances or with luggage.

Taxi Services

  • Licensed taxis are silver, white, orange (standard) or black (deluxe).
  • Hail a taxi on the street, find at designated stands (airport, hotels).
  • Accepts cash, major credit cards, and T-Money/Cashbee cards.
  • 20-30% surcharge for late-night hours (10 PM to 4 AM).

Fares & Apps

  • Standard Taxi: Initial fare ~₩3,800 (up to 2km). Deluxe Taxi: Initial fare ~₩6,500.
  • Kakao T: Dominant ride-hailing app, English available, integrates with local taxis.
  • Uber: Functions mainly for hailing local taxis, not as prevalent than Kakao T.
  • Safety: Kakao T offers driver tracking, rating systems for added safety.

Taxi Stands & Safety

  • Dedicated taxi stands are available at Jeju International Airport (CJU).
  • Taxi stands also at Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal and major hotels.
  • Always ensure the ride is licensed and the driver uses the meter.
  • Note the taxi number on the dashboard if concerns arise.
  • For airport/station taxi arrangements, adhere to signs to the taxi queue.

Cost Comparison Example

Bus short trip

~₩1,200 (with card)

Standard Taxi 2km

~₩3,800

Deluxe Taxi 2km

~₩6,500

Rental Options on Jeju

Renting a vehicle offers the most flexibility for exploring Jeju Island at your own pace.

Car Rental

  • Book online in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Requirements: IDP, home driver's license, passport, credit card.
  • Minimum age (21-26) and motoring experience (1 year) apply.
  • Major companies: Lotte Rent-a-Car, SK Rent-a-Car, Tamra Rent-a-Car, Hertz, Avis.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

  • Available, but less common for tourists.
  • Generally not recommended due to safety concerns on winding roads.
  • Safety equipment is always a requirement.
  • Specific licenses are necessary for such rentals.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving Laws

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.

Speed limits are enforced strictly.

Road Conditions

Roads are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate.

GPS navigation with Naver Map or KakaoMap is essential.

Parking Information

Parking can be challenging in popular tourist spots plus the central area Jeju City.

Search for designated parking lots; fees usually apply.

Bicycle Rentals & Paths

Rental Availability
  • A lot of shops around the island offer bicycle rentals.
  • Especially near coastal roads and Olle Trail departure points.
  • Rates typically range from ₩10,000 to ₩30,000 per day.
Cycling Infrastructure
  • Jeju has dedicated cycling paths, notably along the picturesque coastline.
  • Always wear a helmet for safety.
  • Be aware of traffic when cycling on shared roads.

Driving & Safety Considerations

  • Avoid walking or cycling on high-traffic main roads and highways without sidewalks.
  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals carry higher safety risks.
  • Always follow local traffic laws.
  • In an emergency, call 112 for police or 119 for ambulance.
  • Jeju has no "no-go" areas for safety reasons for pedestrians or cyclists in general.
  • Some main roads lack sidewalks.
  • Use caution in areas with heavy vehicle traffic.
  • Familiarize yourself with local driving rules before renting a vehicle.

Specialized Transportation

Jeju offers specialized transportation options catering to specific sightseeing needs.

Tour Buses

  • Numerous local companies offer full-day or half-day bus tours.
  • Tours cover specific regions (East, West, South Course) or themes.
  • Tours often include pickup from Jeju City hotels.
  • The Jeju City Tour Bus offers a hop-on-hop-off service.

Boat & Water Tours

  • Limited to specific tourist activities.
  • Submarine tours (e.g., Seogwipo Submarine), boat trips around islets.
  • Ferry to Udo Island, or fishing tours.
  • No general water taxi system for transportation.

Hop-on-Hop-off

Covers major attractions within Jeju City and vicinity.

Submarine Tours

Explore underwater near Seogwipo.

No Cable Cars

Jeju Island does not have cable cars or funiculars.

Accessibility Services

Infrastructure Improvement
  • Accessibility infrastructure on Jeju Island is improving.
  • Contemporary amenities and some newer transport options offer better access.
  • Comprehensive accessibility across the island is still developing.
Planning for Mobility
  • Travelers with mobility needs may find challenges accessing certain attractions.
  • Research specific sites in advance for accessibility information.
  • Contact tourist information or specific venues for details.

Transportation Advice

Select your transportation based on your itinerary, budget, and travel style.

Car rental offers maximum flexibility for island exploration, while buses are affordable for specific routes.