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How to Get to Jeju City

How to Get to Jeju City

Jeju City Jeju-do, South Korea Travel Guide

Air Travel to Jeju

Airport & Airlines

Jeju International Airport (CJU) is the island's sole airport. It serves as the main gateway for all air travelers.

Flight Information

  • Domestic Airlines: Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Jeju Air, Jin Air, T'way Air, Eastar Jet, Air Busan, Air Seoul.
  • Typical Routes: Most flights from Seoul (Gimpo - GMP), Busan (Gimhae - PUS), Daegu, Gwangju.
  • Direct International Flights: Limited, mainly from China, Japan, Taiwan, SE Asia. Most international travelers link through Incheon (ICN) or Gimpo (GMP).

Airport Services & Transfers

CJU offers various facilities. Transfers to Jeju City and places to stay are straightforward.

Amenities & Transport

  • Facilities: ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, restaurants, tourist information.
  • Bus: Airport Limousine Bus (Route 600) to major points, local city buses.
  • Taxi: Stands outside terminal, Kakao T app for ride-sharing.

Seasonal Availability

Flight frequency increases during peak travel seasons (spring, autumn, summer holidays, Korean public holidays).

Price Fluctuations

Airfares are higher during peak seasons and holidays. Early booking, especially for domestic connections, is often for better rates (see Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner).

Car Rental Shuttles

Shuttle services from CJU terminal transport you to off-site rental lots.

Arrival Considerations

Domestic Flight Arrivals

  • Most travelers from abroad fly to Incheon (ICN) or Gimpo (GMP) first.
  • A domestic connecting flight to CJU from mainland Korea airports.
  • Possible transfer from ICN to GMP for domestic connections.
  • Allow sufficient time for transfers between airports if necessary.

Visa-Free Entry Specifics

  • Jeju visa-free entry applies only to direct arrivals at CJU from outside mainland Korea.
  • Travelers under this policy cannot visit mainland South Korea.
  • Check your nationality's specific visa requirements and K-ETA status.
  • Official K-ETA website for latest updates.

Airport Facilities

Financial Services

Atms & currency exchange counters available.

Shopping & Dining

Duty-free shops, local souvenir stores, restaurants, and cafes.

Information & Assistance

Tourist information desks provide maps and assistance.

Land Transportation On-Island

Self-Driving on Jeju

Self-driving is a popular option for exploring on your own. It offers flexibility for visiting remote attractions.

Requirements & Tips

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) and valid home country driver's license.
  • Minimum age and driving experience requirements apply (21-26 years old, 1 year experience).
  • Book car leases online in advance, especially during peak season (DiscoverCars.com).

Road Conditions & Safety

Jeju's roads are well-maintained. Navigation apps are essential. Driving on the right side of the road.

Driving Guidelines

  • Use local GPS apps: Naver Map or KakaoMap (Google Maps has limited functionality).
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced by cameras.
  • Be aware of scooter and motorcycle traffic, notably on narrow rural roads.

Parking & Regulations

Finding parking can be challenging in popular areas. Designated parking lots are common.

Parking & Laws

  • Fees usually apply in designated parking lots.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals are obtainable but less common for tourists due to safety concerns.

Other Land Transport

Jeju Island does not have train connections. Long-distance buses operate only within the island.

Island Connectivity

  • No railway network on Jeju Island.
  • Long-distance buses operate intercity routes within the island.
  • No land borders to cross to or from mainland Korea.

Driving Safety Alerts

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Automated cameras enforce speed limits.
  • Road conditions are generally good.
  • Scooter and motorcycle traffic on urban and rural roads.
  • Parking challenging in well-known tourist spots.
  • Avoid using Google Maps for navigation; local apps work best.

Sea & River Arrivals

Ferry Services

Ferry services offer an alternative for travelers from mainland Korea.

Mainland Connections

  • Ferry routes connect Jeju Island to Mokpo, Wando, Yeosu, and Busan.
  • Various companies operate these routes, offering different travel times and amenities.
  • Jeju has cruise terminals, like Jeju Port and Gangjeong Port, for international cruise ships.

Seaport Procedures & Transfers

Immigration procedures apply for international arrivals. Land transport connections are available at terminals.

Arrival Process

  • Immigration procedures happen at the seaport a terminal for international cruise/ferry passengers.
  • Jeju Port and other ferry terminals connect to Jeju City via local buses and taxis.
  • Seek out designated bus stops or taxi stands outside terminal buildings.

Ferry Route Options

Various ferry companies have different amenities and journey durations.

Cruise Ship Visits

Jeju Island is a popular stop for international cruise itineraries.

No River Transport

River transportation options for arrival or departure are not applicable to Jeju Island.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

No specific exit fees are levied on departing tourists from Jeju. These costs are usually incorporated into ticket prices.

Departure Process

  • Costs are typically part of your flight cost or ferry ticket.
  • Domestic flights from CJU: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • International flights from CJU (limited): Arrive 2-3 hours before departure.

Terminal Facilities

Jeju International Airport and ferry terminals offer facilities for departing travelers.

Departure Amenities

  • Jeju International Airport (CJU): Restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, lounges.
  • Ferry Ports: Waiting areas, convenience stores, small eateries.
  • Standard check-in, baggage drop, and security screening apply.

Departure Planning

Ferry Departures

Arrive at the terminal at least 30-60 minutes before departure for check-in.

Baggage Considerations

Familiarize yourself with airline or ferry baggage policies beforehand.

Check-in Process

Online check-in for flights saves time at the airport.

Smooth Departure

Make sure you have enough time for all departure procedures. Confirm flight or boat timetables and terminal information in advance.