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Things to Do in Jeju City

Things to Do in Jeju City

Jeju City Jeju-do, South Korea Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace Jeju's natural environment with thrilling and serene outdoor pursuits.

Hiking & Trekking

Hallasan National Park Trails

Seongpanak (Moderate-Challenging, 9.6 km one-way, 9 hrs round-trip journey), Gwanseumsa (Challenging, 8.7 km one-way, 10 hrs round trip).

Jeju Olle Trails

Network of over 27 routes (10-20 km each), varying difficulty from easy coastal walks to moderate uphill sections. Route 17 passes through Jeju City.

Oreum Hikes

Numerous smaller parasitic volcanoes (oreums). Easier than Hallasan, diverse experiences, e.g., Saebyeol Oreum, Darangswi Oreum.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Swimming: Iho Tewoo Beach, Hamdeok, Gwakji for chilling out dips.
  • Snorkeling/Scuba Diving: Clear waters, tour operators for excursions and equipment.
  • Paddleboarding/Kayaking: Rentals at major beaches for coastal exploration.
  • Surfing: Limited. Jungmun Beach (Seogwipo) for beginner-friendly waves, surfing schools.

Adventure Sports

  • Ziplining: Daheeyeon Garden for aerial views.
  • ATV/Buggy Riding: Various adventure parks for off-road terrains.
  • Going For a horse ride: Farms offer trail rides for various skill levels.
  • Parasailing: Some coastal operators for an aerial thrill.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Formal "safaris" are limited.
  • Hallasan National Park: Home to roe deer, diverse bird species.
  • Encounters are natural, no guarantee.
  • Hiking offers a chance to observe local wildlife.

Cycling & Biking

  • Coastal Cycling Paths: Well-maintained paths with ocean views.
  • Jeju Fantasy Bicycle Path: Designated circumnavigation route for multi-day trips.
  • Mountain Biking: Trails on Hallasan's lower slopes for experienced riders.
  • Rentals: Available at various points all over the island.

Safety Information

Always check weather conditions before outdoor activities. Inform someone of your plans for remote hikes. Wear appropriate gear and stay hydrated.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Jeju's unique culture through various hands-on experiences and traditional events.

Workshops & Classes

  • Tangerine Farm Experience: Participate in tangerine picking during harvest season (autumn/winter).
  • Omegi Tteok Making: Learn to make traditional Jeju rice cake at guesthouses or cultural centers.
  • Pottery/Craft Workshops: Limited options in artisan villages for creating local crafts.
  • Tea Ceremony: Experience traditional tea culture at places like the Osulloc Tea Museum.

Performances & Ceremonies

Traditional Performances

Occasional traditional performances at cultural centers or during festivals. Check local listings for schedules.

Rituals at Samseonghyeol Shrine

Visitors can observe traditional rituals on specific dates, a glimpse into Jeju's ancient spiritual practices.

Storytelling & Folklore

Some tours focusing on culture or guesthouses share Jeju's unique myths and legends.

Community Tourism

Support local communities by visiting traditional villages (e.g., Seongeup Folk Village) to preserve culture.

Language Learning

Formal short-term classes are limited.

Cultural Festivals

Jeju Fire Festival (early spring), Jeju Olle Walking Festival (autumn), Jeju Tangerine Festival (autumn/winter).

Relaxation & Wellness

Jeju has opportunities to unwind and rejuvenate, drawing on its the environment and Korean wellness traditions.

Spas & Wellness Centers

  • Jjimjilbang (Korean Bathhouse/Spa): Dragon Hill Spa & Resort in Jeju City for unique relaxation.
  • Hotel Spas: Luxury hotels feature high-end spa services, including massages and beauty treatments.
  • Hot Springs: Sanbangsan Mountain (southwest) offers a carbonated hot spring with therapeutic properties.
  • Green Tea Spas: Some facilities incorporate local green tea into their treatments for antioxidant benefits.

Healing & Activity

Yoga & Meditation

Specialized retreats are limited. Some guesthouses or resorts offer individual classes or spaces for personal practice.

Traditional Healing

Traditional Korean medicine (Hanbang) clinics in Jeju City offer acupuncture, herbal remedies.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Iho Tewoo, Hamdeok, Gwakji beaches for relaxing. Resorts and hotels feature pools for swimming and lounging.

Wellness Insights

Natural Environment

Utilize Jeju's clean air, ocean views, and green landscapes for mental calm.

Local Ingredients

Healthy local produce and seafood contribute to a sense of finebeing.

Active Relaxation

Combine gentle walks or cycling with spa relaxation for balanced rejuvenation.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Jeju City has various options for evening entertainment, from live music to karaoke and late-night dining.

Music & Performances

  • Live Music: Dedicated venues limited. Some pubs or cafes in Yeon-dong/Nohyeong-dong occasionally feature local musicians.
  • Theater & Performance: Jeju Arts Center hosts concerts, plays, heritage arts (check schedule).
  • Traditional Shows: Sporadic traditional music or dance shows, often at cultural centers or during festivals.
  • Event Listings: Consult local tourist information for current events.

Late-Night Fun

Nightclubs & Bars

Yeon-dong and Nohyeong-dong districts house nightclubs and lively bars. From quiet lounges to bustling pubs.

Noraebang Karaoke

Extremely popular in Korea. Many establishments operate throughout Jeju City until late hours.

Late-Night Dining

Many restaurants serving Korean BBQ, fried chicken (chimaek), or other dishes operate until late into the night.

Bar Scene

Discover diverse bars, from cozy lounges to energetic spots for evening drinks.

Gaming & PCs

PC Bangs (internet cafes) offer gaming and internet access late into the night.

Night Market

Dongmun Market's night section offers food and a lively atmosphere until late.

Responsible Enjoyment

Practice safe drinking, stay aware of your surroundings, and utilize reliable transportation at night. Respect local customs and noise levels.

Shopping & Markets

Explore Jeju's shopping scene to find local specialties, souvenirs, and international brands.

Traditional Markets

  • Jeju Dongmun Traditional Market: Essential for local food, fresh produce, seafood, and general goods.
  • Jeju Seomun Market: Offers clothing, household items, and various food stalls.
  • Night Market: Dongmun Market features a lively night section with street food.
  • Bazaars: Explore for unique local finds and cultural interactions.

Artisan & Souvenirs

Artisan Workshops

Limited within Jeju City. Some craft shops have locally made goods like ceramics or volcanic rock items.

Souvenir Favorites

Tangerine-related products (chocolates, dried tangerines, makgeolli), Dol Hareubang figurines, volcanic rock art, local agricultural products.

Green Tea Products

Jeju green tea from plantations like Osulloc makes for a tasteful gift.

Luxury & Boutiques

  • Shilla Duty Free & Lotte Duty Free: Major stores in Yeon-dong.
  • International luxury brands, cosmetics, fashion.
  • Jeju City Underground Shopping Center: Connected to Dongmun Market.
  • Clothing, cosmetics, accessories at affordable prices.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local artisans and small businesses directly.
  • Shop at markets and independent shops.
  • Inquire about product origin to make informed choices.
  • Consider items with 'Produced in Jeju' labels.

Shipping & Customs

  • Shipping: Major post offices in Jeju City handle international shipping.
  • Customs: Aware of duty-free allowances for your home country.
  • Keep receipts for duty-free purchases.
  • Declare things as required via your country's regulations.

Shopping Smart

Market Bargains
  • Explore traditional markets for the best prices on local goods.
  • Price negotiation is uncommon in most stores but might occur in small market stalls.
  • Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, especially around holidays.
Duty-Free Benefits
  • Duty-free shops offer savings on international brands.
  • Bring your passport and flight details for duty-free purchases.
  • Products are typically picked up at the airport on departure.

Activity Planning Summary

Jeju offers a variety of activities. From hiking Hallasan and exploring Olle Trails to cultural workshops and vibrant nightlife, plan a varied itinerary. Consider booking tours and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons, through platforms like GetYourGuide.

Experience Harmonizer

Adventure Integration

  • Balance challenging hikes with gentler shoreline hikes.
  • Incorporate water sports for an invigorating break.
  • Cycle scenic courses to discover new areas at your own pace.
  • Consider guided journey tours for niche experiences.

Cultural & Relaxation Blend

  • Dedicate time for hands-on cultural workshops.
  • Unwind with a visit to a jjimjilbang or a tranquil tea plantation.
  • Enjoy Jeju's nightlife or a peaceful late-night meal.
  • Explore local markets for souvenirs and a taste of daily life.