Many people know it as Cheju Island, but it is now known more commonly as Jeju Island and has also been voted one of the new 7Wonders of Nature. This little island is often referred to as the ‘Island of the Gods’ by the Korean people. This utopia is a popular spot for Koreans and others to spend their holiday or their honeymoons.
Situated some 130km from the southern coast of South Korea, travellers are drawn to this area for the intense beauty that is here amongst the total area of 1,846 square kilometers. The Hallim Park is a tourist attraction for the lovely, fragrant flowers that fill over sixteen gardens. There are two caves, which are a great way to explore and the Bonsai trees that are over one hundred years old get a lot of attention.
Sunrise Peak is a great place to explore and visitors enjoy climbing up the 1,950 meter high Hallasan volcano to watch the incredible sunrise and sunsets. Hallasan is a dormant volcano and also the tallest mountain of South Korea. While it may take a good 500 steps and a half hour hike to the top, the awe-inspiring views are worth every bit of the effort. The famous Jeju Women Divers group does regular performances for tourists to the island. They have been voted one of the most impressive things to see when traveling to the region.
Museum buffs will have more than enough to choose from. Whether one wants an educational museum or one that contains oddities, there is something for everything. Those who desire to learn about culture and history of tea in the area can visit the Green Tea Museum. This museum is located on a plantation of green tea and it is built to look just like a tea cup. Strolling around the premises one can have a cup of green tea ice cream and also a visit the architecturally pleasing stone houses and towers.
The most famous place to visit is Loveland. The sculpture located between Jeju City and Seogwipo, is one of 140 sculptures in the area. These stone creations are very revealing and are nothing you would want to share snap shots around home, but they still draw quite a crowd for shock value. This is not a family oriented tourist attraction, but nevertheless one that people enjoy. The sculptures were created by the Seoul’s Hongik University students.
Whether one is coming for the stunning beaches that have two colours of sand, or the many attraction Jeju Island is a treat. With glass castles, decadent cuisines and friendly locals, it is easy to see why so many people come here year after year for their holiday.