Arriving in Jeju
Jeju Island is located off the southern coast of South Korea. It’s known as the “Hawaii of Korea” because of its volcanic formation and natural beauty. Jeju is the most popular honeymoon destination for Koreans. We caught a cheap flight to the island from Busan with Jeju Air, and rented a car to get around the island. Driving in Korea ended up being pretty intense, there are many aggressive drivers! Korean GPS is so accurate that it warns you of upcoming bumps in the road (often).
Outside Our Hostel, Backpackers in Jeju City Center
Inside of Backpackers in Jeju City Center
Chalkboard Map of Jeju City
James Nervously Driving in Korea
GPS in Korea is WAY More Advanced - We Started Calling Her "Korean Siri"
Manjanggul Lava Tube
Manjanggul Lava Tube is one of the longest lava tubes in the world, about 4.5 miles long! Parts of the tunnel cavern are up to 100 feet high and 75 feet wide. We walked over half a mile into the cavern.
James in Manjanggul Lava Tube
The Cave Is Huge!
Turtle Rock Made by a Floating Rock on Top of Lava
Detail of Cave Wall
Lin in Front of the Lava Column
Leaving the Cave
Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)
Seongsan Ilchulbong is a volcanic crater and popular hiking trail. It’s nickname is Sunrise Peak because it’s a Korean tradition to watch the sunrise from the summit. Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts many tourists — especially since hiking is a favorite pastime among Koreans. The trail was very busy with people of all ages. To refuel, we stopped for traditional Jeju noodles near the mountain.
Base of Seongsan Ilchulbong
The Side of the Mountain Is Punctuated by Jutting Rocks
View from the Climb Up Seongsan Ilchulbong
Peak of Seongsan Ilchulbong
Seongsan Ilchulbong Crater
Korean Kid Looks Into the Crater
Us at the Peak
View from the Peak
The Way Down
This One's Dedicated to Gracie
Jeju Traditional Noodles
Jeju Traditional Noodles
Seopjikoji Coast
The Seopjikoji Coast is famous in Korea for its picturesque views and for being featured in the K-Drama “All In”. The seashore is lined with volcanic boulders, a lighthouse, spiritual rock piles, and horseback riding trails. We made friends with one of the ponies as we explored.
First Look Along the Seopjikoji Coast with the "All In" K-Drama House
Making Friends!!
Island Ponies!!
Seopjikoji Coast View
Walking Up to the Lighthouse
Seopjikoji Coast at Sunset
Us at Seopjikoji Coast
Lighthouse Silhouette
I have never had any desire to go to Japan or Korea but after your pictures I want to go. I am glad to follow this adventure! Continue to enjoy!!!
Looks like you are really getting the most out of your trip. I always look forward to your posts. Keep them coming and thanks for taking the time to share.
After seeing the chalkboard map, I’m thinking that super duper high tech GPS probably was a very good thing. ๐
Oh yes…I forgot to say that I agree with Gail – I’ve never had any desire to go to Japan or Korea either…until now. You have certainly peaked my interest. Your blog is just wonderful. The pictures are beautiful, and it is very entertaining and educational at the same time.
Jeju looks really pretty! The hostel is pretty adorable!!! That mountain hike and lighthouse hike look incredible ๐ ๐
Pretty brave driving there especially if it’s anything like HK or Taipei.