VISIT JEJU

Keuneong means “large hill” in the Jeju language. Along the coast, its cliff resembles a large mouth, one that looks poised to consume the ocean waves. The view of the large blue waves crashing on the black basalt rock of the shore is spectacular. The coastal walkway here extends some 1.5 kilometers along the cliff’s edge, which is marked by a safety fence. The short distance combined with the marvellous view makes it a very attractive walking spot. You can take a rest and enjoy the view on benches placed in the middle of the promenade and a small grove of pine trees. They even say that the shape of the unusual coastline and thick pine forest combine to resemble the profile of the Korean Peninsula — but you’ll have to discover that for yourself. Another interesting attraction is a part of the coast that some say resembles the face of an Indian chief. Don’t blink, though, as you can easily miss it as you walk the trail!

This Jeju coastal area has attracted worldwide attention with the discovery of rare fossilized footprints. Starting from the direction of Sanbangsan Mountain, you can admire this towering edifice as Hallasan Mountain, Hyeongjaeseom, Gapado and Marado Islands come into view. This popular trail has attracted many visitors, so many that in August 2015 a 5-year closure of the route up to Songaksan’s peak was imposed to protect the area’s ecosystem. Don’t be disappointed, though, as there is still the Dullegil trail that runs along the coastal perimeter of the mountain, and affords hikers a remarkable view of Jeju’s southern ocean. Along the way, you can spot a myriad of wild flower species, and catch glimpses of goats and horses grazing in the thick mountain grass. History, too, appears to walkers in fascinating geological formations, and more poignant reminders of human influence in the Japanese military caves and outposts from the time that Japan occupied Korea. In fact there is so much to see and discover that no matter how slowly you walk this trail, there’s little to no chance that you’ll get bored. The nearly circular trail takes about one and half to two hours to complete and is refreshingly devoid of cafes and businesses, so you’d best have a light meal or refreshing cup of coffee before you depart. There are plenty of great restaurants and cafes at the trailhead. 

In addition to its myriad tourist attractions, Jeju City has selected 31 representative places in the Jeju City area and announced that the Handam Coastal Walkway is one of these “Hidden Places”. This winding 1.2-kilometer-long promenade runs for the most part right beside the sea, so the views are all the more striking. The route begins at Aewol-ri and ends at Gwakji-ri. Apart from the lovely views, in between are a variety of cafes with interesting and distinct menus to try. Along the way you’ll discover a small sandy beach — be sure to take your shoes off and feel the sand between your toes! In July and August, you’ll likely be joined by groups of snorkelers who also prefer this beach and its shoreline.  So, as you take a drive along the charming coast west of Jeju City, be sure to put the Handam Walkway on your bucket list — and if possible, time your visit so you can catch the marvellous sunset as well!

Though Jeju has no deserts, it does have Wollyeong Village, a village covered entirely in cactuses. It is a farm village of approximately 150 households, and the majority of the farms in the area cultivates cactuses. The cactus population at Wollyeong-ri is a cactus colony that has been registered as Natural Monument 429. These cactuses grow naturally in between the rocks of Wollyeong. It is the only native species among the many species of cactuses grown as ornamental plants. This species of cactus is originally from Mexico, and is known here as the ‘palm cactus’ due to its shape, which resembles the palm of a person’s hand. It is assumed that it was carried naturally from Mexico via the Kuroshio Current before attaching itself to the rocky coastline of Jeju Island’s northwest shore. Since olden times, cactuses have been used in folk treatments. It is said that they were planted on the stonewalls to prevent the entry of snakes or mice. Cactuses are very resistant to dry weather, and will not dry out even during a drought. Their flowers, which blossom in the summer, are yellow, while their fruit, which resemble figs, turn purple when ripe. In recent years, the cultivation area for cactuses has increased due to the emergence of popular products such as cactus extract and cactus chocolate.

Hamdeok Beach is the preferred backdrop to many Jeju Island festivals. It is well suited because of its wide beach area, beautiful white sand, shallow emerald water that’s perfect for families, and to top it all off, there’s a coziness that comes from Seoubong which rises from the coastline to the east. From high up on its peak, an expansive view of Hamdeok comes into sharp focus as does the beauty of the sunset. On its slopes, yellow canola flowers bloom in the spring. So whether you’re out for a hike along Olle trail No. 19, or in the mood for a swim and a coffee, Hamdeok has something for everyone. It’s a treasure for travelers and locals alike.