VISIT JEJU

Japan's celebrated architect Tadao Ando brought his design philosophy to Jeju with the Yumin Art Museum, located at Seopjikoji. This serene space merges with Jeju’s tranquil nature, showcasing late 19th-century Art Nouveau pieces alongside Ando's unique artistic world.

From the entrance, the museum offers an extraordinary view: Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak appears framed between the architectural structures like a painting. In autumn, visitors can enjoy the silver grass fields around Seopjikoji.

Art Nouveau, a movement popular in Europe, is often reflected in crafts and design, characterized by colorful stained glass and delicate details. Despite being over a century old, the vibrant hues continue to captivate audiences.

As you immerse yourself in Tadao Ando’s works, which embrace the natural beauty of Jeju, you’ll feel as though you’ve become one with the stunning scenery of Seopjikoji. The pieces are not confined to indoor spaces but extend seamlessly into the outdoor gardens. Each exhibition area features unique photo spots, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments.

▶ Address: 107 Seopjikoji-ro, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju

▶ Operating Hours: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (Last ticket sale at 5:00 PM)

▶ Closed: First Tuesday of every month (open on holidays)

▶ Contact: +82-64-731-7791

▶ Admission: Adults: 12,000 KRW / Children, Youth: 9,000 KRW 

     Discounts: 9,000 KRW (Phoenix hotel guests, groups of 15+, seniors, disabled visitors, national merit holders)

     Phoenix members/Jeju residents: 6,000 KRW

Known as “Itami Jun,” architect Yu Dongryong was a Zainichi Korean born during Japan’s colonial rule and primarily active in Japan. The Itami Jun Gallery in Jeju commemorates his life and works, which remain relatively unknown in Korea.

Yu Dongryong’s daughter, Yu Ihwa, designed the gallery in Hallim-eup as a tribute to her father, who longed for his homeland. The first themed space, "Spread," exhibits three of Itami Jun’s architectural masterpieces, reflecting his pursuit of human warmth and primal energy through architecture.

The second exhibition space delves into the invisible world between nature and humanity, continuing Itami Jun’s legacy. Itami Jun once remarked, “Modern architecture inherently lacks the warmth of humanity or aesthetic rationality in its design.”

The gallery operates on a reservation-only basis, so plan your visit in advance through Naver. Visitors can enjoy an audio guide narrated by actors Ryu Seung-ryong and Lee Ha-nee by scanning a QR code before the tour. After immersing yourself in Itami Jun’s world, enjoy a moment of reflection in the first-floor tea room, where the gallery’s signature tea, Song of the Wind, blends green tea and refreshing mint, leaving a lasting impression.

▶ Address: 906-10 Yonggeum-ro, Hallim-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju (Itami Jun Museum)

▶ Operating Hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (Last admission at 5:00 PM)

▶ Closed: Mondays, New Year’s Day, Lunar New Year, and Chuseok

▶ Contact: +82-507-1385-2678

▶ Admission:

     Exhibition + Tea Service/Gift: 26,000 KRW

     Exhibition Only: 19,000 KRW (Reservation required)

Opened in 2012, Bonte Museum is Tadao Ando’s first architectural work in Korea, built to explore the inherent beauty of humanity. It aims to share the elegance of Korea’s lifestyle culture with the world while combining traditional crafts and contemporary art to create new value.

The museum’s exterior features Tadao Ando’s signature exposed concrete design. Its five exhibition halls range from traditional craft displays, such as soban (Korean wooden tables) and bojagi (wrapping cloth), to contemporary art galleries, including works by Yayoi Kusama and Nam June Paik.

You can experience a unique journey that begins with traditional handcrafted items used by our ancestors and extends to the works of world-renowned artists like Nam June Paik and Yayoi Kusama. The museum, in particular, harmonizes light, water, and Jeju’s natural beauty, making every step feel like walking through a living artwork.

True to its name, Bonte (本態: essence), the museum explores the core of human culture, hidden beneath the passage of time. Whether on a sunny or rainy day, strolling through the Bonte Museum offers a poetic experience that immerses visitors in art and nature.

▶ Address: 69 Sanroknam-ro 762beon-gil, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju

▶ Operating Hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (Last admission at 5:00 PM)

▶ Contact: +82-64-792-8108

▶ Admission: Adults: 30,000 KRW / Youth: 20,000 KRW / Children (36 months–13 years): 10,000 KRW / Morning Discount (before 12 PM): 15,000 KRW

Located near Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, Café Aooo offers breathtaking views where the sea and sky blend into nature. The café, designed like a private villa, stands out with its unique charm.

Its name, “Aooo,” stands for “Out of Ordinary,” reflecting the space’s exceptional character. The café won the 2020 Jeju Architecture and Culture Award and is a must-visit for those seeking to enjoy Jeju’s beauty in a spacious, pleasant setting.

From the quirky rotating chairs outside to the artistic seating arrangements, the café feels more like an art installation than a commercial space. Through the large panoramic windows, visitors can take in the expansive view of Jeju’s ocean. For a more immersive experience, enjoy the outdoor terrace when the weather permits.

Signature drinks like the Oldynuts Latte (a nutty latte topped with nuts) and Oldycinamon Vanilla Bean Latte (served with ice cream and cinnamon) are a treat, alongside popular pastries such as pistachio coronet, leek onion croissant, and Hallabong scone. After enjoying coffee and dessert, don’t forget to capture a perfect photo with the ocean as your backdrop.

▶ Address: 75 Hwanhaejangseong-ro, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju

▶ Operating Hours: 9:00 AM–7:20 PM (Last order at 7:00 PM)

▶ Closed: Open daily

▶ Contact: +82-507-1394-0078