Jeju Island (Jejudo) South Korea. Vacation with a child - Lenni_m. Jeju Island: an expensive pearl of South Korea

In the waters of the Korean Peninsula there are more than three and a half thousand of the most diverse islands belonging to South Korea.

The small islands of South Korea are mostly uninhabited and are located along the southern and west coast peninsulas. They arose as a result of violent volcanic activity that took place at the "dawn of time". For the most part, these island-rocks are occasionally covered with moss. Some of them separate one or two kilometers of water from the peninsula (in some cases even less). Fishing villages are located on more or less habitable islands. In the straits formed by the islands, big variety fish and all kinds of shellfish, which allows you to fish from any boat. The main direction of tourism here is fishing and mountain tourism. The largest islands in South Korea are Jeju-do (2000 km²), Ganghwan-do (302 km²) and Ulleungdo (73 km²).

It is not possible to count the exact number of islands in South Korea, since the straits between some of them are either drained or filled up in order to expand habitable territories. The government helps people living in the island area. There, at the expense of the budget, electricity, sewerage and water are provided, schools for children are being built. A prime example is the island of South Korea - Hondo, in two fishing villages of which live, in total, about seven hundred people. However, until the sixth grade, children go to local school and all communications are there.

The visiting card of tourism in the state of South Korea is Jeju Island, which is a pearl in the necklace of islands. It is both the smallest province and the largest island. This is a kind of Mecca of marriage tourism. The island is filled with attractions: many museums, often with unexpected themes, vibrant shows for tourists, attract many visitors every year.

Jeju Island in South Korea (prefix "do" in Korean denotes both an island and a province at the same time) - interesting matriarchy. While in mainland South Korea, women are fighting for their rights under absolute patriarchy, in Jeju, women are in charge. They are actually breadwinners and heads of families. Until recently, the profession of divers was the main one for the inhabitants of the coast of Jeju. The ability to dive without scuba gear to a depth of twenty meters was passed down from generation to generation from mother to daughter. Nowadays, there is a thriving business in Jeju to grow tangerines of all varieties, which is safer and more profitable.

There are kilometers of roads on the island, but it is better not to use local buses, but to rent a car (which is quite affordable). Despite the bus service (announcing stops in several languages, indicating the time of travel between stations on special monitors, air conditioning and comfortable seats), the level of qualification of drivers leaves much to be desired.

Jeju is the largest island in South Korea, located in the waters of the Korea Strait. The distance from the northern tip of the island to the mainland of Korea is 80 km. The total area of ​​the island is 1850 km2. Jeju is of volcanic origin: it was formed as a result of several powerful volcanic eruptions over the past million years. The main rock that makes up the island is basalt. About 800 thousand years ago, the Hallasan volcano formed on the island - the highest peak of the island and all of South Korea (1950 m).

Jeju-do is home to the Jeju Specially Autonomous Province, the smallest among all the provinces of South Korea. The population of the province is more than 600 thousand people. There are two major cities on the island:

• the capital of Jeju Province;
• city ​​of Seogwipo.

Due to the peculiarities of the Korean administrative division, the entire territory of the island is actually divided between these two cities. The entire northern part of the island, including the countryside, is the city of Jeju, the southern one is Seogwipo.

Nature and climate of the island

The climate of Jeju is monsoon subtropical, much warmer than the rest of Korea. Despite the fact that intrusions of the Siberian cold occasionally reach here, in general, the temperature rarely passes through the zero mark. Therefore, winter as a full-fledged season does not exist in Jeju. average temperature air in the coldest month of the year, January, is +6 °C, in August it averages +26 °C, and the average annual value is +16 °C. The monsoonal subtropical climate is characterized by a picture that is the opposite of the Mediterranean climate: in the conventional winter season, the island has sunny weather with little rainfall, but in summer Jeju is literally flooded. For 3 summer months rainfall can reach up to 800 mm. However, it is from May to October that lasts here bathing season, as sea ​​water heats up over 20 °C.

Thanks to this climate, the island has formed subtropical landscape. On Jeju, a belt of evergreen forests has been preserved in places where the soil is unsuitable for agriculture. A special pride of the islanders is the grove of endemic nut-bearing torreya, numbering several hundred years.

The higher up the mountains: the slopes of the Hallasan volcano are covered with deciduous, mixed and coniferous forests. At the top of the volcano reigns an alpine steppe landscape with thickets of shrubs, fields of rhododendron and other flowers.

How to get to Jeju

Since 2014, Russians do not need a visa permit to visit the Republic of Korea, including the Jeju Islands. There are two ways to get to the island: by plane and by ferry.

There are no direct flights from Russia to the island, so a transfer is necessary in Seoul. From the capital of Korea to the city of Jeju, two dozen flights of local airlines depart daily, the flight time is only an hour.

Jeju International Airport is located in the suburbs of the provincial capital of Jeju. You can get to the city itself by buses No. 100, No. 200 or No. 500, or by taxi. Tourists who have reserved places at the hotel usually have a free shuttle service available. You can also get to the southern part of the island in Seogwipo by taxi or bus, which leave every half an hour. Travel time - 40 minutes.

The ferry is usually used by tourists traveling around Korea by private vehicle. Ferry crossings to the island are established in the ports of the southern part of the country:

• Busan, flights to the island on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, travel time - 12 hours;
• Mokpo, daily flights lasting from 4 hours 40 minutes to 5 hours 30 minutes depending on the ferry;
• Haename, ferries depart daily, travel time - 3 hours;
• Vando, ferries depart daily, travel time - from 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours 50 minutes;
• Kohyne, daily flights, duration - 3 hours 50 minutes;
• Yeosu, ferries depart daily, journey time is 5 hours.

The exact timetable must be found at the reference ferry terminals, as it may change. Ferry tickets stop being sold 10 minutes before departure. When traveling by car, it is better to arrive 1-2 hours before departure in order to have time to load onto the ferry.

Where to live and what to do on the island

Almost all hotels of the island are located on the coast. Only one and a half thousand hotels of all categories, so the choice of tourists is impressive. More than 500 hotels are represented on hotel booking services, so there should not be any problems with choosing a place to stay. The provincial capital of Jeju city is not the most tourist place. The most popular place to stay can be called the Chungmun resort area in the southwest of the island. It is noted here the largest number hotels, the beach in this area is considered the best in Jeju. There are many natural attractions of the island (waterfalls, a hunting park, a lava cave), a botanical garden and a dolphinarium. So Jungmun is the best place to stay for the first trip to Jeju.

When traveling to the island, you can not just limit yourself to a beach holiday in the area where the hotel is located. It is worth visiting the numerous natural attractions of the subtropical island. Of no less interest is the peculiar culture of the islanders, which differs markedly from the general Korean one. Therefore, in your free time from a beach holiday, you can go on an excursion or visit one of the museums, which are distinguished by their special originality on Jeju.

Island beaches

Jeju-do is a relatively young resort that received this direction in development only after the Second World War. Now this resort is popular primarily among Koreans, there are few foreign tourists, so you can still find quite secluded places here.

The main beaches of Jeju are concentrated on the northwestern and southwestern coasts. According to tourists, the top 5 beaches on Jeju are as follows.

1. Beach in the resort village of Chungmun. The coverage of the beach and the seabed is sandy. Close to the beach are hills overgrown with grass, which gives the area an original look. During high tides, strong waves are observed, but at low tide, you can swim in shallow water.
2. Hamdok is a beach in the northern part of Jeju near Jeju International Airport. This beach is considered the most suitable for children due to the gentle entry into the sea and the lack of waves. The coverage of the beach and the seabed is mixed - stones and sand.
3. Hyeopche Beach is located in the northwestern part of the island in Jeju, Hallim-ro, Hallim-up. The landmark is the nearby Hallim Natural Park. This beach is known for its white sand, shallow waters and beautiful scenery combined with the cliffs that surround the beach.
4. Pyoseong is located in the southeast in the village of the same name. This sand beach It has an extremely gentle entrance to the sea: at low tide, the water moves away from the shore very far, and at high tide, children can splash in shallow water. Songeup Folk Village is located near Pyosong Beach.
5. Kimnyeon Beach is located in the northeast of the island in Kujwa-eup, Jeju. This beach is located in a place popular with divers. The beach and bottom cover is sand and stones, the entrance to the water is gentle. The disadvantage of the beach is quite strong winds in this part of the island.

Top 10 attractions of the island

Jeju is an island remote from the mainland of the country, so the culture of Jeju is distinguished by its originality. In addition, the volcanic origin of Jeju causes the extraordinary natural attractions of the island.

Tolharubans

The most famous symbol of Jeju Island is the tolharuban, which means "stone grandfather" in translation. Tolkharuban is a statue made of black volcanic tuff, which is a figure of a good-natured grandfather, somewhat reminiscent of the famous statues of Easter Island. The exact reason for the appearance of the statues is unknown, but it is believed that such statues appeared many centuries ago. Most likely, tolkharubans are a tribute to distant pagan times, when the ancestors of the islanders worshiped them as idols.

As a symbol of Jeju, tolharubans can now be found literally throughout the island. However, most of them are replicas, there are very few authentic statues left. According to popular belief, the statue grants wishes if you rub its nose. Therefore, almost all tolharubans on the island sparkle with their noses worn down to whiteness.

Jeju-do now has a lot of souvenir shops where you can buy a small copy of the original tolharuban. Despite the fact that such tolharuban does not grant wishes, figurines are considered the best souvenir that can be brought from Jeju.

Hallasan Volcano

Hallasan, which means "the mountain that begins the Milky Way", is the main natural asset of Jeju. The top of the volcano occupies a central position on the island, it is visible from anywhere on the island in clear weather. The area around the volcano is occupied by the Hallasan National Park, which is included in the list of natural monuments of South Korea.

The vent of the volcano is located in the crater of the peak of Hallasan, several hundred side craters are located on the slopes of Hallasan and continue up to the coast of Jeju. The volcano was presumably formed 780 thousand years ago, the last eruption was recorded 26 thousand years ago, so Hallasan is considered an extinct volcano.

In the crater of Hallasan there is a picturesque lake Pannoktam ("lake of white deer"). During the period summer rains it is filled with water up to a mark of 100 m. The top of Hallasan is covered with carpet thickets of rhododendron, so that during the flowering surrounding area literally blazing with bright colors.

Also on the slope of the volcano is the oldest temple of Jeju - the Buddhist monastery of Kwanmysa. The monastery building itself was destroyed in the 20th century, so the current building is just a replica of the temple, which was erected almost a thousand years ago.

Conquering the summit of Hallasan is a popular tourist route. You can climb here along several paths with a length of 7 to 10 km. The conquest of the summit will take the whole day, the rise to the mark of 1700 m - half a day.

Love Land (Jeju Loveland)

The fame of Jeju Island as the best destination for honeymooners couldn't help but be reflected in something special for couples on their honeymoon. Such a place was Loveland - an erotic sculpture park, in which about 140 statues of men and women are in unambiguous poses. The park is interactive, so some of the sculptures move to represent the sexual act. But most of them are stone sculptures, as a rule, they are paired, but there are also group compositions.

The appearance of such a park is due to the fact that extremely modest in everyday life and patriarchal Koreans spent their wedding night on the island, so several educational centers were opened here at one time. With the development of society, the need for training newlyweds disappeared, so it was decided to fix in stone the important role of Jeju for Korean society. AT early XXI century, for historical reasons, graduates of Seoul University opened a park that is a real anthem human body and sex in all its manifestations.

Love Land Park is located southwest of Jeju's urban core. Exact address: Yeongdong, Jeju. You can visit the park only after reaching 18 years.

waterfalls

Another attraction of Jeju is the local waterfalls, the most famous of which are Cheonbang, Cheongjeon and Cheonjiyon. Jeonbang and Cheonjiyon waterfalls are located right in the urban area of ​​Chogwipo. Chonbang is the only waterfall on the Asian continent, whose waters fall directly into the depths of the sea.

Not far from Cheonbang is the Cheongjiyon waterfall, which means "earth connects with the sky." Its waters fall into an artificial pond from a height of 22 meters. Cheongjiyon is especially colorful at night due to the illuminations that decorate it.

A waterfall with a similar name Cheonjeyeon ("Heavenly Emperor's Pool") is located east of the urban area of ​​Seogwipo in the settlement of Chungmun. Cheonjeyon is the most colorful waterfall of the island, it originates in a cave, from where water falls in several streams down the rocks. Cheonjeyeon is located near the Yomiji Botanical Garden. From the side of the garden, the Chilsongyogyo Bridge (Seven Nymphs Bridge) leads to the waterfall.

Songeup Folk Village

Songeup Folk Village is located in the eastern part of Jeju, part of the city of Seogwipo and is located northeast of the city core. Now Songeup is primarily a tourist site, but on its example you can see how all the local villages looked like 100 years ago. Low houses are made of large pieces of solidified lava, and the roofs are covered with straw. In addition to residential buildings, you can see Confucian schools and shrines (places of worship), administrative buildings, mills powered by bulls or horses. Songeup is a real medieval nature reserve, especially impressive against the backdrop of the rapid development of Korea over the past decades.

Except external examination, in the folklore village, tourists can get acquainted with the culture and customs of local residents. Here you can taste national cuisine, try yourself in traditional crafts, see folk games and dances. Therefore, Songeup is especially popular among foreigners. Although the main purpose of the folklore village is to meet modern Koreans who came from major cities, with the culture of their people.

A visit to the Songeup Folk Village is absolutely free, but you will have to pay for participating in master classes and tasting dishes. Guide services are only available in Korean.

Grotto of Sanbangulsa

Sanbangulsa Grotto is a natural cave on the southwestern slope of Sanbangsan Mountain. The grotto is located halfway to the top of Mount Sanbangsan. Sanbangulsa has a vault height of 5 meters, on the floor of the cave there are small ponds formed by drops of water falling from the ceiling.

At the end of X - beginning of XI centuries. e. lived in a cave Buddhist monk Heil, who founded the Buddhist temple Sanbangul on the mountainside. In honor of this event, a Buddha statue was erected in the cave. You can get to Sanbangulsa Grotto by bus from Seogwipo. Exact address: Seogwipo, Andok-myeon, Sage-ri.

Taeyu Land Hunting Park

Daeyoo Land Hunting Park is located 2 km north of Jungmun Tourist Town, Seogwipo. This is the only park on the Asian continent owned by a private person. It is located on the slopes of the Hallasan volcano, so rich in various living creatures. Hunting for birds, especially pheasants, is especially popular. The advantage of this hunting park is that a license is not required to visit it. This is what allows tourists to visit Thea Land. The cost of hunting depends on the type of weapon, the method of hunting and the purpose. Here you can hunt with firearms, set snares, traps, etc. To visit, you need to make a pre-order 1-2 days in advance.

Haenyeo divers

A few decades ago, the basis of the economy of Jeju Island was the extraction of seafood delicacies from the bottom of the sea. This work was done by professional haenyo divers (literally, "women of the sea"). In medieval Korea, this craft was considered the least prestigious, so only women were engaged in it. Moreover, it turned out that female body better suited for this kind of work. So a matriarchy developed on the island - women became breadwinners, and men sat at home and were responsible for the household. During the Japanese dominance over Korea, the prestige of the profession grew, as seafood delicacies were highly valued in Japanese cuisine. By the 60s of the 20th century, the "golden years" of haenyo belong - up to 20% of all residents of Jeju-do chose this particular profession. Now this craft is a symbol of a passing era, since with the development of the economy and the emergence of farms for growing "seafood", it loses its practical meaning. Nowadays, haenyeo divers are one of the many tourist symbols of Jeju.

Now the vast majority of divers are women over 60 years old. However, in their support, the island government ordered to buy seafood only from divers. Every day on the coast of the island, you can watch how fearless elderly women dive into the water to a depth of 20 meters to search for seafood. On Jeju, a haenyo divers museum has been opened in the northeast of the island. Address: Jeju City, Kujwa-eup. A diving school is also open here, in which any woman can be trained in the basics of the profession. True, the course of study lasts 4 months, so it is not suitable for tourists.

green tea museum

The Green Tea Museum O "Sulloc Tea Museum is located in the western part of the island next to the tea plantations. The name of the museum consists of two parts: "O" is an exclamatory interjection, "solloc" is the name of the variety of green tea grown on the island. The Green Tea Museum was opened at the very beginning of the 21st century in a building shaped like a tea cup.In addition to a mini-line for the production of tea, the museum displays tea utensils from Asia and Europe and a hall dedicated to the history of tea in Korea.Here you can be a participant in a tea ceremony, where tourists are told about the rules for preparing and drinking tea.

The museum has a shop for herbal cosmetics, made with the use of tea. Another "trick" of the museum is a local cafe, where all dishes are made from tea. Here you can even try tea ice cream. Around the museum there is a botanical garden, and on the second floor of the building there is a terrace overlooking the tea plantations. The visit to the museum is free. Museum address: Seogwipo, Andong-myeon, Sinhwayeoksa-ro.

tangerine farms

The second branch of the economy of Jeju after tourism is the cultivation of tangerines. Even the second name of the island is associated with these fruits, as it is popularly nicknamed "tangerine paradise". Literally all free land suitable for agriculture is occupied by mandarin plantations, so farms for growing these citrus fruits are scattered throughout the island. On many farms, anyone can try himself as a tangerine picker. For a nominal fee, tourists are allowed to collect them and eat in unlimited quantities. There are so many tangerines that all the fruits that the picker can carry on himself are his property.

Jejudo has many names and nicknames: "tangerine paradise", "citrus island", "island of three abundances", "island of lovers" and even "Korean Hawaii". These names fully characterize Jeju as one of the most attractive holiday destinations in all of East Asia.

According to geologists, Jeju Island appeared about 300-400 million years ago as a result of regular and prolonged eruptions of the Hallasan volcano. At the moment, it is considered extinct and is described as the highest point in South Korea.

When people first appeared on the island, which is currently a province of South Korea, is not known for certain. One of the first written references to it dates back to 662 AD. However, even before that, Jeju was inhabited by people. True, until 662, it was an independent country, which was called Thanma.

The documents say that after the conquest of the island by one of the three Korean states of Silla, Thanma continued to enjoy almost complete autonomy. In 1130, Silla fell, and a new powerful state of Koryo appeared in its place, to which Thanma passed. It was in 1105 that Goryeo abolished autonomy former country, and the rulers of a powerful state, maintaining close ties with the Mongols, gave the island a name - Chejudo.

For almost two centuries, the people of Jeju were forced to work for the invaders. This state of affairs could have lasted longer if in 1270 there had not been a mass uprising of peasants against the oppression of the Mongols. Almost the entire population of the island participated in the rebellion, as a result of which all the Mongols were driven out of the island. Moreover, as a result of the uprising, the new Jeju government managed to completely take control of sea ​​routes passing near the southern part of the island. The inhabitants of Jejudo could not enjoy their freedom enough: already three years later, a huge army, numbering more than 10,000 people from the Mongols and soldiers of the Koryo army and 160 warships, crushed the uprising and removed the new government.

Since 1910, the volcanic island became part of Japan and even became known as Saishu, but after the Second World War, it again became part of South Korea.

After 1960, Jeju Island began to turn into an elite resort.

Currently, Jeju-do, with its unique and amazing history, is considered the pearl of the Republic of Korea. UNESCO listed Jeju as a world heritage site, and as a result international competition held in 2011, the island was included in the seven new wonders of nature.

Koreans call Jeju Island "the island of three abundances."

Because, first of all, stones are found in abundance here (due to volcanic origin), secondly, the strongest gusts of wind walk along the slopes of extinct volcanoes, and thirdly, these are courageous fearless women who hold the whole island. So it turns out, three abundances - wind, stones and women.

The usual situation in Jeju Island is a family in which the main breadwinner is a woman, and the man leads household and raising children. Collecting seafood (mostly diving for crabs and sea urchins) at great depths (most often about 20 meters) is considered a very honorable and profitable occupation for women. Moreover, this skill is passed down among local residents from generation to generation. Divers are better known among the Koreans themselves as haenyo. The catch can be prepared immediately, going ashore, in local eateries.

When women's boats moor to the shore, they are immediately surrounded by crowds of tourists: guests of the island buy octopuses, shrimp and shellfish from divers at affordable prices. Therefore, to their husbands, they go without a catch. Without seafood, but with a wallet full of money. And for money on Jeju Island, you can buy anything you want.

In order to see underwater what divers see, it is not at all necessary to be able to hold air for a long time or attach oxygen cylinders to your back. Near the uninhabited island of Munson stands a real miniature Submarine, in which you can dive into the depths of the sea together with her crew. Getting to it is not difficult: boats to the submarine depart from the coast of Jeju Island regularly.

This is the most beautiful island in all of East Asia. Mount Hallasan rises almost in the middle of the island. It is considered the highest in South Korea, its height above sea level is 1950 meters. Once lava erupted from the crater, it has now become basalt, which is used for construction and crafts. Stone idols, grandfathers, which are called "tolkharubans", are cut out of it. They are the symbols of Jeju Island. It is they who are most often depicted on souvenirs and postcards.

For several centuries now, stone sculptures have been considered a talisman against evil spirits for local residents. There is not a single islander who does not have a three-meter idol at home. During the development of tourism, enterprising craftsmen and artisans guessed to make miniature copies of tolkhorubans. Therefore, the question of what to bring from Jeju Island is simply irrelevant.

The inhabitants of the island do not agree with the opinion of scientists that the island and the rocks located in its immediate vicinity appeared as a result of the eruption of the Hallasan volcano. They have their own opinion about the appearance of the island and rocks in the sea, for example, very close to the island there is a lonely rock - Vedulge. Some of the locals are firmly convinced that this is the hero of the battle with the Mongols turned to stone. With the help of higher powers, in front of a huge army, he became a stone rock, and the enemy soldiers from what they saw rushed to their heels. In fact, this hero is not fictional, he really fought with the Mongols for the independence of the island: his name was Choi Yong and he had the rank of general.

Another part of the island believes that Vedulge is a petrified beautiful girl. Her lover went to sea and did not return. From anguish, she turned to stone. Near this lonely rock you can always meet a huge number of tourists on pleasure boats: the place is romantic and quiet. In addition, it is to Vedulga that a traveler who likes to go fishing should go: for an inexplicable reason, the fish near this rock are apparently invisible. Anyone who takes a tackle and goes to the "Lonely Rock" of Jeju Island will never be left without a catch.

hallim park

One of the most visited places in Jeju Island. The park has a huge variety of flowers, in addition there is a Palm Alley, which was planted by the founder of the park, there are gardens of dwarf trees and stones. In Hallim Park, you can admire the bizarre-shaped trees that grow in ordinary pots. Their age can reach 300 years.

Also in the park there is a Garden of Tropical Plants, Wildflowers and Palms, a Water Garden and a Beautiful Birds Garden. In the latter, you can walk along with peacocks and other birds that roam freely. And you can also feed a lot of birds and small rodents from the palm of your hand.

Hallim Park is distinguished from other tropical parks by the presence of unique caves made of natural lava - Cheopje (Chepjeggul) Sanyeong (Ssangyeongul) caves. Both two are again included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

There is an exhibition hall of volcanic stones in Hallim. Nowhere else you will be able to see so many samples ...

Yomiji Botanical Garden

The botanical garden as a whole consists of several interconnected mini-gardens, it performs a whole range of functions - educational, educational, aesthetic. Yomiji Garden exchanges seed material with 200 botanical gardens from 130 countries and, thanks to this, constantly replenishes its collections.

The garden is planned in such a way that a huge greenhouse occupies a central place, branches from it with themed gardens, and in the central hall there is an elevator with an observation deck at the top and several exhibition compositions that change depending on the season and time of year.

The building was built in 1992, and the Botanical Garden itself was opened to the public in October 1989. The greenhouse includes a main hall, an observation tower with a viewing platform, a cactus garden, a jungle garden, a flower garden, a tropical fruit tree garden and a water garden. The greenhouse contains 1,200 species of plants, and in total in the Botanical Garden - two thousand species.

In the center of the hall are native species plants. Part of the exposition is devoted to wild species of chrysanthemums, which are endemic to Jeju.

In the same room, other types of local flora are presented, decorated in combination with local volcanic tuff.

Walking around the elevator in a circle, you can see other wonderful plants that fill the space of the hall and create the atmosphere of a winter garden.

Flower garden

This garden contains flowering plants of tropical and subtropical zones. At the entrance, on both sides of the alley, you can see orchids - cattleyas, vandas, phalaenopsis and other hybrids.

The garden also features bromeliads of the most various types, creepers, alpine plants and others. In the center of the overall composition there is a pond with an island, around which there are sculptural groups, arches, pergolas and trellises with climbing flowers. The garden is large, so the designers used the area to create a different mood: there are crowded romantic corners, solemn bright parterres, and bright gazebos for relaxation.

A separate place is allocated for begonias. For these colorful flowers, a bright gazebo was built, the roof of which is twined with hanging bougainvilleas.

Water plant garden

Water lilies, lilies, water hyacinths, callas, cyperus, miscanthus, monsteras, Victoria Regi, mangrove trees are represented in this garden. The water garden has four round ponds and four waterfalls.

Succulent garden (cactus garden)

The garden contains plants from the arid desert climate.

jungle garden

The garden occupies a significant part of the greenhouse and is designed to convey the atmosphere of a humid rainforest the Amazon Basin or equatorial forests Africa.

tropical fruit garden

There are 40 kinds of fruit trees in the garden. Near each tree, transparent showcases are installed, where certain tropical fruits are demonstrated.

Palmarius

In the garden, you can find trachycarpus, washingtonia, cicadas and other types of subtropical palms.

There is a flower garden behind the palm garden

Italian and French gardens

Both gardens are a single complex, solved in strict geometry: the French regular style of the time of Le Nôtre and the Italian one in the form of a copy of the garden of the Villa Ovata near Rome, built in the 15th century.

Korean garden

Here are all the local types of vegetation that are considered "Korean". These are hibiscus, peach and plum (sakura), keria, chaenomeles (wild quince), lilacs, hydrangeas, rhododendrons, tree peonies, cersis. Of the conifers, Chinese and Japanese pines are represented, which are called Korean in Korea.

Japanese garden

This garden features all the traditional elements of a Japanese garden. These are a bridge, a stream, a rock garden, stone lanterns, an arbor and a pond. As usual, there is not a single straight line, the dominant of the garden (bridge) is displaced from the center, the concept of emptiness is realized through a rock garden adjacent to the tea arbor.

Cheonjeyeon waterfall park

Next to the Yomiji Botanical Garden is Cheongjeyeon Waterfall Park. The river that forms them flows through a deep gorge. Thanks to water dust from waterfalls in the gorge - its own microclimate. Here, on the one hand, high humidity, and on the other - coolness in the summer heat. Tropical plants feel wonderful in this microclimate: the gorge is all buried in their greenery.

Near the largest, second waterfall, a beautiful bridge is thrown across the gorge unusual shape. It is quite long, wide and very "humpbacked": it forms something like a high arch over the abyss.

Seven nymphs are depicted on the sides of the bridge. The bridge is called Sonimgyo, but more often it is called Chilsongyeogyo, which is translated as the bridge of the seven nymphs or seven fairies. According to local legend, seven nymphs served with the Heavenly King. At night, he let them go swimming to this waterfall, and beautiful fairies came here naked under the protection of the stars and the sounds of jade flutes. Hence the name of the waterfall - Cheongjeyon - the pond of the Heavenly Emperor.

Looking towards the sea from the Sonimgyo Bridge, you can see the third waterfall and the road that runs along the coast. On the other side of the bridge, through the branches of the trees, the second, largest of the three Cheongjiyon waterfalls is visible. The first waterfall is located in a cave, which is located at the source of the river.

If you leave the gorge and go a little further, you can see a beautiful pavilion that looks like a Buddhist temple. The gazebo can be reached by a long staircase. Inside there are many paintings on wood. The paintings on the ceiling of the gazebo detail the same story about fairies and the Heavenly King. Nearby is the Five Blessings Fountain. In the center of it, in a circle, there are five creatures, symbolizing various blessings of life. The carp blesses the birth of sons, the turtle symbolizes longevity, the pig - wealth, the dragon - glory, and the duck - love. All this is written on a plate installed next to the fountain. It is believed that if you stand in front of the corresponding beast and accurately throw a coin into the bowl at the top of the fountain, then the required good will certainly descend on the one who asks. This recommendation is written on the same label.

Next is the tangerine plantation park. It presents the most different varieties tangerines. From the tiny kumquat, which is eaten with the peel, to huge citrus fruits, the size of a human head. They say that these big ones do not eat, but put somewhere in a car or in a room for a pleasant smell. There is also a small shop where you can buy all these tangerines, as well as local honey, chocolate and souvenirs.

Spirited Garden Bonsai Trees

The garden is private and owes its existence to Mr. Beom Young Son. He began to work on the creation of the garden in 1968. At first it was just a hobby, but gradually turned into the meaning and purpose of life. It took twenty-four years for the unprepossessing, thicket-covered area to turn into a wonderful garden.

The Inspirational Garden is perhaps the only bonsai garden in the world where all the trees grow outdoors. Although, probably, to call it only "bonsai garden" is not entirely correct. With the same success, it could be called a rock garden. There are a great many of them here. It is said that when a new stone is brought in, the owner of the garden walks along the paths for a long time and chooses a place where the stone will blend harmoniously into the landscape without disturbing the harmony of bonsai, other stones, ponds with carps and surrounding hills, poured to protect plants from the wind and create a characteristic for the landscape island.

The art of bonsai is more than art, it is a whole philosophy, according to which any such garden is the product of three virtues: truth, goodness and beauty. Not every person can successfully engage in this art. Now in the garden, on an area of ​​​​24 hectares, there are about 2000 bonsai trees. In every corner of the park one can feel that its owner is not only an outstanding bonsaist, but also a wonderful landscape designer. After all, he is the author of all the main compositions and small details of the landscape. Graceful ponds, a waterfall, winding alleys, small sculptural forms, gazebos, grottoes, stones are located between the picturesque artificial hills. Stones of different types: river or sea, “treated” with water, pieces of volcanic lava and all the rest found somewhere in the fields or mountains.

Inspirational Garden lives up to its name. Here you can walk for a very long time, finding peace of mind and harmony.

Jeju Island - incredible beautiful place, which is simply created for relaxation. Visiting it, no one can be disappointed.

The island of South Korea, which can often be found under the name Jeju (translated as "Island of three abundance") is located in the Korea Bay. This is the largest province. Its area reaches 1846 sq. km, and the population exceeds 500 thousand people.
This island, which arose about 400 million years ago, is considered volcanic. The center of Jeju is Hallasant, a volcano extinct more than a thousand years ago, which is also considered the highest point in South Korea. In addition to Hallasan, there are other long-extinct volcanoes on the island.

History of Jeju Island

Tourists bathe in a volcanic sea lake

At the moment, Chejudo, although in its history it has happened to be part of Japan and Mongolia. The first mention of the island dates back to 662 AD. However, even before that, people lived on the island, but at that time it was considered a separate country called Thanma.
In the first millennium of our era, the island was often attacked and captured, and already in 1105 it went to the then powerful Mongol state of Koryo, whose rulers gave it the name we know. Until 1270, the population of the island had to provide the invaders with everything they needed. But in the same year, the islanders revolted and expelled the Mongols from their territory. However, after 3 years, the invaders, having gathered an army, again crushed the entire island under them.
About two hundred years ago, political criminals who were forbidden to return to the mainland were exiled to the island as a punishment.

Jeju bird's eye view

In 1910, Japan, which took possession of the island, renamed it Saishu. But as a result of the Second World War, he switched to
In 1948, an uprising of local residents took place on the island, dissatisfied with the standard of living and the holding of elections under the control of the United States. The uprising was supported by 45-50% of the population of the island. The uprising was crushed by troops and police from the mainland by 1949, separate pockets of resistance in the caves of the island remained until 1953. It is reliably known about 14,373 dead, according to other estimates, about 30,000 of them. This is one of the islands, and of South Korea in general.
In the 1960s, he began his journey to an elite tourist resort.
Today, Jeju Island is a protected World Heritage Site by UNESCO. And since 2011, it has been considered one of the seven new wonders of nature.

tourist abode

Swimming pool at this resort

Over the past 50 years, the island has been developing in a tourist direction, during which time, in addition to numerous natural attractions and rich history he managed to acquire many man-made gardens, alleys, tourist areas and resorts.
To this day, matriarchy is ubiquitous on the island. AT ordinary family In the islanders, the woman is the main breadwinner, and the man takes care of the household and the upbringing of children. For the most part, women collect seafood at great depths, which they later sell to tourists, local eateries, or cook themselves.
A notable feature of the Jeju population is considered to be a peculiar dialect and atypical Asian appearance. Many tourists from South Korea admit that they do not understand the dialect of the locals.
Jeju is considered by many tourists to be the most beautiful island in East Asia. The island is also a favorite place for weddings. In this regard, many parks, hotels and attractions were built for the newlyweds. Korean students like to spend their holidays here. AT recent times This miracle of nature is beginning to be visited by more and more foreign tourists. Russian lovers of tourism did not bypass the island with their attention.
Jeju is famous for its clean beaches, pleasant climate, beautiful nature, ancient history and amazing infrastructure.

Attractions of the island

Tolharubany Islands

The most famous attraction of Jeju is the stone sculptures in the form of grandfathers, made from basalt - solidified lava. They are called "tolharubans". Many locals consider them amulets against evil forces. Therefore, often in the dwellings of the islanders you can find a similar stone idol. Also, it is these miniature grandfathers that are most often depicted on postcards and brought as souvenirs.
Another advantage of this reserve in South Korea is the abundance of tangerines of various varieties and sizes. Tangerine plantations sometimes stretch for many kilometers. Also, tangerines are the main export product of this province of South Korea.
In addition to natural monuments for vacationers, a entertainment, including the performance of elephants, a laser show, a trip to ostrich farm and visiting the many cultural attractions of the island, which we will consider separately.

hallim park

hallim park

This place is not in vain one of the most visited. In the park there are not only the most diverse flowers, dwarf trees, Palm Alley, tropical and aquatic plants, but also the Garden of Beautiful Birds, where you can walk next to graceful peacocks and other rare birds, which, moreover, are fed directly from the hand.
In addition to everything listed in the park, there are natural caves formed as a result of lava solidification, and a hall with a variety of volcanic rocks.

Yomiji Botanical Garden

Yomiji Botanical Garden

The garden is a network of interconnected mini-gardens and is striking in its diversity. The collection is constantly updated with new plants, as Yomiji maintains contact with 200 botanical gardens around the world and exchanges seeds of unique plants with them.
There is a huge greenhouse in the center, and branches lead visitors to thematic gardens. Also in the center of this work of art is an elevator to the observation deck. From it you can take in the whole garden with one glance. Also next to the observation deck is an exhibition composition, which changes according to the season.
In total, the Yomiji Garden has about two thousand species of plants, which are located both in the greenhouse and in thematic gardens. Passing through them, tourists plunge into a completely different atmosphere, there is a jungle garden, a cactus garden, a tropical and water garden, and by going around the observation deck you can also see the winter garden.

Cheonjeyeon waterfall park

Cheonjeyeon Park is located near the botanical garden. In the gorge, where the river rushes and forms waterfalls, its own microclimate has formed, thanks to which the entire gorge is dotted with various tropical vegetation.
Not far from the largest waterfall there is an unusual bridge thrown over the gorge. It is decorated with images of seven nymphs and is called Sonimgyo. According to legend, the nymphs who served with the Heavenly King bathed in this waterfall at night to the sound of a flute and under the protection of the stars. One of the names of the waterfall is translated as the pond of the Heavenly King.
Also in the park there is a large gazebo, made in the style of a Buddhist temple. Inside, we see a variety of paintings and paintings on wood, and nearby is the fountain of the Five Blessings.
Next is a tangerine plantation. Here you can see and taste many varieties of tangerines, from tiny to huge, the size of a small watermelon. Here you can also buy various tangerines, as well as chocolate, locally produced honey and souvenirs.

Inspirational Bonsai Tree Garden

The garden is a private property and exists thanks to its creator named Beom Young Son. His work on this place began in 1968, and over time it has grown from a simple hobby into a lifelong goal. It took twenty-four years to arrange the garden and bring it to its present state.
The uniqueness of the garden lies in the fact that all bonsai trees, and these are miniature trees that are a copy of their large counterparts, grow in the open. In addition to trees, there are stones of various shapes and colors from different parts of the world. All stones are laid out so as to harmoniously fit into the landscape and not interfere with the art of bonsai. Also, the garden is replete with ponds, alleys, small sculptures, grottoes and gazebos.
The garden was called "Inspirational" for a reason, because walking here, you can find harmony with yourself and the world around you.

Gardens galore

Garden of Flowers

In addition to the listed attractions, Jeju Island contains dozens of different gardens. Floral, Aquatic, Palm, Tropical, Korean, Italian, Japanese, French and many more. Moreover, in each of them certain plants are grown, corresponding to the culture and climate of the country or natural zone.

Climate and weather

Jeju Island has a mild monsoonal climate. This means that most of the precipitation falls in the summer and is virtually non-existent in the winter. Therefore, in the beginning and middle of summer, long showers can await tourists, but winter will greet visitors to the island with warm temperatures and a lack of rain. But autumn is suitable for swimming and walking around the island, the pleasant temperature and humidity of the air will be most comfortable for tourists. It is worth noting that there are practically no cold days here in any of the seasons.

On the island you can explore its ancient history, visit a lot of excursions, try the unique cuisine, go diving, windsurfing, rock climbing or other outdoor activities. And of course, here you can enjoy nature from the heart, and not only the local flora and fauna, but also the living compositions of others created in the gardens. climatic zones.
Jeju Island is a unique and beautiful creation of nature, and just a great place to relax, after visiting which no one will remain indifferent.

Jeju Island (Jeju or Jeju-do) is the largest in South Korea, and at the same time - the smallest province in the country. Jeju is located in the very south about a hundred kilometers from the nearest coast and is washed by the waters of the Yellow Sea.

In this post, I will tell you why you should come here, about the sights and beaches of Jeju Island, about the most suitable time to visit, about ways to get there cheaply, the transport system of the island and much more. It turned out to be a great guide to the results of our stay for several days. I am sure you will find this information useful.

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Clean and transparent sea water

Jeju Island South Korea

Holidays on Jeju Island are very popular with Koreans (plus tourists from neighboring China and Japan). Newlyweds often spend their honeymoon here, the kids come whole school groups, with friends and relatives. But there are not so many foreign tourists, which for us was, perhaps, a plus. It is worth coming here for chic seascapes, beaches with black volcanic or more familiar light sand, fresh air, parks, entertainment complexes and well-developed infrastructure.

National costumes

Jeju is an island of volcanic origin, which was formed many years ago as a result of an eruption. The central part of the island is occupied by the long-extinct Hallasan volcano, which is the highest point in Korea (1950 m). The island is warmer than the rest of South Korea, there is no winter in the usual sense, so this main resort in the country.

Jeju is called the tangerine island because of the tangerines that grow here. Another symbol of the island is the kharyban or stone grandfather, a figure carved from volcanic rock. They can be found everywhere, small figurines as souvenirs or large ones standing near houses and in parks.

figurines haruban

For me personally, this is the most interesting region in South Korea. I think Jeju would be great unusual place for a vacation, there are all the possibilities on the island for this.

Orientation

Jeju is shaped like an ellipse with the Hallasan volcano in the center and a mountainous area that gradually flattens as it approaches the seashore.

The airport is located in the north next to the main city of Jeju-Si, and in the south is the city of Seogwipo. It is these two settlements are the most convenient in terms of location and choice of housing.

Lagoon on the coast

Jeju weather

The climate in Jeju is subtropical monsoon, with four seasons familiar to us.

The winter season lasts from November to mid-March - this is perhaps the worst time to visit Jeju Island.

Spring comes from mid-March and lasts until mid-May. At this time, it is very beautiful here, everything is blooming, the air is perfectly fresh and clean, but it’s too early to swim. Ideal for hiking and excursions.

We traveled around the island at the end of May, and it was already noticeably humid and warm, although the water in the sea was cool (but we were after Thailand :))

Beaches with black volcanic sand

In summer, from June to early September, the hottest weather is + 25 ... + 32С, the sea warms up from the end of June to +25 degrees. If you come for a beach holiday, the best months are July and August. But, as usual, at this time most of the people. Interestingly, it is in summer that there is a lot of precipitation.

Autumn lasts from late September to early November, nature is painted in bright colors red, yellow, orange. Again a good time for sightseeing.

drinking spring

The sights of Jeju are very numerous, and you definitely won’t have enough time to go around them all, I’ll only tell you about the main ones. I will talk about the beaches separately below.

The highlight of the program: dormant volcano Hallasan. There are only 7 routes in the park next to the volcano, but two lead to the top. The whole round trip will take you a full day of light. The starting point of the most popular Seongpanak route can be reached by bus 181 from Jeju Si. We never saw the volcano, all the time it was hiding from our sight behind a veil of clouds.

Olle Trails- special hiking trails laid throughout the island. Choose any and go ahead, enjoy the unity with nature.

outlandish bird

To Jeju right now three sex museums: Jeju Loveland (Entrance 9,000 won), Museum of Sex and Health (12,000 won), World Eros Museum (7,000 won). You are provided with spicy pictures.

Sex Museum in Jeju Island

Manjang-gul cave- the longest cave in the world, formed in volcanic lava. Located in the eastern part of the island, you can get there by bus 101.

Extinct volcano Seongsan Ilchul-bong and the park of the same name around it (entrance 2000 won). Just a gorgeous must see place in Jeju! Popular with tourists to watch the sunrise (if you're lucky with the weather), although you can come at any time. During our stay, the volcano was shrouded in clouds. Nearby is a cool beach with black sand and simply picturesque places, you can walk for several hours.

Descent down the slope of the volcano, all in the fog

One of the main cultural attractions of Jeju are haenyo(or women of the sea, literally). Haenyo are divers who dive to the seabed to a depth of 3-5 meters, some even up to 20 meters, without using special equipment. They spend several minutes underwater.

There are not many divers left, and most of them are elderly, so hurry to see! Haenyeo put on a little show on the beach at Seongsan Park.

Schedule of the show of women divers

Udo Island- a very tiny island, which can be reached by ferry from Jeju. Volcanic landscapes, clear sea water, the smell of algae in the air.

On Udo Island

folklore village Seongeup Folk Village(free admission) - traditional houses, statues of stone grandfathers.

Cheonjiyeon Pokpo and Jeongbang Pokpo waterfalls(both 2,000 won) are located in Seogwipo City.

Cheonjiyeon Pokpo Waterfall

Jeju Attractions - Jeongbang Pokpo Waterfall

Jungmun Resort– a whole amusement park complex with interesting entertainment, museums, beaches, hotels, etc. Here are, for example, the Yakcheon-sa temple, the Teddy Bear Museum, the Yeomiji Botanical Garden.

At Jungmun Resort

Another popular entertainment area is located in the northwest of the island and is called Hallim. There are several beautiful beaches and a park here.

Jeju beaches

The best beaches of Jeju Island:

- one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, located in the western part.

Hyeopjae Beach in Jeju

Geeunmeung Beach- located next to the previous one, but there are much fewer people here during the season.

Samyang Beach and Hamdeok Beach- two good beaches near Jeju-Si city, easily accessible by bus

Gimnyeong Beach- a small beach with white sand and calm waters.

- located next to the Jungmun Resort, here good infrastructure, many hotels and entertainment.

Jeju Beaches - Jungmun Beach

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How to get to Jeju Island

You have two options: fly in by plane or take a ferry from the mainland. I recommend the first option, fast and inexpensive. For example, we flew to Jeju from Kuala Lumpur (by Air Asia), and then to Busan on Eastar Jet, we paid 48,600 won for two tickets (or 2,860 rubles at the exchange rate at that time). I think it's cheap for 40 minutes of flight and 15 kg of included luggage for each. This is not "Victory" for you.

Planes fly to Seoul (Incheon or Gimpo), Busan and other major cities of South Korea, as well as to various Asian destinations, close and not so. There are no direct flights from Russia, you need to make a transfer, most likely it will be Seoul. Cheapest way to fly from cities Far East RF, which is logical.

Airlines worth paying attention to are Korean Air, Air Busan, EastarJet, Jeju Air, Tway. The last three refer to low-cost airlines.

The ferry can be reached from Busan and some other cities on the coast. From Busan, the ferry to Jeju costs about 50,000 won, takes 12 hours and runs three times a week. If you choose this path, it is only out of interest.

Monthly calendar of cheap flights to South Korea

Transport around the island

Buses

Bus service is well developed in Jeju. You can get by bus to almost any corner, including directly from the airport. There are bus terminals in Jeju Si and Seogwipo, between which buses run, as well as from there to different parts of the island.

Express bus from the airport

We took a bus route map from the Information Office at the airport upon arrival. Here .

Intercity buses are blue and red. Blues start at 1,150 won (for the first 20 km) and Reds start at 2,000 won. Further, for every 5 km, 200 won are added, if you drive more than 40 km, then pay 3,000 won (about 180 rubles).

Express bus

The route is signed on the side

Payment is made in cash or by T-money card. It’s better to buy a card right away, it will be much more profitable, besides, it works in any other city in South Korea in the subway and buses, and even supermarkets. Using the map, you can still transfer to another bus within 30 minutes and ride it for free.

On the bus stops there are special interactive scoreboards where you can see the route you need, as well as the time of its arrival - just space! Well nice bonus— each bus has free Wi-Fi at a decent speed, so you can post fresh photos :)

Taxi

If you need to get from the airport to the city and don’t want to bother with bus routes, besides, if you are with large bags, I recommend it.

Rent a Car

Renting a car in Jeju is also quite real. You will need international law and you must be over 21 years of age. Car prices start at 60,000 won per day. Gasoline and gas are quite expensive.