Zhibek Azamat 27′ is Business Analytics and Marketing major currently studying at Seoul National University for Fall 2024!
This is part two of my unforgettable trip to Jeju Island, a jewel of natural beauty in South Korea!
The following morning began with the sun barely peeking over the horizon, urging us to rise early as our agenda was packed with breathtaking sites scattered across the island. Our first destinations were the iconic waterfalls that every visitor to Jeju must experience. I highly recommend arriving before noon to avoid the throngs of tourists that swarm in later. Entrance to both locations was just around 1,000 won, and the clear directions in English were a pleasant surprise, making navigation a breeze.
After a short, invigorating 10-minute walk, we reached the stunning Jeongbang Waterfall. The sight was nothing short of spectacular; the cascading water plunging dramatically into the ocean below left us in awe, and the photographs we took could hardly do it justice.
Next, we ventured to Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, where we were greeted by a series of three picturesque falls nestled within a lush landscape, spaced 300 to 500 meters apart. It took us about 40 minutes to explore the enchanting surroundings, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes—the uneven terrain and stairs can easily lead to blisters if you’re not prepared.
As the clock struck 3 PM, our group made our way to the renowned Orange Cafe, famous for its delectable desserts and beverages infused with zesty citrus flavors. I suggest arriving early, as by the time we settled in, many of the mouth-watering treats had already sold out. Each dessert was freshly made that day, making it less surprising that the options dwindled so quickly. The cafe’s design was nothing short of enchanting, with an Instagram-worthy orange farm theme that made the ambiance even more delightful.
The day culminated at Camellia Hill—a sprawling garden bursting with vibrant plants and flowers. Though we arrived around 5 PM, a little late for optimal exploration, the timing turned out to be perfect. The golden hour bathed the garden in a warm glow, allowing us to soak in the serene beauty while watching the sun dip below the horizon.
The following day, we woke up before dawn, at 4 AM, to embark on the hike to Hallasan Mountain, which rises majestically to a summit of 1,947 meters—the highest peak in South Korea. The hike was a lengthy journey of almost 10 hours, consisting of 6 hours climbing up steep paths and 3 hours descending. Despite being one of the most physically demanding hikes I’ve ever undertaken, reaching the summit was an exhilarating reward, offering breathtaking views of the city below and a profound sense of accomplishment. For anyone considering this trek, be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, pack snacks, and bring a determined spirit—it’s a challenge, particularly for beginners. On our descent, we even witnessed participants in a mountain marathon, which was awe-inspiring; I could hardly fathom running down such a steep and rugged terrain!
After conquering the hike, we treated ourselves to a hearty meal of bibimbap, celebrating our accomplishments with delicious, wholesome food.
On our final day in Jeju, my friend Zahra and I decided to kick off our day with a quick jaunt to the nearest beach. Much to our delight, despite it being mid-October, the water felt surprisingly warm, inviting us to indulge in a refreshing swim. In our leisurely exploration, we stumbled upon Asara Bakery, a local gem boasting award-winning baked goods. Every item on display looked artfully crafted, and they were reasonably priced too! As the first customers of the day, we were surprised with a special bun, its surface embossed with the bakery’s name—a delightful keepsake of our visit.
After a quick change into fresh outfits, we joined the rest of the group at Snoopy Garden, a charming museum dedicated to the beloved “Snoopy and Friends” cartoon. Though I had only a passing familiarity with Snoopy, I found the experience surprisingly engaging. The museum offered intriguing insights into the history of the cartoon, and visitors could embark on a mini-quest, answering questions that would earn them a small gift at the end. I was especially enchanted by Sally Brown’s rose garden, where we were reminded of her famous quote, “My sweet Babboo!”
Our day wrapped up with a visit to the bustling night market, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jeju. The vibrant stalls offered a tantalizing array of culinary delights, from crispy fried seafood to unique Jeju-themed souvenirs.
Reflecting on my time in Jeju Island, it was an enriching vacation for both mind and body. Within those four days, I developed an enduring love for the lush nature, tranquil serenity, charming cafes, and pristine beaches. Jeju has firmly secured a place in my top five travel destinations. Even though it’s been a while since I returned home, I often find myself daydreaming about sitting beside the shimmering water, watching the sun set over the horizon…
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