3 unforgettable days in Jeju, Korea

The picturesque island of Jeju is not surprisingly rife with attractions, although what perhaps surprises most visitors is the uniqueness and diversity of these things to see. Abundantly a trophy of nature, not-too-secretly a hub of off-beat museums, and a showcase of talented performers from the stage to the sea, Jeju Island delivers a full experien  ce to every weekend stay. Here’s an itinerary of how to achieve just that.

Day 1: A Taste of Culture, Nature & Authentic Cuisine

Begin the day with a stroll along Jungmun Beach. Go swimming if you want, but remember to conserve energy for the day ahead.

Tip: To get around the island with ease, we highly recommend renting a car for the day. The island’s pretty small so it should not take too long to get around, but you’ll definitely be glad for the convenience.

Jeju, apart from its natural sights and scenery, is also known for its quirky museums. Make a stop at the Teddy Bear Museum near Jungmun Beach, then to Loveland up north, closer to Jeju City.

Enjoy a dinner of local fare and receive a crash course on Korean dining etiquette. Try on a hanbok, a type of traditional clothing, then enjoy a round or two of a Korean board game. Indeed, few other experiences take you close to the heart of Jeju Island.

Day 2: Head East

Start your day at another one of Korea’s favorite museums, the Trick Art Museum. Ready your camera batteries for all the shots you’ll be taking at mind-boggling, life-size optical illusions.

Drop by the Seongeop Folk Village at the foot of Mt. Hallasan for an interesting glimpse of Jeju’s culture and heritage.

After a delicious Korean lunch buffet, enjoy a show featuring the legendary haenyeo, women the average age of 65 who free dive up to 20 meters into the ocean for a catch.

Next, make the climb up to Seongsan Sunrise Peak, where you’ll be blessed at the top with breathtaking views. Then head back down to the Manjang Cave to see the spectacular Lava Tubes, which are quite the sight. Finally, wrap up the day with the NANTA Show, the award-winning musical kitchen extravaganza you don’t want to miss while in Korea.

Day 3: See the West

See more of Jeju’s natural feats. Begin at the beautiful Hallim Park, and roam its numerous, lovely gardens. Then go for a trek at Suweolbong, a UNESCO-designated Geopark. Keep your eyes peeled for the awesome volcanic rock formations.

Take a break with a Korean-style lunch buffet, then head off to the otherworldly Spirited Garden, considered one of the most beautiful gardens in the world.

Head up to Mt. Sanbang, via a trek up a mountain of volcanic lava. Apart from a cave perched 150 meters above sea level, you’ll also come to a peak of magnificent views, proving every bit worth the climb.

Head out for a taste of Jeju’s nightlife. Drop by Tap-dong-lo in Jeju city, the more populated evening hub and grab dinner at one of its many restaurants, open late into the night.

See more: All you need to know about Dol Hareubang in Jeju Island

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Where to visit in Changwon, the city of art

Changwon is located in Gyeongsangnam-do, known as a beloved hideout for artists, is a romantic travel destination throbbing with an artistic sensibility. The city is filled with a variety of attractions, including alleys adorned with beautiful flowers and trees, a charming mural village, heartwarming traditional markets, and more.

Changdong Art Village

Changdong Art Village was created by redeveloping Changdong Street, a declining yet once thriving downtown of the old Masan city (now consolidated into Changwon City). As ateliers, cafes, and galleries took over the vacant stores, the empty town has been transformed into a street of art, characterized by its distinctly romantic ambiance.

A great number of unique murals and popular photo spots hide behind every corner, offering a joyful experience of exploring the alleys. The Changdong Art Village Art Center, easily spottable during one's tour of the village, displays an array of artworks by international artists and also provides tourist information.

Garosu-gil

The quiet neighborhood of Yongji-dong is the new up-and-coming hot spot for Changwon residents to meet and gather, thanks to its metasequoia tree road. Dubbed as the "Garosu-gil of Changwon" (after the famous Sinsadong Garosu-gil in Seoul), the area is dotted with cozy coffee shops, galleries, and art shops that draw a constant stream of visitors, especially young people. The metasequoia-lined road and the revamped buildings give off an exotic vibe, for which it is an ideal place to take a leisurely stroll with take-out coffee in hand or enjoy tea-time on one of the cafe terraces. On weekends, a flea market is held here, adding to the fun of exploring the area.

Gagopa Kkoburang-gil Mural Village

Gagopa Kkoburang-gil Mural Village can be reached by walking through the alleys leading down from Changwon City Museum. It is a small village, the walls of which are decorated with mural paintings illustrating the old landscape of Changwon, such as its sea and port, as well as other diverse themes like animals, flowers, pop art, and more.

Some of the meaningful places in the village, including its 100-year-old well and the senior citizen center, have been turned into photo zones for visitors to capture the colorful murals. Climb up the stairs flanked by these mural drawings to get a magnificent birds-eye view of Masan Port. The village is a must-visit destination in Changwon, but it is also a residential area for locals, so visitors are advised to look around quietly.

Changwon City Museum

Changwon City Museum is an art museum dedicated to the internationally recognized artist Moon Shin (1923–1995), who spent a good part of his life in France. The art museum was completed after 14 years of construction under the guidance of the artist himself, who also designed the building. It is comprised of three exhibition halls housing around 290 works, including this artist-slash-founder's own sculptures and oil paintings that each display a great deal of artistry. In addition, the museum is situated on the hill overlooking Masan Bay, so visitors to the museum can also take in the great scenery.

The House of Changwon

This is a hanok (traditional Korean house) built in the Joseon Dynasty, where An Du-cheol, a fifth-generation descendant of the Sunheung An family clan, resided 200 years ago. It is an education center where visitors can learn about the traditional culture of Korea. On display inside the buildings are farming tools that were once used by Koreans, and beeswax figures reenacting scenes from the Joseon dynasty, thereby offering visitors a chance to travel back in time. Popular among photographers for its well-kept garden and architectural beauty, the House of Changwon offers use free of charge for couples holding a traditional wedding here.

See more: Top 5 places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul

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Must-visit amusement parks and theme parks in Korea

If you thought Korea was only great for shopping, you are wrong. Korea is home to a large number of amusement and theme parks, and even consists of some of the world’s best attractions!

Everland

Everland is the first family park in Korea, and holds over 40 exciting rides and attractions. Along with the thrilling amusement park, Everland also includes Safari World and Herbivore Safari (featuring white tigers, tigers, lions, bears, giraffes, elephants and more), Caribbean Bay (one of Korea’s coolest water parks), Everland Speedway (the first ever racing track in Korea), and so much more! You can also enjoy the many festivals that take place there each year.

Daejeon O-World

Daejeon O-World might be modest but it does know how to show a good time. This quaint and folksy amusement park has a zoo of its own, perfect for your children who want to hang out with animals. The existing Zoo Park and Joy Land are both known as the Flower Land, a massive and ambitious project that is said to cost 40 billion won. Daejeon O-World is perfect for those who want to take the perfect Instagram photo since it has different gardens that are worth a spot on your feed.

Imsil Cheese Theme Park

Imsil Cheese Theme Park is exactly like it sounds, an entire theme park devoted to cheese. Expect cheese-themed rides, a cheese experience centre where you can learn the secrets of cheese-making, buildings shaped like giant cheese wedges, and oodles of cheesy food to eat. Imsil was the first place in South Korea to produce cheese, as recently as the mid-1960s, and today is the country’s major producer.

Cheese is now an important part of South Korean cuisine, and much-loved all over the country. The Cheese Theme Park celebrates the region’s cheese-making history and provides an informative and entertaining day out. There is also a shop where you can stock up on Imsil cheese and related goodies.

KidZania Seoul

Looking for a good time for your kids? Visit KidZania when you travel to Seoul. This park is built to bring joy to both kids and adults who are kids at heart. This place is perfect if you want your kids to experience different professions, let them act on it, and maybe develop their dreams in the process.

This immersive amusement park has different facilities. Let your kids save pets at the “Vet Clinic” or build their delicious donuts at the “Donut Shop.” They can even become crime investigators or television reporters! Hone your kids’ imagination at KidZania.

Lotte World

Lotte World is a must-do for every traveller in South Korea! Holding the Guinness World Record for being the world’s largest indoor amusement park, Lotte World Adventure is home to heart-pumping roller coasters and captivating shows. Be sure to visit Magic Island as well, which comprises an artificial island on Seokchon Lake. Surrounded by water, the outdoor park offers a whimsical fairytale atmosphere, complete with an enormous enchanted castle as well as more than a dozen thrilling rides and attractions that are suitable for all ages.

The Lotte World Hotel and a large shopping complex is located adjacent to the amusement park, offering great fun for families, friends and couples alike.

Shinhwa Theme Park

Shinhwa Theme Park is a one-stop shop for those who seek to widen their imagination and find adventure. It is a fully integrated adventure land in Jeju Island complete with parks and hotels and even casinos. Shinhwa Theme Park has three zones that every adventurer needs to see.

Rotary Park is perfect for those who love anything that is steampunk. Oscar’s New World has Inca and Maya civilization inspired design and rides. Meanwhile, the Larva Adventure Village offers great characters that every child will love. Shinhwa Theme Park will be your favorite if you love world building and animation. Do visit it when you drop by Jeju Island.

Read more: Most beautiful coastal cities in South Korea

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The best art galleries in South Korea

With an ever-evolving art scene, South Korea is home to a number of world-renowned galleries that feature works spanning multiple genres and mediums. From Seoul to Busan and everywhere in between, the following galleries showcase some of the best art the country has to offer.

Gana Art Center 

Pyeongchang in northern Seoul is home to some of Korea’s oldest and most influential galleries. Among them is Gana Art, a modern complex designed by celebrated architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte. Founded in 1983, Gana Art has presented over 400 exhibitions of Korean and international art over its lengthy history, including prominent artists such as Pierre Alechinsky, Roy Lichtenstein and Joan Miro.

Jeju Museum of Art 

Surrounded by the beautiful and pristine nature of Jeju Island, the Jeju Museum of Art is the epicenter of the region’s art. The building itself reflects the local culture, colors and sounds of the island, while its historical and contemporary works are sure to inspire art enthusiasts. Of particular interest is the Chang Ree-suok Hall, which displays more than 100 artworks created by the well-known Korean artist Chang Ree-suok.

Gallery Yeh 

With its striking modernist architectural shell, Gallery Yeh is an iconic landmark in Seoul’s ritzy Gangnam district. Established in 1978 and reopened in 1982, it led to the transformation of the Sinsa-dong neighborhood into a dynamic cultural center. The gallery has also played a significant role in bridging the gap between Korea’s capital and the wider art world, featuring the works of celebrated artists such as Raphael Soto and Alberto Giacometti, as well as representing Korean masters such as Ku Pon-ung, Kwon Ok-yeon and Kim Hwan-gi around the globe.

Johyun Gallery 

Founded in 1990, the Johyun Gallery (formerly known as Gallery World) is one of Busan’s premier art galleries. Johyun represents many well-known Korean and international contemporary artists such as Nam June Paik, Julian Opie and Georges Rousse. With its carefully curated exhibitions of sculptures, paintings, and installations, Johyun is guaranteed to satisfy the most discerning of art lovers.

Artside Gallery 

Notable for its focus on contemporary Chinese art, Artside Gallery has been a leader in the artistic exchange between Korea and China, and has garnered international attention for hosting the first solo exhibition of artist Zhang Xiaogang in the country. In 2007, Artside opened a gallery space in Beijing, and in 2010 relocated its Seoul gallery to Hyoja-dong. Despite its expansion, the gallery’s vision remains the same – to present the best in Chinese and Asian avant-garde as a way to encourage understanding and creativity across Asian art.

Gallery FACTORY 

Situated in Hyoja-dong to the west of Gyeongbokgung Palace, is Gallery FACTORY, a small but punchy avant-garde space that has established itself as a steadfast presence in Seoul’s evolving art scene. The gallery encourages community participation through workshops and lectures, as well as by engaging in art consultation, public art projects, publications and international exchange programs. If you’re looking to discover the experimental work of up-and-coming artists based in Korea, Gallery FACTORY is certainly the place to do it.

Ungno Lee Museum of Art 

Designed by French architect Laurent Beaudouin, the quaint white structure that is the Ungno Lee Museum of Art was built to commemorate the work of the artist Goam Ungno Lee (1904-1989), who devoted his life to the modernization and globalization of Korean tradition through architecture. Goam’s work, which epitomizes the harmony between East and West, is distributed throughout four halls, which seem to flow together in one continual, unified space.

See more: Changwon, the city of art in South Korea

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Most beautiful coastal cities in South Korea

Surrounded by water, the Korean peninsula is outlined by a number of coastal cities that offer a welcome escape from everyday inland life. Offering everything from sandy beaches to gorgeous seascapes, these coastal cities are the country’s most beautiful.

Sokcho

Situated on South Korea’s eastern coast, Sokcho is widely known for its white sandy coast that is punctuated by picturesque pine trees. Located near the Sokcho Express Bus Terminal, Sokcho Beach is as accessible as it is beautiful. Here, visitors from all over the country partake in beach swimming in the summer months, while the Haedoji Sunrise Festival is held on New Year’s Day. Visitors can even rent a rod and go fishing at nearby Jodo Island, or head to the pier to get some fresh sushi at one of the many local fish markets. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Sokcho’s Seoraksan Mountain – one of Korea’s most celebrated – which features well-maintained trails and breathtaking autumn foliage.

Gangneung

Gangneung’s six-kilometer-long Gyeongpo Beach is much loved for its fine sand and numerous facilities. But it’s also famous for its picturesque sunrise and tranquil moonrise, making a great camping spot. In addition, the beach is the site for various cultural events, including beach festivals and cherry blossom viewings. While Gangneung’s beaches and are splendid, the city’s parks are also worthy of exploration. Kids will love the submarine and decommissioned warship on display at Tongil Park, while adults will appreciate the dramatic architecture and contemporary works at Haslla Art World.

Busan

Boasting a stunning landscape of mountains and beaches, and brimming with hot springs and seafood, South Korea’s second-largest city is a boisterous coastal city that most consider a must-visit on any trip to the peninsula. Spend an afternoon checking out the murals and sculptures in the colorful hillside of Gamcheon Culture Village or take in the tranquil beauty of Haedong Yonggung Temple, one of Korea’s only oceanside Buddhist temples. Foodies will love the culinary scene, which is an eclectic mix of casual tent bars, chaotic fish markets, trendy cafés, and fine dining establishments. Finally, catch the sunset at Haeundae Beach, a beautiful stretch of white sand that offers great views of Busan’s unique urban landscape.

Suncheon

Suncheon Bay and its surrounding area is a natural ecosystem that has remained almost completely untouched. As a habitat for local plant life, a variety of sea creatures and migratory birds, Suncheon Bay has been globally recognized for its ecological value, and is often referred to as the ecological capital of Korea. To see the highlights of the city, take the Suncheon City Tour, which includes stops at Suncheon Bay’s wetlands and reed fields, as well as Seonamsa and Songgwangsa, two century-old temples. Other attractions on the journey include Naganeupseong, a village of thatched roof houses that date back to the Joseon Dynasty, and an open set where a number of popular Korean movies and dramas have been filmed.

Tongyeong

Those seeking some tranquility should head to Tongyeong, a seaside town situated on the southern coast of Korea. Here, evergreen trees and emerald seas are canopied by clear blue skies, creating a spectacular sight. Enchanting islands dot its shores, and they can be reached by ferry services that depart from the central terminal. Any island-hopping excursion should include a stop at Somaemul Island. Quiet and peaceful, the small island boasts hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, all offering incredibly magnificent views. Hungry? Tongyeong is home to countless restaurants that serve up local specialties including sea squirt bibimbap, grilled fish, and spicy hairtail stew – all served with sides of local produce and fresh seafood.

Geoje

Dubbed the “Blue City,” Geoje is not so much a city as it is an island – Korea’s second largest after Jeju – of villages and settlements that are dotted around the coastline. There’s no better way to see the sights than by renting a motorcycle and zipping around from beach to beach. Don’t miss the chance to hike Daegum Mountain, which offers breathtaking island views, especially in spring, when the azaleas are in full bloom. Of course, no visit to Geoje would be complete without a visit to nearby Oedo Island, a botanical garden so beautiful that it has been nicknamed “the paradise of Korea.”

Seogwipo

Jeju Island’s second-largest city is beautifully nestled on a rocky volcanic coastline dotted with lush parks, a deep gorge and two waterfalls. Its clear blue waters and mild ocean temperatures make Seogwipo one of Korea’s top diving destinations. Furthermore, its scenic landscapes are well suited for hiking. Trekking the Olle-gil is a fantastic way to experience the natural and cultural beauty of Jeju. There are more than 20 of them, with four passing through Seogwipo. Each route offers something different, whether it be small villages, beaches, farms or forests, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the island. Typically, the trails are fairly easy to traverse, but there are several points that do get steep and require some athletic ability.

See more: Top 8 things to do in Busan, South Korea

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Non-touristy activities to do in South Korea

South Korea is one of the most intriguing travel destinations in Asia. When you go, dive deep into Korean culture with these non-touristy things to do in South Korea.

Wear Traditional Korean Clothing

Chances are, you start your journey in Seoul. The Korean capital is a melting pot of tradition and modernity with old temples and palaces standing next to futuristic exhibition halls and museums. If you want to understand Koreans, the first step is to dress accordingly. Rent a Korean hanbok and you will not only feel more like a local, but you will also have free access to cultural sites, such as the palaces and temples in the city.

Play Traditional Korean Games

Jeonju is one of the most interesting cities to visit in South Korea. The old town is filled with hundreds of traditional Korean houses, called hanok. Koreans love to keep their traditions alive and have declared Jeonju their cultural capital. In fact, the city houses a large cultural center where visitors have the chance to try out traditional Korean games such as the board game Yut Nori or Tuho, a game where players throw sticks from a set distance into a canister.

Visit Busan’s SpaLand

Koreans love their bathhouses and it’s not uncommon to spend an entire day soaking in a variety of healing waters. One of Korea’s best bathhouses is located in the country’s second largest city of Busan in the south of the country. The coastal city is known for its beach vibe, seafood and natural springs. Busan’s SpaLand is an upscale version of the common Korean jjimjilbang (bathhouses) but absolutely affordable with admissions ranging from ₩12,000 ($10.50) on weekdays to ₩14,000 ($12.25) on weekends.

Explore Seoul’s Upcoming Artist Village

Most tourists in Seoul visit Bukchon Hanok Village with its old Korean houses and lovely shops. However, there is a neighborhood in Seoul that is far more traditional and hip featuring intriguing hanok teahouses, artist cafés and vintage shops. The neighborhood of Ikseondong was saved destruction by its faithful locals who have turned the area into a haven for art lovers, indie music fans and those interested in Korean traditional architecture.

Explore Tapsa Temple

While temples are not a rare sight in South Korea, Tapsa Temple at the foot of Maisan Mountain in North Jeolla Province is so unknown that not even many Koreans know about it. The temple features more than 80 man-made stone pagodas that are said to have created an electromagnetic powerhouse. It is believed that if you make a wish and place a pebble on one of the pagodas, it will come true.

See more: Most amazing places to visit in Korea during autumn

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Visit the famous filming locations in Jeju, Korea

Jeju Island’s volcanic shores are well loved in Korea for their sweeping ocean views and natural beauty. So it’s no surprise that the island frequently appears in K-dramas of all types. Here are some of the best K-drama filming locations you can visit on Jeju.

Hallasan Park

The volcanic peak of Hallasan Mountain is one of Jeju’s most instantly recognisable geographic features. Trails around the park range in length from 1.5 kilometres to over nine kilometres long, and hiking to the top of the crater is a popular activity for visitors to the island. Hallasan is the tallest mountain in South Korea, and its peak can be seen in the background of many K-dramas set on Jeju. It also appears as a location, most notably in My Lovely Sam Soon, when Kim Sun Ah scales the path in the pouring rain to show that she doesn’t want anything to do with love any more.

Seopjikoji Lighthouse

Seopjikoji Lighthouse is set at the top of a hill, and has sweeping views out over the ocean. It’s also known as the ‘Wishing Lighthouse’, as locals believe it has the power to grant wishes. The elegant white building has been featured in a number of dramas, including All In and Boys Over Flowers, and Yeo Jin Goo and Kim Seolhyun shared their first kiss here in romantic drama Orange Marmalade.

Jeju Folk Village

Go back in time to the 1890s at Jeju Folk Village. Over 40 acres of land contain carefully researched reconstructions of various types of buildings, including fishing huts, shaman’s houses, agricultural buildings, and family homes. There are 117 buildings and facilities in the village, and a range of artefacts on display. Visitors can dress up in traditional hanboks, take part in workshops, and see events such as cultural performances. The village was used as a key location in the hit historical drama Dae Jang Geum (‘Jewel in the Palace’), as the place where Jang Geum learns medicine as a maid.

Teddy Bear Museum

Jeju’s Teddy Bear Museum features historical moments, famous people and art masterpieces — all represented in teddy-bear form. Teddies range from over six foot tall (you can cuddle some in the museum’s outdoor garden) to just 4.55 millimetres high. It’s an entertaining way to spend an afternoon, and gives an insight into the toy’s history and Korean culture; look out for the hanbok-clad animatronic bears. Alfred, the teddy bear from Goong(‘Princess Hours’), is displayed here; the museum was used as a filming location for episode 12 of the drama.

The All In House

Located just a few minutes’ walk from Seopjikoji Lighthouse is the All In House, built specially as a location for the drama mini-series All In. It’s waned in popularity as a tourist attraction (the drama aired in 2003), but you can still visit the interesting church building, recreate your own scenes from the drama, and take lots of photos along the dramatic coastline.

Bomnal Cafe 

Bomnal Cafe has breathtaking views out over Jeju’s ocean and a bright, welcoming atmosphere. It was a key filming location in the 2015 drama Warm and Cosy, as the cafe where Lee Jung Joo and Baek Gun Woo worked and (spoiler alert!) fell in love. It’s popular in its own right, however — the café is beautifully decorated, making every corner a perfect photo-op, drinks are good, and there are two café corgis who make sure all the visitors are happy.

See more: 5 most romatic destinations for couples in Jeju, South Korea

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Get to know what are typical breakfasts in Asia

One of the most exciting experiences to have while traveling around Asia is to taste the local food. If you’re looking for some authenticity in your travel journey, be sure to start the day with a power-packed local breakfast. The breakfast menu for this diverse continent is strikingly different from one country to the next, from pancakes to rice and noodles.

The Philippines

A typical Filipino breakfast can range from pandesal (bread rolls), champorado (chocolate rice porridge), garlic fried rice, and meat—such as tapa (dried or cured beef), longganisa (Spanish sausage), tocino (sweet pork belly), corned beef, or fish such as daing na bangus (salted and dried milkfish), or itlog na pula (salted duck eggs).

Pandesal

Bibingka

Champorado

Japan

Traditional breakfast in Japan

In any traditional Japanese household, you’ll find them serving steamed rice, miso soup, grilled fish and various side dishes for their breakfast. Side dishes may include tsukemono (Japanese pickles), nori (dried seasoned seaweed), natto (fermented soy beans), kobachi (small side dishes which usually consist of vegetables), and green salad.

China

The Chinese have a special version of a doughnut, which is called youtiao (long, golden-brown, deep-fried strip of dough). They’re best served dipped or soaked in soy milk.

Vietnam

The Vietnamese have bì for their breakfast. It’s basically shredded pork mixed with pork skin, eaten with “broken rice”: rice made from fractured and broken grains.

Banh mi

Com Tam (Broken Rice)

Malaysia

For the Malaysians, they have nasi lemak, which is a rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, served with a bunch of different garnishes.

Korea

Koreans are all about their tofu or cabbage soup, rice, pickled veggies, kimchi (of course), and soy-marinated beef.

Israel

Shashuka

If you’ve ever been to Israel, shakshuka is always on the menu. It’s composed of onions, peppers, tomato paste, and eggs.

Singapore

Congee is the breakfast go-to dish for Singaporeans. They usually flavour it with cuttle fish, pork, or eggs.

Read more: Explore a traditional Japanese breakfast

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