Mythic Landscape Route

Visit order

1. 1

   Heritage site

   Marado Island Natural Reserve, Jeju

   46, Mararo 101beon-gil, Daejeong-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

   Stamp: Tourist Rest Area in front of the Marado Southernmost Monument (Closed on Mondays)

   Marado is the southernmost island of Korea. Located about 30 minutes by boat from Unjin Port in Jeju, Marado is an elliptical-shaped island believed to have been formed by volcanic activity beneath the sea, though no crater is visible. The coastline is composed of 20-meter-high cliffs shaped by the combined forces of sea winds and waves. Known as one of the windiest areas in Jeju, Marado also features many sea caves formed by the rough waves. The island is generally flat and covered with short grass, turning green in spring and summer. In autumn, silver grass sways in the wind, creating a silver wave effect. Though small enough to explore in 1-2 hours, the surrounding sea is rich and diverse. This area, where temperate marine algae and marine animals thrive, has a different vegetation compared to Jeju Island. Marado, designated as a Natural Monument due to its pristine nature and diverse marine resources, has the southernmost monument erected on the island. Not far from the dock is 'Halmangdang.' Halmangdang, with an altar inside a round stone wall, is a shrine dedicated to the guardian deity who protects the safety of the haenyeo (female divers). The devotion of Marado residents to this place is extraordinary, and even today, they hold rituals several times a year.

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2. 2

   Heritage site

   Manjanggul Lava Tubes, Jeju

   182, Manjanggul-gil, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-d

   Stamp: Manjanggul Lava Tube Information Center

   It is one of the world’s largest lava tubes located in Jeju. Manjanggul, which has been called 'Manjaengi-geomeori-gul' in Jeju dialect, meaning 'very deep cave,' is estimated to have formed 100,000 to 300,000 years ago. However, it was not until 1958 that it was discovered and introduced to the world by Bu Jong-hyu, a teacher at Gimnyeong Elementary School at the time. With a total length of approximately 7.4 km, a main passage width of 18 meters, and a height of 23 meters, Manjanggul has three entrances formed by the collapse of the ceiling in the middle section. Currently, the second entrance is the only one accessible to the public, and only 1 km of the cave is open for exploration. Inside, the cave features lava stalactites, lava stalagmites, lava flowlines, and lava benches, with a 7.6-meter-high lava column being one of the most spectacular features. The lava column, formed by molten lava dripping from the ceiling and meeting with solidified lava on the floor, is considered the largest of its kind in the world. Manjanggul is also a significant bat habitat, hosting thousands of Jeju Leaf-nosed bats and Long-fingered bats, although the chances of encountering them in the accessible area are slim.

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3. 3

   Heritage site

   Yongmeori Coast, Sagye-ri, Jeju

   112-3, Sagye-ri, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

   Stamp: Jeju Geopark Exploration Center

   In front of Sanbangsan Mountain lies the coastal cliffs known as Yongmeori Coast, which resemble a dragon's head dipping into the sea. Formed from volcanic ash and other materials ejected during an underwater volcanic eruption millions of years ago, these cliffs have been eroded by waves into their present unique shapes. The layers of rock, with subtle color differences, create an otherworldly landscape, and the cliffs feature indentations and grooves that suggest the passage of time. As one of Jeju's oldest volcanic formations, it takes about 30 minutes to explore the entire site. However, access is prohibited during high tide or bad weather, so it is essential to check conditions before visiting.

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4. 4

   Heritage site

   Sanbangsan Mountain in Seogwipo, Jeju

   San 16, Sagye-ri, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

   Stamp: Sanbanggulsa Temple Ticket Office

   Sanbangsan, along with Seongsan Ilchulbong, is considered one of the three major mountains of Jeju. It is enveloped in a mystical atmosphere, with a legend that says rain falls when clouds wrap around the mountain. According to legend, the Jade Emperor pulled off the peak of Hallasan and threw it to create Sanbangsan. Notably, there is a cave called Sanbanggul halfway up the southwestern cliff of Sanbangsan, deeply carved into the rock. The view of Yongmeori Coast and the sunset from this cave is exceptional. To protect the scenic value of this natural heritage site, it has been designated as a restricted access area. Unlike other volcanoes in Jeju, Sanbangsan does not have a crater at its peak. Along with Hallasan and Seongsan Ilchulbong, it is one of Jeju’s three major mountains. The southwestern cliff features a sea cave called Sanbanggul, which houses a Buddha statue, leading to it also being known as "Sanbanggulsa Temple." The summit is home to plants that thrive in a warm climate, and the cliffs host a variety of plants such as Machilus thunbergii, Neolitsea sericea, Cymbidium goeringii, and Dendrobium moniliforme. The cliff vegetation of Sanbangsan is rich in rare plants, making it of significant academic value.

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5. 5

   Heritage site

   Soesokkak River Pool in Seogwipo, Jeju

   104, Soesokkak-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

   Stamp: Soesokkak Tourist Information Center (142, Soesokkak-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do)

   Soesokkak refers to a deep pool formed where the freshwater of Hyodoncheon Stream in Hahyo-dong, Seogwipo meets the sea. "Soe" means a pond resembling a lying cow, and "Sokkak" means the end point. Soesokkak, located at the end of Hyodoncheon Stream, is considered one of Seogwipo's hidden scenic spots. Lava that flowed down and solidified formed a valley where bizarre rock formations and lush forests blend harmoniously, complemented by the clear, blue stream water, creating a mystical landscape. A walking trail is built around Soesokkak, allowing visitors to leisurely stroll and appreciate the natural artistry. Following the trail further leads to Soesokkak Beach, famous for its black sand. At the end of the freshwater trail, there is a small dock where visitors can try the traditional "Teu" boat, which accommodates several people, or a small canoe for two, offering a serene experience amidst the majestic rock formations. Soesokkak is also associated with a poignant legend. About 350 years ago, in Iho Village, the only daughter of a wealthy family and the son of their servant fell in love but could not marry due to their social status. Heartbroken, the young man threw himself into Namnaeso, upstream of Soesokkak, ending his life. When the girl learned of his death, she prayed at Soesokkak for 100 days, asking to retrieve his body. A heavy rain eventually brought the young man's body down the stream, and the girl, heartbroken, embraced his body, climbed up the "Wishing Rock," and threw herself into the "Soeso" to join him in death. The villagers then built a shrine called "Halmangdang" or "Yeodredaeng" on Eungjidong Hill to honor their spirits and pray for the village's safety and prosperity.

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6. 6

   Heritage site

   Geomunoreum Volcanic Cone in Seonheul-ri, Jeju

   San 102-1, Seonheul-ri, Jocheon-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do

   Stamp: Information Desk inside the World Natural Heritage Center (in front of the Permanent Exhibition Hall)

   Oreum refers to a parasitic volcano on the slopes of Hallasan. Among the 360 or so parasitic cones in Jeju, Geomunoreum is the only one listed as a World Natural Heritage site. The name "Geomunoreum" means "Black Mountain," which reflects the dense forest covering the volcano, giving it a black appearance. The name also carries the meaning of "Sacred Mountain." The oreum at an elevation of 456 meters, where a cool breeze lingers even during the day due to the wind holes, has a horseshoe shape. From the summit, the volcanic crater can be seen at a glance. Within the crater, there are small peaks and a Gotjawal forest. Gotjawal is a forest formed in areas where rocks are irregularly scattered, maintaining a unique ecosystem. The lava flow that emerged from here traveled down the slopes to the coastline, creating lava tubes known as the 'Geomunoreum Lava Tube System.' This includes Manjanggul, Gimnyeonggul, Yongcheondonggul, and Dangcheomuldonggul caves. The lava tubes developed around the oreum are of global scale and length, with well-preserved unique ecosystems, making them of high value as natural heritage. Additionally, remnants such as tunnels built by the Japanese military during the Pacific War and charcoal kilns that reflect the lives of Jeju residents remain, making this area a site for historical exploration as well. The Geomunoreum and its lava tube system hold significant geological, biological, and modern historical value. As a result, it was designated as Natural Monument No. 444 in 2005 and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in June 2007.

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7. 7

   Heritage site

   Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone Natural Reserve, Jeju

   1, Seongsan-ri, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

   Stamp: Seongsan Ilchulbong Management Office

   Seongsan Ilchulbong is undoubtedly Jeju’s premier attraction and is a tuff cone formed by a volcanic eruption under the sea. The island, formed by magma layering and subsequent erosion by seawater, has steep cliffs on three sides, offering visible cross-sections of the geological layers. Originally separate from Jeju, the island became connected to the main island through the accumulation of sand and gravel carried by rivers. The name "Seongsan" means "Mountain Fortress" due to its grand appearance like a massive fortress rising from the sea, while "Ilchulbong" means "Sunrise Peak," highlighting the spectacular sunrise views from its summit. The crater at the summit spans about 80,000 pyeong (approximately 264,000 square meters) and is surrounded by 99 sharp rocks. The Seongsan Ilchulbong Natural Protected Area preserves the unique topography, geology, and landscape of Ilchulbong and the surrounding 1 km of coastal vegetation, which exemplifies Korea's marine biodiversity. The area is particularly notable as the origin of several Korean endemic and newly discovered seaweed species, leading to its designation as a Natural Monument and its protected status. The view from the summit encompasses Seongsan Village, the sea, Udo Island, and numerous small parasitic cones, offering breathtaking scenery. It takes about 25 minutes to reach the summit from the ticket office, with a moderately steep incline, so a leisurely pace is recommended. The sunrise from Seongsan Ilchulbong has been famous since ancient times, and every year on December 31st, the Jeju Seongsan Ilchul Festival is held to welcome the new year.

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8. 8

   Heritage site

   Columnar Joint Along Jungmun and Daepo Coasts, Jeju

   36-24, Ieodo-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

   Stamp: Jusangjeolli Cliff Visitor Center

   The Jusangjeolli Cliff at Jungmun Daepo Coast is made of basalt columns that are believed to have formed about 250,000 years ago during the fourth period of the Cenozoic era when lava from the volcanic crater at Nokhajiak (a small parasitic cone north of Jungmun Coast) cooled and contracted. As the lava flowed out of the volcano and cooled, it contracted, forming cracks known as "joints." Vertical columnar joints, which have cross-sections shaped like four to six-sided polygons, are known as "Jusangjeolli." The shape and size of the Jusangjeolli columns depend on the cooling rate and direction of the lava, with the columns closer to the sea being more distinct than those on land. The Jusangjeolli Cliff at Jungmun Daepo Coast is the largest in Korea, with polygonal black stone pillars lined up like a folding screen along the coast. The 30- to 40-meter-high columns stretch for about 1 km, creating a breathtaking and dizzying landscape. The waves crashing against these majestic stone pillars are also a spectacular sight, with the blue waves crashing in a turbulent spray of white foam, showcasing the sheer beauty of nature.

   Official information ↗