The Story of Jeju Island's Abundance and The Tuff Coned Heritage Site

Every country has its own story to tell. Let me share with you the beautiful story of Jeju Island. Jeju has been often called Samdado, which means "island of three plenties." It is abundant with wind, stone, and women. 

Jeju Island’s History

Like in the Philippines, Jeju is surrounded by bodies of water, which is why the wind is very evident in all areas. It is recognized as a world-famous volcanic island in which stones are formed due to its volcanic activity. Jeju's Dol Hareubang which is made of basalt is an example of it. The name is translated as the 'stone grandfather' to act as a protector of the island. Today, the stone figures are believed to be the God of fertility. This is why newly married women rub different parts of Dol Hareubang to increase the possibility of conceiving. If they wish to conceive a baby boy, they can touch the nose. If they wish it to be a baby girl, they should touch its ears. 

The stone grandfather- Dol Hareubang

As a source of living, men sailed to the sea to catch fish during the early times. But due to typhoons and other natural calamities, men could never return to their families, which is why the number of women is higher than men. These days, you can see elderly women divers - Haenyeo, who can descend deep down the sea up to 20 meters without any equipment to support their breathing to collect any sea products.

 

What to see and do in Jeju Island?

Jeju Island is the largest island located in South Korea that has an approximate surface area of 1,846 sq km. Mount Hallasan, the tallest mountain in South Korea is the central feature of Jeju Island. With the island's outstanding and natural sceneries, it has been categorized as part of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak - UNESCO World Heritage symbol

On the other hand, Jeju Island features several UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one of them is the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, which is located in the Eastern end of the island. It is commonly known as the 'Sunrise Peak,' Seongsan meaning a hill shaped like a castle, and Ilchulbong as a viewing point of beautiful sunrises. Since then, it has been the perfect spot to witness an incredible sunrise.

With a height of 180 meters above sea level, the slopes may be steep, but you do not have to worry because stairs are built up to ease your hiking. You may feel tired as you ascend to the top but have no fear as there are rest stops and benches that you can sit on while catching your breath and, at the same time, appreciate the beauty of nature.

 

Visitors that are descending from the peak

If you feel like you cannot reach the peak, several shops are located at the Sunrise Peak entrance. You can enjoy a cup of warm coffee while enjoying the cold breeze outside. But of course, I still recommend you to go to the top and see for yourself the fantastic view that Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak offers! 

Other activities you can try are horseback riding experience, witnessing how great the women divers are or the Haenyeo performance, and riding a boat and feel the sea breeze.

Another tourist attraction that you can visit on Jeju Island is the Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff, a designated cultural monument of Jeju Island which offers a view of the stone pillars piled up along the coast. 

The imposing stone pillars of Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff

Traveling is never tiring if you can get to experience the best that the country has to offer. For those who wish to visit and witness the incredible beauty and of course, the sunrise on Jeju island, don't miss the chance to book our highly recommended and best-pick packages - Dazzling Korea and All in Korea.

Blog contributed by: Nina Gabica

Photos by: Rakso Travel and Nina Gabica

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