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History and location - Jeju Island is a volcanic island located in the southwest of the Korean peninsula. The island was formed by volcanic eruptions approximately 2 million years ago, during the Cenozoic era. The island is found 302 km (187 miles) away from Busan, the second most-populous city in South Korea.

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Rent a car - Traveling by car is the best way to visit places in Jeju. Rent a car before you go, or you can rent one right in the airport after you arrive.

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Where to visit - Jeju Island has a variety of places to visit, from mountains and beaches to museums. Here are the places that you need to stop by.

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Hyeopjae Beach - Hyeopjae Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Jeju Island. The beautiful white color of the sand comes from seashells that have been mixed in. There are also campgrounds nearby for camping and picnics.

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Jusangjeolli Cliff - Jusangjeolli Cliff was formed when Hallasan Mountain erupted and lava fell into the sea. It created rock pillars shaped like cubes or hexagons of various sizes. The 20 m (65 ft) cliff makes it a popular spot for a breathtaking view of the ocean.

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Yongduam Rock (Dragon Head Rock) - Yongduam Rock is a rock shaped like a dragon's head. There are various stories about the rock, one of them being that a dragon stealing jade from Hallasan Mountain was shot down by an arrow from the mountain deity. When he fell down, his body sank into the ocean and his head was frozen looking at the sky.

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Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) - Seongsan Ilchulbong is one of the most visited places on Jeju Island. This place rose from under the sea in a volcanic eruption over 100,000 years ago. The sunrise from the peak is considered the most beautiful sunrise in South Korea. This place was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2007.

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Manjanggul Cave - Manjanggul Cave is one of the finest lava tunnels in the world. The cave has a variety of interesting structures inside, including 70 cm (27 in) lava stalagmites and lava tunnels. The cave was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 1962.

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Sinchang Windmill Coastal Road - If you like driving along with a nice view, visit Sinchang Windmill Coastal Road. This route offers a romantic view of the wind turbines, especially at sunset.

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Udo Island - Udo Island, located on the eastern coast of Jeju Island, is home to various pleasurable activities. You can enjoy bike trails, fishing, or a submarine tour, as well as beautiful beach Seobin Baeksa (a white sand beach).

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Songaksan Mountain Trails - The Songaksan Mountain Trails are famous for their breathtaking scenic views. Follow the 2.8 km (1.7 mile) trail and peacefully gaze out upon the gorgeous blue water. Don't forget a hat and water though!

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Hallasan Mountain -

Hallasan Mountain, a shield volcano, is the highest mountain in South Korea, with an elevation of 1,947 m (6,388 ft). The mountain turns into a truly beautiful snowy wonderland during winter. The mountain was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, as well as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2002.

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Rapeseed flowers - In April and May, Jeju Island becomes an amazing land with bright yellow rapeseed flowers. The flower is a herald of spring, bringing the warmth back to the land.

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Dol hareubang - Dol hareubangs are large rock statues found on Jeju Island. The word "dol" means "stone" in Korean, and "hareubang" means "grandfather." The statues are carved from porous basalt, and considered to be gods offering both protection and fertility.

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Yakchunsa Temple - This Buddhist temple is one of the largest temples in South Korea. If you want to get a more in-depth experience, check out the Temple Stay, where you can try out the unique Buddhist lifestyle and culinary palate for a short time.

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Iho Tewoo Beach - This beach is located close to downtown Jeju City. Take a walk by the pine trees and explore a nearby lighthouse that takes the shape of a horse! You can also enjoy some delicious seafood and a gorgeous nighttime view.

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Cheonjeyeon Falls - Cheonjeyeon Falls, meaning "The Pond of God," consists of three sections. The water gathers into a pool and from there falls two more times, creating the second and third waterfalls, which then flow into the sea. The water falls from the square lava rock pillars.

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Woljeongri Beach - This beach is famous for its beautiful scenery, tranquil white sand, and an azure-colored ocean. Drive along the beach to witness the exotic landscape of the island, and feel free to stop at one of the numerous cafés nearby.

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Omegi rice cake - Are you hungry? Try some delicious local food from Jeju. This dish, called Omegi, is a traditional rice cake dessert from Jeju Island.

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Black pork - Jeju Island is famous for their pork. Try some delicious Korean BBQ with this succulent meat for lunch. Pork is an important part of the unique Jeju food culture.

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Seafood Hotpot -

Jeju Island is a dream location for seafood lovers. Hotpot (pictured) is made with fresh seafood, vegetables, and traditional spicy seasoning.

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Traditional seafood hotpot - The seafood hotpot 'Sinseollo' consists of vegetables, fresh seafood, and broth.

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Soup with pork and noodles -

Gogi-Guksu is one of the traditional foods from Jeju Island. The dish consists of broth (made out of pork meat and bone), noodles, meat, and vegetables. It's the perfect winter dish, and it's well-loved by tourists and locals alike!

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Vegetarian options - From Korean-style cuisine to fusion, there are many options for vegetarians to enjoy on Jeju Island.

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Mandarin - The most famous fruit in Jeju is the mandarin orange. It's the perfect snack for a day traveling around the island, so feel free to buy some from a local street vendor.

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Mandarin - Have you ever tried desserts made out of mandarins? Jeju offers everything from chocolate to ice cream to cake and cookies. What do you want to try first?

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Green tea - Jeju Island is also famous for their green tea. You can try some delicious green tea desserts in O'sulloc museum. The museum has a green tea exhibition, along with cafés and stores.

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Jeju bread - Jeju bread, often shaped like Dol hareubang or an octopus, is a sweet bread filled with mandarin jam. The bread has both sweet and citrus flavors.

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Ready to go! -

Are you sold on Jeju Island? Buy a ticket and pack your bags! This gorgeous island awaits you.

See also: Idyllic Mediterranean islands you have to visit.

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