Tap to explore
Tap to explore
This is how a tuff peak is formed: hot magma pushes upward from the depths of the earth, and then cools and hardens as it meets cold seawater. The process repeats and the tuff cone grows higher and higher.
Tap to explore
Seongsan Ilchulbong
Also known as Sunrise Peak, this tuff peak looks like an enormous shallow green bowl from above. The peak’s top is a caldera, a basin formed when the peak’s top collapsed inward during a volcanic eruption.
Tap to explore
It measures about 600 meters wide and sits 180 meters above sea level. Some vantage points offer fantastic views of the dramatic cliffs.
Tap to explore
The Field to the Island
Looking down from Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, you’ll notice a vast green field that connects the tuff cone to Jeju Island. Should you visit in the spring, this field would be awash in a tide of yellow rapeseed flowers.
Tap to explore
Seongsan Ilchulbong Base
The base of Seongsan Ilchulbong is visually the opposite of the peak itself. Gently rolling fields of tended lawn extend toward the dark, rocky tuff cone. Well-maintained stone paths clearly guide the way toward the mountain for a relaxing hike.
Tap to explore
As you walk into the square courtyard at the base of Seongsan Ilchulbong, you’ll also be greeted by several short dol hareubang (grandfather statues) at gateways and entrances. These expressive statues have long been used as watchful guardians.
Tap to explore
The Grandfather Statues
While each grandfather statue is unique, they each bear similar traits: firmly closed mouths, round eyes, and soldier’s hats. The hands of the dol hareubang are always at their stomachs, perhaps to show that they always remain attentive.
Tap to explore
The Sundial
Upon entering the courtyard, look at the lawn to the right. There you’ll see a collection of low, round dark stones. These stones are arranged in a circle around one taller dark stone. This is actually a huge sundial.
Tap to explore
The Outdoor Stage
To the far left of the stone courtyard is an outdoor stage. This stage is used for outdoor festivals, including the Seongsan Sunrise Festival, which is held every year on December 31 and January 1.
Tap to explore
Festival events include lighting bonfires, remembering departed souls, and making wishes for the new year.
Tap to explore
Manjang Cave
As you make your way through Manjang Cave, you may think that it’s more like a tube than a cave, and you’d be right! Hot flowing magma created through this tube.
Tap to explore
When the magma stopped flowing, the caves were left behind. It’s good to keep in mind that you’re not alone in the cave. Over 30,000 bats dwell here, as well as other cave creatures, including the cave spider.
Tap to explore
Manjang Cave
The Manjang Cave is the largest cave in the Geomunoreum Lava Tube System on Jeju island. The cave measures 8,928 meters long, and some portions are 30 meters high and 23 meters wide.
Tap to explore
Modern Modifications
Great care has been taken to help you safely make your way through Manjang Cave, from the installation of flat stepping stones to electric lights. Stairs also should help you easily follow the path, even when it changes level.
Tap to explore
Bijarim Forest
Bijarim Forest on Jeju Island has been named a national monument and is a popular tourist destination. At the center of this forest is an 800-year old nutmeg tree known as the “Ancestor tree of the Bija trees” or the “New Millennium Nutmeg.”
Tap to explore
The local people feel this ancient tree symbolizes the unbreakable spirit of the Korean people. This forest is full of evergreens, which means that no matter what time of year you visit, the trees will be green.
Tap to explore
The Nutmeg Grove
There are almost 3,000 nutmeg trees living together in the Bijarim Forest, many of which are at least 500 years old and tower 7 to 14 meters high.
