What to do and where to go in Jeju Island for first time travelers during the winter season

If you grew up in a tropical county like myself, snow and winter is probably on your destination list. With South Korea becoming one of the favorite tourists destinations lately, thanks to KPop and K-drama, Jeju Island, located in the southwest in the Korean peninsula, without a doubt offers a charming blend of natural beauty and cozy indoor activities even during winter, making it a perfect destination for first-time travelers. Here are some of the fun ideas you can do in Jeju Island.

Experience the Outdoor Adventures:

• Camellia Hill: This Camellia garden shows off its beautiful flowers between the months of December to February. This creates a romantic winter wonderland especially when you travel with your partner. 
• Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak: Also known as the sunrise peak, sits 180m above sea level. This iconic volcanic cone is particularly picturesque in winter. You can possibly even catch a snow dusting the crater rim when you go up here.
• Jeju Rail Bike: You will get to see the lovely and scenic view of Jeju islland. This used to be a railway converted into a bike railway, a must try and is suitable even for famiiEnjoy a leisurely pedal along a converted railway, traversing scenic landscapes and tunnels.
• Mount Hallasan: Trekking during is winter offers clear skies and fewer crowds for climbing Korea’s highest mountain. On an average, climbing this mountain takes about 8 hours depending on your stamina. But it sure offers a breathtaking view during sunrise.
• Manjanggul Lava Tube: Thiis UNESCO World Heritage Site, formed by volcanic eruptions centuries ago and is known to be one of the finest lava tubes in the world. This spectacular natural wonder has a temperature of 11-21 degrees celcius providing comforable atmosphere for travelllers.

Slow and Cozy Activities:

• Mandarin Picking: It is must-try if you’ve neven done thisi befor. This unique citrus picking activity is offered even within small farms between the months of October to December. Some farms offer picking experiences and tangerine-themed cafes and costs varies depending on the farm.
• Jjimjilbang (Korean Sauna): The largest Jjimjibang in Jeju Island is the Jeju Charcoal Spa where you can relax, dine, and rejuvenate. Perfect for warming up after chilly outings.
• Yeomiji Botanical Garden: This botanical garden has a 38-meter tall observatiion tower where you can have a good view of the garden. The unique destination is captivating in winter with frosted landscapes and winter-blooming flowers.
• Cafes with a View: Cafes like Aewol Monsant or Vue de Mer offers delicious Korean coffee and pastries while enjoying panoramic vistas. Another must-visit is the Osullloc Tea Museum famous for its matcha cake, snack and drinks.
• Museum Hopping: This one is easily the most accessible of all the desitnation right mostly located in the city center or is accessiblle by bus. From the the Teddy Bear Museum, the Folk Village, to the Aerospace Museum and Chocolate Land are some of the musuems you will surely enjoy.

Tips for First-time Travelers:

• Dress in layers: Jeju Island is relatively warmer compare to Seould but be prepared for the changeable winter weather with few layers of warm clothes you can easily adjust to sometime a flurry of snow.
• Rent a car: With destination sometimes as far 3 hours from the city center, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Public transportation may be limited in some areas and the frequency of buses especiallly for distant loctions.
• Accommodation: There are charming traditional guesthouses (hanok) for a unique experience but hotel and airbnb are also available especially when you are in a budget.
• Food: Jeju specialties like black pork, seafood stews, and bingtteok (mung bean pancakes) are on of the best that I have tasted. Make sure to put this in your bucket list.
• Festivals: If you’re lucky, you might catch a winter festival like the Jeju Light Festival or the Camellia Festival.
• Opening hours and weather condition: Be sure to check weather conditions and opening hours of museums or wherever your destination may be before heading out.

There is no shortage of activities and beautiful scenaries when you go to Jeju. This island promised a memorable winter getaway even for first time traveler. I hope this gives you a good starting point for planning your Jeju adventure!