Aside from checking out the famous Korean drama filming locations that draw fervent fans, take a walk on the less-trampled side of the island frequented by the island’s residents
1. Gwaneumsa Temple
Lesser known than Yakchunsa Temple, Gwaneumsa is a special place to the local Buddhist population. Located one bus stop away from the Gwaneumsa Hiking Course that takes you to Hallasan mountain’s summit, this complex – built during the Tamra Dynasty Era (BC 476 – 1005 AD) – consists of a main shrine, a bell tower and a pavilion. Stroll the temple complex and surrounding forests, and look out for the Jeju Roe Deer, which is known to roam the area. Guests can choose to spend a night at the temple, during which they can take part in meditation sessions.
2. Rose Marine's
If you find yourself in Seogwipo City, grab a table for an evening of makkgeoli (rice liquor) and kimchi jeon (pancake) with friends at Rose Marine’s (Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Seogwipo City Male Middle Rd 13). Nestled between Saeyeongyo Bridge and the popular Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, this eclectic pub buzzes with a largely local crowd.
3. Seogwipo Arts Center
Situated at Namseong Village within walking distance of the popular Cheonjiyeon Waterfall and downtown area, this 8,481 sq m space is where you can catch free exhibitions and performances, which usually take place on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Its 802-seater main auditorium is the perfect spot for catching a chamber music concert featuring local talent.
4. Seogwipo Art and Flea Market
Just downhill from the Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market is Lee Jung-Seop Street. At weekends, artisan vendors and local buskers fill the pedestrian-only road to make for a bustling shopping experience. If you’d like an authentic Jeju souvenir, stroll through the makeshift market to find everything from handcrafted leather-bound journals and jewellery to secondhand clothing.
SEE ALSO: Why both hipsters and history aficionados are flocking to Gyeongju, South Korea
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5. Saryeoni Forest Trail
If you’re looking for an encounter with nature that’s less arduous than climbing Hallasan mountain, enjoy a walk through the 550m-long Saryeoni Forest Trail. It snakes through dense cedar forest, which is serene with its Japanese oak, birch and cypress trees, and imbued with a certain restorative quality. In early summer, it is blanketed with blushing pink rhododendrons.
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6. Sanbangsan Mountain Tansan Hot Springs
Steaming on the southwestern side of the island, this rare carbon hot spring – the first public hot spring on Jeju – offers respite after a long day of hiking. Soaking in carbon hot springs is said to improve blood circulation, among other health benefits. Featuring a co-ed outdoor bath (clothing required,) an indoor sauna, a jjimjilbang and a restaurant, this facility has everything you need to for some re-charging, with a view of the mountains.
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7. Take 5 Jazz Club
As more Koreans from the mainland move to Jeju to escape the hectic urban lifestyle, they bring with them the city’s vibrant cultural and entertainment scene. Take 5 Jazz Club is an excellent recent addition to Jeju’s nightlife sphere, dishing out great live music performances, food and drinks.
– TEXT BY DAVE DUFFY
PHOTOS: JEJU GWANEUMSA (GWANEUMSA), SEOGWIPO ARTS CENTER (SEOGWIPO ARTS CENTER), 123RF.COM (VIEW OF JEJU ISLAND) TAKE 5 JAZZ CLUB (TAKE 5 JAZZ CLUB)
This article was originally published by Singapore Press Holdings.
