Southern Jeju – Waterfalls & Coastal Wonders 🌊
Southern Jeju 🌊
” 🌿 Wishing you a day full of happiness. _ J “
A treasure trove of spectacular scenery created by water and wind, this is the region that boasts the most diverse natural landscapes in Jeju Island.
From the world’s only Jeongbang Waterfall that drops directly into the sea to
the mysterious Cheonjiyeon Falls, and even to Marado, South Korea’s southernmost point, Southern Jeju is a special place where nature’s greatest masterpieces are concentrated.
With the professional perspective of a premium tourism guide who has been guiding Jeju Island for 25 years, I will provide detailed guidance on everything about Southern Jeju travel.
From the key points of each tourist attraction to practical travel information, everything you need for the perfect southern journey is included here.
” Must Read: We recommend checking more detailed information before traveling, and please use this content for reference purposes only. “
1. Jeongbang Waterfall 🌊 – The World’s Only Waterfall Falling into the Sea
1-1. The Overwhelming Uniqueness of Jeongbang Waterfall
Jeongbang Waterfall is the absolute landmark representing Southern Jeju, being the world’s only waterfall that falls directly into the sea.
Two streams of waterfall, 23 meters high, create a spectacular scene falling from black cliffs into the ocean.
🌟 The Special Nature of Jeongbang Waterfall:
- World’s Only Coastal Waterfall: The majesty of a waterfall falling into the sea that can’t be seen anywhere else in the world
- Yeongjusipgyeong: Since ancient times called ‘Jeongbanghapok (正房夏瀑)’,
it has been counted as one of the Yeongjusipgyeong (ten scenic spots) - Historical Traces: Legend says that Seobul, who came to find the elixir of life by Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s command, left the inscription ‘Seobulgwacha
(徐不過此)’ carved on the cliff - Accessibility: The closest waterfall to downtown Seogwipo, easily accessible on foot
1-2. Jeongbang Waterfall Visitor Information and Precautions
🎫 Usage Information:
- Admission Fee: 2,000 won for adults
- Operating Hours: From 9 AM to evening (check official website for exact closing time)
- Parking: Private parking lot available
⚠️ Precautions for Visitors:
- Safety: Do not cross safety railings as it’s near cliffs
- Weather Dependency: More magnificent during rain, but special attention to safety required
- Optimal Viewing: Particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset times
1-3. Complete Viewing Guide for Jeongbang Waterfall
📸 Best Photo Zones:
- Observatory with Full Waterfall View: Panoramic view of two waterfall streams harmonizing with the sea
- Coastal Walking Path: The majesty viewed from below looking up at the waterfall
- Surrounding Pine Trees: Antique scenery where vertical cliffs and pine trees around the waterfall harmonize
🕐 Visit Tips:
- Duration: About 30-40 minutes sufficient for full appreciation
- Connected Tourism: Popular as waterfall tour course together with Cheonjiyeon and Cheonjeyeon Falls
2. Cheonjiyeon Falls 🌙
– The Mysterious Waterfall More Beautiful at Night
2-1. The Mysterious Charm of Cheonjiyeon Falls
Cheonjiyeon Falls is the most mysteriously atmospheric waterfall in Southern Jeju, called Cheonjiyeon meaning “pond where heaven and earth meet.”
🌟 The Unique Beauty of Cheonjiyeon Falls:
- Night Opening: Open until 10 PM for night viewing, allowing you to appreciate the mysterious appearance of the waterfall at night
- Treasure of Natural Monuments: Home to Dampalsunamu trees (Natural Monument No. 163) and Mutae eels (Natural Monument No. 27) with high ecological value
- Dense Subtropical Forest: Temperate plants like Songyeopran, Gusiljatbam trees, Sanyuja trees, and camellia trees create a mysterious forest
- Waterfall Scale: Magnificent scale of 22m height and 12m width
2-2. Cheonjiyeon Falls Usage Information
🎫 Admission Fees and Discount Benefits:
- Adults: 2,000 won
- Youth (13-24), Children, Military: 1,000 won
- Free Admission: Under 6, over 65, disabled persons, etc. (ID required)
🌃 Special Nature of Night Viewing:
- Lighting Effects: Special lighting creates more fantastic atmosphere at night
- Quiet Atmosphere: Fewer tourists than daytime, allowing quiet and leisurely viewing
- Summer Special: Night admission available until 10 PM during summer season
2-3. In-depth Viewing Points of Cheonjiyeon Falls
🔍 Must-See Attractions:
- Mutae Eels: Natural monuments active only at night, observable during nighttime if lucky
- Legendary Pond: Beautiful legend that seven fairies of the Jade Emperor come down to bathe
- Walking Trail: The beautiful walking path leading to the waterfall itself serves as a healing course
3. Cheonjeyeon Falls 💎 – The Magnificent Natural Beauty of 3-Tiered Waterfall
3-1. The Majestic 3-Tier Structure of Cheonjeyeon Falls
Cheonjeyeon Falls is the most magnificent 3-tiered waterfall in Southern Jeju.
Meaning “God’s pond,” it holds a beautiful legend that seven fairies serving the Jade Emperor come down to bathe at night.
🌊 The Overwhelming Scale of Cheonjeyeon Falls:
- 1st Waterfall: Magnificent scale with 22m height and 21m water depth
- 2nd Waterfall: Creates majesty with 30m wide frontal cascade
- Seonimgyo View: The arch-shaped Seonimgyo (Seven Fairies Bridge) offers spectacular views of Cheonjeyeon Falls
- Spring Water: Clear water year-round from spring water emerging between Cheonjeyeon cliff and clay layer
3-2. The Special Value of Cheonjeyeon Falls
✨ Unique Features of Cheonjeyeon:
- Mineral Water: Cold water streams falling from the eastern cave ceiling of the 1st waterfall are clean enough for drinking water
- Folk Remedy: Legend says bathing in this water during Baekjung and Cheoseo cures all diseases
- Various Viewing Points: Step-by-step appreciation of 3 waterfalls, each with different charms
- Accessibility: Adjacent to Jungmun Tourist Complex, easy to connect with other tourist sites
3-3. Cheonjeyeon Falls Viewing Information
🎫 Usage Guide:
- Admission fees and operating hours: Please check Seogwipo City official website
- Parking: Complete private parking lot
- Duration: About 1 hour required to view all 3 waterfalls
4. Jusangjeolli Cliff 🗿
– Basalt Artwork Sculpted by Nature
4-1. The Remarkable Geological Value of Jusangjeolli Cliff
Jusangjeolli Cliff is nature’s masterpiece located on the Jungmun-Daepo coast in Southern Jeju, where 4-6 sided columnar formations create spectacular scenery as if delicately carved with sharp sculpting knives.
🌋 Formation and Characteristics of Jusangjeolli:
- Formation Principle: Result of contraction occurring when thick lava flowed from craters and rapidly cooled
- Magnificent Scale: Korea’s largest scale with 30-40m height and approximately 1km width
- Natural Monument: Precious geological heritage designated as Jeju Natural Monument No. 443
- Nature’s Artwork: Hexagonal stone pillars standing in layers like stacked stairs, surrounding like folding screens, presenting wonder
4-2. The Spectacular Scene and Wave Show of Jusangjeolli Cliff
🌊 Dynamic Meeting with Waves:
- Wave Show: Waves crashing against these pillars create a ‘show’ shooting up over 20m high during rough conditions, captivating viewers
- Optimal Viewing Time: More magnificent wave shows during windy days or high waves
- Photo Spot: The dynamic meeting of massive basalt pillars and waves creates the best photo zone
4-3. Jusangjeolli Cliff Viewing Guide
📍 Viewing Information:
- Admission Fee: Free viewing
- Access: Excellent accessibility located within Jungmun Tourist Complex
- Parking: Use Jungmun Tourist Complex public parking lot
- Duration: About 30-40 minutes viewing recommended
🔍 Viewing Tips:
- Safety Caution: Maintaining safe distance essential on high wave days
- Optimal Time: More beautiful scenery during sunrise and sunset times
5. Marado Island 🏝️ – The Small Gem of South Korea’s Southernmost Point
5-1. The Special Meaning of Marado Island
Marado Island is South Korea’s southernmost inhabited island, located 30 minutes by boat from Southern Jeju, a travel destination with special meaning.
🗺️ The Uniqueness of Marado Island:
- Symbol of Southernmost Point: The inhabited island located at the southernmost point of South Korea
- Charm of Small Scale: Compact size with about 4.2km island circumference, suitable for walking tourism
- Unique Ecosystem: Special natural environment where subtropical plants and coastal scenery harmonize
- Historical Value: Island with history of human habitation since the Joseon Dynasty
5-2. Marado Island Transportation and Usage Information
⛵ Marado Island Passenger Ship Information:
- Departure Point: Songaksan Marado Passenger Terminal
- Fare: Round trip 16,000 won for adults + Marine Park admission 1,000 won
- Duration: About 30 minutes from Songaksan Port
- Operation Info: May be canceled due to weather, advance confirmation essential
🎫 Reservation and Discounts:
- Online Reservation: Discount benefits provided for online ticket booking
- One-way Use: Can purchase one-way tickets for overnight stays, pay cash for return trip
5-3. Marado Island Tourism Points
🏖️ Major Attractions of Marado Island:
- Marado Lighthouse: Representative photo zone symbolizing the southernmost point
- Southernmost Monument: Symbolic stone monument proving Korea’s southernmost point
- Coastal Scenery: Beauty of coastline harmonizing with emerald sea
- Mara Branch School: Sentiment of closed branch school building
⚠️ Marado Island Travel Precautions:
- Weather Dependency: Entry/exit impossible when ships canceled due to bad weather
- Time Management: Be careful not to miss the last boat time
- Supplies: Recommended to prepare simple snacks and beverages
6. Jungmun Beach 🏄♀️
– Mecca of Surfing and Marine Sports
6-1. Jungmun Beach – Paradise of Marine Sports
Jungmun Beach is the center of marine sports representing Southern Jeju, one of Korea’s best surfing spots.
🏄♀️ The Appeal of Jungmun Beach:
- Surfing Holy Ground: Optimal surfing conditions with appropriate waves and wide beach
- Marine Sports: Various marine activities possible including windsurfing, kayaking, jet skiing
- Jungmun Tourist Complex: Comprehensive tourist destination with concentrated hotels, resorts, shopping facilities
- Beautiful Beach: Impressive contrast of black sand and blue sea
6-2. Jungmun Beach Usage Information
🌊 Beach Information:
- Admission Fee: Free
- Parking: Use paid parking lots within Jungmun Tourist Complex
- Facilities: Complete shower rooms, changing rooms, restaurants
- Safety Facilities: Maritime police rescue team and safety personnel stationed
🏄♀️ Surfing Experience:
- Surf Shops: Various surf shops and instruction centers operating around the beach
- Equipment Rental: Surfboard, wetsuit and other equipment rental available
- Instruction Programs: Surfing instruction programs for beginners operating
7. Sanbangsan Mountain ⛰️
– Unique Bell-Shaped Mountain Peak
7-1. The Unique Topographical Features of Sanbangsan Mountain
Sanbangsan Mountain is a uniquely shaped mountain rising in Southern Jeju, characterized by its bell-like inverted shape.
🏔️ The Special Nature of Sanbangsan Mountain:
- Unique Shape: Bell-shaped unique mountain peak serving as landmark visible from anywhere in Jeju
- Sanbanggulsa Temple: Cave temple located on the mountainside serving as Buddhist holy site
- Legends and Myths: Legend that the peak of Hallasan flew and fell here
- Plant Ecology: Natural treasure where rare subtropical plants grow wild
7-2. Sanbangsan Mountain Tourism Information
🚶♀️ Sanbangsan Mountain Climbing:
- Climbing Course: Gentle climbing path taking about 10-15 minutes to Sanbanggulsa Temple
- Admission Fee: Free
- Parking: Free parking lot at Sanbangsan entrance
- Duration: About 1 hour round trip required
📿 Sanbanggulsa Temple:
- History: Cave temple founded by Monk Hyeil at the end of Goryeo Dynasty
- Features: Unique temple structure using natural cave
- Holy Water: Famous for water drops falling from cave ceiling
8. Yongmeori Coast 🐉
– Dragon’s Head Rising from the Sea
8-1. The Mythical Beauty of Yongmeori Coast
Yongmeori Coast is coastal scenery located below Sanbangsan Mountain in Southern Jeju, where strange rock formations reminiscent of a dragon raising its head from the sea create spectacular views.
🐲 The Appeal of Yongmeori Coast:
- Dragon Formation: Mysterious form of strange rocks like dragon raising head from sea
- Geological Value: Tuff coast formed by volcanic activity 1.5 million years ago
- Sculptural Rocks: Various shaped rock sculptures created by nature
- Harmony with Sanbangsan: Spectacular scenery with Sanbangsan Mountain as backdrop
8-2. Yongmeori Coast Viewing Information
🌊 Viewing Guide:
- Admission Fee: Paid (check exact amount locally)
- Viewing Hours: Accessible areas vary according to tide times
- Parking: Use private parking lot
- Duration: About 30-40 minutes viewing recommended
⚠️ Safety Precautions:
- Tide Check: Access restricted to some areas during high tide
- Slippery Rocks: Be careful of slipping on wet rocks
- Wave Caution: Maintain safe distance during high waves
9. Songaksan Mountain 🌋
– One of 99 Peaks, Coastal Cliff Trekking
9-1. The Unique Topography and History of Songaksan Mountain
Songaksan Mountain is a crater located at the southwestern tip of Southern Jeju, serving as the departure point for passenger ships to Marado Island and beautiful coastal cliff trekking course.
🌋 The Special Nature of Songaksan Mountain:
- Crater Trekking: About 1.5km trekking course walking along crater rim
- Cliff Views: Spectacular views of Marado and Gapado Islands from coastal cliffs
- One of 99 Peaks: One of Jeju’s 99 oreum (peaks) with geological value
- Historical Traces: Historical traces including Japanese military position caves during Japanese occupation
9-2. Songaksan Mountain Trekking Information
🚶♀️ Trekking Course:
- Duration: 1 hour around crater rim, 1 hour 30 minutes round trip to coast
- Difficulty: Flat course manageable for beginners
- Admission Fee: Free
- Parking: Free parking lot at Songaksan entrance
📸 Best Photo Zones:
- Coastal Cliffs: Cliff observatory where Marado and Gapado Islands are visible
- Crater: Interior view of Songaksan crater
- Sunset: Best sunset spot facing west
9-3. Connected Travel from Songaksan Mountain to Marado Island
⛵ Marado Island Travel Connection:
- Passenger Terminal: Marado Passenger Terminal located directly below Songaksan Mountain
- Connected Itinerary: Perfect course of Songaksan trekking → Marado travel → sunset viewing
- Time Planning: Check passenger ship timetable in advance for efficient itinerary planning
10. Olle Trail 🚶♀️
– Walking Paths Along Jeju’s Beautiful Coast
10-1. The Special Experience Offered by Olle Trail
Olle Trail is a walking travel path covering all of Jeju including Southern Jeju, offering special experiences to feel Jeju’s nature and culture with your whole body.
🚶♀️ Major Olle Trails in Southern Region:
- Course 7: Wolpyeong→Oedolgae→Seogwipo City (16.3km)
- Course 8: Seogwipo City→Wollabong→Daepyeong Port (17.5km)
- Course 9: Daepyeong Port→Hwasun→Sagye Beach (8.9km)
- Course 10: Sagye Beach→Songaksan→Moseulpo (15.6km)
10-2. Highlights of Southern Olle Trail Sections
🌊 Appeal of Southern Olle Trails:
- Coastal Scenery: Fantastic sea views walking along southern coastline
- Diverse Terrain: Passing through various terrains including coastal roads, oreum, waterfalls, beaches
- Cultural Experience: Experience of traditional Jeju villages and cultural heritage sites
- Four-Season Appeal: Different scenery and wildflowers appreciation each season
10-3. Olle Trail Trekking Preparations
🎒 Trekking Preparation:
- Clothing: Comfortable sneakers and light trekking clothes
- Supplies: Sufficient water, snacks, hat, sunscreen
- Safety: Move safely following Olle Trail markers
- Time: Check required time for each course and plan accordingly
📱 Olle Trail Information:
- Official App: Check detailed course information on official Jeju Olle app
- Information Centers: Get information at Olle Trail information centers at each course starting point
- Markers: Follow moving along Ganse (horse), ribbon, arrow markers
11. Complete Travel Guide Summary for Southern Jeju ✈️
11-1. Optimal Travel Courses and Itineraries
🗺️ 2 Nights 3 Days Southern Complete Course:
- Day 1 (Waterfall Tour): Jeongbang Waterfall → Cheonjiyeon Falls → Cheonjeyeon Falls → Jungmun Beach
- Day 2 (Scenic Tour): Jusangjeolli Cliff → Sanbangsan Mountain → Yongmeori Coast → Songaksan Mountain → Marado Island
- Day 3 (Leisure Course): Olle Trail trekking (desired section) → Coastal road driving
- Day Trip Essential Course: Jeongbang Waterfall → Cheonjiyeon Falls → Jusangjeolli Cliff → Jungmun Beach
11-2. Budget Guide and Practical Information
💰 Budget Guide (Per Person, Excluding Meals):
- Waterfall Admission: Jeongbang Waterfall 2,000 won + Cheonjiyeon Falls 2,000 won = 4,000 won
- Marado Island: Ship fare 16,000 won + Marine Park admission 1,000 won = 17,000 won
- Other Tourist Sites: Jusangjeolli Cliff, Songaksan Mountain, Olle Trail, etc. are free viewing
- Total Admission: About 21,000-25,000 won (including some paid tourist sites like Yongmeori Coast)
🚗 Transportation and Parking:
- Rental Car: Most efficient for Southern region travel
- Parking Fees: Mostly free, Jungmun Tourist Complex is paid
- Public Transportation: Seogwipo city buses available but limited
11-3. Seasonal Southern Travel Points
🌸 Spring (Mar-May): Olle Trail wildflowers, abundant waterfall flow, mild weather
☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug): Beach peak season, optimal surfing at Jungmun Beach, Cheonjiyeon night opening
🍂 Autumn (Sep-Nov): Optimal Olle Trail trekking season, clear weather good for Marado Island travel
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb): Quiet tourism, different waterfall charm, beautiful sunset season
11-4. Special Tips and Precautions for Southern Travel
⭐ Travel Expert’s Premium Advice:
- Optimal Visit Order:
- Morning: Waterfall tourism (cool time period)
- Afternoon: Coastal scenic tourism (good lighting)
- Evening: Sunset spots (Songaksan Mountain, Marado Island)
- Weather Check Points:
- Marado Island: Essential weather forecast check as ships canceled during bad weather
- Waterfalls: More spectacular after rain but safety caution required
- Coastal Tourism: Wave shows on windy days are attractions but maintain safe distance
- Safety Rules:
- Coastal Cliffs: Maintain safe distance at Yongmeori Coast, Songaksan Mountain, etc.
- Tide Check: Yongmeori Coast has access restrictions during high tide
- Olle Trail: Follow markers carefully to avoid getting lost
- Economic Travel Tips:
- Waterfall Connection: Maximize efficiency by viewing all 3 waterfalls in one day
- Marado Island: Utilize discount benefits with online booking
- Free Tourist Sites: Actively utilize free attractions like Jusangjeolli Cliff, Songaksan Mountain, Olle Trail
Southern Jeju: Where nature’s masterpieces created by water and wind unfold.
From the world’s only Jeongbang Waterfall to mysterious Cheonjiyeon Falls, magnificent Jusangjeolli Cliff, and Marado Island at South Korea’s southernmost point, all of these are waiting for you.
Southern Jeju: Feel the emotions nature provides with your whole body and create special memories that will last a lifetime!
We hope you discover the true charm of Jeju where the coolness of waterfalls and the majesty of the sea harmonize! 💧🌊✨
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