Winter in Jeju: Top 10 Destinations You Should Visit for the Best Experience!

Aside from big cities like Busan and Seoul, Jeju Island is often a top travel destination in South Korea. Known for its natural beauty and tranquillity, Jeju needs no introduction. But have you ever wondered, what is winter like in Jeju?

Consider making your next trip during the colder months! Winter in Jeju is quieter, yet unique and magical. Here are some of the best spots to explore in Jeju during winter that promises nothing but fun adventures and cherished memories!

Also read: 22 Coolest Jeju Airbnb Homes to Bookmark for Your Next Trip

Places to visit during winter in Jeju

1. Hallasan Mountain

Image credit: Jeju Tourism Organization Official Website

When it comes to winter destinations in Jeju, Hallasan Mountain deserves to be top of the list. It's the best spot to witness Jeju's winter magic, as it's the go-to place for catching a glimpse of snow on the island. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner eager to experience the snowy beauty of Jeju, there are plenty of trails and courses to suit all levels of adventurers.

There are five main trails on Hallasan: Yeongsil, Eorimok, Seongpanak, Gwaneumsa, and Donnaeko. The Yeongsil trail on Hallasan is famous for its dramatic scenery. You'll see sweeping mountain ridges, cliffs, and the impressive Byeongpung Rocks. This trail is considered one of the most scenic in Yeongju.

For those looking for a challenge, the Seongpanak Trail offers a 9.6 km trail that takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes one-way. However, if you prefer an easier hike, the Eoseungsaengak Course is a beginner-friendly option, requiring just 30 minutes one-way.

2. 1100 Highland

Image credit: Jeju Tourism Organization Official Website

Want to experience the shimmering white snow, but don’t feel like hiking? You’re in luck! The 1100 Highland offers stunning, snowy views of Hallasan Mountain and is easily accessible by car. Located along the highest-altitude road in South Korea, 1100 Road, this winter wonderland is a favourite among locals for its serene and breathtaking landscape. What’s better? You can even experience winter fun by sledging down the slope in this natural snowy park!

Just near 1100 Highland, you’ll find the 1100 Highland Ecological Swamp, a sanctuary where you can immerse yourself in nature and spot rare wildlife. With snow covering the branches like delicate white flowers during winter in Jeju, this nature preserve transforms into a whimsical scene that leaves visitors in awe.

3. Jeju Stone Park

Image credit: Jeju Tourism Organization Official Website

Home to about 360 sophisticatedly carved volcanic cones, the Jeju Stone Park is another must-visit winter destination in Jeju. This park celebrates the island's unique stone culture and is closely tied to the legendary figure Seolmundae Halmang, a wise, kind, and powerful woman from Jeju folklore.

Nestled in a stunning valley between volcanic cones and the Gotjawal forest, the park becomes especially picturesque in winter, with snow covering the black basalt rocks and stone statues. Beyond its scenic beauty, the park also preserves local traditions and educates visitors through exhibitions, programs, and an annual festival honouring Seolmundae Halmang’s impact on Jeju’s history, culture, and art.

4. Jeju Camellia Arboretum

Image credit: jeju_camellia_arboretum Official Instagram Page

Anytime is perfect for admiring camellia flowers in Jeju, but there's magic in winter when these stunning red blooms are blanketed in soft white snow. Therefore, during winter in Jeju, visit the Jeju Camellia Arboretum! Here, stroll through a cluster of blooming camellia, explore the unique themed gardens, and take stunning photos for your Instagram feed.

Besides camellia, the arboretum features a greenhouse filled with an array of tropical plants and flowers, including hydrangeas. Visitors can also retreat to a cosy cafe, perfect for savouring a freshly brewed cup of coffee or tea to warm up from the winter chill. How lovely!

5. Roe Deer Observation Center

Image credit: Jeju Tourism Organization Official Website

Another one of the best places to visit during winter in Jeju is the Roe Deer Observation Center. This family-friendly spot invites visitors to connect with nature as they observe adorable roe deer and other wildlife up close. Engage in interactive activities like feeding the deer, or visiting the indoor exhibition hall with educational videos and fun exhibits for the little ones! There’s something special about sharing moments with these cute animals while surrounded by a blanket of snow!

Note: The feeding times are at 9am and 3:30pm daily.

6. Eco Land Theme Park

Image credit: Jeju Tourism Organization Official Website

A hidden gem nestled in a virgin forest, Eco Land Theme Park, also known as Ecoland, offers a captivating outdoor experience across a vast area of about one million square meters. Stepping into this wonderland feels like travelling back in time — and riding the nostalgic vintage steam trains amidst the snow will make you feel like you’re starring in your own Christmas movie!

While the train offers a scenic journey through the park, some walking is required to reach certain attractions. Unlike adrenaline-packed theme parks, Ecoland is a peaceful retreat featuring picturesque spots like a windmill, a lavender, green tea, and a rose garden, ideal for leisurely strolls and capturing memorable photos!

7. Seogwipo Natural Recreation Forest

Image credit: Jeju Tourism Organization Official Website

Nature lovers, this one’s for you! Seogwipo Natural Recreation Forest is where you can witness snow falling quietly and gently covering the entire forest floor during winter in Jeju. This vast recreation area spans over two million square meters and is home to majestic nutmeg, cedar, and other evergreen trees — many over 50 years old!

Nevertheless, in addition to its lush natural surroundings, Seogwipo Natural Recreation Forest offers meeting rooms, a forest recreation centre, and a campsite, allowing visitors to appreciate nature while enjoying modern conveniences.

8. Tangerine farms

Image credit: Jeju Tourism Organization Official Website

Make the most of your winter getaway in Jeju by visiting one of the island’s many tangerine farms! Experience the joy of picking your own juicy tangerines, adding a burst of sweetness and hands-on activity to your vacation.

There are many farms across the island where you can harvest and taste the fresh and famous hallabong and redhyang tangerines, such as Haepoom Farm, Bong Bong Tangerine Farm, and Jejue in Farm. While all these offer an amazing experience, there’s one unique spot we can’t wait to recommend to you.

Add a fun twist to your tangerine-picking experience by joining a citrus rice cake workshop! At Harye Gamgyuljeombbang Cooperative, you can try making Hallabong Sangwetteok, a traditional rice cake infused with the sweet and tangy flavours of Hallabong citrus. Known for its soft, chewy texture, this rice cake is a key part of Jeju's ceremonial traditions. It’s such a delicious way to brighten your winter adventure!

9. Restaurants with hearty broth dishes

Image credit: Jeju Tourism Organization Official Website

Nothing beats savouring a bowl of hot and hearty soup during the winter months in Jeju. Visit the many Jeju restaurants that serve broth dishes, and warm up your day! For instance, in Jeju, Gulfweed soup is a speciality made with pork broth, pork, intestines, and gulfweed (called "mom" in Korean). Gulfweed adds a unique texture; other ingredients like kimchi or buckwheat powder can be added for flavour.

Another classic Jeju dish is Gogi-guksu, also known as Jeju pork noodle soup. It’s a local favourite made with noodles in a rich pork broth, topped with tender pork slices. This hearty soup originated from using leftover pork bones and meat after pigs were slaughtered for important events. Today, it’s widely available in Jeju, especially around the Samseonghyeol area.

10. Jeju Folk Village

Image credit: 제주민속촌 Official Facebook Page

For an immersive dive into Jeju's cultural heritage, a visit to the Jeju Folk Village is a must! This beautifully preserved village showcases over a hundred traditional Korean houses, offering a fascinating window into Korea’s historical way of life. Visitors can explore a folk museum filled with captivating artefacts, exhibits, and demonstrations of Jeju’s traditional crafts.

But Jeju Folk Village truly comes alive during the Lunar New Year, which also falls in winter. The annual festival brings families together to celebrate age-old traditions. You'll see people playing games like jegichagi (kicking a shuttlecock-like object) and neolttwigi (a traditional seesaw), dressed in vibrant hanbok (traditional clothing), sharing festive foods, crafting lucky bags, and dancing joyfully. It's a heartwarming opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage of Jeju in full swing!

Also read: Jeju Island Restaurants: Where & What to Eat in Jeju, South Korea

There you have it — the ultimate guide to the best places to visit during winter in Jeju! Which of these enchanting spots sparks your interest the most? Start planning your winter escape to Jeju Island and be ready for some magical experiences!

Brought to you by Jeju Tourism Organization