Seongsan Ilchulbong
Seongsan Ilchulbong
4.5
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- Leong Chee ShengSingapore, Singapore353 contributionsHighlight of Jeju, pray for good weather!One of the key highlights you must visit in Jeju. We were there in terrible weather but the view was magnificent nonetheless; wished it was clear enough for us to hike up the place. Not elderly friendly, full of steps and steep slopes. Note that the Hanyeon performance has been changed as well - it's now just 2pm instead of the 1.30pm and 3pm slots I've seen online. Not sure if this is a permanent change or not, but we did missed the show! There are nice eateries down the area, famous for their hair tail fish stew and abalone porridge.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 11 October 2023
- MonteBurnsNew York City, New York1,033 contributionsClimb to the top of the dormant volcano. A once in a life time experience.It’s a tough climb to the peak of the volcano. I didn’t count but there’s many steps and sometimes a bit steep. It’s tough regardless how old you are. I watched high school students on a field trip struggling and be out of breath as well as people of all ages. Make sure to dress appropriately as your body will generate much heat. Recommend wear shorts and light clothing and a hat. Bring drink. Like Gatorade. There is a little shop about 10% of the way up. The reward is a great view in 360 degrees and an impressive view of the canopy of trees inside the volcano. Going down is much more refreshing but still hard on the knees and legs. Personally I had to rest quite often but making it to the top is quite an achievement. If you go to Jeju Island it’s a must do. Getting there by car or public bus takes a while. Took us about 1 1/2 hours of express bus from the Jeju Intercity Bus Station. On the way to the park there are some pretty good restaurants selling local foods. Believe it or not this little tourist paradise isn’t overpriced. Restaurant prices were normally priced and offered high quality food. Don’t forget to bring a good camera as there are many photo ops.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 22 October 2023
- lazypigcessSingapore, Singapore324 contributionsWorth climbing a lot of stairs for SunriseWith my 65year old folks, it took us 1 hour to reach the peak. There are several resting huts, or stand to a corner if u need a rest. Hiking stick would be good companion. Without is also fine. Mostly are steps up. As it’s a very popular place, do arrive earlier to grab a seat at the top and patiently wait for the beautiful sunrise. It’s easy to descend too , going down is a different path from going up. go slow for those with weaker knees.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 20 November 2023
- Sharon HoKuching, Malaysia387 contributionsEasy hike. If you can do hallasan, this is nothingIt's like 30 mins climb on steps to the peak. Nothing hard but alot of people at certain hours. Stay for the diving show at the bottom which starts at 2pm local time. Have some peanut ice cream down there while shopping for some souvenirs !Visited November 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 21 November 2023
- MisterUserNameAtlanta, Georgia2,024 contributionsNice scenic hikeNice scenic hike up the mountain. Took about 45 minutes to go up and back down while taking pics and selfies. We went day after Christmas and it was a little crowded, but plenty of parking and the trail wasn’t too bad. Lots of coffee shops and restaurants around the area. Admission is just 5,000 won per adult. On the way up and down, a couple of restrooms and places to take a break.Visited December 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 4 January 2024
- 우석 류Daejeon, South Korea1 contributionThe most meomorable place for eating and photography.If sightseeing is your thing, then the best place to go is Seongsan Ilchulbong which place in Jeju Island. I'd like to recommend climbing the top of the Seongsan Ilchulbong because you can feel fresh and satisfaction. At first, I couldn't understand the value of the climbing. However, after I arrived at the top I was fascinated. Also there were so many famous restaurant. For instance, raw fish restaurant and Black pig restaurant. After climbing, you will feel hungry. Then you have to go the restaurant. It serves the best quality which is perfect you have never felt before.Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten 7 January 2024
- Yoona HeDaegu, South Korea2 contributionsNice place in JejuIt would appear that this location is highly sought-after by travellers. Purchase of tickets is required before to admission. As one ascends higher, the stunning panorama gradually unfolds before their eyes. On the other hand, a person with mobility issues should probably not go there because there are a lot of concrete steps both going up and coming down.Visited November 2023Travelled on businessWritten 9 January 2024
- minSentosa Island, Singapore84 contributionsA good climb!A sense a satisfaction when you make it to the top. It’s not a long walk but it’s steep. We bought our tickets and went up around 12pm then came down and had a platter of seafood sold by the haenyeos by the beach. The seafood could be eaten raw or cooked. We also had abalone porridge. The haenyeo had their show at 2pm (one per day at the moment, subject to weather conditions).Visited March 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 9 March 2024
- Pauline C3 contributionsFantastic viewWe are it our 70s, fit, but not superbly so. It took us almost an hour, but we had no problem walking to the top. The view during the trail and all the way to the top is certainly worth the climb! It’s not only the natural scenery, but also the colorful houses in the town that add to the charmVisited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 19 March 2024
- HelenWanderlustSingapore, Singapore2,275 contributionsSpectacular and sensational scenic Seongsan Ilchulbong, a UNESCO World Heritage SiteSeongsan Ilchulbong is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can hike up to its crown-like summit for breathtaking views of the island's stunning landscapes. If time permits. We were in a tour group which did not accord us the luxury of time to hike all the way up. Nevertheless, even if you walk up the hill partway for around 20 minutes, you can still take beautiful pictures on the way up, and also on your walk down the shorter trail on the right side with scenic sea views. But if you have time and are able to, imagine that the view from uptop will be even more spectacular and paranomic.Visited December 2023Travelled soloWritten 29 March 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
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Ali Naqvi
Kyoto, Japan5 contributions
Feb 2020
I visited Seongsan Illchulbong at 7:30. It was sunrise time and it was my first time to see sun rising from such a height. The effect of sun rays on the ocean made everything so beautiful. I can guarantee one thing that it is much beautiful if you see in person than seeing in pictures.
Written 23 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Travelove58
15,579 contributions
Nov 2019 • Family
It was early afternoon & very sunny, & super hot during our visit. Coupled with the long walk & return climb up from the bottom, it was terrible in the heat.
Perhaps if we had come in early morning or in spring climate, would probably have enjoyed it better.
The Jeju Women Divers Performance was a disappointment. With due respect to this fantastic women, the show was too commercialised.
Have read much about these tenacious women & was looking forward to something better than this.
However, our guide arranged for us earlier to meet up with these women not far away in another area.
Most are in their 70s & had been doing this job almost their whole lives. They are so fit even at this age.
Certainly respect them.
There are paid boat rides as well round the area & horse riding too.
Perhaps if we had come in early morning or in spring climate, would probably have enjoyed it better.
The Jeju Women Divers Performance was a disappointment. With due respect to this fantastic women, the show was too commercialised.
Have read much about these tenacious women & was looking forward to something better than this.
However, our guide arranged for us earlier to meet up with these women not far away in another area.
Most are in their 70s & had been doing this job almost their whole lives. They are so fit even at this age.
Certainly respect them.
There are paid boat rides as well round the area & horse riding too.
Written 11 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amy S
Belper, UK52 contributions
Aug 2022
I am not the fittest of people but still managed this climb with no problems in the heat of August. There are rest seats on the way and spectacular views to enjoy. The peak was well worth the climb - you can't walk all the way around the rim but this protects the crater from human influence which is all-important for photography of nature at its best. I thoroughly recommend this experience as does my 17 year old daughter who was stunned by the magnificence of nature.
Written 19 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anie Z
Singapore, Singapore31 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
This place has a magnificient view of sunset and it is definitely an instaworthy place for those who love nature.
We took our time to climb uphill, stopping at various points to snap photos. Although we didnt go up to the peak, the view where we were was astounding.
I will go here again if I ever go to Jeju. Lovely!
We took our time to climb uphill, stopping at various points to snap photos. Although we didnt go up to the peak, the view where we were was astounding.
I will go here again if I ever go to Jeju. Lovely!
Written 2 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kpiddy
Brisbane, Australia13,998 contributions
Apr 2023 • Family
Described as a 'gigantic ancient castle', Seongsan Ilchulbong is a must see/climb when visiting the Eastern side of Jeju. Climbing to the peak is a very popular activity to do, people young and old make the effort to discover the beauty of this geological wonder. Because of the popularity of the site and being a World Natural Heritage Site (2007) this is a paid activity; at the time of our visit 5000 Won for adults and 2500 Won for children. The 180 metre stair climb to the peak is steep, one way traffic up and down, there were several vantage/rest platforms with stunning views over the region to enjoy. Once at the peak there was an elderly male guide keeping watch over the visitors even offering to take our group photos. We did not rush leaving the peak, taking a seat in the terraced viewing platform and looking over the crater of Seongsan Ilchulbong before descending fifteen minutes later.
Written 7 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hrothmir
Smyrna, GA220 contributions
Mar 2023
Seongsan Ilchulbong is a truly impressive geological feature, but the pictures you often see of it are taken from the air. When you view it from ground level or from the top after climbing to the near ridge, the view is far less impressive. The view back to the land is of not particularly attractive human development. The view out over the top from the ridge (up to which you climb) looks more like a nice field - than an amazing, dished volcanic caldera.
I'm glad I visited it - and am giving it a 4/5 rating. But key points here would be A) don't expect it to look as impressive as the tourist brochure aerial pics and B) you will live if you can't fit it into your time on Jeju.
The climb up is not technically difficult; it's mostly a long staircase. It took 15 minutes moving fairly steadily.
There's a haenyeo (Jeju women divers; "mermaids") show at the beach you'll see below Seongsan Ilchubong as you take the path down. There is no charge and I believe it takes place at 130pm and 3pm. The show felt a bit cheesy - with piped in music and piped in vocals.
I'm glad I visited it - and am giving it a 4/5 rating. But key points here would be A) don't expect it to look as impressive as the tourist brochure aerial pics and B) you will live if you can't fit it into your time on Jeju.
The climb up is not technically difficult; it's mostly a long staircase. It took 15 minutes moving fairly steadily.
There's a haenyeo (Jeju women divers; "mermaids") show at the beach you'll see below Seongsan Ilchubong as you take the path down. There is no charge and I believe it takes place at 130pm and 3pm. The show felt a bit cheesy - with piped in music and piped in vocals.
Written 3 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Felix
52 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
Seongsan Ilchulbong is an essential stop when going to Jeju Island. A few things to keep in mind when visiting: there is a free path and a paid path. The free path will have a view from Seongsan Ilchulbong from afar; the paid path will allow you to climb to the summit and see the crater at the top. The hike is around 25-30 minutes to the top and the descent down is around 15-20 minutes. If hiking to the top, make sure to take breaks, especially in the summer heat. If you want to avoid the heat, the hike should be cooler during sunrise and sunset. In the case of a typhoon, Seongsan Ilchulbong will likely close the day after the typhoon clears due to slippery conditions.
Written 31 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Seokdoespilates
Singapore, Singapore233 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
Go early as the car park filled up very quickly from lunch time. Loads of tour coaches as well, so the place can get very crowded. There are charging stations in the car park for electric cars. There is a fee to go up to the top, but it is free to wander around the foot of the tuff cone and see the hanyeo divers below the cliffs. The paid portion is closed the first day of each month. Countless flights of steps up with some seats at each level for you to catch your breath. A hiking stick may be useful if you have knee issues. It was raining, windy and cloudy when we went so we did not have a good view of the tuff cone. We descended by another route (one way up and another way down). Definitely not accessible for anyone with issues climbing stairs, wheelchair bound or babies in strollers. There is no shade so wear a hat and bring your umbrella/raincoat depending on the weather.
Written 18 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris Ruggaluffagus
Yorktown, VA298 contributions
Apr 2021 • Solo
This place is just a little hike for most. It does have about 300 steps up, but they are set up for a nice pace. Great views up and down, but not much to the crater itself. During morning this place can be very crowded. Visiting later in the day allows you to experience everything more quickly with less crowds. Lots of places to eat in the nearby area. Recommend you dedicate 40-60min for your visit.
Written 30 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tinee Langcz
South Korea126 contributions
Nov 2020
We went there directly from the airport via bus (because it was too early for us to check in at our booked hotel). At the place, the lockers were not available, unfortunately, and we cannot leave our bags somewhere. So we had to carry our things up to see the Seongsan Ilchulbong. We did not attempt to climb up to the peak due to our heavy bags. Instead, we opted to see the observatory at the side of the mountain (it was free... the side going to the peak has an entrance fee) and has a nice view of the sea and the mountain. Can even go down to the sea shore if you like (we didn't). The view from the observatory was breathtaking vast ocean, blue sky and cool green mountain. Will definitely go back someday to see the peak! Also, we tried the Hallabong softcone (ice cream) just near the entrance road to the place, and it was so delicious!!
Written 9 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, can we bring checked-in luggage on Bus 111 or 112 from Jeju Airport to Seongsan?
Written 21 April 2023
I saw recently a young couple bringing two big luggages on bus 201. I think it is all right to bring luggages up the express bus 111 or 112. Since u are starting from airport, you can go to the back of bus to avoid any obstruction. Enjoy yr trip.
Written 22 April 2023
Hello, are there any bike rental shops available around the Seongsan Illchulbong area? We are stationing ourselves in Seongsan and thinking to cycle up and back down the eastern coast.
Written 27 April 2022
you mentioned "Not recommended for parents and young children, because the trip to the peak". So can they still see the women divers performance?
Written 14 November 2019
Of course can... But u need to walking with care step.
Written 8 December 2019
Hello Friend,
We are planning to go in Dec 2019. How would be the weather like & possible go in winter period (Dec 19)? I t would take how long to reach the peak & do we need any special types of shoes?
Written 6 April 2019
All you need is comfortable shoes. The path is very easy to follow but can be a little tiring if you do not exercise. It's manageable though.
Do make sure there is a part where you will be at a beach area to watch a few ladies dive without gear to catch abalone. So there is a chance your shoes might be sandy and wet.
Written 26 April 2019
377simonl
Hong Kong, China
May I know are there festivals on new year eve and 1st sunrise on 1/1 around Seongsan Ilchulbong. Seems theres one or two know from web, but not sure the schedule and details.
Written 27 November 2018
Hi 377simonl
Yes every year end to begin festival will be held
Count down for new year and fireworks
Some traditional band and dance
You can get free mochi-soup
Pls Enjoy and keep yourself warm
Written 1 December 2018
Hi, there is a ski resort near Busan although it is around 1 hour by public transport to get there.
I is around $27 from Busan and one other station which gives you a return ticket for the day. You can book online. Just search for Eden Valley Ski resort transport and you will find many links to the transport.
Good luck and enjoy
Written 1 November 2018
John Lim
Singapore, Singapore
May I know if there's snow ski in Jeju during winter?
Written 31 October 2018
There are no ski resorts in Jeju as the weather there is generally warmer than Mainland Korea. Most areas do not snow during winter except for the mountain areas such as Hallasan.
You may want to go over to Korea Mainland if you want to ski. Some resorts such as Yongpyong Ski Resort provides shuttle services from the airport to the resort direct so you can easier get a flight from Jeju to Seoul and get on the shuttle buses.
Written 1 November 2018
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