Tuesday 23 September 2014

#03 (Guide) to Jeju Island 제주도 | Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak

Itinerary - Day 2 (East Jeju)

Checked out of our hotel in the early morning and headed for Seongsan Sunrise peak. Decked in proper shoes, we took a morning climb up to the peak. Our initial intention was to hike early enough so we could catch sunrise on the peak but I guess it was too much effort. Besides, we couldn't figure the sunrise timing in Jeju so we gave up the thought.

The hike up was breathless, yet breathtaking. I wonder is it me or is the air always fresher in other countries? In Jeju Island, the native population is scarce and cars are rarely seen on the roads, I guess it is legit for the island to have clean, crisp air with minimal air pollution around. 

Entrance fees: Adult (₩2,000) Youth (₩1,000)

Think we took about 30 minutes to climb to the top with many stops in between (for photos), so I guess the distance is fairly reasonable. The viewing deck boasts an aerial view of East Jeju and a close-up of the legendary volcanic crater.


#03 What to eat in Jeju Island:
Sea Urchin Soup(Seonggeguk), Abalone Porridge(Jeonbokjuk), Seafood stew(Haemul Ttukbaegi)

On a quest to try all the local delicacies in Jeju island! I always make it a point to draw up a list of (must eat) local food whenever I travel. Being so close to the ocean, fresh seafood was definitely on the list!

 If anyone has been to Korea and tried their porridge, it is generally the same everywhere. In Jeju, abalone for daily meals are quite a usual sight and I love that their porridges are always very flavourful! Sea Urchin soup on the other hand, tasted just like seaweed soup with insignificant sea urchin bits floating around. I honestly would prefer my creamy, raw sea urchin anytime. The seafood stew was easily my favorite among all! Priced at ₩10000-15000,  you'd find a variety of seafood harvests swimming in your stew!

This restaurant that I managed to find was truly a hidden gem. Away from the touristy restaurants right outside Seongsan Ichulbong, this place requires a short 3-5 minutes drive. Tucked in a corner with Seongsan Ilchulbong as the backdrop, this humble restaurant serves really unpretentious hearty meals. No fear of tourist price hikes or rip offs, you'd love your dining experience here.

해뜨는식당
298-22 Seongsan-ri, Seongsan-eup Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
Phone: +82 64-782-3380


love, bella

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