Jeju Island is a beautiful island in South Korea, famous for its diverse natural landscapes and cultural heritage. Among its many attractions, Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak stands out as one of Jeju's most iconic landmarks, attracting numerous domestic and international tourists every year. This article will introduce the charm of Seongsan Ilchulbong and provide detailed information that foreign visitors should know when visiting this site.
Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak is a volcanic cone formed by an underwater volcanic eruption about 5,000 years ago. It is registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site due to its unique shape and majestic scenery. This enormous peak, standing 182 meters tall, resembles a giant fortress, hence its name 'Seongsan' which means 'castle mountain' in Korean. The sunrise view from this location is particularly breathtaking, drawing crowds of people every New Year's Day to witness the first sunrise of the year. The hike to the summit takes about 25 minutes, and once at the top, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Jeju's eastern coast. On clear days, you can even see Udo Island and Japan's Tsushima Island in the distance, so it's best to visit on a day with good weather.
Geological Value of Seongsan Ilchulbong
Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak holds significant geological importance. It showcases a typical tuff cone created by volcanic activity, preserving the form from the time of its eruption, earning it the nickname 'living geology textbook'. The internal stratification of the crater and the sedimentary structure of the ejecta are well preserved, allowing for vivid observation of the volcanic process.
Historically, Seongsan Ilchulbong is also significant. From the Goryeo Dynasty, it served as a defense base against Japanese pirates, and during the Joseon Dynasty, a beacon fire station was installed for communication with the mainland. Due to this historical background, remnants of old fortresses and beacon mounds can be found around Seongsan Ilchulbong, allowing visitors to experience both natural scenery and historical traces.
Seongsan Ilchulbong is also an important backdrop in Jeju's mythology. According to the creation myth of Jeju Island, the 'Seolmundae Halmang' legend, Seongsan Ilchulbong was created from soil that the goddess Seolmundae spilled while carrying it in her skirt. Thus, Seongsan Ilchulbong can be considered a complex symbol where Jeju's nature, history, and culture converge.
Tourist Tips for Seongsan Ilchulbong
When visiting Seongsan Ilchulbong, it's helpful to keep a few tips in mind. First, choosing the right weather and time is crucial. To see the sunrise, you need to arrive before dawn, so calculate your departure time considering the travel time from your accommodation to Seongsan Ilchulbong. It's advisable to arrive 30 minutes to an hour before sunrise. Also, as the climb to the peak can be steep and windy, comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended. The ascent takes about 25 minutes, with benches available along the way for rest. A camera is essential, and binoculars can be helpful. It's also worth visiting nearby attractions like Udo Island and Seopjikoji. Picking up a map and guidebook from the tourist information center at the entrance of Seongsan Ilchulbong can be useful. Lastly, during peak seasons, it's wise to visit early or choose less crowded times to avoid large crowds.
Best Seasons to Visit
Seongsan Ilchulbong is beautiful year-round, but each season offers its unique charm. In spring, the surrounding canola flowers bloom, creating a spectacular sea of yellow. Climbing Seongsan Ilchulbong during this time offers a view of blue sea, yellow canola fields, and black basalt rocks creating a feast of colors.
Summer is perfect for enjoying nearby beaches like Seongsan Beach and those on Udo Island. You can swim in Jeju's clear waters or try various marine sports. As sunrise is earliest during this season, you can watch the sunrise and still have a full day ahead.
In autumn, the surrounding silver grass creates a beautiful scene. The 'Seongsan Ilchulbong Silver Grass Festival' held from late October to early November is a must-see event. The silver grass waves combined with red autumn foliage create a quintessential autumn atmosphere.
Winter highlights the grandeur of Seongsan Ilchulbong. The sea mist carried by cold winds adds a mystical touch to the peak. Watching the first sunrise of the New Year from Seongsan Ilchulbong is so popular that it's on many people's bucket lists.
For the best visiting experience, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are recommended. During these seasons, the weather is mild, there are fewer tourists, and you're more likely to have clear days to fully appreciate Seongsan Ilchulbong's beauty and explore surrounding attractions at a leisurely pace.
Seongsan Ilchulbong is not just a tourist site, but a symbolic place where Jeju's nature, history, and culture converge. Foreign visitors can appreciate Korea's beautiful natural scenery and experience Jeju's unique culture and history accumulated over many years. The sunrise you witness at Seongsan Ilchulbong will surely be one of the most memorable moments of your trip. If you visit Jeju Island, be sure to greet a new morning while watching the majestic sunrise from Seongsan Ilchulbong.
