While Jeju Island is well-known as Korea's premier vacation destination, Udo Island holds a special charm all its own. This small island, located east of Jeju, got its name from its resemblance to a "lying cow." With its emerald waters, lush green fields, and unique volcanic landscape, Udo offers unforgettable memories for travelers. For foreign visitors to Udo, let me introduce some special experiences you can enjoy on this beautiful island.
Udo's 8 Scenic Spots
Udo's greatest attraction is undoubtedly its beautiful natural scenery. Visiting the "8 Scenic Spots of Udo" alone is enough to fully appreciate the island's charm. The first place to visit is Udobong Peak, also known as "Juganmyeongwol." From this highest point on the island, you can take in panoramic views of Udo and mainland Jeju. On clear days, you can even see Hallasan Mountain. Next, Cheonjin Cave showcases Udo's unique geological features. This sea-eroded cave creates a mysterious atmosphere, and its distinctive interior formations pique the curiosity of many visitors. Geommeolle Beach is one of Udo's most beautiful, with emerald waters meeting white sand in a picturesque scene. Other attractions include the unusual rock formations at Hagosudong Coast, the unique terrain of Dolbat (Stone Field), and the black sand beach that appears only at low tide. Each of Udo's 8 scenic spots captivates visitors with its distinct charm. To experience Udo's nature, it's best to use a rental car or electric bicycle to tour these attractions. The island is small enough to visit all the spots in one day, and each location offers unique scenery and atmosphere, ensuring there's never a dull moment.
Peanut Makgeolli
Local food experiences are a must when visiting Udo. Despite its small size, the island is famous for its abundant seafood and specialties. The most representative food is "Udo peanuts." Grown in Udo's volcanic ash soil, these peanuts are smaller than regular ones but are known for their intense flavor and aroma. You can find roasted peanuts sold on street corners, perfect for a snack. Various dishes and desserts made with peanuts are also available. Peanut ice cream and peanut latte are particularly popular. For seafood lovers, "Udo conch" is a must-try. Although small, the conch caught in Udo's waters is delicious. You can enjoy it in various dishes like spicy conch salad or conch stone pot rice. Don't miss out on the various sashimi and seafood dishes from Udo's clean waters. Especially, the red tilefish caught near Udo is a Jeju specialty, delicious when grilled or braised. After your meal, try Udo's specialty "peanut makgeolli" (Korean rice wine). This unique drink combines the nutty flavor of Udo peanuts with the refreshing taste of makgeolli.
Udo Experiences
To truly appreciate Udo's charm, it's best to experience the life and culture of the local residents. While there are several villages on Udo, I recommend visiting Haumeokdong and Joilli villages. Haumeokdong is the largest village on Udo, where you can see traditional Jeju houses coexisting with modern buildings. Here, you can participate in the "Udo haenyeo (female diver) experience." This is a valuable opportunity to directly experience the life of haenyeo and hear their stories. Joilli village is where you can experience Udo's traditional agriculture. Depending on the season, you can participate in harvesting potatoes, barley, or garlic, and visit a peanut farm to learn about the peanut cultivation process. To gain a deeper understanding of Udo's history and culture, visit the Udo Lighthouse. Built in 1906, this historical landmark houses a small museum where you can learn about Udo's history and culture. Around the lighthouse, you can walk along Udo's traditional stone wall paths and imagine the old Udo. Lastly, I recommend ending your day by watching the beautiful sunset on Udo. The area around Soemueri Lighthouse is especially famous for its sunset views. The sight of the sky and sea turning red, blending with Udo's landscape, is truly beautiful.
Udo Transportation
Choosing the right mode of transportation is crucial for efficiently exploring Udo. You can easily rent various vehicles on the island, including cars, electric bicycles, and motorcycles. First, rental cars are available from several companies near Udo's Cheonjin Harbor. You can choose from various types, from 4-seater compact cars to 7-seater SUVs, suitable for families or group travelers. When renting a car, booking online in advance is often cheaper than renting on-site. Also, some rental car companies on mainland Jeju have branches on Udo, so if you're traveling to both Jeju and Udo, it's worth asking about package discounts.
Electric bicycles are one of the most popular modes of transportation for exploring Udo. They're environmentally friendly and allow you to slowly appreciate Udo's beautiful scenery. There are several electric bicycle rental shops near Udo's ferry terminal, most of which charge by the hour. Generally, the rate is around 10,000 won (about $9) per hour, but the hourly rate often becomes cheaper for longer rentals. Therefore, renting for 4 hours or more can be more economical. Some rental shops also offer early bird discounts or last customer discounts, so it's worth taking advantage of these.
Motorcycle or scooter rental services are also available for those who prefer them. These are faster than electric bicycles and suitable for visitors with limited time. When renting a motorcycle, you must bring your driver's license, and wearing a helmet is mandatory. Rental fees usually start from about 20,000 won (about $18) for 2 hours, with discounts often available for full-day rentals.
For tips on using transportation cheaply, first, take advantage of the price difference between peak and off-peak seasons. Visiting on weekdays rather than weekends or holidays is usually cheaper for most vehicle rentals. Also, some accommodation or tourist spots have partnerships with rental companies and may offer discount coupons, so it's good to check for these benefits when booking your accommodation. Using an Udo tour package can also be a smart way to save money, as these often include vehicle rental, admission to major attractions, and meals at discounted prices. It's worth comparing package deals from travel agencies or local tour companies.
