Jeju: East of Jeju Island Bus Tour from Seogwipo City

Imagine a day spent uncovering Korea’s volcanic island jewel without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. That’s exactly what the Jeju: East of Jeju Island Bus Tour from Seogwipo City offers. With a small group, a knowledgeable guide, and a carefully curated itinerary, this tour promises a rich taste of Jeju’s scenic landscapes, cultural treasures, and iconic landmarks.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the seamless convenience of departing directly from Seogwipo and visiting key UNESCO sites and local attractions. Second, the chance to learn about Jeju’s traditional Haenyeo women divers and their culture from an expert. Third, the opportunity to witness some of Jeju’s most breathtaking vistas, from towering cliffs to volcanic craters—all in one day. The one potential consideration? The itinerary involves quite a bit of walking and stairs, so be prepared for some physical activity.

This tour suits travelers looking for an immersive, hassle-free day that balances natural beauty, cultural insights, and local stories. If you’re keen to explore Jeju with a small, friendly group and a guide passionate about the island’s history and environment, you’ll likely find this experience both enjoyable and worthwhile.

Good To Know

• Small Group Experience: Max. 18 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Seongeup Folk Village and Haenyeo Museum for authentic insights.
• Stunning Natural Sites: Explore Seongsan Ilchulbong and Seopjikoji cliff, plus coastal drives.
• Rich Historical Context: Learn about Jeju’s women divers and local traditions.
• Comfortable Transportation: Various vehicle sizes with insured drivers.
• Flexible & Well-Organized: Full-day itineraries with carefully timed stops and free time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Seogwipo’s Heart at Casaloma Hotel

The tour kicks off from the centrally located Casaloma Hotel in downtown Seogwipo, making it a convenient starting point if you’re staying nearby. The guides send out details about pickup times and locations beforehand, so there’s no guesswork involved. From here, the journey begins with a scenic drive southward, setting the tone for a day of discovering Jeju’s natural and cultural gems.

First Stop: Seongeup Folk Village

Our first destination is the Seongeup Folk Village, about 50 minutes away. This traditional Jeju village is a living snapshot of the island’s past, with stone houses, traditional thatched roofs, and old tools on display. It’s a chance to see how locals once lived, farmed, and preserved their customs. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Fabio for their storytelling skills—”He explained all attractions of Jeju island really well, making history come alive,” one reviewer shared.

Coastal Drive & Seopjikoji Cliff

Next, a 30-minute coastal drive brings us to the entrance of Seopjikoji, a scenic trail renowned for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views. This spot is popular among K-drama fans because many scenes are shot here. Expect to walk along the cliffside, with plenty of photo opportunities. The views are particularly impressive at sunrise or sunset, and the air is tinged with salt and sea breeze. One reviewer notes, “The scenery here is breathtaking, and the guide pointed out key filming spots from K-dramas.”

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UNESCO World Heritage: Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)

A quick 10-minute drive then takes us to Seongsan Ilchulbong, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. This volcanic tuff cone was formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions and offers one of Jeju’s most iconic views. Trekking to the crater’s edge is the main activity, and the landscape has been sculpted by wind and waves, creating a natural masterpiece. Expect a fairly steep climb, but the panoramic ocean vistas make it worth the effort. Here, we might witness the famed women divers’ diving performance, a highlight praised by many—”Watching the haenyeo in action was inspiring,” a reviewer comments.

Cultural Deep Dive: Haenyeo Museum and Coastal Watching

After the crater, the tour proceeds along the Jongdal-ri coastal road, famous for its women divers. Visiting the Haenyeo Museum allows a closer look at the lives of these incredible women, who have been diving for seafood for generations. It’s an educational experience that helps understand Jeju’s intangible cultural heritage. Reviewers like Eva mention, “This museum helped me understand the importance of haenyeo, and the stories they carry.”

Alternative Visit: Manjanggul Cave or Hamdeok Beach

Originally, the plan includes visiting Manjanggul Cave, another UNESCO site and one of the world’s largest lava tubes. However, due to ongoing safety repairs until August 2025, the alternative is Hamdeok Seowoobong Beach. This white sand beach is often called one of Jeju’s most beautiful spots, perfect for a relaxing break or a quick swim. You’ll have time to enjoy a coffee or just soak in the scenery. One reviewer appreciated the flexibility: “Since Manjanggul was closed, we visited Hamdeok Beach instead, which was still stunning.”

Sunset at Seobuibong Peak

The day ends with free time at Seobuibong, one of Jeju’s scenic spots for sunset. The view here isn’t just beautiful—it’s a peaceful moment to reflect on the day’s adventures. You might even climb the nearby Seobuibong Peak for a final panoramic sweep of the island. Many travelers find this a perfect close to a full day of exploration.

Return Journey and Drop-off

On the way back, the guide stops at a designated bus stop for those heading to Jeju Airport or city. The tour concludes at the Casaloma Hotel, making it an easy start-to-finish experience.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and friendliness. Fabio, the guide mentioned, is described as “warm, kind, knowledgeable, and passionate.” One traveler appreciated that Fabio helped arrange taxis at the end of the day, making the experience even smoother.

Reviewers also love the variety of sights—stunning ocean views, cultural sites, and geological marvels—packed into just one day. As Simonetta points out, “Fabio made sure we saw all attractions and explained everything well.” Others emphasize the value: for $92, they felt they received a well-organized, enriching experience that combined natural beauty with cultural stories, without feeling rushed.

Transportation Comfort and Group Size

The tour offers various vehicle options—ranging from family-sized vans to larger buses—catering to different group sizes. The vehicles are described as clean and comfortable, with insurance included, ensuring peace of mind for travelers. The small group size (max 18) means you get more personalized attention, and the guide can adapt the pace based on the group’s needs—something many reviews praise.

Practical Details & Considerations

Starting from Seogwipo, the tour is ideal for those staying in or near this town. The full-day experience spans approximately 8-9 hours, covering multiple sites, so expect a busy but rewarding day. The tour is suitable for most ages, but note that it involves walking and some stairs—reviewers like Jonathan mention that the pace can be adjusted for different abilities.

Price-wise, at $92 per person, the tour offers good value considering all included admissions, transportation, and the guided insights. It’s a cost-effective way to see Jeju’s eastern highlights without the stress of self-driving or arranging multiple tickets.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a comprehensive, culturally rich, and scenic introduction to Jeju’s east coast, this tour ticks all the boxes. The small-group setting ensures a personable experience, and the guided commentary enriches every stop with stories and historical context. The combination of UNESCO sites, traditional villages, and stunning coastlines makes it a well-rounded day out.

The flexible itinerary and the opportunity to witness the iconic haenyeo divers in action add a unique local flavor. Plus, the relaxed ending at a scenic spot for sunset gives a satisfying closure. Travelers who love nature, culture, and a bit of adventure will find this tour especially appealing.

However, those with mobility issues or who prefer a very leisurely pace might want to assess the walking involved. Also, if your schedule is tight or you want a more customizable experience, private tours could be worth exploring.

Overall, at a reasonable price, with glowing reviews and a passionate guide, this tour is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an authentic, fun, and educational day exploring Jeju’s east side.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for this tour?
All travelers will receive a message with the pickup time and place, starting from Casaloma Hotel in downtown Seogwipo.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day trip typically runs for about 8-9 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and free periods.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides various vehicle options—family vans, mini buses, or larger buses—with gasoline, parking, and insurance included.

What attractions are covered?
You’ll visit Seongeup Folk Village, Seopjikoji cliff, Seongsan Ilchulbong, Haenyeo Museum, and either Manjanggul Cave or Hamdeok Beach, depending on closures.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
While most ages can enjoy it, be aware that some walking and stairs are involved. The pace can be adjusted, but it’s best for those comfortable with moderate activity.

What should I bring?
Since Jeju is often windy, pack a wind jacket. Comfortable shoes and sunglasses are also recommended.

Can I join if I am traveling solo?
Absolutely. The small group size makes it easy for solo travelers to join and meet others.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility in case plans change.

Final Words

This tour offers an engaging, well-organized way to experience Jeju’s eastern coast without the fuss. It combines cultural insights, stunning landscapes, and local stories, all delivered by a passionate guide. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Jeju visitor, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation of the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Perfect for those who prefer small-group experiences that blend comfort, education, and adventure—this is a memorable day out on Jeju.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby