Crisp air, clear skies, and a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and gold—autumn on Jeju Island is pure magic. As the summer humidity fades, South Korea’s “Island of the Gods” transforms into a paradise for nature lovers, foodies, and adventurers. The comfortable weather is perfect for exploring everything the island has to offer.
If you’re planning a trip, here are 20 unforgettable activities to add to your autumn itinerary in Jeju! 🍂
🌾 Embrace the Silver Grass & Pink Muhly
Autumn is the season of swaying grasses in Jeju. You absolutely cannot miss seeing the fields of silver grass, known as eulalia or sae (새) in Korean.
- Hike Sangumburi Crater (산굼부리): This is arguably the most famous spot for silver grass. The vast crater is filled with a sea of feathery, silver plumes that glow under the autumn sun. It’s an easy walk and offers breathtaking panoramic views.
- Climb Saebyeol Oreum (새별오름): For a bit more of a challenge with a huge payoff, hike up Saebyeol Oreum. The entire volcanic cone is covered in silver grass, and the view from the top at sunset is spectacular.
- Wander through Hueree Natural Park (휴애리자연생활공원): Famous for its dreamy fields of pink muhly grass, this park is an Instagrammer’s dream. The fluffy pink clouds of grass create a surreal and beautiful landscape.
- Explore Norimae Park (노리매공원): Another fantastic spot for pink muhly, often with creative photo zones set up. It’s a beautifully curated park that combines nature with art.
🍁 Chase the Autumn Foliage
While Jeju is more famous for its grasses, it still boasts stunning autumn colors, especially in its forests and on its iconic mountain.
- Hike Hallasan National Park (한라산국립공원): No trip to Jeju is complete without seeing its centerpiece, Hallasan Mountain. The Eorimok and Yeongsil trails are fantastic choices in autumn, offering incredible views of the foliage-covered slopes. Remember to check trail availability and book in advance if required!
- Stroll the Saryeoni Forest Path (사려니숲길): This enchanting, mostly flat path is perfect for a relaxing walk. The dense cedar and cypress trees are interspersed with deciduous trees that turn brilliant shades of yellow and red.
- Visit Jeolmul Natural Recreation Forest (절물자연휴양림): With towering cedar trees and well-maintained walking paths, this forest is a peaceful retreat. The crisp, pine-scented air and flashes of autumn color make it a rejuvenating experience.
- Walk a Jeju Olle Trail (제주올레길): With over 26 routes, you can pick any Olle Trail and be rewarded with beautiful scenery. Routes 7 and 10 along the southern coast are especially stunning with the sea on one side and autumn scenery on the other.
🍊 Taste the Season
Autumn marks the beginning of the harvest season for Jeju’s most famous product: tangerines!
- Go Tangerine Picking (감귤따기 체험): This is a quintessential Jeju autumn activity. Head to one of the many local farms to pick your own sweet and juicy tangerines right off the tree. It’s fun, delicious, and you get to take home the fruits of your labor!
- Explore Dongmun Market (동문재래시장): Jeju’s largest traditional market comes alive with seasonal produce. It’s the perfect place to try fresh tangerine juice, local snacks, and fresh seafood like the autumn blue crab.
- Cafe Hopping in Aewol (애월): Find a cozy cafe along the Aewol coastal road. Many cafes offer seasonal drinks like hallabong (a type of tangerine) tea or sweet potato lattes. Enjoying a warm drink with a view of the sea is the perfect way to relax.
- Visit the Osulloc Tea Museum (오설록 티뮤지엄): While the tea fields are green year-round, the cool autumn air makes a visit here especially pleasant. Warm up with a premium green tea or indulge in their famous green tea ice cream and roll cake.
🐎 Experience Jeju’s Unique Culture & Landscapes
Take advantage of the mild weather to explore the island’s unique volcanic landscapes and cultural sites.
- Ride a Horse: Jeju is famous for its horses. Enjoy a horseback ride through a forest or field of silver grass for a truly memorable experience.
- Visit Seongeup Folk Village (성읍민속마을): Step back in time at this living village. The traditional thatched-roof homes look particularly charming against the backdrop of autumn colors.
- See Cheonjeyeon Falls (천제연폭포): Known as “The Pond of God,” this three-tiered waterfall is surrounded by a lush forest that showcases beautiful autumn hues.
- Climb Seongsan Ilchulbong (성산일출봉): The “Sunrise Peak” is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The climb to the top is rewarded with stunning views of the island, which are exceptionally clear on a crisp autumn day.
- Explore Bijarim Forest (비자림): Home to hundreds of ancient nutmeg yew trees, this forest has a mystical atmosphere. It’s a peaceful walk and a different kind of forest experience.
- Drive the Coastal Roads: Rent a car and simply drive. The island’s coastal roads, particularly between Aewol and Hyeopjae, are breathtakingly scenic. Roll down the windows and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.
- Watch the Sunset at Suwolbong Peak (수월봉): A designated Global Geopark site, this coastal peak offers one of the best sunset views on the island, especially with the clear autumn skies.
- Stargaze at Night: With less humidity and clearer skies, autumn is a fantastic time for stargazing. Head away from the city lights, perhaps to an oreum, and look up. 💫
Have a wonderful autumn adventure in Jeju!