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Jeju do (Cheju do) - Culture |
Cheju
Island is the smallest province of the
republic. Oval in shape, Cheju Island measures 40 miles (64 km) from east to
west and 16 miles (26 km) from north to south. The island is
known as a place of fantasy or mystery and it is the most beautiful island in Korea.
It is
located in the southwest sea of the Korean peninsula and is highlighted for its
uniqueness. It is a tourist resort (with no other industry) fullfilling all conditions
for a resort area.
Cheju
Island is also known as the "Island of the Gods". The island offers
visitors a wide range of activities: hiking on Halla-san (South Korea's highest
peak), catching sunrises and sunsets over the ocean, viewing majestic
waterfalls, riding horses or just lying around on the sandy beaches.
The mountain Halla and surrounding area is a national park. Hundreds of
crater-formed hills from which volcanic material once flowed, seaside precipices
with waterfalls and lava tunnels are international sightseeing attractions.
Tourism
is an important business on Cheju Island with its abundance of natural
attractions. There are many parks, tourist sites and privately established
recreational spots, combining to support Cheju's image as a traveller's
paradise. Cheju Sculpture Park, located at the base of Mt. Sanban, is a virtual
museum of natural "artwork". Over 160 carvings are displayed in this
park where nature itself becomes an expansive exhibition hall spreading from
Mountain Halla to the coast. Within the park are many ponds, an observation
tower, souvenir centers and children's amusement facilities, providing
additional destinations after time spent appreciating the park's collection of
sculptures.
Shopping is one of the enjoyments not to be missed while travelling. Cheju offers a variety of shopping items to the tourists ranging from various local products, stuffed pheasants and fish, accessories, personal ornaments and Korean traditional handicrafts. Chejudo's special souvenirs include objects made of lava, stuffed pheasants, shells, mother-of-pearl, black coral pipes and other coral products, as well as locally made wool sweaters and shawls. Best places for shopping in Cheju are department stores, arcades, duty-free shops, local products and specialty shops and traditional markets.
