JEJU ISLAND | Sojeonbang & Jeonbang Waterfalls – Eongtto Waterfalls – Gaetkkak Jusangjeollidae Cliffs – Cheonjeyeon Waterfall & Seonim Bridge

Autumn 2024. Ten years after my first trip to Seoul in 2014, I am returning to the Republic of Korea, better known as South Korea. Not solo this time, but with Oriol, who has never been to Korea. On the itinerary: flying with Qatar Airways to Incheon via Doha, the capital Seoul, the historic city of Gyeongju, Busan, Jeju Island and a second stint in Seoul, where we are joined by Sehyeon. We’re spending two weeks in South Korea. The ROK is such a popular destination now. Will we experience overtourism?

On the second (third) day, we focused on the west side of Jeju Island. We first went south, passed Mount Hallasan.

Sojeonbang & Jeonbang Waterfalls

Jeongbang Waterfall (정방폭포), located near Seogwipo on Jeju Island’s southern coast, is a famous natural site and one of the only waterfalls in Asia that flows directly into the sea.

The waterfall is 23 metres high and 8 metres wide, surrounded by rocky cliffs and dense greenery. Known for its scenic beauty, Jeongbang Waterfall attracts many visitors who can walk down a series of stairs and rocky pathways to get close to the cascading water.

Local legends say a holy dragon once resided beneath the falls, bestowing rain and blessings on the island. The area provides a serene and picturesque setting, blending Jeju’s rugged coastal landscape with the tranquil sound of flowing water.

Sojeonbang and Castle of Shell(s)

Don’t let the internet fool you. Sojeonbang Waterfall exists. Look at this photo of the sight. Left is Sojeonbang.

To get there, you pass the Castle of Shell(s) (소라의성). The ‘Castle of Shell or Bommie Castle of Shell(s), is an attraction created by artist Bommie Kim. It’s an art installation built entirely from shells collected over several decades from Jeju’s shores. This intricately decorated structure features various marine-themed motifs and sculptures, crafted to resemble a fairytale-like castle.

Visitors are drawn to the colorful, whimsical design, which includes detailed shell mosaics, coral, and marine relics. The Castle of Shell(s) is not only a tribute to Jeju’s coastal beauty but also an example of sustainable art, showcasing the island’s natural resources in a creative and imaginative way.

Sojeonbang Waterfall and Castle of Shell.

Eongtto Waterfalls

Our next stop were the Eongtto Waterfalls. Located near Seogwipo, Eongttopokpo Falls (엉또폭포) is a seasonal waterfall that flows only after heavy rainfall. And indeed, it was dry when we were there.

Unlike other waterfalls on Jeju that have a consistent water flow, Eongtto is unique in its intermittent nature, making it a special sight when it does appear.

When active, the waterfall cascades down from a height of about 50 metres into a lush, forested area, creating a beautiful scene against the green mountainside. Its temporary flow adds to its mystique, as visitors often consider themselves lucky to witness it.

The surrounding area is quiet and remote, ideal for visitors looking to experience Jeju’s natural beauty in a peaceful setting.

Gaetkkak Jusangjeollidae Cliffs

Sometimes it’s hard to know the exact name in Roman alphabet of places in Korea. Gaetkkak Jusangjeollidae Cliffs or or Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff (주상절리대(대포동지삿개)) is such a place.

Gaetkkak Jusangjeollidae Cliffs, located along the southern coast of Jeju Island, are natural coastal cliffs featuring hexagonal basalt rock formations formed by cooling lava from volcanic eruptions.

These columns, shaped by geological processes, resemble a series of neatly stacked pillars rising from the sea, creating a visually striking landscape. The cliffs are part of the larger Jusangjeolli formations on Jeju but are often less crowded than the more famous Jusangjeolli cliffs at Daepo.

The rugged rock formations against the turquoise sea make the Gaetkkak Jusangjeollidae a popular site for visitors, especially those seeking a quieter alternative with stunning coastal views. The area also offers scenic walking paths where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Jeju’s unique volcanic coastline.

For safety reasons, we were not allowed to go nearby.

Cheonjeyeon Waterfall & Seonim Bridge

The Cheonjeyeon Waterfall (천제연폭포) and Seonim Bridge (선임교) are part of one area.

Cheonjeyeon Waterfall, also known as the ‘Pond of God‘ is a three-tiered waterfall located in the Jungmun Tourist Complex on Jeju Island. Make sure to see all three.

The waterfall begins with water cascading from a cave, forming the first pool, and then flows into two more sections, ultimately creating three separate falls. The first tier drops into a crystal-clear pool surrounded by lush foliage, while the second and third falls flow over volcanic rock formations into deep basins. This scenic area is rich in local mythology, where it is said that seven nymphs would descend from heaven at night to bathe in the first waterfall’s pond, symbolizing its divine status.

Nearby is Seonim Bridge, a red and white arched pedestrian bridge that spans the Cheonjeyeon Valley. Completed in 1984, this bridge is known for its intricate design featuring carvings of the seven nymphs, linking it closely to the waterfall’s mythology.

Seonim Bridge offers panoramic views of the valley, the waterfall, and the surrounding forested area. Its arched structure, adorned with the nymph engravings, has become an iconic landmark on Jeju, attracting visitors who come to enjoy the scenic views and take photos of both the bridge and the cascading waterfalls below.

Together, Cheonjeyeon Waterfall and Seonim Bridge represent a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural symbolism, drawing tourists to experience Jeju’s mythological charm and stunning landscapes.

Cheonjesa

Cheonjesa (천제사) is a temple nearby Seonim Bridge. At least, if I’m getting the map right. It translates as ‘Heavenly Priest‘. I’m not finding much information.