Out of this world: Jeju’s Lava Tubes
By Brooke Petersen
A previous version of this article appeared
in the October 2011 print edition of Gwangju News.
It is impossible to say there is nothing to do on Jeju Island. Venturing outside Jeju City, you can partake in some of the dodgy but interesting fun parks, bask in the sun on the beach at Seogwipo, or even explore under Jeju Island. Brooke Petersen explores the mystique that surrounds Jeju’s famous Geomunoreum Lava Tube System.
Regardless of the endless beauty on the “Island of the Gods,” or “Honeymoon Island” as it is now widely known, it is Jeju’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed lava caves that by far draw the most visitors to its volcanic shores.
Dating back as far as 300,000 years, the Geomunoreum caves consist of three major caves that are open for tourism: Manjanggul, Gimnyeonggul and Bengdwigul. Located East of Jeju City, these amazing natural phenomena have been well preserved and reveal an incredible interior that is out of this world.
Manjanggul cave is the most popular of the three, as it is the longest lava tube in the world. At five meters wide, 5-10 meters high and over 13 kilometers long, it’s incredible to think how it came into existence all those years ago. Unfortunately, only one kilometer of the cave is open for tourists.
Gimnyeonggul cave is the next most popular, and along with Manjanggul is one of the most internationally recognized formations, helped by its stalactites and stalagmites. Also worthy of exploration is Bengdwigul cave, a labyrinth-type cave that has the most complex structure of any lava cave in the world.
If you’re looking for a more low-key lava tube destination, Micheon cave, located on the lower eastern side of the island, just north of Pyoseon, is a great choice.
A little busier are Hyeopjaegul and Ssangyonggul caves at Hallim Park. Located on the northwestern side of the island, south of Hallim, this little nature reserve covers almost 1,000 square meters and has a variety of garden-like attractions.
Also notable are Yongcheondonggul and Dangcheomuldonggul on the southern coast. Although small, both have spectacular displays of limestone formations.
Costs and Travel
Most of the caves are only open during July and August. The latest tourists are admitted is 4:30p.m. Fees range between 2,000 won and 8,000 won for adults, depending on the destination.
If you go in groups of ten or more, ask for group discounts at the admissions counter. Taking a taxi to any of the remote locations is bound to cost you an arm and a leg – Jeju is bigger than it looks. Your best option is to take the intercity bus to get anywhere, which can cost upwards of 5,000 won depending on your destination. You could also hire a car, which will set you back 200,000 won but is well worth it, provided you have a valid license.
A last piece of advice: Be sure to wear closed-in shoes and take a sweater with you. Heels are not allowed, unless you really want to bust your ankle, as it’s wet and it can get pretty cold down in the caves.