Seongsan Ilchulbong (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Seongsan Ilchulbong?
What makes it 89% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can ascend the 182 m stairs in 30 min, watch sunrise and haenyeo show, and use frequent buses; only the steep steps and strong wind require personal caution.
![[Korea85] Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak in Jeju Island](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/xcTGmn8fTOY/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Well-Marked Path: Wooden stairs and handrails make the ascent secure even when alone.
- Solo-Friendly Timing: You can time your visit to catch free sunrise entry and avoid crowds.
Challenges:
- Steep Ascent: Over 200 steps up to the rim; bring sturdy shoes and pace yourself.
- Limited Shade: Few shelters on the trail; carry sun protection and water.
What is Seongsan Ilchulbong?
- A tuff cone that formed through explosive hydrovolcanic eruptions beneath the sea off Jeju’s eastern coast about 100,000 years ago
- A 182-meter-high volcanic peak featuring a 600-meter-diameter, 90-meter-deep crater rimmed by 99 jagged stone spires
- A coastal geological landmark rising directly from the ocean and designated as part of Jeju’s UNESCO Global Geopark
What is so special about Seongsan Ilchulbong for solo trip?
- Sea-erupted crater offering 360° ocean and island views
- Sunrise hike with free entry if you time it right
- Cultural Haenyeo diver performance near the base
- Flat coastal path for extended solo walks
- Nearby cafes with ocean vistas for solo rest stops
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to hike the crater rim, explore the coastal trail, and relax at a cafe.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Seongsan Ilchulbong
Sunrise Crater Hike:
Climb the wooden stairs to reach the 600 m-wide crater rim before dawn.
Tip: Arrive 1 hour before sunrise for free entry and a quiet ascent.
Crater-Edge Photo Walk:
Circle the rim for 360° views of the ocean, Udo Island, and Jeju coastline.
Tip: Walk clockwise to avoid oncoming groups and find clear photo spots.
Haenyeo Performance:
Watch local female divers surface with fresh seafood and sing traditional songs.
Tip: Head to the base near the parking lot at 2 PM and arrive 10 minutes early.
Coastal Walking Trail:
Follow the flat path along the shore toward Seongsan Port for seaside views.
Tip: Bring sun protection and water; the trail is exposed without shade.
When is the best time to visit Seongsan Ilchulbong (Jeju, South Korea)?
Spring brings yellow rape blossoms on the slopes and vivid sunrise colors. Summer days are long but hot—start early. Autumn skies are clear with fewer visitors. Winter offers crisp air and chance of frost on the grassy rim.
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Reviews of Seongsan Ilchulbong (Jeju)
CS Chai
Seongsan Ilchulbong is also called Sunrise Peak. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the must-visit place in Jeju. However, we could not hike up to the summit on the day of our visit because it was closed on that day. Do take note that places of attraction in Korea are open on public holidays and closed the following day as the replacement. Nevertheless, we enjoyed the walk around ...
Meg
Beautiful views of the crater and ocean. Summit walk costs 5,000 each and took us 18 minutes to get to the top with a few stops. The whole summit walk is via stairs so not too challenging and worth the views. Some stunning views via the free path as well.
Waqas Rahman
One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. Unfortunately, the sky wasn’t clear on the day I went, so I couldn’t see the sunrise but it was still an incredible experience. We started the hike early in the morning, hoping to catch the sunrise. I believe that’s the best time to do the hike, though I’m sure it would be a memorable experience at any time of day. We came down after sunrise, and...
Natthakul
First of all, you need to be somewhat fit to make it to the top. It's like 20 minutes of constant steep uphill steps, so for a normal person, you will be tired. Once up there, you will see the big crater. There will be lots of seats for you to sit and rest while enjoying the view. For me, I think the descending view is much more interesting and beautiful than the crater. If you're somewhat fit an...
Sebastián Canese
The hike is steep but the view is amazing. Please note that you only need to pay if you want to go up. There’s also a free path, plus the Hanyeo restaurant and beach, that are also free to enter.
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entrance fee | KRW 5,000 |
| Bottled water | KRW 2,000 |
| Cafe drink | KRW 5,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 12,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Seongsan Ilchulbong
- Beat the Crowds: Start 30 minutes before sunrise or visit after 2 PM for fewer people.
- Light Pack: Use a small backpack to keep your hands free for balance on stairs.
Map of Seongsan Ilchulbong
Address: Seongsan Ilchulbong, Seogwipo-si, South Korea
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