Jungmun Tourist Complex
The Jungmun Tourist Complex (중문관광단지; map), located in Seogwipo on Jeju’s southern coast, is a sprawling area that spans Jungmun, Saekdal, and Daepo Neighborhoods. Developed as part of a government initiative in the 1970s to create a global tourist hub, this comprehensive resort area offers a diverse range of attractions, including:
Cheonjeyeon Falls
Cheonjeyeon Falls (천제연폭포; map), set in the middle of the Jungmun Tourist Complex, is a renowned natural and cultural landmark. The site features three cascading waterfalls, a surrounding subtropical forest, and architectural highlights like Seonim Bridge and Cheonjeru Pavilion.
The Waterfalls
Let’s take a closer look at each of the three falls.
First Waterfall
The first waterfall, dropping 22 meters into the emerald-green Cheonjeyeon Pond, is the most photographed of the three. Its cliff face showcases hexagonal basalt columns, a signature feature of Jeju’s volcanic landscape.
This cascade is seasonal, flowing only after significant rainfall, and its absence reveals a striking dry cliff. When active, the sound of rushing water and the mist create a dramatic and immersive experience.
Second Waterfall
Downstream, water flows into the second waterfall, surrounded by evergreen trees and subtropical foliage. The secluded setting and the sound of cascading water combine to create a serene atmosphere.
Third Waterfall
The final cascade flows from a sheer cliff into a natural basin before emptying into the sea. Though less visited, this waterfall offers stunning views and a quieter experience for visitors who complete the short hike from the second fall.
Legend of the Seven Nymphs
Cheonjeyeon Falls derives its name, translating to “Pond of the Emperor of Heaven,” from a cherished local legend. Seven nymphs, or Chilseonyeo, are said to have descended from the heavens to bathe in the serene pool of the first waterfall. The falls were considered a divine sanctuary where the nymphs found solace and rejuvenation.
This myth is immortalized in the Seonim Bridge carvings, which depict the nymphs as celestial musicians, and celebrated during the biennial Chilseonyeo Festival in May. The festival includes performances, rituals, and events that honor Jeju’s cultural heritage.
Subtropical Forest and Rare Flora
Cheonjeyeon Falls is surrounded by a subtropical forest designated as a natural monument. The forest is home to rare plants like the Damfalsu tree (담팔수) and Jeju’s unique ferns, including Songyeopran (송엽란). These plants thrive in the area’s volcanic soil and humid climate, creating a lush and biodiverse environment.
Visiting Information
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (hours may vary with sunset).
- Entrance Fees:
- 2,500 KRW for adults
- 1,350 KRW for youth, children, and military personnel.
- Free entry for seniors, children under six, and Jeju residents.
- Access: Well-marked trails connect the waterfalls, but the paths include steep stairs and uneven terrain. Wear sturdy footwear.
Tips for Visitors
- Timing: Visit after rainfall to see the first waterfall in full flow.
- Photography: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting.
- Prohibited Activities: Swimming is not allowed to protect the ecosystem.
Jungmun Saekdal Beach
Jungmun Saekdal Beach (중문색달해수욕장; map) lays at the bottom of the Jungmun Tourist Complex. Spanning 560 meters, the beach is celebrated for its crescent-shaped shoreline, unique, multicolored sands, which shift subtly in the sunlight, and dramatic cliffs.
Colorful Sands
The distinctive “Jinmosal” sands of Jungmun Saekdal Beach are a rare feature that set it apart from other beaches. Composed of four distinct colors—black, white, red, and grey—the sands create a vivid shoreline.
These unique sands harmonize with Jeju’s iconic volcanic stones, adding to the beach’s geological intrigue. Visitors can also explore a natural sea cave revealed at low tide, offering an glimpse into the island’s volcanic history.
Surfer’s Paradise
With consistently high waves, Jungmun Saekdal Beach is a haven for surfers. Its reputation as one of Korea’s top surfing destinations is solidified by the annual international surfing competition held every June. Surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals, are drawn to the beach for its challenging yet rewarding conditions.
Water Sports
Jungmun Saekdal Beach is also a hub for a wide array of other water sports and leisure activities. Thrill-seekers can indulge in jet skiing, windsurfing, and parasailing, while those looking for underwater adventures can enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving. Families can take advantage of calmer areas for swimming and wading.
Other Attractions
Jungmun Saekdal Beach holds some cultural significance. At one end of the beach, a statue of a traditional Jeju haenyeo (female diver) pays homage to the island’s rich maritime heritage.
Nearby, Shiri’s Hill—a prominent lookout point—is named after the famous Korean movie “Shiri,” (쉬리) which was filmed on location here. The hill provides panoramic views of the coastline and is a spot for photos.
Eco-Friendly Recognition
In 1999, an environmental survey ranked Jungmun Saekdal Beach as Korea’s cleanest beach, a recognition it continues to uphold through strict conservation and eco-friendly practices. The clear waters and pristine shoreline are meticulously maintained, offering visitors an unspoiled coastal experience.
Facilities like restrooms, showers, and equipment rental stations are thoughtfully managed to balance visitor comfort with environmental preservation.
Seonim Bridge
Seonim Bridge (선임교; map), also called the Seven Nymphs Bridge, spans 128 meters across the Cheonjeyeon Valley, connecting the main entrance to trails leading to the Cheonjeyeon Falls. The bridge’s name and carvings honor the legend of the seven nymphs, who, according to mythology, descended from the heavens to bathe in the waterfalls.
Built in 1984, this steel arch bridge features 14 nymph carvings, seven on each side, depicting the legendary celestial maidens playing musical instruments. The bridge offers a breathtaking vantage point, rising 78 meters above the valley floor. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the waterfalls, subtropical forest, and the distant sea. At night, 34 stone lanterns along the bridge’s 100 guardrails illuminate the structure.
Cheonjeru Pavilion
Situated near the Cheonjeyeon Falls, Cheonjeru Pavilion (천제루휴게소; map) showcases traditional Korean architecture with its two-story wooden structure and intricate carvings that echo Jeju’s rich heritage.
The pavilion is steeped in local folklore, believed to be a resting place for the legendary seven nymphs who descended to bathe in the serene waters of Cheonjeyeon.
From the upper level, visitors can find sweeping views of the waterfalls, the surrounding forest, and glimpses of the distant coastline. The gentle breeze and the sound of cascading water create an atmosphere of serenity.
Cheonjeru is also home to a small café offering refreshments, including freshly brewed coffee, traditional Korean teas like Hallabong (tangerine) tea, and light snacks such as skewered seafood and savory pancakes. This makes it a convenient and delightful stop for travelers exploring the nearby falls and Seonim Bridge.
Yeomiji Botanical Garden
Yeomiji Botanical Garden (여미지식물원; map), located in the northern part of the Jungmun Tourist Complex, is one of Asia’s largest indoor botanical collections. Spanning over 11 hectares, the garden combines outdoor landscapes inspired by Korean, Japanese, Italian, and French traditions with an expansive indoor conservatory housing over 1,300 plant species.
The centerpiece of the indoor garden is a 38-meter-high observation tower, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding areas, including Cheonjeyeon Falls, the Jungmun coastline, and, on clear days, Mara Island.
Themed sections like the Tropical Garden, Water Garden, and Cactus Garden highlight the diversity of flora from around the world, while the Tropical Orchard displays exotic fruits such as papayas and jackfruits.
Yeomiji’s outdoor gardens hold lush greenery, ponds, and carefully curated cultural elements, allowing visitors to experience the harmony of East and West.
More Highlights
Jungmun Tourist Complex hosts a range of other attractions that go beyond its natural landmarks and botanical gardens. Here are some additional highlights to explore:
- Teddy Bear Museum (테디베어뮤지엄; map)
- This charming museum showcases over a century of teddy bear history through interactive exhibits, rare collectible bears, and artistic recreations of famous cultural moments. Visitors can see the world’s most expensive bear, the Louis Vuitton Teddy, and enjoy an outdoor garden with ocean views.
- Jusangjeolli Cliffs (대포해안주상절리대; map)
- These dramatic volcanic rock formations are a natural wonder where hexagonal basalt columns meet the sea. The cliffs provide a display of Jeju’s volcanic origins and are an ideal spot for photography and nature walks.
- Alive Museum (박물관은 살아있다; map)
- An interactive and fun experience, this museum features 3D art, optical illusions, and media exhibits. Visitors of all ages can pose within the installations, turning imagination into reality through creative and playful activities.
- Jeju International Peace Center (제주국제평화센터; map)
- This cultural site celebrates Jeju’s role as a “peace island.” The center features exhibits on global peace initiatives and wax figures of notable figures like Nobel laureates. It’s a great educational stop for families and history enthusiasts.
- Jeju International Convention Center (제주국제컨벤션센터; map)
- A hub for international events, this state-of-the-art venue hosts conferences, exhibitions, and cultural programs. Its design harmonizes with Jeju’s natural beauty, and it’s conveniently located near accommodations and other attractions.
