There is a reason why the locals call Seongsan Ilchulbong ’Sunrise Peak’, as this is offers one of the best places on the island to welcome in the day. Thanks to its incredible position, the views are fairly fantastic at any hour. And despite the stunning vistas, it is only a short walk to the top of the peak, where you have the chance to look inside a vast volcanic crater – another good reason for making the journey.
This now-extinct volcano is located on the eastern side of the island, standing some 182 metres high. Its peak was formed as a result of undersea volcanic movement that took place thousands of years ago, and it is a fascinating example of former volcanic activity in the region.
The climb to the top takes around an hour and the well-maintained pathway that snakes up one side of the mountain makes it an easy climb. The scenery here is breath-taking, from the startling rock formations that pepper the volcano’s sides, to the blankets of wild flowers in the fields around in spring – stunning yellow rapeseed makes for quite an arresting backdrop. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare ferns and orchids that grow here.
Seongsan Ilchulbong’s crater is around 600 metres wide and demonstrates the awesome force of the explosion that created this rock monster. When you are at the top be sure to take a look into the crater, as well as at the incredible views over the rest of the island. When you get back down to the bottom try to spot some of the famous Haenyo divers who hunt for molluscs off the rocks at the base of the volcano. These impressive ‘sea women’ hold their breath for up to two minutes at a time underwater.
Seongsang Ilchulbong Peak is open all year round unless the weather is bad. Get here an hour before sunrise, when the gates open, to enjoy the views from the peak. It takes about an hour and a half to reach Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak from Jeju City by bus.
