Panoramic Views of Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) in Jeju, South Korea
Hello friends! My journey through South Korea has officially taken me to Jeju Island, and today I want to introduce you to a must-visit spot: Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak.
What is Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)?
As the name suggests, Sunrise Peak is the best place to catch the first rays of the sun on Jeju Island. Located on the eastern coast, it’s about 50 km (31 miles) from Jeju City. In my opinion, it’s one of the most breathtaking spots on the island.
Seongsan Ilchulbong was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2007 and is also listed among the New 7 Wonders of Nature. All of its prestigious titles are proudly displayed at the base of the peak before you begin your hike along the stone pathway through lush green meadows.
You need to hike all the way to the top to fully grasp the scale and beauty of the crater. The summit features a bowl-shaped crater measuring around 600 meters (1,970 ft) in diameter and 90 meters (295 ft) deep, surrounded by 99 sharp rock formations (so the sources say—I didn’t count them myself!).
With sheer cliffs on one side and grassy meadows in the center, it almost looks like a natural crown rising from the sea. Standing behind the observation rail at the summit, I was completely awestruck by how expansive and majestic it all felt—especially with the wind howling around me. An unforgettable experience!
The Magic of Sunrise Peak
At first, I was overwhelmed by the massive green fields and didn’t know where to start taking photos. Families, couples, and groups of friends were scattered across the meadow, capturing memories and soaking in the scenery.
Then the stone trail begins—an easy 200-meter incline with railings on both sides. From halfway up, you’ll already start seeing panoramic views of East Jeju. Honestly, any point along the trail is photo-worthy and romantic. If you have a loved one with you, you might never want to leave.
Gazing down, you’ll see turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and the distant city blending into a perfect landscape.
In Korean, “Seongsan” means “fortress mountain,” and from below, the peak truly resembles a mighty citadel standing guard over the eastern shoreline. I’ve heard that in spring, the area beneath the grassy fields bursts into color with blooming yellow flowers—just the thought makes my heart full.
View of East Jeju from the Midway Point
Don’t worry—you don’t need to rush to the top. Along the way, you’ll pass through different types of vegetation. The lower sections are grassy meadows, the mid-sections are filled with swaying silver grass, and higher up, you’ll see evergreen trees and alpine shrubs.
From the mid-point, you’ll get a sweeping view of East Jeju’s coastline. This is easily one of the best places to take in the beauty of the island. If you have time, I recommend spending 2–3 hours here to fully enjoy the scenery. But if you’re on a tight schedule, make sure to manage your time wisely to explore more of East Jeju.
How to Get to Seongsan Ilchulbong
At first, I wasn’t sure how to reach Seongsan Ilchulbong since it’s 50 km (31 miles) from where I was staying, and Jeju doesn’t have a subway system like Seoul or Busan—just buses and taxis. After some searching and planning, I found a perfect (actually, fantastic!) solution.
Book a 1-day East Jeju tour. The tour bus will pick you up from your hotel or a nearby location and take you to several major attractions in East Jeju—including Seongsan Ilchulbong!
Sample East Jeju 1-Day Tour Itinerary:
- Horseback Riding
- Seongeup Folk Village
- Lunch
- Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak
- Woman Diver Show
- Jondalri Shore Road
- Manjanggul Cave
These tours typically run from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM and operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. If you’re short on time but want to see as much as possible, this is a great way to explore East Jeju efficiently—especially the mythical Sunrise Peak!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re visiting Jeju for the first time or the fifth, Seongsan Ilchulbong is a destination you can’t miss. From its geological significance to its breathtaking views, it offers an experience that combines nature, culture, and adventure all in one. Don’t forget to charge your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your sense of wonder.
Enjoy the sunrise—or just the view—from Jeju’s crown jewel!