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We've compiled the best of the best in Jeju-si - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Open since 1945, Dongmun Market is the best place to go for a taste of the local foodstuffs, like black pork, tangerines, hairtail fish, and abalone. Try the omegitteok (a cake made from millet), and borippang (steamed barley buns). The market functions as a shopping space during the day, with the street food sellers really coming out at night. Located at the crossroads of several Olle walking trails and next to the lively Tap-dong district, it's a great place to explore.
The largest open-air market in Jeju (and the largest five-day market in Korea) has around 1,000 stalls, with everything from local produce to pet birds. The five-day market is a staple for locals and a must-see cultural experience for visitors. One area of particular interest is the "Grandmother's Market," a group of 300 stalls run by local women over the age of 65. The market is only open one out of every five days, on the 2nd, 7th, 12th, 17th, 22nd, and 27th of every month.
This is an underground labyrinth filled with boutiques, name-brand shops, skin-care stands, small restaurants, and ice cream stalls. Try to hit the sales, as prices here are sometimes even more expensive than the aboveground shopping districts.
The sprawling Shilla Duty Free Shop in the Yeon-dong district is the largest duty-free store on the island and carries designer brand names like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and a good selection of perfumes, cosmetics, handbags, and sunglasses.
Conveniently located at the heart of downtown Jeju, Tap-dong is the largest shopping district on the island. Most shops stay open until 4 am, so it's a great place to spend an evening. There are also a lot of restaurants, bars, and theaters, as well as local vendors selling handicrafts on the street.
This pedestrian-only street is jam-packed with funky boutiques, exclusive brand-name shops, restaurants, and karaoke bars. It's decorated with sculptures and flowerpots, and is a happening spot on Saturday nights when stores stay open late. Locals also call this area "Jewon."
