Nicknamed "Island of the Spirits", Jeju, is Korea's largest island located off the southern coast of the peninsula. Known of its incredible natural beauty, this volcanic island is dominated by the 6,400 foot peak of Halla-san (dormant since 1007). Despite its close proximity to the Korean mainland, the people here prospered in relative isolation and developed their own distinct culture and language. For thousands of years, Jeju developed a unique native religious custom, very similar to other northeastern Asian Shamanist traditions. Developed from this Shaman spiritual ceremonies is the enigmatic Pacific island style Dol-harubang (or stone grandfather) thought to help with the fertility of young couples. Perhaps this is why this is popular spot vacation spot for honeymooners.
Our day here was short, in at 7 am with an all aboard time of 12:30. Jeff, Ellie, Jan and I grabbed a very reasonable taxi ($20 US / hour), and off we were to some photo stops on the way to Hallim Park, just beautiful. Like a natural Disneyland for Adults, exotic flora along the many paths of a maze of a park featuring greenhouses, orchards, water gardens, a traditional folk village, bonsai and stone park and lava tube caves. A great day with the highlight being the bird enclosure we all went into and fed the hundreds of small birds. An easy fun day.
Here some pics of our day, hope you enjoy...
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