**In January 2026 on Jeju Island, prioritize snow viewing at Saraoreum on the Seongpanak trail to Baekrokdam and camellia flowers, as these seasonal highlights align perfectly with the winter landscape.** These spots offer a magical mix of snowy volcanic terrain and early-blooming flowers, ideal for your visit right now.[user query] ### Top January Recommendations - **Saraoreum Snowscape (Seongpanak Trail to Baekrokdam):** Head to Hallasan National Park's Seongpanak trail for snow-covered slopes en route to Baekrokdam crater lake. This UNESCO site provides stunning winter hikes amid Mount Hallasan's shield volcano features—expect fresh powder and crisp air for an unforgettable trek.[1][2][5] - **Camellia Flowers:** Jeju's camellia blooms peak in winter, dotting gardens and hillsides with vibrant reds and pinks. Pair this with nearby sites like Hallim Park, which hosts seasonal flower displays in its themed gardens.[7][8] ### Why These Fit January 2026 Jeju's winter transforms its volcanic oreums (small hills) and trails into snowy wonders, contrasting beautifully with hardy camellias. Manjanggul Lava Cave, noted as reopening by early April after 2023 maintenance, remains closed now—opt for Hallasan's trails instead.[user query][7] Current conditions favor cooler, less crowded experiences at high-elevation spots like Saraoreum over beaches.[8] ### Broader Jeju Highlights for Your Trip Extend your stay with these year-round must-sees, many accessible from eastern or southern routes: - **Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak):** Hike this UNESCO tuff cone for panoramic ocean views (20-30 min moderate trail). Catch a Haenyeo diver show nearby.[1][2][3][5][7] - **Jusangjeolli Cliffs:** Admire hexagonal basalt columns from viewing decks, formed by ancient lava flows crashing into the sea.[1][2][4][5] - **Waterfalls (Cheonjiyeon, Jeongbang):** Lush trails lead to serene falls, including Asia's rare sea-plunging Jeongbang.[2][4][5] - **Beaches (Hyeopjae, Hamdeok):** Emerald waters shine in summer but offer quiet winter walks now.[1][6][7][8] - **O'sulloc Tea Fields & Museum:** Stroll green tea plantations and learn Korean tea culture.[1][2] | East Jeju Route (Day Trip Idea) | South Jeju Route (Day Trip Idea) | |--------------------------------|---------------------------------| | Seongsan Ilchulbong, Manjanggul (post-reopening), Seopjikoji Cape[1][2] | Hallasan, Jusangjeolli, Cheonjiyeon Falls, Green Tea Café[1][2][5] | ### Seasonal Outlook for Rest of 2026 Plan ahead with Jeju's flower and festival calendar:[user query] - **Feb:** Canola at Sanbangsan, plum blossoms at Geolmae Eco Park. - **March:** Cherry blossoms at Utmulgyo; Jeju Chilmeoridang Yeongdeunggut ritual. - **April:** Green barley in Gapado; Manjanggul reopens. - **May-Oct:** Buckwheat, hydrangeas, beaches, oreums, silver grasses. - **Nov-Dec:** Tangerine picking, returning snow/camellias. For comprehensive itineraries, combine with tours covering Haenyeo Museum, Seongeup Folk Village, or Stone Park.[1][3][4][5] Weather in January is cold (0-10°C), so layer up for trails.[8]
