7 ways to enjoy fall in Jeju, from silver grass trails to pet-friendly beaches

Silver grass waves on Ttarabi Oreum in Gasi-ri in Pyoseon-myeon, Seogwipo, Jeju Island. Courtesy of the Jeju Tourism Organization

As silver grass waves across its hills, dogs stroll along sandy beaches and sunsets paint the coast red, Jeju Island is offering travelers a range of themed autumn getaways. The Jeju Tourism Organization has introduced seven ways to enjoy fall on Jeju, tailored to different travel styles and personal tastes.

The seven recommended themes are culture travelers seeking local festivals; wellness seekers focusing on health and happiness, including those traveling with pets; nature lovers drawn to Jeju’s silver grass and landscapes; shoppers who enjoy pop-up stores; foodies in search of Jeju’s unique desserts; adventure seekers looking for outdoor running courses; and charm explorers interested in photo or wedding shoots destinations.

Participants walk along a coastal trail during the Jeju Olle Walking Festival. Courtesy of Jeju Olle

For culture travelers, the organization recommends “walking tours through Jeju’s myths and traditional festivals.” Known as the home of some 18,000 gods, Jeju celebrates its myths and culture through numerous autumn festivals. Visitors can experience traditional rituals, or gut, and meet local communities through events such as the Jeju Batdam Festival (Nov. 1–2) and Jeju Olle Walking Festival (Nov. 6–8).

For wellness seekers, Jeju suggests “healing trips with pets.” Walking through Jeju’s hills, forests and fields allows travelers to absorb the island’s natural energy alongside their furry companions. Pet-friendly lodgings feature spacious gardens, walking trails, and facilities for pets. Hamdeok Beach in Jeju City even has the island’s first beach designed exclusively for dogs. Recommended spots include Oedolgae, Sanyang Keuneongot and Hamdog Beach.

Hamdog Beach in Jocheon-eup, Jeju City / Courtesy of the Jeju Tourism Organization

For nature lovers, Jeju’s fall oreum (volcanic cones) offer breathtaking scenery under clear skies and gentle sunlight. Silver grass sways in the wind, creating rippling silver waves across the hills. Notable sites include Ttarabi, Saebyeol, and Darangshi oreums.

For shopping travelers, pop-up stores blending Jeju’s local identity with global character brands are ideal. From Crayon Shin-chan-themed stores to the Pokémon pop-up at Yeomiji Botanical Garden, each offers unique limited-edition items that combine Jeju’s creativity with global appeal.

A dessert made with Jeju tangerines is served at a local café. Courtesy of the Jeju Tourism Organization

Food lovers can embark on a dessert journey across Jeju, tasting everything from tangerine-based sweets and stone statue-shaped desserts to creative takes on Jeju’s traditional omegitteok rice cakes.

For adventure seekers, the organization highlights running routes where travelers can feel Jeju’s autumn breeze firsthand. The 5-kilometer course from Iho Tewoo Beach to Dodubong near Jeju International Airport offers ocean views, while the 2.5-kilometer Gwakji Beach to Handam Trail and the 5-kilometer Yongduam to Dodubong section are especially popular at sunset.

A running crew jogs along Yongdam Coastal Road in Jeju City at night. Courtesy of the Jeju Tourism Organization

Finally, photo lovers can find countless picturesque spots across Jeju. The island’s grasslands, coastal paths and flower trails are ideal for “life shots” and romantic wedding photography. On rainy days, the mist and soft light create an even more atmospheric and dreamlike setting.

Sogil-ri’s alley café Oksoo in Aewol-eup, Jeju City, welcomes fall visitors. Courtesy of the Jeju Tourism Organization

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.