Jeju: Hotel Pickup East Snow, Camellia, Tangerine Picking

Jeju Island is a stunning destination any time of year, but winter offers a uniquely peaceful and colorful experience. This 9-hour tour promises a day immersed in Jeju’s natural beauty, from blooming camellias to sun-ripened tangerines, topped with fascinating cultural sights like Seongsan Ilchulbong. As an experienced travel writer, I’ve reviewed this tour based on detailed insights and honest feedback, aiming to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your Jeju adventure.

What immediately stands out about this experience are three key points: the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off within Jeju City, the opportunity to see vibrant camellia blossoms in full bloom, and the interactive tangerine picking activity that makes the day memorable. The tour’s focus on authentic natural and cultural sights rather than shopping or commercial stops adds to its appeal.

One consideration is the reliance on weather — winter conditions can change quickly, and some activities, like the Haenyeo show or lava cave access, may be affected. Still, for those who love scenic landscapes, local flavor, and a relaxed pace, this tour offers excellent value. It’s best suited for travelers who want an informative, visually stunning day exploring Jeju’s east side with a good mix of nature, culture, and local life.

Key Points

• Comfortable and convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off within Jeju City make logistics easy.
• Rich in natural beauty: Camellia flowers, tangerine orchards, and volcanic landscapes create stunning scenery.
• Cultural insights: Visit Seongeup Folk Village to see Jeju’s traditional way of life.
• Interactive experience: Tangerine picking is a fun, hands-on activity perfect for all ages.
• Local flavor: Enjoy a self-paid meal featuring Jeju’s hearty, spicy cuisine.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with storytelling and practical tips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: A Scenic Journey Through Jeju’s Winter Wonderland

If you’re looking to experience Jeju’s more tranquil, colorful side during winter, this East Snow, Camellia, and Tangerine Picking Tour might be just what you need. While Jeju is famous for its lush greenery in warmer months, winter reveals a different kind of beauty — snow dusting volcanic landscapes, fields bursting with bright citrus, and gardens alive with red and pink camellia blooms.

What makes this tour appealing is the seamless blend of outdoor scenery, cultural insight, and interactive fun. We love the hotel pickup that takes the hassle out of logistics, the chance to see Jeju’s iconic camellias in full bloom, and the delicious tangerines straight from the orchard. However, winter weather can sometimes throw a curveball, so activity adjustments are possible depending on conditions.

This tour is perfect for those wanting a full day of exploring Jeju’s east side without the stress of planning, especially if you’re interested in nature, photography, and local traditions. It balances sightseeing with authentic experiences, all wrapped in the comfort of a guided group.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

Hotel Pickup and Introduction to Jeju’s Winter Charm

The day begins with hotel pickup within Jeju City, typically between 8:00 and 9:00 am. This makes it easier for travelers staying downtown or near the airport, as the tour includes transportation in a comfortable vehicle with an expert guide. Reviewers have appreciated this aspect — one traveler mentioned the van was “extremely spacious and comfortable,” which is crucial for a full day of sightseeing.

Hueree Nature Life Park: Camellia Paradise

Your first major stop is Hueree Nature Park, where the vibrant red and pink camellia blossoms are in full display during winter. We loved the way the flowers create a stunning contrast against the cool weather and gray skies, providing perfect photo opportunities. Walking through tunnels of flowering trees, you’ll get a sense of Jeju’s nickname as the “Island of Flowers,” particularly highlighting camellias as a winter symbol.

One reviewer noted, “The camellia farm was beautiful, and the weather was cooperating even in winter,” emphasizing that this stop is surprisingly lively and colorful despite the season. It’s a peaceful start that sets a cheerful tone for the day.

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Seongeup Folk Village: A Glimpse of Jeju’s Traditional Life

Next, you visit Seongeup Folk Village, an outdoor museum showcasing Jeju’s traditional stone houses and basalt fencing. The snow-dusted roofs add a nostalgic charm, giving a glimpse into what life looked like here for generations. Visitors can walk around and absorb the slow, simple rhythm of village life, feeling connected to local history.

A reviewer shared that “meeting locals and hearing their stories made the experience even more meaningful,” underlining the value of these cultural stops. It’s a chance to learn about Jeju’s unique heritage away from crowded tourist spots.

Lunch: Warm Flavors of Jeju

The tour provides a self-paid local lunch, often featuring spicy stews, grilled fish, or hearty soups. The timing allows travelers to relax and recharge before the afternoon activities. Many reviews mention that the meal offers great value — a comforting taste of Jeju’s cuisine after a morning outdoors.

Seongsan Ilchulbong: The UNESCO Sunrise Peak

One of the highlights is Seongsan Ilchulbong, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While famous for sunrise views, it’s still breathtaking in winter, with the crater rising above calm, sometimes misty seas. On clear days, you might witness the snow-capped cone adding to its mystical allure.

While the Haenyeo show (Jeju’s brave women divers) is sometimes canceled due to weather or rest days, the volcanic landscape itself is worth the visit. Reviewers have noted the peaceful atmosphere here, with one saying, “The crater was beautiful, and even in winter, the views are stunning.”

Tangerine Picking: A Juicy, Hands-On Tradition

No trip to Jeju is complete without tasting its famous fruit — tangerines. Visiting a local orchard, you’ll have the chance to pick ripe tangerines directly from the trees and sample their sun-kissed flavor. This activity is loved by travelers of all ages and adds a genuine, local touch to the day.

One reviewer called it “a sweet winter memory,” emphasizing how fun and satisfying it was to gather and taste fresh fruit straight from the source. It’s a chance to connect with Jeju’s rural life and enjoy the simple pleasure of citrus.

Ilchul Land: Camellias and Lava Caves

The tour wraps up at Ilchul Land, where natural beauty and art collide. Here, you explore Micheon Lava Cave, a fascinating underground world, and stroll through gardens filled with bright red camellias. The contrast of vivid petals against dark volcanic rock creates striking images and makes for memorable photos.

Several guests commented on the beauty of the scene, noting that “the dark cave with red flowers was unforgettable.” It’s a fitting end that combines Jeju’s volcanic geology with its floral symbols.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Transportation and Group Size: The tour provides air-conditioned transfers, making long days comfortable. Group sizes tend to be manageable, with reviews highlighting the guides’ attentiveness and responsiveness.

Duration and Timing: Starting around 8:00-9:00 am and ending around 6:00 pm, the schedule offers a full but relaxed day. The flexible pickup and drop-off, alongside free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, add to the convenience.

Weather Considerations: As winter conditions can impact activities, the tour may adjust plans—some attractions like the haenyeo show might be canceled if weather is adverse. Pack warm clothing and be prepared for possible changes.

Cost and Value: While the tour is a self-pay activity for lunch and optional activities like tangerine picking, the overall experience offers excellent value when considering the included sightseeing, transportation, and guides’ expertise.

Additional Charges: Hotel pickup is free within Jeju City. For hotels outside the area, an extra 70,000 won applies, which is worth noting for those staying in Aewol or Seogwipo.

Authentic Insights from Traveler Feedback

Reviews consistently praise guides like Mr. Peter Kim and Mr. Choi for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness. One reviewer mentioned Mr. Peter Kim was “kind, responsive, and very helpful,” especially accommodating for travelers with mobility issues.

Participants also appreciate the opportunity to taste local foods and drinks, with some mentioning the delicious Makgeoli (Korean rice wine) recommended by guides. The scenic views, from camellia fields to volcanic craters, have been described as “stunning” even in winter, proving that Jeju’s natural beauty doesn’t hibernate.

This Jeju East Winter Tour offers a well-rounded experience for those who want to see the island’s natural and cultural highlights without the hassle of planning individual excursions. The combination of beautiful scenery, cultural insight, and interactive activities makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Jeju’s winter charm.

If you’re after a relaxed, informative day that balances outdoor exploration with cultural stories, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors, nature lovers, and families looking for a memorable, comfortable adventure. Just come prepared for the weather, and you’ll return home with beautiful photos, full bellies, and a deeper appreciation for Jeju’s unique character.

Is hotel pickup available within Jeju City?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off within Jeju City are included. For locations outside the city, an additional fee of 70,000 won applies.

What should I wear in winter?
Warm clothing is recommended as temperatures can be low, especially during outdoor stops like camellia gardens and lava caves.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if weather or plans change.

Is there an option to pay on the day?
You can reserve now and pay later, which helps keep your plans flexible without immediate charges.

What activities are included?
Highlights include visits to Hueree Nature Park, Seongeup Folk Village, Seongsan Ilchulbong, tangerine picking, and Ilchul Land with lava caves and camellia gardens.

Will the tour run if it snows heavily?
Activities may be adjusted depending on weather conditions; some attractions, like the Haenyeo show, might be canceled if the weather is severe.

Is the guide bilingual?
Guides speak Chinese and English, ensuring clear communication for most international travelers.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 9 hours, starting in the morning and concluding in the evening with hotel drop-off.

This detailed look at the Jeju East Snow, Camellia, and Tangerine Picking Tour reveals a well-crafted experience that offers genuine, scenic, and cultural highlights. Whether you’re captivated by volcanic landscapes or enjoy tasting local fruits, this tour stands as a fantastic way to embrace Jeju’s winter beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: