1. What is the significance of Manjanggul Cave in Jeju Island?
Manjanggul Cave is a lava tube cave located on the eastern coast of Jeju Island in South Korea. It is significant for several reasons:
1. Natural Formation: Manjanggul Cave is one of the largest and longest lava tubes in the world, measuring over 13 kilometers in length. It was formed approximately 300,000 to 200,000 years ago when hot lava flowed from Hallasan (a dormant volcano) and cooled down as it came into contact with air, creating the tunnel-like structure.
2. Scientific Value: The cave provides a unique natural laboratory for scientists to study volcanic processes and geological formations. Layers of hardened lava can be seen on the walls of the cave, allowing researchers to study how different types of lava flow and solidify.
3. Biodiversity: The cave also contains a diverse ecosystem with over 20 species of bats and other animals such as spiders, centipedes, and crickets living within its chambers. Several rare species have also been discovered in the cave, making it an important site for biodiversity conservation.
4. Cultural Heritage: Manjanggul Cave holds cultural significance for the people of Jeju Island as it has been used by locals for shelter during times of war and also has traditional shamanistic ceremonies held within its chambers.
5. Tourist Attraction: Due to its natural beauty and historical value, Manjanggul Cave is a popular tourist attraction on Jeju Island. Visitors can take guided tours through various sections of the cave, including a section where you can see a wall made entirely out of hexagonal basalt stones called ‘the Stone Turtle’. This makes it an important contributor to Jeju’s tourism industry.
In summary, Manjanggul Cave is not only a visually stunning and geologically significant site but also plays an important role in scientific research, biodiversity conservation, cultural heritage preservation, and local tourism on Jeju Island.
2. When was Manjanggul Cave first discovered and by whom?
Manjanggul Cave was first discovered in the 1700s by a local resident named Hwang Dal.
3. How long is the total length of Manjanggul Cave?
The total length of Manjanggul Cave is approximately 8.6 kilometers (5.3 miles).
4. Are there any guided tours available for exploring the cave?
Yes, there are guided tours available for exploring the cave. These tours are led by experienced and knowledgeable guides who can provide information about the history, geology, and features of the cave. Some of these tours may also include activities such as caving, hiking, or rock climbing. It is recommended to book a guided tour in advance to ensure availability and to ensure safety while exploring the cave.
5. Can visitors see stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave?
Yes, visitors can see stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave. These formations are created by mineral-rich water dripping from the ceiling of the cave, forming icicle-like structures (stalactites) and cone-shaped structures on the ground (stalagmites). They can take hundreds or even thousands of years to form, adding to the natural beauty of the cave.
6. What kind of vegetation is found around Manjanggul Cave?
The vegetation around Manjanggul Cave is mostly made up of trees such as pine and ferns, as well as various shrubs and grasses. This area also has a high diversity of plant species, including rare endemic plants that are unique to Jeju Island.
7. Is it possible to enter the lava tube formation within Manjanggul Cave?
Yes, it is possible to enter the lava tube formation within Manjanggul Cave. Visitors are allowed to walk through a designated path inside the cave, which includes sections of the lava tube formation. However, visitors are not allowed to touch or climb on any part of the formation for safety and preservation purposes.
8. Are there any unique geological formations or features within the cave?
Some unique geological formations found in caves may include stalagmites and stalactites, which are formed from mineral deposits over thousands of years. Sinkholes or collapse features may also be present within the cave as a result of underground erosion. Some caves may also have columns or draperies, which are curtain-like formations that hang from the ceiling. Other interesting features may include cave crystals, underground waterfalls, or gypsum flowers.
9. Is photography allowed inside Manjanggul Cave?
Yes, photography is allowed inside Manjanggul Cave. However, flash photography and tripods are not permitted as they may disturb the natural environment and other visitors.
10. Can visitors access all areas of the cave or are some parts restricted?
Visitor access to most areas of a cave is typically restricted for safety reasons. In some cases, guided tours may only allow visitors to certain areas of the cave, while other parts are restricted to scientific researchers or trained cavers. These restrictions ensure the preservation of delicate features and protect visitors from potential hazards such as tight passageways or unstable formations. Visitors should always follow designated paths and stay with their tour group to avoid getting lost or damaging the cave.
11. Is there a specific time of year when the cave is most popular with tourists?
The cave is most popular with tourists during the summer months, especially in July and August. This is because the weather is warm and sunny, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Additionally, many families are on summer vacation during this time, which increases the number of visitors.
12. Are there any nearby amenities for visitors, such as restaurants or souvenir shops?
There may be nearby amenities for visitors, such as restaurants or souvenir shops, depending on the location of the bridge. It is recommended to research the area beforehand or ask locals for recommendations.
13. Is there an admission fee to enter Manjanggul Cave?
Yes, there is an admission fee to enter Manjanggul Cave. The fee for adults (ages 19 and up) is 2,000 Korean won, while the fee for youths (ages 13-18) is 1,000 Korean won. Children under the age of 13 can enter for free.
14. What measures are in place to preserve and protect the cave’s natural environment?
There are several measures that are in place to preserve and protect the cave’s natural environment, including:
1. Regular monitoring and research: Experts regularly monitor the cave’s ecosystem to understand its natural processes, track changes, and identify potential threats.
2. Limiting human disturbance: Access to the cave is strictly controlled through guided tours to limit human interference and damage to the environment.
3. Proper waste management: All visitors are required to dispose of their waste properly and refrain from littering inside the cave.
4. Installation of protective barriers: To prevent accidental damage, protective barriers have been installed around delicate rock formations and other sensitive areas within the cave.
5. Restricted use of artificial lighting: The use of artificial lights is limited and regulated to minimize the impact on natural habitats within the cave.
6. Educating visitors: Visitors are educated about the fragility of the cave’s ecosystem and are encouraged to follow responsible tourism practices during their visit.
7. Conservation efforts: Conservation efforts such as restoration projects for damaged or disturbed areas within the cave are regularly conducted by experts.
8. Collaborative management strategies: The management of the cave involves collaboration between government agencies, conservation groups, local communities, and tour operators to ensure all stakeholders work together towards preserving the natural environment.
9. Restoration of disturbed areas: In case of any damage due to natural disasters or human activity, restoration work is carried out immediately to restore the affected area back to its original state.
10. Controlled access for researchers: Access for researchers is strictly controlled and allowed only with proper permits and supervision to minimize disturbance to the delicate environment within the cave.
15. Are there any legends or folklore associated with Manjanggul Cave?
Yes, there is a legend associated with Manjanggul Cave. According to the legend, a long time ago, an evil dragon lived inside the cave and terrorized the nearby villages. The villagers feared the dragon and prayed to the gods for protection.
One day, a brave young man decided to confront the dragon. He entered the cave armed with only a sword and fought against the dragon for days. Finally, he defeated the dragon and as it lay dying, it transformed into stone and became part of the cave’s unique formations.
The villagers believed that the brave man’s courage and determination had saved them from further attacks by the evil dragon. To honor his bravery, they renamed the cave “Manjanggul,” which means “longevity” in Korean.
Today, some also say that if you explore deep enough into Manjanggul Cave, you can still hear faint roars of the defeated dragon echoing throughout its chambers.
16. Can visitors spot any wildlife while exploring the area around the cave?
Yes, visitors may be able to spot some wildlife while exploring the area around the cave, especially if they visit during dawn or dusk when animals tend to be more active. Some common species that can be seen include deer, rabbits, coyotes, and various birds. However, it is important to always respect the animals and keep a safe distance while observing them. It is also recommended to check with park rangers for any potential safety concerns before venturing out into the surrounding area.
17. Are there any other historical landmarks near Manjanggul Cave that are worth visiting?
Yes, there are several historical landmarks near Manjanggul Cave that are worth visiting. These include:
1. Gimnyeong Maze Park: This is a beautiful garden maze located about 2 kilometers from Manjanggul Cave. It was built to commemorate the Korean War and has over 3,000 hedges.
2. Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a unique volcanic crater with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is just a short drive from Manjanggul Cave.
3. Udo Island: Take a ferry from nearby Seongsan Harbor and explore this small but picturesque island known for its white sand beaches, emerald waters, and rural charm.
4. Samyang Black Sand Beach: This beach is known for its unique black sand and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. It is just a few minutes’ drive from Manjanggul Cave.
5. Jeju Folk Village Museum: Located about 30 minutes away from Manjanggul Cave, this open-air museum showcases traditional Korean homes and cultural artifacts, giving visitors an insight into the island’s history.
6. Seongeup Folk Village: This traditional village features well-preserved thatched-roof houses, stone walls, and narrow alleyways that offer a glimpse into Korea’s past.
7. Geommeolle Salt Field: Located near Udo Island, this salt field has been in operation for over 200 years and offers visitors an opportunity to learn about traditional salt-making methods used on the island.
8. Jeju Stone Park: Spread over 26 acres of land near Seogwipo City, this park features stunning rock formations and sculptures created by nature and human hands.
9. Haenyeo Museum: Located near Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, this museum tells the story of Jeju’s famous diving women, known as haenyeo, who have been harvesting seafood for generations.
10. Jeju Oreum Volcanic Cone: This volcanic cone is a popular hiking spot that offers panoramic views of the island’s unique landscape.
18. How does transportation from Jeju City to Manjanggul Cave work for tourists?
There are a few options for transportation from Jeju City to Manjanggul Cave for tourists:
1. Bus: The most common option is to take a public bus from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal or Seogwipo Intercity Bus Terminal to Manjanggul Cave. The bus ride takes around 45 minutes and costs approximately 1,500-2,000 KRW.
2. Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Jeju City and you can hire one to take you directly to Manjanggul Cave. The ride takes about 40 minutes and costs around 20,000-30,000 KRW.
3. Private Tour: Many tour companies offer private tours that include transportation from your hotel in Jeju City to Manjanggul Cave. This option may be more expensive but it allows for more flexibility in terms of timing and itinerary.
4. Rental car: If you prefer to explore on your own time, you can also rent a car and drive yourself to Manjanggul Cave. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Jeju City. Just be aware that some roads on the island can be narrow and winding, so it’s important to drive carefully.
Once at the entrance of Manjanggul Cave, visitors have to walk down a set of stairs (approximately 10 minutes) to reach the cave entrance. There is no direct transportation inside the cave itself as visitors must walk through the designated paths during their guided tour. After the tour, there are shuttles available that will take visitors back up to the entrance/exit area where they can then access their chosen mode of transportation back to Jeju City.
19. Is it possible to camp or stay overnight near Manjanggul Cave?
Yes, there are campsites and accommodations near Manjanggul Cave where you can stay overnight. Some popular options include Jeju Mountain Pension and Bomok Camping Site. It is important to check with the specific site or operator for availability and reservations.
20.Besides sightseeing, are there any adventurous activities available around Manjanggul Cave such as hiking or zip lining?
Yes, there are several adventurous activities available around Manjanggul Cave. These include:
1. Hiking: There are various hiking trails near Manjanggul Cave that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and volcanic formations. The most popular is the Olle Trail, which passes through Jeju Island’s volcanic terrain, including Manjanggul Cave.
2. Zip-lining: A nearby attraction called Ecoland offers a thrilling zip lining experience at the base of Mt. Hallasan, with views of Manjanggul Cave and the surrounding countryside.
3. Caving: For those looking for a more extreme adventure, caving tours are available inside Manjanggul Cave itself. These tours take visitors deep into the cave’s narrow passageways to explore its underground formations and lava tubes.
4. ATV/UTV tours: There are also guided all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or utility task vehicle (UTV) tours available around Manjanggul Cave that allow visitors to explore the rugged volcanic landscape in a more adventurous way.
5. Paragliding: Those seeking an adrenaline rush can also try paragliding around Manjanggul Cave, with views of the coast and volcanic scenery from above.
Overall, there are plenty of adventurous activities available near Manjanggul Cave, making it not only a fascinating sightseeing destination but also an exciting outdoor playground for thrill-seekers.