1. What are some popular annual events and festivals that take place in Jeju-si, Korea?
– Jeju Fire Festival: This festival celebrates the folklore tradition of burning fields to get ready for planting season. It usually takes place in March at the Saebyeol Oreum Volcanic Cone.
– Jeju Canola Flower Festival: Held in April, this festival celebrates Jeju’s beautiful canola flowers with events such as concerts, flower exhibitions, and food stalls.
– Jeju Olle Walking Festival: This walking festival takes participants on scenic routes along the coast and through the island’s villages. It usually takes place in November.
– Seogwipo Chrysanthemum Festival: Held in October, this festival celebrates the autumn blooming of chrysanthemums with various cultural performances and activities.
– Jeju Christmas Tree Festival: This festive event takes place at Jeju Mokgwana Square where a giant Christmas tree is erected and decorated with lights and decorations. It usually starts in mid-December and runs until early January.
– Gwandeokjeong Parade: This traditional parade takes place every April to commemorate Jeju’s history and culture with music, dance performances, parades, and traditional games.
– Jeju Food & Wine Festival: As its name suggests, this festival showcases local Korean cuisine, wines, and traditional liquor. It usually takes place in October.
– Gapado Sea Women’s Diving Festival: This unique festival celebrates the sea women of Gapado Island who are known for their diving skills. Visitors can enjoy seafood markets, traditional performances, and participate in diving demonstrations. It usually takes place in September or October.
– Sehwa Hyanggyo Confucian Ritual Ceremony: A reenactment of ancient rituals that took place during Korea’s Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910). It is held every May at Sehwa-hyanggyo Shrine.
– The first tourism week (Jeju International Tourism Exhibition): The largest annual event that takes place on Jeju Island, this exhibition showcases the best that the island has to offer in terms of culture, history, and tourism. It usually takes place in September.
2. Can you describe the atmosphere at the Jeju Fire Festival?
The atmosphere at the Jeju Fire Festival is lively, energetic and full of excitement. The festival takes place at night, with crowds of people filling the streets dressed in traditional costumes and carrying torches or firecrackers. The air is filled with the sound of drums and firecrackers, as well as the scent of burning pine branches. There are also various performances throughout the festival including music, dance, and acrobatics, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. People come from all over to experience this unique event, adding to the diverse and joyful atmosphere.
3. Are there any traditional cultural performances at the Seogwipo Winter Sea Art Festival?
Yes, there are several traditional cultural performances at the Seogwipo Winter Sea Art Festival. These include folk music and dance performances, traditional drumming, and other cultural activities such as making traditional crafts or trying on traditional costumes. There may also be special performances featuring local artists or musicians showcasing their talents in traditional forms of expression.
4. How does Jeju-si celebrate Lunar New Year?
Jeju-si, like many other places in Korea, celebrates Lunar New Year with traditional customs and rituals. Some common ways to celebrate include:
1. Performing ancestral rites: Families gather at the ancestral shrine to pay respect and offer food, drinks, and incense to their ancestors.
2. Eating traditional food: Tteokguk (rice cake soup) is a must-have dish during Lunar New Year in Jeju-si. Other popular dishes include jeon (savory pancakes), japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), and mandu (dumplings).
3. Propitiating deities: Many people visit temples and shrines on New Year’s Day to pray for blessings and good fortune.
4. Wearing traditional clothing: It is a custom for families to wear hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) on New Year’s Day as a symbol of respect for tradition.
5. Playing traditional games: Several traditional games are played during Lunar New Year in Jeju-si, such as yutnori (a board game with sticks), neolttwigi (seesaw game), and jegichagi (foot shuttlecock).
6. Giving/receiving gifts: It is customary to give or receive lucky money called “sebaedon” during Lunar New Year.
7. Watching performances: There are often events held during Lunar New Year, such as dance performances, folk music concerts, and hanbok fashion shows.
8. Visiting family and relatives: Similar to other cultures, visiting family members is an important part of celebrating Lunar New Year in Jeju-si.
9. Lighting firecrackers: On the eve of Lunar New Year or the first day of the holiday, people light firecrackers to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.
10. Enjoying cultural activities: Throughout the holiday season, there are various cultural activities organized around Jeju-si, such as traditional craft exhibitions, folk games, and food festivals.
5. What is the highlight of the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival?
The highlight of the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival is the blooming of thousands of cherry blossom trees in full bloom.
6. Are there any special food or dishes associated with festivals in Jeju-si?
Some common dishes associated with festivals in Jeju-si include:
1) Heukdwaeji gukbap: A pork and rice soup made with black pork, a specialty of Jeju Island.
2) Galchijorim: A spicy dish made with braised hairtail fish, another local specialty.
3) Gamgyul samgyetang: A chicken soup made with local tangerines (gamgyul) and ginseng.
4) Hoe: Raw seafood platters, often featuring fresh fish caught off the coast of Jeju Island.
5) Makgeolli: A traditional rice wine often served at festivals and celebrations on the island.
7. What activities can visitors participate in at the Jeju Stone Culture Festival?
At the Jeju Stone Culture Festival, visitors can participate in various activities such as:
1. Stone Carving: Visitors can learn the traditional art of stone carving from skilled local artisans and create their own stone sculptures.
2. Stone Painting: People of all ages can participate in painting on stones with different colors and patterns.
3. Seonbi Garden Experience: Seonbi is a Confucian scholar’s garden with stones arranged in traditional patterns. Visitors can experience this traditional garden and also learn about Korean Confucian culture.
4. Stone Building Experience: Visitors can experience building stone walls using traditional techniques used for centuries.
5. Eco-friendly Natural Dyeing Experience: Using natural dyes made from plants, visitors can dye scarves and handkerchiefs with unique designs.
6. Traditional Games: There will be various traditional games available for visitors to enjoy, such as Jegi Chagi (Korean hacky sack game) and Neolttwigi (teeter-totter).
7. Cultural Performances: The festival features different cultural performances throughout the day including traditional music, dance, and theater performances.
8. Temple Stay Program: Visitors can sign up for a temple stay program at a nearby Buddhist temple where they can meditate, participate in Buddhist rituals and learn more about Buddhism.
9. Stone Market: The festival also has a stone market where visitors can purchase handcrafted stoned items made by local artisans.
10. Local Food Tasting: There will be various food stalls serving local dishes made with fresh ingredients from Jeju Island for visitors to savour.
8. Is there a particular time of year when multiple festivals are taking place in Jeju-si?
Jeju-si hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, so there isn’t necessarily a specific time of year when multiple festivals are taking place. However, some of the most popular festivals in Jeju-si include the Jeju Fire Festival (January), Jeju Canola Flower Festival (April), Jeju Food and Wine Festival (May), and Jeju International Peace Marathon (October). Additionally, several cultural festivals, such as the Jeju Traditional Music Festival and the Jeju International Women’s Film Festival, also take place throughout the year.
9. Is it necessary to purchase tickets for admission to any of these local events or festivals?
Yes, it may be necessary to purchase tickets for admission to some of these local events or festivals. The ticket prices and purchase information can often be found on the event’s website or through their respective organizers.
10. Can you recommend any lesser-known but worthwhile festivals to attend in Jeju-si?
1. Seongsan Sunrise Festival – Celebrates the first sunrise of the year at Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak.
2. Jeju Eco Film Festival – Explores environmental issues through film screenings and discussions.
3. Jeju Healing Sound Festival – A music festival showcasing traditional Korean music, dance performances, and sound healing sessions.
4. Geumsan Cultural Festival – Highlights traditional Jeju culture, including folk plays and dances, traditional cuisine, and crafts.
5. Jeju Windflower Camellia Festival – A celebration of the beautiful camellia flowers with exhibitions, concerts, and food stalls.
6. Orthodoxy Water Lily Festival – This festival takes place in a beautiful garden filled with water lilies and features various cultural performances and activities.
7. Jeju Wandering Music & Chilgolsan Mountain Walking Tour Event – A unique festival where participants can enjoy live music while hiking through scenic trails around Chilgolsan Mountain.
8. Samyang Black Pork Culture Festival – The perfect opportunity to taste delicious black pork dishes while learning about its history and culture in Jeju-si.
9. Makgeolli (Korean rice wine) Culture Festival – This festival showcases different varieties of makgeolli from all over Korea with live music performances and food stalls selling traditional snacks to pair with the drinks.
10. Canola Flower Festival – Experience the beauty of bright yellow canola flowers at this annual festival that also offers various activities such as hands-on farming experience, photo contests, and concerts.
11. How does the festival atmosphere differ between day and night events in Jeju-si?
The festival atmosphere in Jeju-si can differ between day and night events, as each offers a unique experience. During the day, the atmosphere may be more lively and family-friendly as there are often cultural activities, performances, and food vendors for people to enjoy. There may also be outdoor events and exhibitions showcasing traditional Korean culture and customs.
At night, the festival atmosphere can become more vibrant with bright lights, music, and larger crowds. There may be more nightlife options available such as concerts or dance parties. Some festivals also incorporate traditional ceremonies or rituals that are only held at night, adding to the mystical ambience of the event.
Overall, both day and night festivals offer a range of activities and entertainment for visitors to enjoy. Whether you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere during the day or a lively evening celebration, there is something for everyone in Jeju-si’s festivals.
12. Are there any international festivals that take place in Jeju-si, showcasing different cultures?
Yes, the Jeju World Culture Expo is a major international festival that takes place in Jeju-si every summer. It features cultural performances, exhibitions, and events from various countries and aims to promote cultural exchange and understanding. Other international festivals held in Jej
13. Do local businesses offer festival promotions or discounts during these events?
This depends on the specific local businesses and festivals. Some businesses may choose to offer promotions or discounts during festivals as a way to attract customers, while others may not participate. It is best to check with individual businesses or the festival organizers for any potential deals or promotions.
14. What types of souvenirs or handmade items can be found at the Seogwipo Plum Blossom Festival market?
Some examples of souvenirs and handmade items that can be found at the Seogwipo Plum Blossom Festival market include traditional Korean art and crafts, such as pottery, woodwork, and embroidery; local produce such as plum blossom tea or jam; festive decorations; jewelry; traditional outerwear such as hanbok (Korean traditional dress); stationery and paper products featuring plum blossom designs; and other unique items made by local artisans.
15. What transportation options are available for getting to and from festival locations in Jeju-si?
There are several transportation options for getting to and from festival locations in Jeju-si, including:
1. Public buses: The Jeju City Bus system offers several routes that connect different parts of the city, including festival locations. Fares are relatively cheap and you can purchase a rechargeable Tap Plus card for convenience.
2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout Jeju-si and are a convenient option for getting around the city. Fare rates are determined by distance traveled and peak-hour surcharges apply.
3. Rental cars or scooters: There are many car rental companies in Jeju-si, and renting a car or scooter is a great option for those who want more flexibility in their transportation. The island has well-developed roads and highways, making it easy to get around.
4. Private tour buses: For organized tours to festival locations, private tour buses can be arranged through travel agencies or with tour operators.
5. Ride-sharing apps: Apps such as Uber and KakaoTaxi also operate in Jeju-si, providing an additional transportation option for festival-goers.
6. Walking/biking: Depending on the location of the festival, walking or biking may be a feasible option for getting to nearby areas within the city. Some festivals also offer bike rentals on-site.
16. Are there family-friendly activities at the Hallasan National Park Autumn Leaves Festival?
Yes, there are several family-friendly activities at the Hallasan National Park Autumn Leaves Festival. Some of these include hiking or walking trails through the colorful autumn leaves, picnicking in designated areas, and participating in cultural events such as traditional music performances and craft workshops. There is also a children’s playground and various food stalls selling local dishes. Additionally, families can visit nearby attractions such as Eco Land Theme Park and Jeju Stone Park for more kid-friendly activities.
17. Can you explain the significance behind or origin of any unique festival traditions in Jeju-si?
One unique festival tradition in Jeju-si is the “Jeongwol Daeboreum” festival, which celebrates the first full moon of the lunar calendar year. This festival has its origins in traditional agricultural practices and is meant to chase away evil spirits and bring good luck for the upcoming harvest season.
During this festival, people participate in activities such as making and flying kites, burning rice straw torches, and walking along a path made of burning hay. These traditions are believed to ward off bad luck and bring prosperity to the community.
Another unique festival tradition in Jeju-si is the “Seogwipo Olle Walking Festival,” which celebrates the famous Olle trails that crisscross the island. This festival was created to promote eco-friendly tourism and encourage people to explore Jeju’s natural beauty on foot.
During this festival, participants can join guided walks along different Olle routes, enjoy local food and performances, and engage in cultural experiences such as traditional drumming or crafting. This festival showcases Jeju’s rich culture and encourages a deeper connection with nature among visitors.
18. Are children allowed to participate in traditional games or ceremonies during festivals like Chilmeoridang Yeongdeung Gut Ritual Festival?
Generally, yes, children are allowed to participate in traditional games and ceremonies during festivals like Chilmeoridang Yeongdeung Gut Ritual Festival. However, the level of participation may vary depending on the specific festival and its customs. Some activities may be reserved for adults only, while others may be open to all ages. It is recommended to check with festival organizers or locals for more information about the level of involvement allowed for children.
19.Do these local events and festivals attract a large number of tourists, or mainly locals?
The answer to this question will vary depending on the specific event or festival. Some events may attract mostly locals, while others may draw in a significant number of tourists. Factors that can influence the type of attendees include the location and reputation of the event, advertising and marketing efforts, demographics of the local area, and any special attractions or activities offered at the event. Overall, it is likely that a combination of both locals and tourists attend these local events and festivals.